Discover the Best Winter Wear Deals as Costco Clears Out Seasonal Inventory

Top Winter Wear Deals to Look For at Costco's Clearance

As the seasons change, savvy shoppers know that it’s the perfect time to find deep discounts on out-of-season apparel. Costco, known for its bulk bargains, follows a predictable seasonal cycle, which means winter wear often sees significant price reductions as spring approaches. For members, this presents a golden opportunity to stock up on high-quality coats, base layers, and accessories for a fraction of their original cost. The key is knowing what to look for and recognizing the signs of a final clearance price.

From well-known national brands to Costco's own esteemed Kirkland Signature label, the variety of winter clothing available is impressive. These aren't just budget items; many are made with premium materials designed for serious warmth and durability. Here’s a detailed look at some of the top winter wear items you can frequently find on clearance at Costco.

1. 32 Degrees Heat Base Layers

One of the most consistently popular and heavily discounted winter items at Costco is the 32 Degrees Heat line of base layers. These long-sleeved crewneck shirts and leggings are a staple for anyone living in a cold climate. They are crafted from a lightweight, stretchy blend of polyester and spandex, which provides a comfortable, close-to-the-body fit without feeling restrictive. The primary feature of this fabric is its ability to both retain body heat and wick away moisture, a crucial combination for staying warm and dry during physical activity or simply layering under everyday clothes.

When these items hit the clearance racks, they often drop to prices that make it easy to stock up for the entire family. They are known for their soft, brushed interior that feels pleasant against the skin and their anti-static properties that reduce cling. The quick-drying fabric also makes them easy to care for and ideal for travel. Look for multi-packs, which offer even greater value, and don't be surprised to find them in various colors, from basic neutrals like black and gray to more seasonal tones.

2. Gerry Men's and Women's Puffer Jackets

The Gerry brand has become synonymous with affordable yet highly effective outerwear at Costco. Their puffer jackets, available for men, women, and sometimes children, are a common sight during the fall and winter months. These jackets typically feature a lightweight synthetic insulation that mimics the warming properties of down but offers the advantage of retaining warmth even when damp. The outer shell is usually a water-resistant polyester, providing protection against light snow and rain.

As winter wanes, these jackets are prime candidates for clearance. They are incredibly versatile, serving as an excellent outer layer for chilly autumn days or a mid-layer under a heavier shell for extreme cold. Features often include zippered pockets, a high collar to block wind, and an elasticized hem and cuffs to seal in warmth. Because they are lightweight and can be compressed easily, they are also a popular choice for packing on trips where weather can be unpredictable.

3. Kirkland Signature Shearling Boots and Slippers

Costco's private label, Kirkland Signature, is renowned for offering quality that rivals premium brands at a much lower price point, and its shearling footwear is no exception. Often compared to much more expensive brands, these boots and slippers are typically made with genuine sheepskin and shearling lining. This natural material provides exceptional insulation, breathability, and moisture-wicking properties, keeping feet warm and dry without overheating.

These cozy footwear options are a hot commodity when they first arrive, but any remaining stock is usually marked down significantly toward the end of the season. The boots often feature a durable, lightweight outsole suitable for light outdoor wear, while the slippers are perfect for keeping feet warm around the house. Finding these on clearance is a major score, as they offer incredible comfort and longevity for a price that is hard to beat anywhere else.

4. Weatherproof Vintage Flannel Shirts

A classic flannel shirt is a winter wardrobe essential, and the Weatherproof Vintage brand frequently offers thick, comfortable options at Costco. These aren't flimsy fashion flannels; they are typically made from a substantial, brushed cotton that is incredibly soft and provides genuine warmth. They are designed to be worn as a standalone shirt or as a light "shacket" (shirt-jacket) over a t-shirt or base layer.

During clearance events, you can often find these versatile shirts in a variety of plaids and solid colors. They are well-constructed, with durable stitching and button-front closures, making them suitable for casual wear, outdoor chores, or a relaxed office environment. The end-of-season sale is the perfect time to grab a few different patterns, as their timeless style ensures they will be a go-to item for many winters to come.

5. Head and Hestra Ski Gloves

Costco is also a surprising source for quality ski and winter sports accessories. Brands like Head and Hestra often supply the warehouses with gloves designed for cold-weather performance. These gloves typically feature waterproof and windproof membranes, synthetic insulation for warmth, and durable palm materials for a secure grip. Many models also include modern conveniences like touchscreen-compatible fingertips.

