You’ve found the same pair of shoes on both Zappos and DSW. The brand is the same, and the price looks almost identical. So, which retailer actually gives you the better value? The answer goes beyond the price tag. Return policies, shipping fees, sizing support, customer service, and membership perks can all affect your overall shopping experience. In this Zappos vs DSW comparison, I’ve broken down every key factor to help you choose the best place to buy shoes online without second guessing your decision.
Zappos vs DSW: Quick Comparison
| Feature | Zappos | DSW |
| Free Shipping | Yes, on all eligible orders | Yes, for free DSW VIP members |
| Return Window | 60 days (cash refund) 1 year (store credit) | 60 days standard 365 days VIP Elite |
| Free Returns | Always free | Free in store $8.50 mail fee (non Gold members) |
| Rewards Program | Zappos VIP (points based) | DSW VIP (4 tiers) |
| Physical Stores | Online only | 500+ US stores |
| Best For | Wide selection, hassle free returns | Value deals, in store shopping |
Zappos Deals & Discounts
Before comparing Zappos and DSW in more detail, it is worth checking the current Zappos offers. The retailer already includes free shipping on orders and regularly discounts selected footwear, which can make the final price more competitive when you are comparing the same pair across both stores.
Offers:
- Enjoy Free Shipping On All Orders
- Take Up To 70% Off On Sneakers & Athletic Shoes
What Is Zappos?
Founded in 1999 and owned by Amazon, Zappos is an online only shoe and apparel retailer known for its wide brand selection and customer first shopping experience. It offers popular brands like Nike, UGG, New Balance, and Vans, along with detailed sizing support, free shipping on every order, and hassle free returns, making it a popular choice for buying shoes online.
What Is DSW?
Founded in 1991, DSW (Designer Shoe Warehouse) is a major shoe retailer with physical stores and a full online shopping platform. It carries brands like Adidas, Nike, Cole Haan, and Brooks, along with clearance deals and a VIP rewards program that gives frequent shoppers points, offers, and additional perks.
Brand Selection & Variety
Both Zappos and DSW offer a wide selection of popular footwear brands, but they cater to slightly different shopping preferences.
- Zappos stands out with a larger, more curated collection that includes premium brands, exclusive styles, and hard to find sizes. If you’re looking for a specific shoe model or need extended sizing options, Zappos is often the better place to shop.
- DSW focuses on well known brands at budget friendly prices. Its extensive clearance section regularly features thousands of discounted shoes, making it a great option for shoppers who want the best deals on everyday footwear from trusted brands.
Pricing & Deals
Neither Zappos nor DSW consistently offers the lowest shoe prices. However, DSW often stands out with more noticeable discounts, especially through its clearance section and VIP rewards program. If your priority is saving money on name brand shoes, DSW usually provides better opportunities to find deals.
- Zappos prices are competitive but rarely the cheapest. The platform focuses on value through free shipping and returns rather than lowest sticker price.
- Zappos VIP members earn points that can be redeemed for promotional codes and also receive free expedited shipping.
- DSW runs regular clearance sales and promotional events. Furthermore, stacking VIP rewards with sale pricing can bring costs down significantly for frequent shoppers.
- DSW credit card holders may receive additional rewards and promotional offers, depending on current card benefits. worth considering if you buy shoes regularly.
Overall, if you’re looking for the lowest price on a specific pair, DSW may have the advantage when that shoe is on clearance or included in a promotion. However, compare the final price and return costs before assuming one retailer always offers the better deal.
Which Is Cheaper: Zappos or DSW?
When comparing the exact same shoe, neither retailer is always cheaper. Popular styles can be priced the same on both platforms, while DSW may have an advantage when a specific model appears in clearance or qualifies for a member offer. Zappos can still offer better overall value if free returns and easier sizing make a wrong purchase less costly. The smartest move is to compare the final price of the same model before checking out.
Shipping & Returns
This is where the two platforms genuinely separate.
Zappos Returns
Zappos offers free returns on eligible U.S. orders with no paid membership required. Returns made within 60 days are eligible for a refund to the original payment method, while eligible later returns may receive store credit up to one year from the purchase date.
