SheFindsMom: Tips for Online Shoe Shopping

I’m a shoe addict, but like most folks, originally I wasn’t jumping up and down at the thought of shopping for shoes online. What if they don’t fit? What if they look better online and look awful on my feet? And besides, part of the fun of shopping for shoes is being able to try them on in the stores (especially the ones that are way out of my budget).

But after trying it a few times, I’ve converted. Before I drive to the mall to shop for a new pair of shoes, I go online. Why? Because I can always find the latest styles in my size without having to drive around town, I don’t have to stand in line, and it’s SO easy. (Ever shop for a pair of Uggs around the holidays? Good luck!)

So here are some tips for buying shoes online, from one shoe lover to another:

1. Know your size. Keep track of your shoe size whenever you try on a pair at a shoe store.

2. Read the reviews. Most shoe sites like Zappos.com and Onlineshoes.com have customer reviews about the shoes they sell. If you’re unsure about how a shoe is going to fit, read what others have to say about it. For example, 87% of the customers who purchased the new Ugg Mar Espadrilles from Zappos (pictured here) reported that they “Felt true to width”—good info to have if you’re concerned about them being too narrow for your wide feet.

3. Take advantage of the shipping and return policies. The online shoe world is a buyer’s market, and shoe sites want your business. Zappos.com, Onlineshoes.com, Piperlime.com and Shoes.com offer free shipping both ways and also offer price guarantees. Find the same shoe for a lower price at another site? They’ll refund you the difference. Shoes don’t fit or decide you hate them? Return or exchange them for free.

4. And of course, check out SheFindsMom for Deal Alerts and coupon codes especially for our readers. If you’ve read this far, use coupon code APRILOFFER and receive $8 off purchases over $80 at Shoes.com.