These are technical items that can be quite expensive at specialty sporting goods stores. When Costco clears them out, the discount is often steep. This is an excellent opportunity for casual skiers, snowboarders, or anyone who needs a seriously warm pair of waterproof gloves for activities like shoveling snow or attending outdoor events. Pay attention to features like adjustable cuffs and liner materials to find the pair that best suits your needs.

6. Wool Blend Socks Multi-Packs

Never underestimate the power of good socks in winter. Costco is famous for its multi-packs of Kirkland Signature Trail Socks, which are made from a blend of merino wool and synthetic fibers. This combination offers the best of both worlds: the natural warmth, moisture-wicking, and odor-resistant properties of wool, plus the durability and shape retention of synthetics. These socks are cushioned and comfortable, making them ideal for everything from hiking to everyday wear in cold boots.

While already a great value at their regular price, these multi-packs can see further reductions during seasonal transitions. It’s the perfect time to refresh your sock drawer and ensure your feet stay warm and comfortable all year long. Other brands may also appear, but the Kirkland Signature wool blend socks are a consistent fan favorite for their exceptional quality and performance.

Understanding Costco's Seasonal Clearance Cycle

The reason these fantastic deals appear is rooted in Costco's business model, which prioritizes high inventory turnover and efficient use of warehouse space. Unlike traditional retailers that might hold onto seasonal stock for longer, Costco aims to clear out old inventory quickly to make way for new items. Winter apparel typically arrives in late summer or early fall and remains a fixture until late winter. Once the demand naturally subsides and the warehouse needs space for spring items like patio furniture and gardening supplies, the clearance process begins.

This transition usually starts in late January and accelerates through February and March. The timing can vary by region depending on the local climate, but the principle is the same. The goal is to sell through the remaining stock rather than packing it away for the next year. This is what creates the window of opportunity for shoppers. By paying attention to the calendar and visiting the store regularly during this period, you can catch these items as their prices drop, often in several stages, until they are finally gone.

Maximizing Your Costco Clearance Haul

Finding the best deals requires a bit of strategy. Here are answers to some common questions that can help you make the most of Costco's winter wear clearance.

How can you spot a final clearance price at Costco?

Costco has a well-known but unofficial pricing code that can signal the status of an item. A price ending in .99 is typically a standard, full-priced item. Prices ending in other numbers, like .49 or .79, often indicate a special promotional price from the manufacturer. However, the key numbers for clearance shoppers are .97 and .00.

A price ending in .97 signifies that the item is on clearance at that specific warehouse. This is a markdown determined by the store manager to move the remaining inventory. The price may drop further, but it’s a clear signal that the item is on its way out. A price ending in .00 is an even steeper, final markdown. Furthermore, look for an asterisk (*) in the upper-right corner of the price sign. This "death star" means the item is deleted and will not be restocked once the current supply is sold out. An item with a .97 price and an asterisk is the ultimate clearance find.

Is Costco's online inventory the same as in-store?

No, the inventory and pricing between Costco.com and the physical warehouses can be very different. The website often carries a wider variety of sizes and colors, and may feature exclusive items not found in stores. However, the most aggressive end-of-season clearance deals are almost always found in the physical warehouses. This is because in-store markdowns are often managed at the local level to clear specific, on-hand inventory.

While you might find some winter clothing on sale at Costco.com, the rock-bottom .97 deals are an in-store phenomenon. If you see a great deal online, it’s worth checking your local warehouse as well, as the price might be even lower. Conversely, if an item is sold out at your store, the website might still have it, though likely at a different price.

What's the best time of year to buy winter clothes at Costco?

For the absolute best clearance prices, the prime window is typically from late January through March, and sometimes into April. This is when Costco is actively clearing the floor for spring and summer merchandise. However, waiting too long can be a gamble. The most popular items and common sizes will sell out first, so if you find something you really want at a .97 price early in the season, it might be wise to grab it.

The best strategy is to start looking right after the holidays. Visit the store periodically to monitor the prices of items you're interested in. You can watch as they receive their first markdown and then decide whether to risk waiting for a potential second or third price drop. By early spring, the selection will be heavily picked over, but the remaining items could be at their lowest possible price.

Conclusion

Costco's end-of-season clearance on winter wear offers an unbeatable opportunity to purchase high-quality apparel at deeply discounted prices. By looking for staple items like 32 Degrees base layers, Gerry jackets, Kirkland Signature boots, and warm accessories, you can prepare for future cold seasons without breaking the bank. Understanding the store's seasonal cycle and learning to recognize its clearance pricing codes can transform a regular shopping trip into a successful treasure hunt, yielding cozy and durable clothing for the whole family.

For further reading and to see current apparel offerings, you can visit these resources:

• Costco's Official Clothing Page
• Costco Fan - A Blog for Deals and Finds