Yo, if you're looking at the numbers, Adidas is definitely more predictable for a big haul. Nike uses a lot of algorithmic pricing that kicks in when demand is high, which is why the good stuff stays at MSRP even during BF. Adidas usually goes for a high-volume clearance strategy to move units before the new year. Tbh, here are a couple of technical tricks:

• Get the app and sign up for their loyalty program now. They often send out stackable 30% off codes for Early Access members that beat the public sale.
• If you want max comfort for NYC walking, look at Adidas Ultraboost 1.0 Sneakers because they tend to overproduce the standard colorways.
• For your gym sessions, Adidas Dropset 2 Trainers are technically superior for stability because of the 6mm heel drop. Adidas usually has better API stability too, so the site wont crash when the sale goes live. Basically, your $800 will go about 30% further there.

Been thinking about your $800 budget and honestly, shifting to the stripes is the right call for 2026. Nike has become a nightmare with their exclusion lists. If you want to maximize that money, you gotta be strategic because even Adidas has some traps you need to watch out for.

• First thing, join Adiclub now. It sounds like a gimmick but they literally gatekeep the best 40% off codes for members. If you try to buy as a guest, you'll see sold out on stuff that members can still buy. It makes a huge difference when the clock hits midnight.
• Be careful with the lower-end clothing. Adidas has a habit of putting their essentials line on massive sale, but the quality is kinda thin. For a New York job, stick to the premium stuff. The Adidas Stan Smith Lux Leather Sneakers are perfect because they look professional enough for an office but go on sale often.
• For the gym, the Adidas Ultraboost Light Running Shoes are usually the flagship Black Friday deal. Last year they were like half off. Nike never does that with their top-tier runners, they just dump the ugly colors on the clearance rack.
• Check the tech specs on the tracksuits. If you're gonna be in NYC, you want the Adidas Tiro 23 League Pants or something with decent weight. Just make sure you have your sizing locked in before the sale starts. Their site crashes way less than SNKRS but things still move fast when the 50% off hits. Nike basically ignores their loyal fans while Adidas actually rewards them... just dont forget to check the return policy since sale items can be tricky.

> Nike feels like they’re getting stingier every year I’ve done this for years and Nike always burns me. Adidas is amazing tho! Just watch out for Nikes fake discounts that exclude all the cool stuff you actually want.

@Reply #3 - good point! Honestly its ridiculous how much effort we have to put in just to spend our own money these days. Nike is a total joke lately and the whole SNKRS app thing is basically a psychological experiment at this point. It drives me crazy how they claim to care about the community while letting bots ruin every single drop.

• the materials feel cheaper every year but the price tags keep going up
• getting a didnt get em screen for the 50th time in a row is just insulting
• those sales that exclude anything anyone actually wants to wear Its honestly just exhausting and basically a scam. You think you are finally gonna get a win and then you see the fine print or some botter has already cleared the stock. The quality is going downhill so fast its not even funny anymore. I feel your pain man, the whole situation is just trash now.