Additionally, Zappos now offers a label free, box free return option at all Whole Foods Market locations nationwide. You simply bring the item in its original product packaging, show a QR code at the customer service desk, and an employee handles the rest. No printer needed, no packing, no hassle.
For UPS drop offs, you can also use a QR code instead of printing a shipping label. Simply show the QR code at the UPS location, and the associate will print the label and process your return on the spot.
DSW Returns
DSW’s return benefits can vary depending on how you return the item and your VIP membership tier.
- Club members: Mail returns may include a return shipping deduction, while in store returns are free.
- VIP Gold: Includes additional return benefits and perks after qualifying spend.
- VIP Elite: Offers enhanced rewards and extended return benefits.
In store returns are always free for all customers and are usually the fastest option. If you live near a DSW store, this helps you avoid any return shipping fees entirely. However, for online only shoppers, the $8.50 return deduction can be a real hidden cost to keep in mind when calculating overall value.
Which Platform Is Better for Sizing and Fitting?
Zappos: Sizing & Fit
Zappos makes it easier to shop for wide and extended sizes through dedicated width filters and a larger selection.
- Zappos offers narrow, wide (2E), and extra wide (4E) sizes across many brands and styles.
- It lets you filter shoes by width, which makes it easier to find the right fit.
- It provides a size conversion tool for US, UK, EU, inches, and centimeters.
- It includes detailed size charts with half sizes for better accuracy.
- It also helps people with foot conditions like plantar fasciitis, bunions, hammertoes, and neuropathy by offering specific filters.
DSW: Sizing & Fit
Therefore, if you need a specific width or extended sizing, Zappos is worth checking first, but DSW also has a strong range of wide width options depending on the brand and style.
- DSW offers regular and wide width options across many brands and categories.
- Extended widths are available, but selection varies by shoe style and brand.
- Size availability can differ between online listings and physical stores.
- Its wide selection makes it worth checking alongside Zappos when fit is important.
Therefore, if you have wide feet, half sizes, or need a specific width, Zappos is the more reliable choice.
Who Should Shop Where?
Shop Zappos if you
- Want free returns and a lower risk online shoe shopping experience
- Need wide, narrow, or extended sizing options
- Value a huge brand selection in one place
- Prefer the Whole Foods or UPS QR drop off return convenience
- Are a teacher, student, or military member (Zappos offers a 10% discount)
Shop DSW if you
- Live near a DSW store and prefer in person browsing or returns
- Are a frequent buyer who can reach VIP Gold or Elite status
- Want to hunt clearance deals on popular name brands
- Prefer stacking rewards points for long term savings
FAQs
Q1. Are DSW shoes good?
Ans. Yes. DSW sells well known brands like Nike, Adidas, Cole Haan, and Brooks. The shoe quality depends on the brand, not DSW. DSW is good for deals, especially in the clearance section.
Q2. Is DSW a good place to buy shoes?
Ans. Yes, especially if you want good prices. DSW offers fair deals and a wide selection in stores. You can save more in store or with VIP membership. Online returns may have a fee, but in store returns avoid it. Overall, it is a good option for everyday shoes
Q3. Are shoes on Zappos cheaper than DSW?
Ans. Not always. The same shoe can cost roughly the same at both retailers, but DSW may offer a better deal when a style is on clearance or included in a promotion. Zappos can provide better overall value when free returns and easier shopping matter more than the initial price.
Q4. Which is better for buying shoes online, Zappos or DSW?
Ans. Zappos is the better choice if you want a smoother online shopping experience, especially for free returns and a wide range of sizes. DSW can offer better value for deal hunters, particularly when clearance prices, VIP rewards, or store returns work in your favor.
Final Verdict
At the end of the day, the better choice depends on what matters most to you. Zappos is stronger for shoppers who want free returns, a wide range of sizes, and a smoother experience when buying shoes online. DSW can offer better value when clearance deals, VIP rewards, or easy in returns matter more. Neither retailer is better for everyone, but choosing the one that matches your shopping style will help you get the most for your money.
Reviewed by Rachel Lee, Footwear & Style Reviewer at Candid Discoveries.
