How many days do we usually have to return sneakers and what should we check first?

Check the exact return window stated on the product page - common options are 7, 14 or 30 days and some retailers use working days rather than calendar days; also look for sale or clearance exceptions that may make items non-returnable.

Do we have to return sneakers unworn, and how should we try them at home?

Most stores ask that returned sneakers are in ‘original, resellable condition’ - no visible sole wear, original box, tags and any inserts included; try them indoors on a clean surface and keep hygiene stickers in place.

Who pays for return postage and how much might it cost in South Africa?

Return costs depend on the retailer: some offer free returns, others charge a flat fee or ask you to pay postage; as a guide, local courier returns can be around R60-R150 depending on size and distance, but check the store’s policy for exact charges.

What proof and packaging should we include when sending a return?

Include your order number, original invoice or packing slip and any required returns form, use the specified packaging or delivery bag if the policy asks, and keep photos of the parcel plus your courier tracking until the refund is complete.

How are refunds and exchanges usually processed and how long do they take?

Retailers typically state whether refunds go back to the original payment method, as store credit, or as an exchange; many process refunds within 7-14 business days after receiving the return, though bank posting times can vary, so check for explicit exchange options if you need a replacement quickly.

What to check in sneaker return policies

Why return policies matter for sneakers

Sneakers are a fit-and-feel purchase: size, width, cushioning and even the way a shoe creases matter. We want you to know what to look for in a return policy before you click Buy so unexpected costs, delays or disappointment don’t follow. This short guide focuses on the precise policy details that most affect South African shoppers and offers practical steps to check them quickly.

The one-line checklist to scan first

How many days you have to return the sneakers.
Whether returns are free or if you pay postage.
Condition required (unworn, tags, original box).
Proof needed (receipt, order number, photos).
Refund method and timing (store credit vs refund to card).

Return window and exceptions

Check the exact number of calendar days from delivery - common windows are 7, 14 or 30 days, but limits can change by brand and sale type. Some policies use working days; others use calendar days. Also look for exceptions: clearance items, personalised/custom sneakers, or final-sale collections may be non-returnable. If you’re buying in a promotion or a Foschini-branded sneaker sale, look at the product note and the related article on Foschini ladies' sneakers on sale for sale-specific expectations and tips. Foschini ladies' sneakers on sale - styles, fit and smart buys

Condition required: what ‘unworn’ usually means

Most stores require returned sneakers to be in 'original, resellable condition'. Practically, that means:

No visible wear on soles (bring the shoe indoors and step on a clean mat to try).
Original packaging, shoebox and any inserts (insoles, spare laces) included.
Retail tags still attached and any hygiene stickers intact.

If you plan to try on sneakers at home, keep them on a clean surface and avoid rough surfaces. Photograph the shoes and box when you unpack them - those photos can help if a seller disputes the condition later.

Who pays for returns and how much to expect

Return costs vary: some retailers offer free returns for change-of-mind within the return window; others deduct a flat fee or require you to pay postage. For South African shoppers, a typical local courier return can range from about R60 to R150 depending on parcel size and distance - treat those as examples, not fixed rates. If a seller deducts a return fee, check whether it’s taken from the refund or charged separately.

Proof and packaging requirements

Policies usually list what you must include with the return: order number, original invoice or packing slip, and sometimes a returns form. If a policy requires buyers to use the original delivery bag or seals, follow those instructions exactly. Keep a photo of the parcel you send and your courier tracking number until the refund completes.

Links to help you act

If you need to find alternative styles or sizes while you wait, our Sneakers category has a broad selection for men, women and kids. Sneakers is a good place to compare fits and brands before returning an item.

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How refunds and exchanges typically work

Read whether refunds are issued to your original payment method, as store credit, or as an exchange. Many stores process refunds within 7-14 business days after they receive the returned item, but the time until the money appears on your card can depend on your bank. If you need a replacement pair quickly, look for an explicit exchange option that ships the new pair before your return is processed.

Sale items, discounts and price adjustments

If you bought during a promo, check whether the policy treats sale items differently. Some sellers allow returns on discounted sneakers but refund only the amount you paid (including discounts). If you see a later price drop, ask about a price-adjustment window - some retailers offer one, others do not.

Timing and tracking: practical steps

Before you return: screenshot the store’s return page showing the return window and conditions.
Book a traceable courier and keep the tracking number; send it to the seller if requested.
When the parcel is collected: photograph the sealed box and proof of postage.

If a return gets lost in transit, the tracking history is usually the fastest way to resolve the issue with the seller or courier.

Disputes and consumer rights in South Africa

We advise familiarising yourself with basic consumer protections: goods must be of good quality and as described. If a seller refuses a legitimate return, you can escalate via the seller’s customer service, then the platform’s dispute process, and finally the National Consumer Commission if needed. Keep all communication and photos as evidence.

How we recommend testing sneakers at home

Try this simple home test routine within the return window so you can be confident before deciding to keep a pair:

Try them with the socks you normally wear - socks change fit.
Walk on a clean floor for 10-15 minutes, trying short bursts and turning sharply to test fit and heel slip.
Stand on both feet and check comfort under load; pay attention to toe space and arch support.
Remove insoles carefully to compare sizing if you wear orthotics.

If you notice a manufacturing defect, photograph it immediately and file a return citing the defect - defects are treated differently from change-of-mind returns in most policies.

Common return policy wording and what it really means

We often see short legal phrases that can confuse shoppers. Here’s plain-English meaning for three common terms:

Resellable condition - looks new, no visible wear, complete packaging.
Final sale - item cannot be returned for change of mind (often applies to clearance or personalised products).
Return authorisation - you must get a return reference number before sending the item; without it, your refund may be delayed or refused.

When to contact us at Bash for help

If you bought through Bash and the seller’s policy is unclear or you’re unsure about a condition, we recommend checking the product page details and contacting the seller via the order page. You can also browse our wider collections for alternatives while the return is processed - try our Men or Kids sneaker pages depending on who you’re shopping for. Sneakers

Final quick tips - a checklist you can save

Read the return window and exceptions before purchase.
Keep all packaging and tags sealed until you’re sure.
Use trackable returns and photograph everything.
Note whether refunds go to your card or as store credit.
If in doubt, ask the seller for a return authorisation in writing.

What to check in sneaker return policies

Sources

Why Choose Bash?

Free Delivery

30-Day Returns

Nationwide Support

Why Choose Bash?

Free Delivery

30-Day Returns

Nationwide Support

Scan the return window

Keep items resellable

Use tracked postage

Why return policies matter for sneakers

The one-line checklist to scan first

Return window and exceptions

Condition required: what ‘unworn’ usually means

Who pays for returns and how much to expect

Proof and packaging requirements

Links to help you act

How refunds and exchanges typically work

Sale items, discounts and price adjustments

Timing and tracking: practical steps

Disputes and consumer rights in South Africa

How we recommend testing sneakers at home

Common return policy wording and what it really means

When to contact us at Bash for help

Final quick tips - a checklist you can save

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