Introduction to Saving on Sneakers with Cashback Apps
Shopping for sneakers has become more expensive with inflation and endless hype driving up prices, but cashback apps can help you score incredible deals. I recently used my go-to cashback method to cop a pair of New Balance 574s from JD Sports for just $56—less than half the cost I initially saw on StockX, priced at $126.44 after fees.
Comparing JD Sports vs. StockX New Balance Prices
As a frugal sneakerhead, I followed my tried-and-true playbook: I combined a high cashback offer, an exclusive promo code, and my cashback credit card, stacking multiple layers of savings to turn an over-priced New Balance sneaker into a real MidSole Deal. Here’s exactly how I did it, and how you can too.
| JD Sports: Retail Price: $90 | StockX: Resale Price: $97 |
| Price w/ Promo code (44% Off): $49.98 | n/a |
| Sales Tax (8%): $4.00 | Sales Tax (8%): $8.54 |
| Shipping: $10 | Shipping: $14.95 |
| Total Before Cashback: $63.98 | Total Cost: $126.44 |
| Cashback (10%): -$6.40 | Cashback (1%): -$1.26 |
| Credit Card cashback (2%): -$1.28 | Credit Card cashback (2%): 2.53 |
| Final Cost After Savings: $56.30 | Total Cost: $123.91 |
Using cashback apps to save money on sneakers is easy—especially when you download the Chrome extensions. With these extensions, I easily compare cashback rates and promo codes across multiple platforms right from my desktop. I intentionally avoid the mobile app versions because it’s a pain to compare offers.
My desktop-only approach also adds a layer of discipline; I have to pull out my laptop and go through each app, which gives me more time to reflect on whether I truly need/want the item. But if I decide to go for it, I can easily check every app for the best promo codes and cashback offers. They will just pop up to show you what the offers are when you are on the product webpage. On average, I save $500+ each year, which I invest in Bitcoin to make the most of my savings.
Let’s dive into each cashback app I used for my JD Sports purchase of New Balance 574s, along with my personal tips and insights. At the end, I will reveal which one gave me a crazy 10% cashback offer!
Shopping for New Balance 574s using Cashback apps
Here is a breakdown of my go-to favorite cashback apps and how each app performed to get me the best savings on my new pair of New Balance 574s👇
1. TopCashBack Review
Why I Use TopCashBack:
TopCashBack is straightforward, with competitive cashback rates and flexibility in payouts. I usually send my earnings to PayPal, but they also offer Amazon gift cards, which I sometimes use for everyday shopping. You can also opt for prepaid Visa or American Express gift cards or even a bank transfer. For this purchase, the 5% rate was among the highest available but not the best.
2. FatCoupon Review
Why I Use FatCoupon:
FatCoupon is easily in my top 7 for a reason. They offer the usual payout options like gift cards and PayPal, but what really sets them apart is their unique affiliate-style feature. Unlike any other cashback app in this list, FatCoupon lets every user earn a share of the cashback by sharing product recommendations with friends. If you’re that friend who’s always sending shoe recommendations, this app lets you earn a few bucks when your friends buy, and it doesn’t cost either of you anything extra. I use this feature constantly when sharing daily sneaker deals here and on Reddit or with my friends.
Another bonus: for each friend you refer to FatCoupon, both you and your friend earn $10. So while the 5% cashback isn’t the highest, it’s still a solid tool in my frugal tech stack, especially with these extra ways to earn.
3. CapOne Shopping Review
Why I Use CapOne Shopping:
CapOne Shopping can be hit or miss with cashback offers, but its price comparison tool is a game-changer, especially for Amazon sneaker deals. The extension often finds better prices on reputable sites, which I then double-check through the other cashback apps in this list to ensure I’m getting the absolute best deal. I primarily use CapOne Shopping for its comparison feature and Droplist alerts, which notify me of price drops on items I’m tracking. This tool makes it super easy to monitor prices and time my purchases.
While the 2% cashback sucks, the quick comparison tool adds real value by helping me maximize savings across multiple platforms. Just keep in mind that payouts are only available as gift cards, which may be a downside for me.
4. Honey Review
Why I Use Honey:
Honey, like Capone Shopping, offers a price comparison tool. It also offers “Droplist,” where you can track items for price drops. This makes it perfect for stalking shoes that rarely go on sale. I use this feature for planning my daily sneaker deals. Honey also allows you to earn PayPal Rewards points, which can be redeemed for cash, gift cards, or PayPal shopping credit.
Not all cashback apps work with every site, and unfortunately, Honey isn’t partnered with JD Sports. However, with over 800 other retailer partnerships, Honey is still a solid tool to have in your frugal tech stack.
5. Rakuten Review
Why I Use Rakuten:
Rakuten, previously known as Ebates, is one of the oldest and most reliable cashback apps. They usually offer some of the best rates with quarterly payouts via PayPal, check, or gift card. I like the quarterly payout—it’s a nice surprise to see my savings add up! Plus, referring friends earns you $30 for each signup.
Rakuten consistently provides competitive rates but not this time. However, Rakuten sometimes offers double cashback events and can make up for it on other purchases.
6. RetailMeNot Review
Why I Use RetailMeNot:
RetailMeNot has been my go-to for promo codes long before they launched their cashback feature. They still excel in finding discounts and offer unique redemption options like PayPal and Venmo, making it easy to cash out. They also personalize deals based on your preferences and sometimes feature exclusive discounts from popular brands, adding extra value.
RetailMeNot offered a whack 1-2% cashback rate on JD Sports, but where this app truly shines is in finding promo codes. Even though the cashback rate wasn’t the highest, I was able to find promo codes that reduced my overall cost, giving me a way better deal.
7. BeFrugal Review
Why I Use BeFrugal:
BeFrugal offers multiple payout options, including PayPal, check, or gift cards, making it easy and flexible to redeem your savings. A standout feature is their “Best Rate Guarantee,” which can come in handy if you spot a higher cashback rate elsewhere (if you’ve got the spare time for that kind of thing).
BeFrugal offered an impressive 10% cashback rate—one of the best available and a clear winner in this round. Combined with their Best Rate Guarantee, BeFrugal is a must-have tool for anyone looking to maximize their savings. Plus, as a bonus, you’ll earn $10 for every friend you refer, and they’ll get $10 too!
Maximize Your Savings: Final Thoughts and Cashback App Recommendations
Each of these cashback apps brings something unique to the table, whether it’s TopCashBack’s flexible redemption options, FatCoupon’s affiliate rewards, or CapOne Shopping’s price comparison tool. By stacking multiple cashback offers, promo codes, and rewards, I’ve been able to save hundreds of dollars annually on my purchases. Thanks to these tools, I’m maximizing my savings on every online purchase and reinvesting those savings into Bitcoin, further growing my wealth over time.
Why These Cashback Apps Make a Difference
This experiment shows that cashback apps can make a substantial difference for anyone looking to save on sneakers or other online purchases. Whether you prefer Rakuten’s reliability or BeFrugal’s high cashback rates, there’s a perfect app for every type of shopper.
Final Tips for Getting the Most from Cashback Apps
1. Check all cashback apps before you buy: This is best done on your desktop using Google Chrome.
2. Stack Discounts: Combine promo codes with cashback for extra savings. Some apps will have more available promo codes than others.
3. Look for Special Events: Apps often boost rates around holidays. Especially during Black Friday and Cyber Monday.
Ready to start saving on sneakers with cashback apps?
Sign up for all of these cashback apps using the links above and see how much you can save on your next sneaker purchase. With promo codes and cashback stacking, the savings really add up!
Quick links to every app cashback app I use:
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