Online Shoe Returns: A Checklist Before You Click Buy

Buying shoes online is a sizing gamble, even when you have measured carefully. A good return policy turns that gamble into a low-risk trial. A poor one can turn a bargain into money spent on shoes you cannot wear. Before you order, check the policy, especially when buying from a brand or model you have not worn before.

Policies vary by retailer, seller and country, and change over time. Always read the current policy for the specific item you are buying.

The checklist

1. Is the item returnable at all? Some clearance, outlet or "final sale" items cannot be returned. This is common in deep-discount sections. If you are not sure of the fit, a final-sale item is a real risk.

2. How long is the return window? Look for the number of days and whether it counts from the order date or the delivery date. Make a note of the deadline.

3. Who pays for return shipping? Free returns make a big difference. If you have to pay for return shipping, factor that cost into the price comparison.

4. Is there a restocking fee? Some sellers deduct a fee from your refund. Check before you buy.

5. Refund or store credit? A refund to your original payment method is best. Store credit is less flexible.

6. Who is the seller? On marketplaces, the return policy can depend on the individual seller, not the website. Check the policy for your exact size and color variant. Our guide to reading Amazon shoe listings explains this.

7. What condition must shoes be in? Most retailers only accept unworn shoes, in original packaging, with tags attached. "Unworn" usually means tried on indoors, not worn outside.

8. Is exchange available? Some retailers allow a direct exchange for a different size, which can be quicker than a return and new order, and can secure the sale price.

How to try shoes on without losing your return

• Try them on indoors, on a clean floor or carpet. Walk around the house for a while.
• Wear the socks you will actually use with the shoe.
• Try them later in the day, when your feet are at their largest.
• Keep the box and all packaging, including tissue paper and tags, until you are sure.
• Do not go outside in them until you have decided to keep them. Dirt on the sole can void a return.

If you are unsure, it is better to send them back than to keep a pair that will sit unworn. See our guide to breaking in new shoes for the signs that a shoe does not fit and will not improve.

Ordering two sizes

When you are between sizes and the retailer offers free returns, ordering two sizes and returning one can be a reasonable approach. Make sure:

• Both items are eligible for free returns.
• You can afford the temporary charge for both pairs.
• You return the unwanted pair promptly, within the window.

Do not do this with final-sale items, or with sellers who charge for returns.

Making returns painless

• Note the deadline when the shoes arrive.
• Start the return online promptly if they do not fit; you usually do not need to ship it the same day.
• Keep the return receipt or tracking number until the refund appears.
• Check the refund amount matches what you expected.

How return policies affect value

A slightly higher price from a retailer with free, easy returns can be better value than a lower price from a seller who charges for returns or does not accept them. This is especially true for:

• A brand you have not worn before (see why sizes differ between brands)
• A previous-generation model that may fit differently from the current version
• Children's shoes, where sizing changes quickly

The bottom line

Check returnability, window, shipping costs, fees, refund type and the seller before buying. Try shoes on indoors, keep the packaging, and return promptly if they do not fit. A good return policy is part of the price.