Return policy comparison · 2026
DSW vs SAXX
Policy data verified April 17, 2026 (DSW) and July 24, 2026 (SAXX)
Winner
DSW
A
4.5 / 5.0 · Excellent
SAXX
B+
3.4 / 5.0 · Good
The verdict
DSW has the more generous return policy in 2026, grading A (4.5/5.0) against SAXX's B+ (3.4/5.0). It wins 2 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.
DSWSAXX
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 | SAXX | |
|---|---|---|
| Return window | ✓ 90 days | 30 days |
| Free returns | Yes (in-store) | Yes (Rewards members); No - $9.99 fee (non-members) |
| Restocking fee | None | None |
| Return shipping | Free mail returns for VIP members | Free for SAXX Rewards members; $9.99 deducted from refund for non-members; international customers pay all shipping, duties, and import taxes |
| Holiday extension | ✓ Yes (holiday extension) | None published |
| Non-returnable | Final sale items, worn shoes showing significant use | Items marked Final Sale |
| Watch-out items | Standard 90-day window | — |
DSW tip
VIP members tracked automatically. Shoes can be lightly worn.
SAXX tip
New customers get a one-time First Pair Guarantee separate from the standard return window - if your first full-priced pair doesn't work out, SAXX will make it right even outside normal terms, but only once and only within 30 days.
Frequently asked questions
Who has the better return policy, DSW or SAXX?
DSW has the more generous return policy in 2026, grading A (4.5/5.0) against SAXX's B+ (3.4/5.0). It wins 2 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 SAXX's return window?
SAXX's return window is 30 days.
Does DSW or SAXX offer free returns?
DSW: Yes (in-store). SAXX: Yes (Rewards members); No - $9.99 fee (non-members).