You finally snagged those Fresh Foam runners at a 40% discount. It felt like a win until they showed up and, honestly, they're a little too tight in the toe box. Now you're staring at the box wondering if joe's new balance outlet returns are going to be a massive headache or a quick fix.
The short answer? It’s doable, but it isn't the same "free and easy" experience you get at a standard New Balance store. There are some specific hoops to jump through.
The 45-Day Rule and the Fine Print
Joe’s New Balance Outlet gives you a 45-day window from the date of purchase to send things back. That’s a decent chunk of time, but there is a major catch that catches people off guard: they don’t do exchanges. If you bought an 11 and need an 11.5, you can't just swap them. You have to return the small pair, wait for the refund, and then buy the new size. It’s a bit of a loop, especially if the sale price you snagged is gone by the time you go to re-order.
Condition is everything here. The policy is very strict about items being in "new condition." Basically, if you took them for a three-mile trial run on a dusty trail, you’re probably stuck with them. They want the shoes looking exactly like they did when they left the warehouse in Lawrence, Massachusetts.
Shipping Costs: The Part Nobody Likes
Let’s talk about the money. Unlike the main New Balance site—where members often get free returns—Joe’s is an outlet. Their whole vibe is "lowest price possible," and they use that to justify not paying for your return shipping.
You’re responsible for the postage.
💡 You might also like: Nude photos of male models: Why the high fashion world is changing its stance
You have to box them up, go to UPS or the post office, and pay out of pocket to ship them back to their returns department. Depending on where you live and how heavy the box is, you're looking at spending $10 to $15 just to get your money back. Some people find that this almost kills the "deal" they got in the first place.
Where to Send the Box
If you’ve decided it’s worth the shipping cost, you need to send the package to this specific address:
Joe’s New Balance Outlet - Ecommerce Returns
10 International Way
Lawrence, MA 01843
Make sure you include your original packing slip or at least your order number. If you just send a random box of shoes without paperwork, it’s going to sit in a warehouse corner for weeks while they try to figure out who you are.
The In-Store Return "Hack"
Can you return your Joe’s order to a regular New Balance store? This is a bit of a gray area that changed recently. Historically, the answer was a flat "no." However, in 2025 and 2026, many New Balance Factory Stores have started accepting these returns to make life easier for customers.
But—and this is a big but—don't just show up at a high-end New Balance boutique in a fancy mall and expect them to take back outlet clearance gear.
Call ahead. Ask if they can process a "Joe's Outlet return." If they do, bring your order confirmation email. It’ll save you that $12 shipping fee, which is a huge win.
Final Sale Warning
Before you even start the process, check your email confirmation for the words "Final Sale." Joe’s runs frequent clearance events where prices are slashed so low that they simply won't take the items back. If it was a Final Sale item, the return system will likely reject your order number, and you're better off trying to sell them on a secondary market like Poshmark or eBay.
✨ Don't miss: Finding a Zumba Outfit for Women That Actually Stays Put While You Shake It
The Timeline for Your Money
Don't expect your refund the second the tracking number says "Delivered." It usually takes about 14 business days for the warehouse to open the box, check the condition, and hit the button to trigger your refund.
If you paid with a credit card that you’ve since closed, or if you used a one-time virtual card, the refund will typically be issued as an e-gift card.
What to do now
- Check the soles: Clean off any dust or hair. If they look worn, they will be rejected.
- Find your order number: It starts with a "J" and is in your inbox.
- Compare costs: If the shipping is $15 and the shoes were $40, see if a friend wants them instead.
- Box it up: Use the original shoe box, but put that box inside a shipping box or bag. Taping the shoe box itself can count as "damaging" the product packaging.
Once you’ve dropped the package off at the carrier, keep that tracking receipt. It is your only proof of life for those shoes until the refund hits your bank account two weeks later.