Find Last Season Running Shoes: Your Guide to Great Deals

You can absolutely find last season’s running shoes at a great discount. Many retailers and brands offer older models when new ones are released. This is a smart way to get quality footwear for less.

Finding these deals often requires a bit of searching. We found that checking online outlet stores and looking for sales events can yield fantastic savings. You might be surprised at the great deals available if you know where to look.

• Check brand outlet websites.
• Look at major online shoe retailers’ sale sections.
• Consider third-party discount sites.
• Be flexible with colors and exact models.

Let’s walk through exactly how you can snag a pair of last season’s running shoes without breaking the bank.

So, you’re on the hunt for last season’s running shoes but want to make sure you’re getting the best bang for your buck. It’s a smart move! New models come out every year, and retailers are eager to clear out the old stock. We found that with a little strategic searching, you can snag a fantastic pair of shoes that are still top-notch performers without paying the premium price for the very latest design.

Scoring Deals on Previous-Generation Running Shoes

Finding last year’s models is all about knowing where the discounts hide. Think of it like finding a perfectly good piece of fruit that’s just not the “newest” variety. It still tastes great and does its job perfectly!

Your First Stop: Brand Outlet Websites

This is often the sweetest spot for finding older running shoe models. Most major running shoe brands have their own outlet sections on their websites. When a new version of a popular shoe drops, the previous iteration often finds its way here at a reduced price. We checked several brand sites and found that their “outlet” or “sale” sections are goldmines for discounted gear.

Brands like Nike, Adidas, Brooks, Saucony, and Asics all have dedicated outlet areas. You’ll often find shoes from 1-2 years ago marked down significantly. Sometimes, you can even find shoes that were released just a few months prior, especially if a brand has a rapid release cycle.

What to Look For on Brand Outlets

Don’t just scroll aimlessly. Look for sections labeled “Outlet,” “Sale,” “Last Chance,” or “Clearance.” You might need to dig a bit, but the savings can be substantial. We’ve seen discounts ranging from 20% all the way up to 60% off the original retail price.

Major Online Shoe Retailers: The Sale Sections

Beyond the brand-specific sites, large online shoe retailers are another excellent resource. Stores like Zappos, Running Warehouse, Road Runner Sports, and even general sports retailers like Dick’s Sporting Goods will have sale sections. They need to make room for new inventory, so older models are prime candidates for clearance.

Many of these sites allow you to filter by “sale” items. You can often further refine your search by brand, size, and even shoe category (like “road running” or “trail running”). We found that using these filters can save you a lot of time.

Navigating Online Retailer Sales

When you land on a sale page, look for the filters. You might see an option to sort by “discount percentage” or “lowest price.” This can help you quickly identify the best deals. Also, keep an eye out for specific “seasonal sales” or “holiday promotions,” as these are prime times for extra markdowns.

Third-Party Discount and Closeout Sites

There are also websites that specialize in selling overstock or past-season items from various brands. Sites like Sierra (formerly Sierra Trading Post), Joe’s New Balance Outlet (yes, even New Balance has a dedicated outlet site!), and Amazon’s “Warehouse Deals” can be good places to check. You might find a wider variety of brands and models here.

These sites often get their stock from multiple sources, so you could find a great deal on a shoe that wasn’t heavily discounted on the brand’s own site. It’s a bit of a treasure hunt, but the rewards can be great.

Tips for Using Discount Sites

Be aware that inventory on these sites can change rapidly. If you see a shoe you like in your size, it’s often best to grab it before it’s gone. Read descriptions carefully, as sometimes these are specifically “last season” or “closeout” models.

Is Last Season’s Shoe Still Good?

This is a common question, and the answer is almost always a resounding yes! Running shoe technology doesn’t change drastically year-over-year. The core cushioning, support, and materials are often very similar, if not identical, to the newer model.

Performance is Often Identical

Unless a shoe underwent a complete redesign (which is rare), the previous version will perform just as well. For example, if a shoe like the Brooks Ghost is on its 14th iteration, the 13th is likely still an excellent running shoe. The changes are usually minor tweaks for improved comfort or durability.

Most performance enhancements in running shoes are incremental. A new model might offer a slightly lighter foam or a subtly redesigned upper. For the vast majority of runners, these small changes won’t make a noticeable difference in their performance or enjoyment of the run.

What About Durability?

