Lids Return Policy

Understanding the Lids return policy is key to a smooth shopping experience, whether you’re in-store or online. This guide breaks down everything you need to know about returns, exchanges, and refunds so you can shop with confidence.

The Lids return policy is designed to be straightforward for customers. In most cases, you can return items within 60 days of purchase for a full refund or exchange. The items must be in new, unworn condition with all original tags and packaging attached.

This policy applies to purchases made both at Lids retail stores and on Lids.com. Having your receipt or proof of purchase makes the process much faster. If you don’t have it, don’t worry—there are still options available, which we’ll cover in detail.

What Items Are Eligible for Return?

Most items from Lids can be returned. This includes hats, jerseys, apparel, and accessories. The main condition is that the item hasn’t been worn or used and is in its original state.

New hats with the original sizing sticker and brand tags.
Jerseys and apparel with all tags attached.
Accessories like pins, keychains, and bags in original packaging.
Gift items purchased directly from Lids.

What Items Are NOT Eligible for Return?

For health and safety reasons, some items cannot be returned. It’s important to check this list before you buy.

Face masks and other personal protective equipment (PPE).
Any item that has been worn, washed, or altered.
Clearance or final sale items, as these are typically marked “All Sales Final.”
Items purchased from third-party sellers or marketplaces (like eBay or Amazon) unless sold by an official Lids storefront.
Customized or personalized items, such as hats with specific player names and numbers.

Required Condition for Returns

To have your return accepted, the item must meet a few simple conditions. These are standard for most retail stores.

Unworn & Unused: The item must show no signs of wear, including no stains, odors, or damage.
Original Tags: All manufacturer tags and labels must be attached. For hats, the sizing sticker inside must be intact.
Original Packaging: Any boxes, polybags, or special packaging should be included.
Receipt or Proof of Purchase: This is the easiest way to process your return.

The 60-Day Return Window

You have 60 days from the date of purchase to initiate a return. This is a generous window compared to many other retailers. The clock starts on the day you bought the item in-store or the day your online order shipped.

If you’re returning a gift, the 60-day period usually starts from the date the gift was purchased. It’s a good idea to start the return process as soon as you know you want to send something back. Don’t wait until the last few days.

How to Return an Online Purchase

Returning something you bought on Lids.com is simple. You have two main options: by mail or in-store. Here’s a step-by-step guide for each.

Option 1: Return by Mail (Prepaid Label)

Log into your Lids.com account and go to “Order History.”
Select the item(s) you wish to return and select a reason.
Print the prepaid return shipping label that is generated.
Securely package the item with all tags in its original packaging if possible.
Attach the label to the package and drop it off at a USPS location.
Once the return is received and inspected, your refund will be processed. This can take 7-10 business days after they get the package.

Option 2: Return In-Store

This is often the fastest method. You can take your online order to any Lids retail store for a return or exchange.

Bring the item(s) you want to return in their original condition.
Bring your packing slip or the shipping confirmation email as proof of purchase.
A store associate will process the return. You’ll typically get your refund on the spot if you paid with a card, or store credit/gift card if you don’t have the receipt.

How to Return an In-Store Purchase

If you bought an item at a physical Lids store, you should ideally return it to a store as well. The process is quick.

Bring the item with all original tags and packaging.
Bring your original receipt. This guarantees you’ll get your refund back to the original payment method.
If you don’t have the receipt, the store may be able to look up the purchase with the credit card you used. Otherwise, you will likely receive the current selling price as a merchandise credit.

Understanding Refunds and Exchanges

Knowing how and when you’ll get your money back is important. The method of refund usually depends on how you paid and how you’re returning the item.

Refund Methods & Timing

Credit/Debit Card: Refunds are issued back to the original card. It may take 5-10 business days to appear on your statement after the return is processed.
PayPal: Refunds go back to your PayPal account, usually within 3-5 business days.
Gift Card/Merchandise Credit: The refund is issued as a new electronic gift card, often immediately in-store or via email for online returns.
Cash: For in-store cash purchases with a receipt, you may receive a cash refund. Policies can vary by store location.

How to Request an Exchange

If you want a different size, color, or style, an exchange is your best bet. The easiest way is to do this in a physical Lids store.

