Return policy comparison · 2026
Ekster vs Nordstrom
Policy data verified July 24, 2026 (Ekster) and April 17, 2026 (Nordstrom)
Ekster
C
2.0 / 5.0 · Mediocre
Winner
Nordstrom
A+
5.0 / 5.0 · Exceptional
The verdict
Nordstrom has the more generous return policy in 2026, grading A+ (5.0/5.0) against Ekster's C (2.0/5.0). It wins 4 of 5 scoring axes; the biggest gap is the restocking fee: no restocking fee versus restocking fee charged.
Score breakdown
Five axes, 5.0 points total — the same deterministic grader behind every Thrifle policy page.
EksterNordstrom
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
| Ekster | Nordstrom | |
|---|---|---|
| Return window | 100 days (from order delivery) | ✓ No time limit (case-by-case) |
| Free returns | No - $8.99-$14.99 handling fee deducted from refund (US/CA/UK); free within 14 days for EU | ✓ Yes |
| Restocking fee | Handling fee waived if you choose store credit or an exchange instead of a cash refund | ✓ None |
| Return shipping | US/CA/UK: prepaid label provided, $8.99-$14.99 handling fee deducted from refund; EU: free within 14 days of delivery; Rest of World: customer pays return shipping, no handling fee | Free prepaid label |
| Holiday extension | None published | ✓ Yes - Oct 6 to Dec 24 through Jan 15 |
| Holiday deadline | — | Jan 15 |
| Non-returnable | Custom-engraved pieces, free gifts, warranty replacements | Final sale items (rare), some third-party products |
| Watch-out items | — | Nordstrom Rack: 30 days in-store / 40 days online with stricter rules |
Ekster tip
Choose store credit or an exchange instead of a cash refund — Ekster waives its $8.99-$14.99 handling fee in that case, so you keep more of what you paid.
Nordstrom tip
Most generous in retail — no strict time limit, gently worn OK. Rack has separate policy (40 days online).
Frequently asked questions
Who has the better return policy, Ekster or Nordstrom?
Nordstrom has the more generous return policy in 2026, grading A+ (5.0/5.0) against Ekster's C (2.0/5.0). It wins 4 of 5 scoring axes; the biggest gap is the restocking fee: no restocking fee versus restocking fee charged.
What is Ekster's return window?
Ekster's return window is 100 days (from order delivery).
What is Nordstrom's return window?
Nordstrom's return window is No time limit (case-by-case).
Does Ekster or Nordstrom offer free returns?
Ekster: No - $8.99-$14.99 handling fee deducted from refund (US/CA/UK); free within 14 days for EU. Nordstrom: Yes.