Best Time to Buy Shoes

In the mood for a fresh new pair of kicks? Or have you always wanted a pair of knee-high boots but never felt you could afford them?

When you really want some new footwear, the high prices can be discouraging. For a coveted pair of leather boots in peak season (right around Christmas time), you may feel like you have to take out a new credit card just to get your hands on them. While CreditDonkey discourages anyone from spending more than they can afford on items, we do know a way that you can get what you want at a decent price. It's patience. Wait until certain times of the year, and you can score the shoes of your dreams at a discount and you won't have to go into debt.

When is the Best Time to Buy Shoes

Here are the best times of the year to buy shoes:

• January
  Each year, millions of Americans resolve to shed the excess pounds only to lose steam after a few short months, if not weeks, have passed. But that doesn't stop retailers from running promotional offers on sneakers, typically around 20 to 25 percent off select merchandise, to ring in the New Year.

  Bonus Tip: Sport last season's sneaks.
  When your favorite shoe manufacturer announces the upcoming release of an existing model, contact your local shoe store to inquire about any discounts that may be available. And if you aren't aware of any new releases, hop on Google or call a specialty store. Running shops, for example, are staffed with running enthusiasts who are passionate about all things sneakers and likely know exactly when to expect new shipments.

• April
  Didn't get your sneakers during the resolution frenzy? As the warmer temperatures begin to surface and runners hit the pavement again, expect discounts to appear.

  Bonus Tip: Buy when the seasons change.
  Who wants to rock snow boots when it's scorching hot outside? But that is the perfect time to try some on. When it starts to warm up, head over to your local retailer to grab a pair of boots to keep your feet snuggly for next season. And if the cooler temperatures are beginning to come around and you still spot a ton of sandals on the shelves, now's the time to stock up.

• May
  Discounts during the month of May range from 30 to 60 percent off as retailers begin to clear out last season's inventory in preparation for back-to-school shopping and new fall inventory. Since they're in an in-between time (most people don't want to stock up on shoes for the kids at this point, for example), you have an advantage if you have some extra cash and a burning need to buy shoes.

  Bonus Tip: Know when the sales are in full swing.
  Most retailers follow a specific markdown schedule, so call around to your favorite stores and simply ask. Target, which is one of my personal favorites, always tends to mark down items mid-week, as do T.J. Maxx and Marshalls. Also check out Bealls Outlet on Fridays to save 15 percent off simply by enrolling in the Friday Club.