Yes, I support local shops, but when I can save over $50.00 on one pair of boots by buying them online, of course I'll go for it. I certainly don't buy everything online, partly because they don't always have what I want, and occasionally they charge MORE than the local shops. I buy most stuff locally, but for a occasional big purchase where I stand to save a significant ammount of cash, I'll go online. I may respect local businesses, but I'm not going to hand them $100 because of it.
Also, anyone know if there's a difference between the prices manufacturers charge American vs. Heathen retailers? Just wondering if that's where the price difference is coming from (an oversimplification, I know). The way I see it, either way the manufacturer is selling gear, whether the retailer is in Seattle on on your computer.