I could only imagine your pain living far from any store. I have 5 REI's within 40 minute drive so it's a nice blessing I could say. But apart from that shoes should never be purchased untried. In the risk of being accused a low class citizen, you could order several models from Zappos and then return them all if you do find the one you like. Then, go to a cheaper place and get the shoes you need. I understand many will say that is the same as going to a retailer store and then after trying it there buying it from the internet. I love supporting my local retailer (Adventure 16) over REI (but I do shop at both). But being in a position where you have to ship back all the shoes for $10.00 is too much for me.

You could resort to Option 3 and just buy it from Zappos and be happy!