The Gearbag: Footwear

Keeping a competitive edge while maintaining affordability is always a challenge - no matter the sport. In the realm of paintball, the options are almost limitless when it comes to equipment and attire for both beginners and advanced players.

However, when it comes to affordable footwear the options are less than ideal for most individuals. Coupled with the extreme amount of wear that paintball puts on average sports shoes, the need for more durable alternatives can cost upwards of $100 in some instances.

While many online retailers offer reasonable sales and promotions from time to time, the ability to try on footwear at a physical store provides instant feedback on the fit and feel of the product. Hence the dilemma, where does one go to get discounted footwear?

Usually nestled in large strip malls, businesses such as T.J. Maxx and Ross department stores are hidden gems for athletic footwear sales. With large retailers such as Nike, Under Armour, and Adidas releasing new designs multiple times a year, many older models are moved to discount stores later in their shelf life.

In particular, the department store Ross provides a large selection of both men and women’s footwear ranging in sizes and colors at a heavily discounted rate. Most recently, the selection of cleats by Under Armour and Nike has been fantastic at most stores in the Dallas/Fort Worth Metroplex.

Wherever you live in the United States, the key to finding fantastic deals at these stores simply boils down to going as often as possible. With the turnover rate of cleats and other athletic footwear being extremely high, one must stay diligent as to offer them the best chance for success.

If, and when, you do come upon a large selection - the best thing to do is simply buy multiple pairs for the future. As these stores offer discounts going as far down as 60% off of retail value, the ability to purchase two or three sets of shoes for the future is completely feasible. Thus, when the times comes to get a new set of shoes you’re not scrambling to find time before the next weekend arrives.

While the sport of paintball can be expensive at times, the need to pay inflated prices for footwear doesn’t have to be. In the end, the less money you have to spend on equipment, the more you will have to spend on playing and enjoying time with friends on the field.