Return policy comparison · 2026
DSW vs Original Penguin
Policy data verified April 17, 2026 (DSW) and July 24, 2026 (Original Penguin)
Winner
DSW
A
4.5 / 5.0 · Excellent
Original Penguin
B-
2.9 / 5.0 · Fair
The verdict
DSW has the more generous return policy in 2026, grading A (4.5/5.0) against Original Penguin'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.
DSWOriginal Penguin
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
| DSW | Original Penguin | |
|---|---|---|
| Return window | ✓ 90 days | 30 days |
| Free returns | ✓ Yes (in-store) | No - $6 flat fee deducted when using the prepaid mail label (in-store returns are free) |
| Restocking fee | None | None |
| Return shipping | Free mail returns for VIP members | $6 flat fee deducted from refund for the prepaid mail label; free if returned in-store |
| Holiday extension | ✓ Yes (holiday extension) | None published |
| Non-returnable | Final sale items, worn shoes showing significant use | Final Sale items; items must be unused, unwashed, unworn, and undamaged unless there is a manufacturer defect |
| Watch-out items | Standard 90-day window | — |
DSW tip
VIP members tracked automatically. Shoes can be lightly worn.
Original Penguin tip
Return in-store instead of by mail if you can — it skips the $6 label fee entirely and gets you 10% off a same-day purchase, which mail returns don't offer.
Frequently asked questions
Who has the better return policy, DSW or Original Penguin?
DSW has the more generous return policy in 2026, grading A (4.5/5.0) against Original Penguin'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 DSW's return window?
DSW's return window is 90 days.
What is Original Penguin's return window?
Original Penguin's return window is 30 days.
Does DSW or Original Penguin offer free returns?
DSW: Yes (in-store). Original Penguin: No - $6 flat fee deducted when using the prepaid mail label (in-store returns are free).