Bring the item you wish to exchange with receipt to a store.
Choose the new item you want. If it costs more, you’ll pay the difference. If it costs less, you’ll get the difference as a refund or store credit.
For online purchases, you can also process an exchange by mail, but it’s slower. You would need to return the original item and then place a new order for the item you want.

Special Considerations and Exceptions

A few situations require extra attention. Being aware of these can save you time and frustration.

Returns Without a Receipt

Lids will often accept returns without a receipt, but there are limitations. The return is subject to manager approval and will be refunded as a merchandise credit at the item’s current selling price. Be prepared to show a valid, government-issued ID. The store may track returns without receipts to prevent abuse.

Customized or Personalized Items

This is the most important exception. Items that have been customized with a specific name, number, or patch cannot be returned or exchanged, unless there is a defect in the customization itself. Always double-check your spelling and selections before ordering a custom hat or jersey.

Gift Returns

Returning a gift is simple. You’ll need the gift receipt that came with the item. With a gift receipt, you can return the item within 60 days for a merchandise credit or exchange. Without any receipt, the standard “no receipt” policy applies, as mentioned above.

Defective or Damaged Items

If you receive a hat with a crooked logo or a jersey with a stitching flaw, you have options. Contact Lids Customer Service immediately if the item arrived damaged from an online order. For in-store purchases, take the defective item and receipt back to the store. They will typically offer an exchange for the same item or a full refund.

Tips for a Smooth Return Experience

Keep your receipt in a safe place, or take a photo of it with your phone.
Don’t remove the tags or sizing sticker until you’re sure you’re keeping the hat.
If returning by mail, consider using a trackable shipping service (the prepaid label includes tracking).
For high-value items, it’s a good idea to get a drop-off receipt from the post office or carrier.
Check the return policy for any seasonal or holiday extensions, as return windows are sometimes lengthened during the winter holidays.

Lids Locker Room & Team Sports Returns

If you purchased from Lids Locker Room or for a team sports order, the return policy is generally the same. Team orders, however, may have specific agreements, so its best to contact the store where the order was placed directly to confirm their process for returns on bulk purchases.

International Returns

For orders shipped outside the United States and Canada, return policies may differ. Generally, you are responsible for the cost of return shipping and any customs duties. It’s recommended to contact Lids Customer Service before sending an international return to get specific instructions and to understand any potential fees.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

How long does it take to get a refund from Lids?

After your return is received and processed, refunds to a credit card or PayPal usually take 5-10 business days. Store credit or gift card refunds are often issued much faster, sometimes immediately in-store.

Can I return a hat I bought at Lids if I wore it once?

No. The Lids return policy requires items to be unworn and in new condition. A hat that has been worn, even once, is not eligible for a return unless it is being returned due to a manufacturer defect.

What is Lids’ exchange policy?

You can exchange any eligible item within the 60-day window. The easiest way is to bring the item and receipt to a Lids store. For online orders, you can process an exchange by mail, but returning and re-ordering is often just as quick.

Does Lids have a return policy for online orders?

Yes, the Lids return policy covers online orders completely. You can return them by mail using a prepaid label from their website or take them to any physical Lids store for processing.

Can I return a customized jersey?

No. All customized, personalized, or made-to-order items are final sale and cannot be returned. This is because they are made specifically for you and cannot be resold.

What if I lost my Lids receipt?

You can still often make a return. The store may look up the purchase with the card you used. If that’s not possible, you will likely receive the current selling price as a merchandise credit, with a valid ID.

Are Lids returns free?

Returns to a Lids store are always free. Returns by mail for online orders are also free when you use the prepaid return label provided by Lids through your online account.

Contacting Lids Customer Service

If you have a unique situation or questions about a specific return, it’s best to contact Lids directly. You can reach them through the “Contact Us” page on Lids.com or by calling their customer service line. Having your order number and details ready will help them assist you faster.

In summary, the Lids return policy is customer-friendly with a 60-day window and multiple return options. The key is to keep items new with tags and hold onto your receipt. By following these simple guidelines, you can ensure a hassle-free return if your purchase isn’t quite the right fit.