Return policy comparison · 2026
Aéropostale vs Zappos
Policy data verified July 21, 2026 (Aéropostale) and April 17, 2026 (Zappos)
Aéropostale
B
3.2 / 5.0 · Good
Winner
Zappos
A+
5.0 / 5.0 · Exceptional
The verdict
Zappos has the more generous return policy in 2026, grading A+ (5.0/5.0) against Aéropostale's B (3.2/5.0). It wins 3 of 5 scoring axes; the biggest gap is the return window: 365-day window (industry-leading) versus 60-day window (decent).
Score breakdown
Five axes, 5.0 points total — the same deterministic grader behind every Thrifle policy page.
AéropostaleZappos
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
| Aéropostale | Zappos | |
|---|---|---|
| Return window | 60 days (unworn, tags attached, with receipt) | ✓ 365 days |
| Free returns | In-store only | ✓ Yes |
| Restocking fee | — | None |
| Return shipping | $7 deducted from refund for mail returns | Free both ways |
| Holiday extension | — | ✓ Not specifically extended (already 365) |
| Non-returnable | Washed or worn merchandise, items without original price tags or receipts, online-only items, online purchases made in Canada, room merchandise (bedding and accessories), fragrance (fragrance and online-only items cannot be returned to stores) | Final sale items, hazardous materials |
| Watch-out items | Defective items must be returned within 30 days | All items follow 365-day window |
Aéropostale tip
Paying with Klarna or PayPal and returning in-store gets you store credit only, not a refund to your original payment method - use mail return if you want your money back on those orders.
Zappos tip
Best return policy in footwear — 365 days, free shipping both ways, gently worn OK.
Frequently asked questions
Who has the better return policy, Aéropostale or Zappos?
Zappos has the more generous return policy in 2026, grading A+ (5.0/5.0) against Aéropostale's B (3.2/5.0). It wins 3 of 5 scoring axes; the biggest gap is the return window: 365-day window (industry-leading) versus 60-day window (decent).
What is Aéropostale's return window?
Aéropostale's return window is 60 days (unworn, tags attached, with receipt).
What is Zappos's return window?
Zappos's return window is 365 days.
Does Aéropostale or Zappos offer free returns?
Aéropostale: In-store only. Zappos: Yes.