What Theme Should You Use On Your Shopify Store?

When it comes to setting up your online store on Shopify, one of the most crucial decisions you'll make is choosing the right theme.

With so many options available, it can be overwhelming to decide which theme will best suit your store's needs.

As experts in the Shopify e-commerce industry for almost a decade (possibly more depending when you're reading this), let's explore the factors you should consider when selecting a Shopify theme.

Why Should You Stick to the Shopify Theme Store?

While there may be tempting offers for themes outside of the Shopify Theme Store, it's important to remember that these themes may not be optimized for Shopify's platform and I'm sure you want to put your best foot forward.

Some risks of buying a theme outside of Shopify's own store:

1. Support – If the theme has not been endorsed by Shopify via their curation and quality checks, the level of support you receive will be met with the same response as a BMW mechanic being asked to support non-original parts.
2. Performance – You'll very quickly lose far more money than you'll save on the theme if it doesn't load fast and offer a good user experience to your customers
3. Customisability – Another aspect that Shopify themselves check when curating their theme store themes. If you buy outsider themes, you're taking a risk on something that only an experienced developer can check for you and that would cost you more than the theme.
4. More time fixing than improving – With the integrity of the code unknown, you run risk of spending more developer time in the long run putting out fires and fixing things than actually improving your store.

By choosing a theme from the official Shopify Theme Store, you can ensure compatibility, security, and ongoing support for your online store.

Consider Your Catalog Size

One of the key factors to consider when choosing a Shopify theme is the size of your catalog.

If you have a large inventory of products, you'll want a theme that can effectively showcase your offerings without overwhelming your customers.

Look for themes with robust navigation and filtering options to help customers find what they're looking for quickly.

We often recommend Warehouse for merchants with many departments and collections.

Smaller catalogs can afford the creative liberty of a theme intended to really showcase your brand in a visually rich way. Themes like Impact do this perfectly and come from a seasoned, experienced dev house.

Assess the Diversity of Your Products and Collections

Another important aspect to consider is the diversity of your products and collections.

If you offer a wide range of products in different categories, you'll want a theme that can accommodate this variety.

Look for themes that allow for customizable product layouts and collection pages to showcase your products in the best possible light.

Understand Your Unique Business Needs

Every business is unique, and your online store should reflect that. Consider your specific business needs when choosing a Shopify theme.

Whether you prioritize a clean and minimalist design, seamless integration with social media platforms, or advanced customization options, make sure the theme you choose aligns with your business goals.

Ultimately, when it comes to selecting a Shopify theme for your store, it's essential to prioritize functionality, compatibility, and support.

While the allure of outsider themes may be strong, opting for a trusted theme from the Shopify Theme Store, even the free Dawn theme, can set your online store up for success in the long run.

Our Preferred Theme Vendors

Archetype Themes – Over 100,000 merchants have trusted Archetype with their online store's face. Their ever popular Motion theme is a firm favorite of many Shopify experts for good reason. 

Maestrooo – We've never had problems with Maestrooo's themes and our team is especially fond of Warehouse which is a theme made specifically for larger catalog merchants and Impact which is - as the name suggests - intended to make a splash.

If you need assistance with getting the most out of your e-commerce store, please do reach out to us here or simply email us.