The ReturnPolicy score is calculated based on several factors including: convenience, customer service, speed of refund, flexibility and users’ ratings.
DSW, Designer Shoe Warehouse, is a beloved destination for shoe enthusiasts seeking variety, value, and style. Founded in the early 1990s, DSW.com has grown from a single store to a vast network of locations across the United States, as well as a substantial online presence. They've built their brand on the promise of offering a wide range of footwear for men, women, and children, catering to different tastes and budgets.
DSW's online platform, DSW.com, mirrors the in-store experience by providing shoppers with an extensive selection of shoes, handbags, and accessories. The website is known for its user-friendly interface, generous rewards program, and frequent promotions. As DSW.com continues to evolve in the competitive retail landscape, it faces numerous rivals vying for the attention of shoe buyers.
The competition ranges from specialized shoe retailers to general department stores, each with their unique strengths and market strategies. In this article, we'll compare DSW.com with 20 of its competitors to understand where it stands in the vast online shoe market.
5.0 / 5
5.0 / 5
Zappos.com is a major player in the online shoe and clothing retail industry, renowned for its exceptional customer service and free, often speedy, shipping and returns policy. As a competitor to DSW.com, Zappos stands out with its vast selection and commitment to customer satisfaction, making it a go-to for shoppers looking for a hassle-free buying experience.
While DSW.com boasts competitive pricing and a rewards program, Zappos.com counters with a user-centric approach that includes a 365-day return policy and 24/7 customer service, attributes that resonate with loyal customers.
5.0 / 5
5.0 / 5
Nordstrom.com is a luxury department store chain that offers a wide array of high-end shoes and fashion. It competes with DSW.com by targeting the more upscale segment of the market, often featuring designer brands and exclusive styles. Nordstrom's commitment to quality and service, including free shipping and returns, positions it as a premium alternative to DSW.
While DSW.com may attract bargain hunters and value seekers, Nordstrom.com appeals to fashion-forward consumers willing to invest in luxury footwear.
Shoes.com is a direct competitor of DSW.com, focusing exclusively on footwear. It offers a broad selection of brands and styles, often at discounted prices. Shoes.com competes by providing a mix of well-known and niche brands, aiming to cater to a wide range of customers' needs and preferences.
In comparison to DSW.com, Shoes.com maintains a competitive edge with its price-matching guarantee and frequent promotions, which could attract budget-conscious shoppers.
4.0 / 5
4.0 / 5
FootLocker.com is a leading global retailer of athletically inspired shoes and apparel. It attracts a dedicated following among sports enthusiasts and sneakerheads. As a competitor to DSW.com, Foot Locker's strength lies in its curated collection of sports and lifestyle brands, exclusive releases, and collaborations with major sportswear companies.
DSW.com offers athletic footwear as part of its inventory, but FootLocker.com's focus on the athletic market and cultural relevance in the sneaker community sets it apart.
4.0 / 5
FamousFootwear.com is another key competitor that offers a wide selection of branded footwear for the whole family. With a similar market approach to DSW.com, Famous Footwear also provides value through sales and a rewards program. The competition between these two brands often centers on pricing, variety, and the effectiveness of their loyalty programs.
FamousFootwear.com may appeal to shoppers looking for frequent deals and a straightforward shopping experience.
2.5 / 5
2.5 / 5
FinishLine.com is a strong competitor in the athletic shoe segment, offering the latest and most popular sneakers and sports gear. Its partnership with Macy's has expanded its reach, providing a challenge to DSW.com's market share in athletic footwear. Finish Line's focus on sports and lifestyle trends resonates with a younger demographic.
DSW.com's broader footwear selection competes with FinishLine.com's niche focus, catering to customers beyond the athletic sphere.
AldoShoes.com, with its fashion-forward approach, targets a similar demographic to that of DSW.com but focuses more on trend-driven styles and its own brand of footwear and accessories. Aldo's international presence and strong emphasis on design and quality place it as a formidable competitor in the fashion shoe space.
Compared to DSW.com's wide-ranging inventory, AldoShoes.com may attract customers looking for a more curated and branded shopping experience.
Payless.com, known for its affordable pricing and extensive network of brick-and-mortar stores, directly competes with DSW.com in the value-priced shoe market. Payless's focus on budget-friendly options and family-oriented marketing positions it as a popular choice for cost-conscious shoppers.
While DSW.com offers a loyalty program and designer brands, Payless.com's straightforward low-cost strategy is its main appeal.
Journeys.com caters to a younger audience with its trendy and urban-inspired footwear. As a competitor to DSW.com, Journeys stands out with its focus on youth culture, offering brands that resonate with teens and young adults.
DSW.com may offer a broader selection, but Journeys.com's niche targeting and in-store experience, featuring a unique store design and music, gives it an edge with its demographic.
