A Disappointing Experience with DSW’s Return PolicyI recently purchased a pair of sneakers from DSW that I liked but found uncomfortable upon arrival. After deciding to return them and purchase a more supportive pair for my feet, I went to initiate the return process—only to discover that returns are not free. DSW charges $8.50 for the return label, which was quite a surprise to me.Before buying the sneakers, I specifically checked if DSW offered free returns because I dislike keeping items I don’t use, especially with my habit of frequent online shopping. Often, online purchases don’t match expectations, and free returns are a key factor for convenience. While DSW does offer free returns to its physical stores, I shopped online precisely because I didn’t want to visit a store. If I had the time or means to go to a store, I wouldn’t have placed an online order—I would have tried the shoes in-store. DSW’s misleading "free returns" policy feels unfair, as it forces customers to either pay for a return or make an inconvenient trip to a physical location. It sends the message: "We’ll make things convenient for you when you’re buying, but we don’t care about convenience when it’s time to return your purchase."
