Reader Question:
Where can I buy name brand athletic shoes on a budget?
My 12 year old son goes through a pair of men’s shoes (Nike, Adidas, Under Armour, etc.) every few months. Are there stores or outlets worth going to?
Answer:
There are a lot of ways to think outside the box when it comes to name brand athletic shoes – you certainly want to avoid paying full price! Here are a few tips I’ve learned, along with some ideas from Bargains to Bounty readers.
TIP: While you’re out shopping, consider looking at shoes in the next size up. If your child’s feet are still growing, you know they will need them – so grab them if the price is right!
1. OUTLET or DISCOUNT STORES
Depending on where you live, look for outlets or clearance outlet locations like these, recommended by readers. They may feature steep savings on out-of-season or previous season styles, as well as made-for-the-outlet styles.
- Dick’s Clearance Outlet
- Joe’s New Balance Outlet
- Nike Factory Stores
- Nordstrom Rack
- T.J. Maxx or Marshall’s
- Under Armour Outlet
TIP: When available, consider buying gift cards for these stores with a kickback (4X fuel points at Kroger, $5 off $50 at Meijer, Scrip fundraiser, etc.) to save a little right off the top!
2. CLEARANCE SECTIONS
Check out the clearance markdowns at any stores that carry shoes.
- DSW Clearance Section
- Dunham’s Clearance Section
- Kohl’s Clearance Section
OFFICIAL STORES and BRAND OUTLETS on eBay
All of these brands maintain an official eBay store with their products – and usually offer free shipping on brand new items. I was able to purchase a couple pairs of Adidas recently for far less than I could find anywhere else, and they were shipped to my door at no cost.
- Adidas Official Store on eBay
- New Balance Brand Outlet on eBay
- Reebok on eBay
- Brand Outlet on eBay (Asics, Puma, Mizuno and more – find all current official brand stores)
THRIFT STORES or SWAP SITES
Second-hand isn’t always the way to go, but I have found like new and new pairs of athletic shoes at the thrift store and on swap sites like Facebook Marketplace or Craigslist. Keep your eyes open wherever you shop – you never know what you might find!
Where do YOU find the best deals on name brand athletic shoes? Share in the comments!
