When it comes to jackets, you could spend an absolute fortune if you’re an active person or family. You’ll want one for every purpose: running, hiking, skiing, snowboarding, windproof, lightweight packable, and—of course—waterproof. And how about a down jacket for those freezing winter activities? So how do you fill your closets with everything you need without breaking the bank? We have some ideas on how to make substantial savings.
1. Do Some Homework
This is one of the biggest ways to save. We all see signs for “sale,” “bargain,” and “clearance,” but how do you know you’re getting a genuine deal? Before you set off, do some research online. Look at various websites to see the average retail price for the specific jacket you want. Make notes so that when you get to the mall, you aren’t swayed by a “sale” sign that isn’t actually offering a significant discount.
2. Only Get What You Really Need
It sounds obvious, but you can easily save by “doubling up” on items. A high-quality, lightweight waterproof jacket can act as a windproof layer, an outer shell for winter, and a rain jacket for around town. Unless you are a highly specialized athlete, you might not need a dedicated cycling jacket, a running jacket, and a hiking jacket. Buying versatile gear that serves multiple purposes is the easiest way to cut your costs in half.
3. Utilize a Layering System
Layering is not just the best way to stay warm; it’s the best way to save money. By investing in one high-quality outer shell, you can use less expensive mid-layers (like fleeces or thermal shirts) to manage your temperature. One great option is a 3-in-1 jacket with a removable fleece liner. You get a heavy winter coat, a standalone fleece, and a light windbreaker all in one purchase.
4. Shop the Real Sales
Not all sales are created equal. To find a true bargain, look for clearance lines, last year’s stock, or bankrupt stock. Retailers often slash prices just to free up floor space for the next season’s arrivals. If you don’t mind wearing last year’s color, you can often find premium technical jackets for 40-60% off original retail prices.
5. Savings on Kids’ Jackets
Kids grow fast—sometimes outgrowing a jacket in a single season. Unless money is no object, avoid spending a fortune on high-end brands for toddlers. Instead, focus on functionality: ensure it’s wind and waterproof. Pro Tip: Buy neutral colors (like red, green, or yellow) so the jackets can be handed down from a big brother to a little sister without issue.
6. Check Secondhand Stores
Thrift stores and consignment shops are gold mines for kids’ gear. Many parents donate jackets that have only been worn a handful of times before the child grew. If you are willing to spend an afternoon hunting through the racks, you can find high-end brands for a fraction of the cost.
7. Online Auctions
Sites like eBay or Poshmark offer a massive selection of both new and used jackets. Because of the high competition between sellers, prices stay low. However, don’t get caught in a “bidding war.” Stick to your researched price limit. If you miss one auction, don’t worry—another one will likely pop up within a few days.
8. Go To The Mall (In Person)
While online shopping is convenient, visiting a physical mall allows you to check clearance racks that might not be listed online. Often, “floor models” or returns are marked down significantly in-store. If you’re willing to do the legwork, you can find unadvertised specials that online shoppers miss entirely.
9. Direct Online Businesses
The internet has allowed smaller retailers to compete with big-box stores. These businesses often have lower overhead costs because they don’t maintain physical storefronts, allowing them to pass those savings on to you. Always check a variety of sites to ensure you’re seeing the full spectrum of available discounts.
10. Use GearChase.com
The absolute best way to ensure you get a deal is to let us do the work for you. At GearChase.com, we search all the major outdoor retailers for you. We track the top deals, sales, coupons, and closeouts on everything from ski jackets to rain shells. You can compare hundreds of jackets by brand or price in one place, ensuring you never pay full price again.
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