Return policy comparison · 2026
aoFIT vs Brooks Running
Policy data verified July 21, 2026 by the Thrifle team
aoFIT
B-
2.7 / 5.0 · Fair
Winner
Brooks Running
A-
4.0 / 5.0 · Very Good
The verdict
Brooks Running has the more generous return policy in 2026, grading A- (4.0/5.0) against aoFIT's B- (2.7/5.0). It wins 2 of 5 scoring axes; the biggest gap is the return shipping: free returns (incl. by mail) versus customer pays return shipping.
Score breakdown
Five axes, 5.0 points total — the same deterministic grader behind every Thrifle policy page.
aoFITBrooks Running
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
| aoFIT | Brooks Running | |
|---|---|---|
| Return window | 60 days (unused, original packaging and tags) | ✓ 90 days (worn/tested OK, reasonable use) |
| Free returns | No - customer pays return shipping (unless defective/error) | ✓ Yes |
| Restocking fee | — | — |
| Return shipping | Customer pays unless defect or aoFIT error | Free (prepaid shipping label) |
| Holiday extension | — | — |
| Non-returnable | Final sale items, gift cards, custom or personalized products | — |
| Watch-out items | Exchanges limited to 30 days (vs 60-day return window) | — |
aoFIT tip
Exchanges have a shorter 30-day window than the 60-day refund window, and even though aoFIT ships replacement items free, you still pay to send back the original item you're exchanging.
Brooks Running tip
Unlike most footwear brands, Brooks explicitly allows returns of shoes and apparel that have been run in, sweat in, and tested outdoors under its Run Happy Promise - you don't need unworn condition, just purchase within 90 days directly from brooksrunning.com.
Frequently asked questions
Who has the better return policy, aoFIT or Brooks Running?
Brooks Running has the more generous return policy in 2026, grading A- (4.0/5.0) against aoFIT's B- (2.7/5.0). It wins 2 of 5 scoring axes; the biggest gap is the return shipping: free returns (incl. by mail) versus customer pays return shipping.
What is aoFIT's return window?
aoFIT's return window is 60 days (unused, original packaging and tags).
What is Brooks Running's return window?
Brooks Running's return window is 90 days (worn/tested OK, reasonable use).
Does aoFIT or Brooks Running offer free returns?
aoFIT: No - customer pays return shipping (unless defective/error). Brooks Running: Yes.