Return policy comparison · 2026
ABLE vs DSW
Policy data verified July 21, 2026 (ABLE) and April 17, 2026 (DSW)
ABLE
B-
2.9 / 5.0 · Fair
Winner
DSW
A
4.5 / 5.0 · Excellent
The verdict
DSW has the more generous return policy in 2026, grading A (4.5/5.0) against ABLE's B- (2.9/5.0). It wins 3 of 5 scoring axes; the biggest gap is the return window: 90-day window (above average) versus 30-day window (industry standard).
Score breakdown
Five axes, 5.0 points total — the same deterministic grader behind every Thrifle policy page.
ABLEDSW
Return window · worth 2.0
Restocking fee · worth 1.0
Return shipping · worth 1.0
Holiday window · worth 0.5
Transparency · worth 0.5
Key terms side-by-side
| ABLE | DSW | |
|---|---|---|
| Return window | 30 days (unworn, unused, tags attached) | ✓ 90 days |
| Free returns | — | ✓ Yes (in-store) |
| Restocking fee | — | None |
| Return shipping | — | Free mail returns for VIP members |
| Holiday extension | — | ✓ Yes (holiday extension) |
| Non-returnable | Personalized or customized items, final sale items, gift cards, items returned in worn/altered/damaged/unsellable condition | Final sale items, worn shoes showing significant use |
| Watch-out items | Damaged, defective, or incorrect items must be reported within 7 days of delivery | Standard 90-day window |
ABLE tip
Natural variations in leather grain, texture, and color are explicitly not treated as defects, so don't expect a return/exchange on leather goods citing inconsistent coloring or markings.
DSW tip
VIP members tracked automatically. Shoes can be lightly worn.
Frequently asked questions
Who has the better return policy, ABLE or DSW?
DSW has the more generous return policy in 2026, grading A (4.5/5.0) against ABLE's B- (2.9/5.0). It wins 3 of 5 scoring axes; the biggest gap is the return window: 90-day window (above average) versus 30-day window (industry standard).
What is ABLE's return window?
ABLE's return window is 30 days (unworn, unused, tags attached).
What is DSW's return window?
DSW's return window is 90 days.
Does ABLE or DSW offer free returns?
ABLE: see full policy. DSW: Yes (in-store).