How to Buy Shoes Online

How to Buy Shoes Online
By: Jack Moe


Remember when the idea of shopping online brought images of pale, overweight computer nerds ordering technical gadgets from the basement of their Mothers house? Then, with the growth and expansion of the internet some intrepid souls caught on to the ease and convenience with which online shopping could be accomplished. However, security became a big issue, and fears of having personal information stolen curbed the rise of this consumer phenomenon.

These days, however, online security is better than ever, most retailers have an online counterpart to their establishments, e-stores have popped up all over cyberspace and millions of people are using the internet as their primary source for all the things they need in life. The days of stigma and fear of internet shopping have long since passed.

Still, shopping online can pose other challenges. Certain products lend themselves better to being purchased online, such as electronics, household supplies and tools. Some items are little more difficult to get right when acquired from the web. The most obvious example would be trying to shop for clothes or shopping for shoes online. Shopping for things like women's dress shoes, mens running shoes or childrens sandals can be particularly tricky, because the sizes and fit from one brand and style to another can be very different. Certain brands may have a higher or lower arch, or a wider or narrower toe box. Another big difference from brand to brand is the size itself. A Dansko shoe may work in a particuloar size, but a pair Cole Haans may be a half size different.
For this reason, always be sure you are dealing with a reputable online store, such as Houser Shoes. Companies like these understand the challenges of online shopping, and it is reflected in the level of customer service you will get. Always, no matter what store you are dealing with, make sure you know and understand the return policy. Also, make sure to check and see if the shipping cost for returns is your responsibility, because if you must return shoes multiple times, these costs can really add up.

If you happen to be buying shoes that you are familiar with, shopping online becomes a dream come true. No gas used; no inconvenience of parking or fighting crowds. If you have a favorite brand or style, replacing them from an online store is very likely to save you quite a bit of money, as an online store has far less overhead than a discount footwear retailer with a physical address. For that reason, finding your favorite styles at an online discount shoe store such as housershoes.com can really cut costs.

If you are not sure what you are looking for, or feel like trying a brand new style, make sure to shop around a little bit. Look at all the styles available from the multitude of online shops. Be honest as to what styles your really feel comfortable with...that model in the picture on the website has been digitally enhanced to look good in those crazy shoes, but when you get them home and try them on, it may not have the same effect! Consider whether you are buying womens dress heels or mens work boots or childrens casual shoes, and stick to it. Its easy to get carried away shopping for shoes online!

Call the customer service number and try to connect with a real person. Any reputable online store will have a great support staff to help with you any questions. Make sure to double check the shipping and return policies, and perhaps inquire about the satisfaction rate for the item you are considering. Ask if the sizes run true, or if there are any special points about the brand you should know.