1. Know What You’re Looking For
Do you already have a pair of boots in mind? Before going to your target thrift shops, have an inventory of the current shoe collection, especially your boots. But if you don’t currently have boots, and this is your first time buying a pair, you may start by buying a versatile style, such as neutral-coloured ankle boots. On the other hand, if you currently have some pairs of boots, observe what you already have, and find the ones that you don’t.2. Check the Material and Quality
When shopping for thrifted boots, you can’t always be sure about the quality or materials. Real leather and suede tend to age well, but it’s still important to inspect them carefully. Even high-quality materials can show signs of wear, so always consider the boots’ current condition. For example, Mou boots are made from quality suede, but previous use may affect their overall durability. Pay attention to details like zippers (make sure they work smoothly) and check the soles, stitching, and other elements. To assess the soles, gently bend the boots to see if they feel brittle or worn.3. Inspect the Inside
Aside from checking the material and quality of the boots’ interior, you should also inspect the insoles. Since the boots haven’t been used for a while, check for odour-free lining, signs of mould or moisture, and heel compression. In some cases, if you encounter a mysterious smell in thrifted boots, it can still be solved by sprinkling baking soda or airing them out. As for the quality of the interior, there should be no flaking, and take note of the small details before making a decision to buy the boots.
4. Put Them On
It’s great to know that the boots are in great condition. However, another thing you should consider before buying them is to check whether they fit. Before going to the thrift shop, ensure to wear a pair of socks that you usually wear, and try the boots while wearing them. Once you try them on, walk around the store, and observe if you feel comfortable wearing them. If you feel comfortable, this can be another great sign that the pair of boots you’re eyeing is a great purchase.5. Look Beyond the Dust
In some cases, first-timers tend to overlook boots with some minor problems, such as dull finishes and scuffs. However, there are instances where even when the boots don’t look good at first glance, they may still be revived with just a few tweaks. For instance, you can just use the right cleaning agent depending on the material, and you can easily turn an old pair of boots into something unexpected.6. Check the Brand and Price
Knowing the best brand can significantly help you find the best pair of boots in the thrift shop. If you know the best brand of boots, it’s easier to identify the quality, and you can also understand the pricing. Since the high-quality brands are expensive when bought at full price, you can significantly save when you choose to buy them at a thrift store, given that the current condition is still fine.
