I've bought last year's models for many years now. Works great if it's exactly the same model & year as shoes I wear now. Sometimes NEW BETTER is OW WORSE for me. Buy with a good return policy! Try before that expires! Speaking from painful experience.
I don't think you should feel bad about calling $130 affordable. As you wrote, outdoor gear is notoriously expensive, and $130 is the more affordable option when looking at what's on the market.
I've bought last year's models for many years now. Works great if it's exactly the same model & year as shoes I wear now. Sometimes NEW BETTER is OW WORSE for me. Buy with a good return policy! Try before that expires! Speaking from painful experience.
Great post! Please don't feel bad. Affordability is relative. I love my Hoka Mach X and would be thrilled if I found a pair for $130.
I don't think you should feel bad about calling $130 affordable. As you wrote, outdoor gear is notoriously expensive, and $130 is the more affordable option when looking at what's on the market.