For me, it was a pair of merrell shoes on sale. They have lasted 3+ years, have great grip in the snow and ice, and so comfortable, my feet don’t hurt after wearing all day.
Never cheap out on anything that comes between you and the ground; shoes, tires, a bed.
What have been some of your good purchases under $100?
It’s not quite at the level of yelling at you in Japanese, but the Toto washlet seat from Costco gets to $300 on sale and does a lovely job of clearing the backside.