Best Time to Buy Hiking Boots (2026 Guide)
Save 30-50% on Hiking Boots by timing your purchase right. Here's exactly when to buy.
Hiking boots are a significant investment for anyone who loves the outdoors. However, prices can fluctuate dramatically throughout the year – by as much as 30-50% – depending on sales events, seasonal demand, and new model releases. Timing your purchase can save you $50 to $100 or more. In this guide, we reveal the absolute best times to buy hiking boots, the worst times to shop, and how to score the best deals. Whether you're a weekend hiker or a serious trekker, we've got you covered.
Executive Summary
The best time to buy hiking boots is during Black Friday week (late November). Expect savings of 30-50% compared to peak season prices. If you can't wait, Prime Day in July is another excellent opportunity with discounts of 20-40%.
Why Timing Matters
Hiking boots follow a predictable seasonal cycle. Prices are highest in spring (March-May) when demand peaks as everyone gears up for hiking season. Retailers capitalize on this demand, rarely offering discounts. Conversely, prices drop after Labor Day as stores clear inventory for fall gear, hitting rock bottom during Black Friday and Cyber Monday. Winter sales (January) offer additional clearance opportunities. By understanding this cycle, you can save $50-$100 per pair. For example, the popular Merrell Moab 3 typically retails for $130 but can be found for $80-90 during Black Friday.
Best Time to Buy: Black Friday Week
Expected Savings: 30-50%
Black Friday is the single biggest sale event for outdoor gear. Retailers like REI, Amazon, and Zappos offer deep discounts on hiking boots to attract holiday shoppers. Many stores also extend these deals through Cyber Monday. Historically, prices drop to their lowest point of the year during this week. For example, the Salomon X Ultra 4 GTX often sees a 40% markdown. Additionally, last year's models are often cleared out to make room for spring inventory, resulting in even steeper savings.
What to Expect:
- Up to 50% off popular brands like Merrell, Salomon, Columbia, and Keen
- Doorbuster deals on Amazon and REI
- Price matching at major retailers
- Free shipping and easy returns
- Limited sizes and colors may sell out quickly
- Cyber Monday often includes extra discounts on already reduced prices
Alternative: Prime Day (July)
Amazon's Prime Day offers excellent discounts on hiking boots, especially for Prime members. Many brands like Columbia, Merrell, and KEEN participate. While not as deep as Black Friday, Prime Day deals are still substantial and come at a time when you might need boots for summer hikes. Additionally, Amazon's Lightning Deals can offer flash discounts of 40% or more on specific models.
Worst Time to Buy
The absolute worst time to buy hiking boots is during the spring (March through May). Demand is highest as outdoor enthusiasts gear up for hiking season, and retailers rarely discount new inventory. Prices can be 20-40% higher than during sale events. You'll pay full retail for the latest models. Additionally, winter clearance has ended, and summer sales haven't started. Avoid buying unless you have an urgent need; waiting until July or November will save you significant money.
Month-by-Month Breakdown
Recommended Products
1. Merrell Moab 3 Mid Waterproof Hiking Boot
The Merrell Moab 3 Mid Waterproof is the latest version of the iconic Moab series, offering exceptional out-of-the-box comfort and reliable waterproofing. With a Vibram TC5+ outsole and a supportive EVA midsole, it handles various terrains. The breathable mesh and leather upper provide durability. Ideal for day hikes and weekend trips.
Best Time to Buy: Wait for Black Friday to get this for around $90, or Prime Day for about $100.
2. Columbia Newton Ridge Plus Waterproof Amped
The Columbia Newton Ridge Plus offers excellent value with its lightweight build and waterproof construction. Featuring a suede leather and mesh upper, Techlite lightweight midsole, and Omni-Grip outsole, it provides comfort and traction for easy trails. Perfect for beginners or as a spare pair.
Best Time to Buy: Best to buy during Black Friday where it can drop to $65, or Prime Day for $70.
3. Salomon X Ultra 4 GTX Mid Hiking Boot
The Salomon X Ultra 4 GTX is a dynamic, lightweight boot designed for fast hiking and technical trails. With a GORE-TEX membrane, Advanced Chassis for stability, and Contagrip outsole, it offers precision and protection. The SensiFit system cradles the foot for a secure fit. Trusted by outdoor enthusiasts.
Best Time to Buy: Can be found for $130-140 during Black Friday or Prime Day. Set a price alert.
4. KEEN Targhee III Mid Height Waterproof Hiking Boot
The KEEN Targhee III is famous for its generous toe box, providing comfort on long descents. Featuring a KEEN.DRY waterproof membrane, leather and mesh upper, and a dual-density EVA midsole, it offers all-day comfort. The non-marking rubber outsole provides solid grip. Highly rated for durability.
Best Time to Buy: Wait for Black Friday to score under $100. Also check REI's sales.
5. Timberland Mt. Maddsen Mid Waterproof Hiking Boot
The Timberland Mt. Maddsen combines rugged outdoor performance with a sleek look. It features a waterproof membrane, a TimberGrip outsole for traction, and an OrthoLite footbed for comfort. The leather upper gives it a premium feel. Suitable for light to moderate hiking and city wear.
