A Review of Two Shoe Bargains Sites

Due to the shoe nature of this article, it is intended for a female audience.
Graphic content details the difference between two well-known websites based on their selection in women's shoes, bargains, styles and shipping benefits.

Shoe sales, selection and shipping are the top criterion of shopping online for shoes. As purchases made on the Internet come with a few risks, the ability to return unfitting shoes reigns high on the priority list. For certain consumers, shoe bargains take second place; but, for others the selection of style is secondary. Free shipping is another online shoe prerequisite.

Regardless of what shoe lovers are looking for in the way of style, shipping or returns and of course a women's shoe bargains, two e-tailers are vying for the online market: Endless.com and SmartBargains.com.

While the two sites present similar products: shoes, boots, sandals, handbags, purses, bags and luggage, Smart Bargains offers other consumer products. Nevertheless, the ConsumerJournal reviewed these online shoe outlets based on the following criteria:

>> Shoe Style/Selection

>> Shoe Bargains

>> Designer Brand name Shoes

>> Customer Service

>> Shipping

>> Site Navigation

Endless

In the designer shoe department, Endless features a nice selection of shoes. From Aerosoles to White Mountain and Betsy Johnson, consumers have an extensive inventory of shoes and bags; unfortunately, the shoe styles are flat not in elevation but fashion flair. Also, the site navigation seemed a little clumsy. For example, if a visitor is searching for women's boots, and opts for the sub-category, rubber boots; but, then decides to change the sub-category (i.e. wedges), a new search query is necessary.

As far as shoe bargain value, Endless underperformed the discount possibilities as seen at Smart Bargains. To compare the sales price of each site's shoes, the three different styles of Jessica Simpson's shows were found less expensive on Smart Bargains.

Although, Endless uses their "110% Price Guarantee" as a compelling marketing proposition, it's full of "endless" stipulations that seem to negate the consumer incentive. For instance, refunds must be requested within 14 days of the order. Now as it may seem like a real benefit, what happens if the shoe bargain eyed on a competitor's site is no longer available? The guarantee is invalid. Moreover, the 110% price guarantee does not apply to special promotions, is limited to other websites (only), -- and the product must be the same color, size, style and in stock to qualify for the refund.

Neither here nor there,-- and for the online consumer who does not mind paying a little more for their shoes; but prefers free shipping, Endless.com is well worth a visit.

Endless.com Online Shoe Rating: Average

Smart Bargain

Shoe addicts can find a good fix at Smart Bargains. A variation of styles, designer brands and shoe bargains are in ample supply at this site. Unavailable at Endless, Smart Bargains showcases renowned designers, such as: Prada, Cole Haan and Via Spiga (to name a few). TheConsumerJournal.com compared Smart Bargain's sandal and boot selection with Endless.com's inventory. As far as style and the price, Smart Bargain substantially outperforms its competitor.

Even more exciting is the site's clearance department, featuring deep discounted and bargain shoes. A wealth of information regarding the shoe is detailed. For instance, the clearance room details how many shoes are in stock, which colors and sizes are available. The site even publishes real customer reviews.

As Smart Bargains may not offer free shipping or the 14-day guarantee that Endless extends, the shoe bargain site features a similar refund policy good within 7-days of the purchase. But even without the incentive to find a better deal - after the fact, Smart Bargain presents real deals, sales and shoe bargains - for today.

SmartBargains.com Online Shoe Rating: Exceptional