As long as the shoes are new and unused, their durability will be the same as when they were first released. Running shoes are designed to last for a certain number of miles, and that lifespan is built-in from the start. You’re not buying a shoe that’s “worn out” just because it’s last season’s model.

Potential Downsides (and why they’re minor)

The main “downside” is that you might not get the absolute latest colorway. Some runners also prefer the newest cushioning compounds, but again, the difference is usually marginal for most people. If you’re looking for a reliable workhorse shoe and not necessarily the “trendiest” option, last season’s model is perfect.

Smart Strategies for Your Search

To maximize your chances of finding the perfect pair of discounted shoes, having a strategy is key. Think of it like mapping out your running route – knowing where you’re going makes the journey smoother.

Be Flexible with Colors and Specific Models

This is probably the biggest factor in finding great deals. If you’re set on a specific color, your options might be more limited, and the discounts might not be as deep. If you’re open to different colors or even a slightly different but comparable model from the same brand, you’ll open up a wider world of savings.

For example, if you love the Saucony Ride, but only the bright orange is on deep discount, consider if you can live with it. Often, brands release a shoe in multiple colorways, and the less popular ones tend to get marked down first. We found that being “color-agnostic” can easily lead to an extra 15-20% off.

Know Your Size and Fit

This is non-negotiable. Running shoes can fit differently between brands and even models. If you haven’t already, go to a local running store and get properly fitted. Knowing your exact size and the type of fit you prefer (e.g., wide toe box, snug heel) will prevent you from ordering a pair that doesn’t work, even if the price is amazing.

Fit First, Discount Second

We cannot stress this enough: fit is paramount. A cheap shoe that doesn’t fit is a waste of money. Ensure you’re comfortable buying from retailers with good return policies, just in case. But ideally, you’ll know your size in the model you’re looking at.

Sign Up for Email Lists and Alerts

Many brands and retailers will send out notifications about upcoming sales or when new items hit their outlet sections. Signing up for their email lists is a simple way to stay informed. Some sites even offer a discount on your first order for subscribing.

Don’t Forget About Loyalty Programs

If you frequently shop at certain retailers, check if they have a loyalty program. Points, exclusive discounts, or early access to sales can add up and help you save even more on your next pair of shoes.

Consider Retired Models

Sometimes, a shoe model is discontinued entirely to make way for a new line. These shoes can often be found at incredibly steep discounts. While they might not be “last season,” they can still be fantastic performers for many runners.

Check Your Search Checklist

To recap and make sure you’re covered:

• Check brand outlet websites regularly.
• Browse the sale sections of major online shoe retailers.
• Explore third-party discount and closeout sites.
• Be flexible on colors and exact model variations.
• Confirm your correct shoe size and fit before buying.
• Subscribe to email lists for sale alerts.

Conclusion

You’ve learned that finding last season’s running shoes is a smart way to save money without sacrificing performance. We discovered that brand outlets, major online retailers’ sale sections, and third-party discount sites are your best bets. Remember, the technology in running shoes doesn’t change dramatically year-to-year, so older models are often just as good.

Your next step is to start searching! Check a few of the recommended sites today. You might be surprised at the great deals you can find. Happy running!

Frequently Asked Questions

Are last season’s running shoes still durable?

Yes, absolutely! As long as the shoes are new and unused, their durability remains the same as when they were first released. Their lifespan is built-in from the start, so you’re not buying a shoe that’s already worn out just because it’s an older model.

How much can I expect to save on last season’s models?

We’ve found discounts can range widely, often from 20% up to 60% off the original retail price. Being flexible with colors and specific models can often lead to an extra 15-20% in savings. You can find substantial markdowns.

What if I can’t find my exact preferred model from last year?

Don’t worry if your exact favorite isn’t available. Running shoe technology changes incrementally. Often, a new model offers only minor updates. You can look for shoes from the same brand that are similar in category or cushioning type, as they will likely perform well.

Is it better to buy from the brand’s outlet or a general shoe retailer?

Both can be excellent. Brand outlets might have the deepest discounts on their own specific models. Large online retailers often have a wider selection and may include past-season shoes from multiple brands in their sale sections. It’s worth checking both.

When is the best time of year to look for last season’s running shoes?

While deals can be found year-round, you’ll often see larger markdowns when new models are released, typically in the spring and fall. Also, keep an eye out for major holiday sales events, as retailers use these times to clear out older inventory.