6pm.com is an online retailer known for discounted shoes, clothing, and accessories. It competes with DSW.com by offering significant markdowns on well-known brands. 6pm's inventory includes end-of-season and overstocked items from Zappos, allowing for lower prices.
Shoppers who prioritize deals and discounts might prefer 6pm.com, while DSW.com attracts those looking for a blend of value and current-season merchandise.
3.8 / 5
3.8 / 5
Macys.com is a department store giant with a substantial shoe department, making it a direct competitor to DSW.com. Macy's offers a range of designer and everyday brands, often providing sales and seasonal promotions. The brand's long-standing reputation and nationwide presence compete with DSW's wide selection and rewards program.
Customers loyal to department store shopping and those looking for a one-stop-shop for their fashion needs might gravitate towards Macys.com.
3.0 / 5
3.0 / 5
Poshmark.com is a social commerce marketplace for buying and selling new or used clothing, shoes, and accessories. It competes with DSW.com in the secondhand market, offering a platform for individuals to find unique items or sell their own. Poshmark's community-driven approach and focus on sustainability appeal to a different consumer base.
While DSW.com provides new, mainstream footwear, Poshmark.com attracts those looking for pre-owned or vintage finds, often at lower prices.
4.6 / 5
4.6 / 5
Kohls.com is a department store with a significant online presence, offering a variety of shoes alongside clothing and home goods. Kohl's competes with DSW.com through its competitive pricing, Kohl's Cash rewards, and frequent sales. The brand's focus on value and family-friendly options makes it a strong competitor in the mid-range market.
DSW.com's specialization in footwear may appeal to shoe enthusiasts, while Kohls.com targets general consumers looking for a broader range of products.
4.0 / 5
4.0 / 5
Lyst.com is a fashion search engine that aggregates products from various retailers, including shoes. It competes with DSW.com by providing a platform where users can search for and compare footwear from different online stores. Lyst's appeal lies in its ability to offer a curated shopping experience with access to a wide range of brands and retailers.
Unlike DSW.com, which sells directly to consumers, Lyst.com serves as a discovery platform, which could attract shoppers who enjoy browsing multiple retailers at once.
3.3 / 5
DicksSportingGoods.com is a leading sporting goods retailer that offers a variety of athletic shoes. As a competitor to DSW.com, Dick's positions itself as a destination for sports enthusiasts and athletes, providing specialized footwear for various activities. The focus on sports performance and outdoor activities differentiates it from DSW's more fashion-oriented offerings.
Customers looking for sports-specific shoes might prefer shopping at DicksSportingGoods.com, while DSW.com attracts a more diverse audience.
4.0 / 5
NordstromRack.com is Nordstrom's off-price retail division, offering discounted designer apparel and shoes. It competes with DSW.com by targeting cost-conscious consumers who still seek brand names and quality. Nordstrom Rack provides a similar treasure-hunt shopping experience to that of DSW, with the potential for high-end finds at lower prices.
DSW.com may have a consistent stock and wider selection, but NordstromRack.com appeals to those looking for the prestige of designer brands at reduced costs.
4.0 / 5
ShoeCarnival.com offers a fun and engaging retail experience with a wide variety of shoes for the whole family. It competes with DSW.com by providing an eclectic mix of products, in-store promotions, and a playful shopping atmosphere. Shoe Carnival's interactive approach, including games and spin-to-win opportunities, sets it apart from DSW's more traditional retail model.
Shoppers who enjoy an entertaining shopping experience may be drawn to ShoeCarnival.com, while DSW.com caters to those seeking a straightforward, reward-focused shopping experience.
4.3 / 5
4.3 / 5
Dillards.com, as a department store, offers a wide selection of shoes, competing with DSW.com in both the casual and formal footwear categories. Dillard's focuses on quality and brand diversity, often featuring exclusive styles from notable designers. Their approach to retail emphasizes customer service and a sophisticated shopping environment.
While DSW.com appeals to a broad market, Dillards.com may attract a more upscale clientele looking for designer exclusives and a premium shopping experience.
2.5 / 5
2.5 / 5
Adidas.com is a global leader in sports footwear and apparel, directly competing with DSW.com in the athletic shoe category. Adidas' strong brand recognition and innovation in sports technology make it a go-to for athletes and casual wearers alike. The brand's direct-to-consumer approach allows for exclusive releases and customization options.
While DSW.com offers a variety of brands, Adidas.com attracts brand loyalists and those seeking cutting-edge sports performance products.
4.0 / 5
RackRoomShoes.com provides a wide selection of affordably priced footwear for men, women, and children. It competes with DSW.com by offering similar brands and styles with a focus on value and seasonal promotions. Rack Room Shoes' 'Buy One, Get One' deals and emphasis on family shopping make it a strong competitor in the value segment of the market.
Customers looking for family-friendly deals and straightforward value might choose RackRoomShoes.com over DSW.com.
