Nothing is more comfortable than a pair of worn Levi’s or broken-in tennis shoes. 

And nobody likes the stiff feel of a brand-new pair of pants or the disappointment of finding a hole in the armpit of a $50 shirt. 

For these reasons, thrift shopping is a popular and financially sound idea.  Even Boone has jumped on the bandwagon. 

Ram’s Rack, the Salvation Army Thrift Store and the recently opened Love Me 2 Times are some of the most visited thrift shops in the area. 

Here are some of the pros and cons of each.  
 
 
 For those who have been there, you know that when you walk in, you are going to be able to find at least one thing that suits your needs.  

Ram’s Rack is massive, and they carry everything from kitchenware and exercise equipment to books and winter coats. 

They have swing dresses from the 1940s, acid-washed jeans from the 1980s and lots of timeless sweaters to keep you warm during Boonewinters. 

Ram’s Rack also has furniture, accessories and shoes, including galoshes and lined work boots for tromping around on snow and ice. 

The only cons I’ve found through my own shopping experience are the obvious risks you take when shopping at second-hand stores—holes, runs and lipstick stains, along with various other stains on the clothes. 

Be sure to examine your potential purchases before buying! 
 
 
 
 This place is really cool—if you are into finding something from the really “fashionable” 1970s, because that is pretty much all they carry. 

It would help if you like to blow $40 on a sweater that’s been around longer than you have. 

While you are not going to find any holes or stains (they accept only the finest quality vintage clothing), you are not going to find any great deals either. 

Don’t get me wrong, they have a lot of unique stuff. The place itself is very cozy, and the employees are helpful and nice. 

If you have something specific that you need or want, such as real cargo pants, homemade hippie dresses or turquoise and silver jewelry (which would make a wonderful Valentine’s Day present), this is good place to go. 

However, it is still a little too pricey for everyday thrift shopping. 
 
 
 Whether you are giving to or buying from the Salvation Army, you are supporting a great cause. 

A percentage of their profits go to paying the medical bills and housing for those less fortunate, as well as annual food and clothes drives to assist the needy. 

The selection, however, leaves much to be desired.  They just don’t have enough stuff, which is primarily attributed to the lack of contributions from the community.  They do carry a lot of children’s clothes and toys, though. 

It’s all in the timing when it comes to secondhand shopping, as truly dedicated thrift shoppers know. 

Thrift shopping can prove to unveil some good bargains, but as the saying goes, “Let the buyer beware.”