There are plenty of all-black sneakers out there, but few do it with as much nuance as the New Balance U740BO2 in Black/Black Cement. This unisex retro runner layers black on black, with a subtle gray “cement” undertone adding quiet depth — a shoe that blends into any wardrobe while making it better at the same time.
The 740 is one of those New Balance models built like a classic runner: layered panels, an elongated toe and a substantial sole. In this version, all those layers come together in one dark whole, with the difference between deep black and cement gray only revealing itself when the light hits. That makes it more interesting than a flat black sneaker — there’s something going on, just not loudly.
Wearing black with texture
A monochrome shoe like this looks best with outfits that play with fabric rather than color. Think black wool trousers with a gray sweater and a long dark coat: three shades, three textures, one composed look. The U740BO2 finishes things off at the bottom without demanding attention.
It also proves its worth alongside color. Faded blue jeans, khaki cargo pants or even off-white trousers — the completely dark base gives every combination a more assertive feel straight away. And because the model is unisex, it works just as well with an oversized blazer and skirt as it does with straight-leg denim and a hoodie. One pair, two wardrobes.
The price completes the picture: this colorway is currently listed at [sz_price_from stylecode=”U740BO2″]. For a New Balance with this silhouette, that’s an exceptionally good deal.
The dark workhorse sneaker
There are countless occasions to wear it, precisely because black is so forgiving. To work or college during the week, to a restaurant in the evening, into the city at the weekend — this shoe takes everything in stride. It’s at its best in fall and winter: dark tones, wet streets and long coats are its natural habitat, and marks show considerably less on black than on a light-colored sneaker.
One styling tip for those who want to take it all the way: choose your socks deliberately. A gray ribbed sock brings the cement shade from the sole into the outfit; an all-black sock elongates the leg and keeps the look streamlined. Small choices, big difference.
Wondering where you can get the best deal? The current lowest price is listed here: [sz_price_from stylecode=”U740BO2″]. Compare all participating shops on Solezilla by price and size, and pick up this black all-rounder without paying a euro too much.