This post was inspired by the one "Buying better but way more expensive things..." by Arktinkerer and a desire to continue living within our means. Sometimes we can find things we need at prices that are great values. Care to share?
My wonderful-but-pricey Merrill sneakers final wore out after about 10 years. I thought, no problem, I'll get some new ones. But, Merrill had changed the shape of the footbed to accommodate wider feet. After a long search, I found some great sneakers that fit, with features I like, at half the price. My "Dr. Scholl's Women's Curry-ls Fashion Sneaker" in Gray/Green were only $44.99 on Amazon. (Walmart.com has them at the same price.) They're more of a soft blue-gray and the only green is the logo. I think they are very good-looking, the footbed is quite comfortable, and the sole is flared for support. I did have to add Dr. Scholl's arch supports (tucked under the insole) because of my high arches. I've been wearing them for 3.5 months; they still look new and I love wearing them. So far, the quality appears to be excellent.