Ah, the holiday gift list. For every dream "wish list" there's always a bigger "need list" that goes with. Although unwrapping a pair of socks isn't exactly a crowd pleaser, having socks without holes is appreciated much longer than the Cabbage Patch Kid they had to have. The question becomes how to mingle the wish and want list better? Shoes are simply the way to go. Here are our picks for discount shoes that check off the need list, but are trendy enough they won't notice.

Please note: Average prices based on AOL Shopping availability at press time. *Some prices may be higher than than those in the article.

Cheap Deal #1
Discount Women's Flat Boots
Average Price: $49.99

All the rage this season, flat boots are taking women's wardrobes by storm. The problem is that high end shoe manufacturers are charging an arm and a leg for this relatively plain look. No more, as discount shoe makers have finally jumped on board with Misbehave. These faux suede knee high boots sport the trendy slouch upper and rounded toe, complete with a very dainty heel. Available in grey, camel, brown and black, these discount shoes go great with pants, jeans and just about any skirt you can throw at it.

Cheap Deal #2
Men's Chukka Discount Shoes
Average Price: $59.97

Part work boots, part dress shoes, part casual boots, the Chukka is a revolution in shoe styling. It's possible to find them in just about any color to match your mood. We especially like these light brown waterproof leather Chukkas from Irish Setter Footwear. These discount shoes have the look of the innovators in Chukkas, without the steep price. Because these discount shoes are made with fishermen in mind, the durable quality will be much appreciated as well.

Cheap Deal #3
Kids Discount Shoes
Average Price: $45.00 - $48.60

Despite just celebrating its 60th birthday, Puma has become the hottest shoe on the block for fashion forward kids. Regardless if you opt for the leaping puma logo or the curvy racing stripe, the styles will stay current until they outgrow them. We have a fondness for the Puma Drift Cat suede series, which proudly sports the curvy stripe on these discount shoes. These discount shoes ooze a casually sporty look.

Cheap Deal #4
Discount Running Shoes
Average Price: $79.99

As any seasoned runner will tell you, running shoes are not where you should skimp. You don't want to learn the hard way that a good pair of running shoes can help avoid injuries. One of the best running shoes on the block is the Nike Air Zoom Vomero. Because the +3's are out, you can get the last generation of these discount shoes (+2) at a decent price. But, you'd better hurry. If you are finding the +2's at +3 prices, go for the latest model as the older discount shoes will run out of inventory quickly.

Cheap Deal #5
Discount Casual Shoes
Average Price: $39.98

Lovin' the California tattoo vibe of Ed Hardy style, but hate the prices? Here's a way to get your fix of the Godfather of the modern tattoo without breaking the bank. Lending his iconic style to apparel for the masses, Ed Hardy is also gracing a series of fairly discount shoes as well. This casual pair rocks a skull, pinstripes, silver leather and a chain for good measure. The sizes on these discount shoes sell out fast, so don't wait.