Best Time to Buy: Best deals on Black Friday or end-of-season clearance. Expect $80-90.
6. The North Face Hedgehog Fastpack GTX Mid
The North Face Hedgehog Fastpack GTX is built for quick hikes and trail runs that need boot support. GORE-TEX keeps feet dry, while the Fastpack EVA midsole provides responsive cushioning. The Vibram outsole offers excellent traction. A lightweight, low-profile boot for agile movement.
Best Time to Buy: Look for deals in October (Prime Day) or Black Friday. Savings up to $50.
7. La Sportiva Nucleo High II GTX Hiking Boot
The La Sportiva Nucleo High II GTX is a top-tier boot for heavy loads and rugged terrain. With a full-grain leather upper, GORE-TEX lining, and a Vibram outsole, it offers unparalleled durability and comfort. The padded collar and tongue reduce pressure points. Designed for multi-day treks.
Best Time to Buy: Rarely goes on sale, but best chance is Black Friday or REI Anniversary Sale. Save maybe $30-50.
8. Columbia Redmond III Waterproof Hiking Boot
The Columbia Redmond III is an affordable waterproof boot perfect for casual hikers. It features a suede leather and mesh upper, Techlite midsole, and Omni-Grip outsole. Lightweight and comfortable, it's a great entry-level option. Suitable for easy trails and everyday wear.
Best Time to Buy: Often drops to $60-70 during Black Friday and Prime Day. Great value at that price.
9. KEEN Targhee IV Mid Height Waterproof Hiking Boot (2025 Model)
The KEEN Targhee IV is the latest iteration, featuring a new outsole pattern for better traction, a redesigned fit, and eco-friendly materials. It retains the roomy toe box and KEEN.DRY waterproofing. Ideal for all-day hiking on varied terrain.
Best Time to Buy: Since it's new, discounts may be minimal until later in the year. Best to wait for Black Friday or end-of-season clearance.
10. Merrell Moab Speed 2 Mid Waterproof Hiking Boot
The Merrell Moab Speed 2 is a hybrid between a boot and a trail runner, offering a lightweight feel with boot-like protection. It features a FloatPro foam midsole, Vibram TC5+ outsole, and a breathable mesh upper. Perfect for fast hikes and outdoor adventures.
Best Time to Buy: Look for it on Prime Day or Black Friday for around $100-110.
11. Danner Mountain 600 Walking Boot
The Danner Mountain 600 combines heritage style with modern performance. With a waterproof leather upper, Danner Plyolite midsole, and Vibram outsole, it's built for comfort on and off the trail. The classic look makes it versatile for hiking and casual wear.
Best Time to Buy: Rarely discounted deeply, but occasional sales on Danner's site or Amazon during Black Friday, saving about $30-40.
12. Lowa Renegade GTX Mid Hiking Boot
The Lowa Renegade GTX is a legendary boot known for its exceptional comfort and support. Features a GORE-TEX lining, a Vibram outsole, and a supportive midsole with a torsion frame. The nubuck leather upper is durable. Ideal for multi-day backpacking with heavy packs.
Best Time to Buy: Rarely on sale, but check REI or Moosejaw during Black Friday or end-of-season. Savings up to $50-60.
Pricing Strategies
Wait for Black Friday
Research your desired model and set price alerts on CamelCamelCamel.,Sign up for email alerts from Amazon, REI, and Zappos.,On Black Friday, check Amazon's Lightning Deals and REI's sale page first thing in the morning.,Compare prices across retailers; use price matching if possible.,Buy quickly if you find a good deal—popular sizes sell out fast.
Prime Day Shopping
Create a wishlist of boots on Amazon to monitor price drops.,Check for Prime Day previews two weeks before the event.,Be ready to pounce on Lightning Deals early in the day.,Use the Amazon App for notifications.
End-of-Season Clearance
Visit REI Outlet, Amazon Outlet, or Sierra Trading Post.,Look for last year's models – they are often identical to current.,Check for discounted winter boots in early spring.
Price Tracking with CamelCamelCamel
Copy the ASIN or URL of the hiking boot you want.,Paste into CamelCamelCamel.com to view price history.,Set a price alert for your desired discount (e.g., $100 for a $150 boot).,Wait for the alert and purchase when it hits your target.
Buying Refurbished or Used
Check Amazon Warehouse Deals for open-box or like-new boots.,Browse REI Re/Supply (used gear) for discounted returns.,eBay or Poshmark for deeply discounted used boots.
Out-of-Season Purchase
After winter (February-March), buy heavily discounted winter hiking boots.,In late summer (August-September), buy clearance summer-weight boots.,Store them properly until next season.
If You Need It Now
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Bottom Line
The best time to buy hiking boots is Black Friday week in November, with savings up to 50%. Prime Day in July is a strong second choice. Avoid spring (March-May) when prices are highest. If you can't wait, use price tracking tools and consider open-box or last season's models. Plan ahead: set alerts for your target price and act when deals appear. With this guide, you'll never pay full price again.
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Hiking Boots