Finding affordable hiking boots that are both durable and comfortable can be a challenge. Hiking is an activity that requires good footwear to prevent discomfort and injuries. But that doesn’t mean you have to spend a fortune. There are plenty of places to find hiking boots that offer great value for money. This guide will take you through the best options for getting cheap hiking boots without sacrificing quality.
1. Online Retailers and Marketplaces
One of the easiest and most popular ways to find affordable hiking boots is by shopping online. Many online retailers offer discounts, deals, and a wide selection of boots to choose from.
Amazon
Amazon is a well-known online marketplace that has an extensive collection of hiking boots. The platform allows you to compare different brands, styles, and prices easily. You can find budget-friendly options from popular brands like Columbia, Merrell, and North Face. The site also offers user reviews, which can help you make an informed decision about the fit and quality of the boots.
Amazon regularly offers discounts, and if you are lucky, you might find seasonal sales that provide substantial savings. Amazon Prime members can also benefit from free shipping, which adds extra value.
REI Outlet
REI is a trusted name in outdoor gear, and its outlet section is a great place to find cheap hiking boots. The REI Outlet often carries overstock, discontinued models, and last-season footwear at discounted prices. You can often find high-quality brands like Salomon, Merrell, and Keen at a fraction of the original cost. The only downside is that stock changes frequently, so you’ll need to check regularly for the best deals.
REI also offers clearance sales throughout the year, including end-of-season events that feature major discounts on outdoor gear. Keep an eye on their website for flash sales and promotions.
Backcountry
Backcountry is another online retailer that specializes in outdoor gear. They frequently offer deals on hiking boots, including off-season sales and promotions. While some boots may still be on the pricier side, Backcountry regularly provides discount codes and offers on brands like La Sportiva, Vasque, and Oboz.
If you’re looking for a high-end boot at a reduced price, Backcountry is worth checking out. They also have a price match policy, which means you can get the lowest possible price if you find the same boots elsewhere for cheaper.
Zappos
Zappos is widely known for its extensive selection of shoes, and hiking boots are no exception. They carry a wide variety of brands at different price points. While Zappos’ prices might not always be the absolute lowest, they offer free shipping and easy returns, which makes them a great choice for trying on boots in the comfort of your home.
If you have a specific brand in mind, Zappos is a great place to search for deals. They also offer frequent sales, particularly during holiday seasons like Black Friday and Cyber Monday, where you can snag a great deal on quality hiking boots.
2. Discount Stores
For those who prefer to shop in person, discount stores can be an excellent place to find cheap hiking boots. These stores often carry overstock or last-season styles at a fraction of the original price.
TJ Maxx and Marshalls
TJ Maxx and Marshalls, both owned by the same parent company, are well-known for offering discounted outdoor gear, including hiking boots. You can find high-quality boots from popular brands like Columbia, Timberland, and Keen at much lower prices than in regular retail stores. The selection may vary depending on the store and the time of year, so it’s a good idea to visit frequently.
Both stores often offer clearance prices on hiking boots during off-season months, making it possible to find even deeper discounts. However, you may need to do a bit of digging, as stock turnover can be quick.
Sierra Trading Post
Sierra Trading Post is another discount retailer that carries a large selection of outdoor gear, including hiking boots. Similar to REI Outlet, Sierra Trading Post offers deals on last-season models and overstock items. The store often carries high-end brands at lower prices, making it a great place to find discounted boots for hiking.
You can shop both online and in physical stores. While the prices are already competitive, Sierra Trading Post frequently offers additional coupons and promotions, making it possible to snag an even better deal. Signing up for their newsletter will also keep you updated on current discounts.
Walmart
Walmart may not be the first place that comes to mind for hiking gear, but they do carry a variety of affordable hiking boots, particularly for casual hikers or beginners. Brands like Ozark Trail and Teton offer affordable options that are perfect for short day hikes or light trail walking.
While Walmart’s hiking boots may not be the most durable or high-performance options available, they are a great choice for anyone looking to stay within a budget. You can often find in-store promotions, and online prices can be even lower.
3. Outlet Stores
Outlet stores are another excellent option for finding discounted hiking boots. Many top brands have outlet locations where they sell overstock items and previous season models at a fraction of the original price.
Columbia Sportswear Outlet
Columbia Sportswear is a well-known brand for outdoor gear, and its outlet stores are great places to find affordable hiking boots. The Columbia outlet stores offer past-season models at deeply discounted prices, making it possible to find durable boots for much cheaper than their regular retail price.
If you’re near a Columbia outlet, it’s worth the visit, especially during seasonal sales events, where you can find even better discounts. Columbia also offers regular online outlet sales.
Nike Factory Store
Nike’s factory stores may not be known for hiking boots specifically, but they do carry footwear suitable for light hiking and trail running. Nike’s ACG (All Conditions Gear) line includes boots that can withstand tough terrains, and these can often be found at discounted prices in outlet stores. The Nike Factory Store is a great place to find affordable outdoor shoes that can still perform well on light hikes.
The North Face Outlet
The North Face is another premium brand that offers hiking boots designed for rugged terrain. Their outlet stores offer past-season models at discounted prices. If you prefer higher-end, durable boots, the North Face outlet is a great place to shop.
4. Secondhand Stores and Thrift Shops
If you’re looking for an ultra-budget option, secondhand stores can be an excellent resource. Many gently used hiking boots are available for a fraction of the cost of new ones, and you can find them in good condition.
Goodwill and Salvation Army
Goodwill, Salvation Army, and other local thrift stores often have secondhand hiking boots. While it’s harder to find specific models, you can often score a great deal on high-quality brands like Merrell, Columbia, and Timberland. The boots may show some wear, but you might be able to clean them up and get years of use out of them for a fraction of the cost.
Shopping at thrift stores requires a bit of patience and luck, but if you’re willing to hunt for good deals, you can often find quality boots at a very low price.
Facebook Marketplace and Craigslist
For those who are comfortable buying secondhand online, Facebook Marketplace and Craigslist can be excellent places to find used hiking boots at cheap prices. Many people sell lightly used hiking gear that they no longer need. You can filter search results by price to find boots that fit within your budget.
Before purchasing, make sure to inspect the boots closely for any wear and tear. It’s also a good idea to try on secondhand boots to ensure they still fit well and have plenty of life left.
5. Sales and Seasonal Discounts
Timing your purchase can be key to getting hiking boots at a great price. Many retailers offer significant discounts during certain times of the year, such as:
Black Friday and Cyber Monday: These annual sales are excellent opportunities to get discounted hiking boots from top brands. Many outdoor retailers and shoe stores run special promotions during this time.
End-of-Season Sales: At the end of each hiking season (typically late fall or early spring), retailers often discount hiking boots to make room for new inventory. This is an excellent time to pick up a pair of boots for next season.
Holiday Sales: Many retailers offer discounts around major holidays, including Memorial Day, Labor Day, and Fourth of July, so it’s worth checking out sales during these periods.
Conclusion
Getting cheap hiking boots doesn’t have to mean sacrificing quality. Whether you choose to shop online, visit discount retailers, or buy secondhand, there are plenty of options to find boots that fit your needs and budget. By shopping at the right time, comparing prices, and looking for deals, you can enjoy hiking in comfort without breaking the bank.
No matter where you choose to shop, be sure to prioritize fit, durability, and comfort over everything else. A good pair of hiking boots will last you for many adventures to come. Happy hiking!
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