Top 10 Shoe Shopping Concerns in 2025 and How to Solve Them

Shoe shopping in 2025 is tougher than ever, and this guide reveals ten common problems and ways to solve them.

Shopping for shoes used to be simple: pick a style, check your size, pay, and go. Now, rising shoe prices, online shopping confusion, and an overwhelming number of choices have made finding the right pair more complicated than ever. According to a recent press release by AlixPartners and FDRA, U.S. footwear shoppers have entered a new era of anxiety, and it’s showing up at the checkout counter. Below, we break down the top 10 concerns customers have right now, featuring direct insights and quotes from real shoppers and industry leaders.

“Footwear retailers are stuck between a rock and a hard place. Tariffs raise wholesale costs across the board, but consumers aren’t willing—or able—to absorb those increases. That leaves retailers squeezed on both sides, eroding margins and forcing tough decisions…” as said by Matt Priest, President & CEO, FDRA

1. Price Hikes and Affordability

Nearly 80% of shoppers say they’ve walked away from a shoe purchase this year because of rising prices and inflation. For many families, shoes are quickly shifting from a basic need to a luxury purchase.

“Families are stuck. They’re trying to spend less, but shoes are getting more expensive.” as said by Bryan Eshelman, Managing Director, AlixPartners.

2. Finding the Right Fit

Buying shoes online means customers worry about sizing inconsistencies, limited stock, and making sure their new shoes will really fit comfortably. Ensuring they have the sizes I need. Most of the time, they only have certain sizes of the shoes that I am looking for, so I just end up using an E-commerce site.

3. Comfort and Support

Comfort almost always outranks price, especially for sneakers, athletic shoes, or work shoes. Shoe buyers want options with solid support and features that meet their foot health needs.

4. Durability and Quality

Consumers are increasingly willing to abandon flashy trends in favor of shoes that last longer. According to AlixPartners, most Gen Z and Millennial parents say they’ll prioritize durability and value over the latest footwear fads.

5. Shopping Experience In-store vs. Online

Shoppers crave a smooth buying experience, whether in-store or online. Many research options on the web before buying, and almost half aim to finish their back-to-school shoe shopping early to avoid limited inventory and rising prices.

6. Knowledgeable Staff and Customer Service

Customers need help from knowledgeable staff, not just aggressive sales tactics. Many wish brands would invest more in employee training so they can make recommendations based on real needs.

7. Limited Stock and Inventory Shortages

There’s nothing more frustrating than discovering the perfect pair and learning your size is out of stock. Today’s shoppers routinely face inventory shortages—both online and in-store.

8. Return and Exchange Policies

Because online shopping can be a gamble, customers expect hassle-free returns and exchanges, especially when sizing doesn’t work out.

9. Sustainability and Take-back Programs

Many shoppers are looking for brands offering shoe recycling and take-back programs with incentives like discounts on future purchases. Over three-quarters say this would influence where they shop.

10. Inflation and Economic Uncertainty

With inflation impacting every category, a growing number of consumers—especially women and older adults—are delaying or skipping shoe purchases altogether.

Quick Tips: How to Overcome These Concerns

• Check detailed size guides and multiple reviews before buying online.

• Try retailers that offer virtual fittings or foot scanners.

• Choose brands with customer-friendly return policies.

• Don’t hesitate to ask for details or look up expert advice.

• Support stores offering eco-friendly programs for recycling or discounts.

“With nearly 80% of consumers bracing for higher costs due to tariffs and nearly 8 in 10 walking away from a shoe purchase because of the price tag, footwear is shifting from a necessity to a discretionary expense for many families.” as stated by Matt Priest, CEO & President, FDRA

Don’t let confusion or sticker shock derail your next shoe shopping trip. Stay informed, shop smart, and put comfort (and your budget) first.