They're generally a few dollars more than I've seen in stores - I think it's due to the fact that shipping is "free" and also the enormous stock they have.
Thanks, ladies, you've cleared this up for me. I've ordered from them twice and had really excellent customer service on my last order (one shoe had a flaw and they sent me a replacement pair immediately), so I'll still order from them.
I always order from Zappos and the customer service is the best! There definetly not cheaper then most other places/sites but I always order and then if I find it cheaper I contact Zappos, give them the info., and they do a 110% price match. So I end up saving a little more then what I would have by ordering from the other store. Plus, with fast free shipping and free returns I feel 100% safe ordering with them!
I think they're essentially a retail store (site) -- I've only seen shoes discounted when they've been around a little while. I don't think Zappos puts current-season shoes on sale.
That said, I think they don't charge sales tax. So, depending where you live, can save you about 8%. Plus free fast shipping and 365 days to return.
For the convenience and the abundance of customer reviews, I think it's usually worth it.
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"I base most of my fashion taste on what doesn't itch." - G. Radner