Shopify collection filters (faceted nav)
Want to help your customers find products faster and increase sales? Shopify collection filters make it simple for shoppers to narrow their search by price, size, color, and more. This feature not only improves the shopping experience but also boosts conversion rates by reducing decision fatigue.
Key Points:
- What are Shopify collection filters? Tools that let customers refine product searches using attributes like price, color, or size.
- How do they work? Filters use product tags, metafields, and variant options to create tailored search results.
- Why do they matter? They simplify product discovery, improve user experience, and drive sales.
- Setup requirements: Use the Shopify Search & Discovery app and an Online Store 2.0-compatible theme.
- Best practices: Keep filters clear, organized, and mobile-friendly. Avoid slow updates and empty results.
Shopify filters aren’t just a convenience - they’re a powerful way to guide shoppers to the products they want while driving revenue for your store. Let’s explore how to set them up and optimize them for success.
Collection Filters in Shopify 2.0 - Full Tutorial & Concepts
Shopify Filtering Features and Setup
To set up effective collection filters in Shopify, you need to understand the platform's built-in features. Shopify's filtering system operates through the Shopify Search & Discovery app, which serves as the backbone for all filtering functionalities. This app determines how filters appear on your storefront and which product attributes are available for customers to use as filters.
For filters to display correctly, your store must use an Online Store 2.0–compatible theme. You can check your theme's compatibility by navigating to Online Store > Navigation in your Shopify admin. Keep in mind that collections with more than 5,000 products won't display filters, so it's a good idea to divide large catalogs into smaller, more focused collections. Stores are also limited to a maximum of 25 filters, which includes both standard and custom options.
Standard filters include options like price ranges, product availability, brand, product type, and vendor details. If needed, you can create custom filters for attributes such as color or size to better suit your store's offerings.
Setting Up Filters for U.S. Stores
After setting up your global filtering system, it's important to customize it to meet the preferences of U.S. shoppers. American customers have specific expectations when shopping online, so localizing your filters is essential. For example:
- Currency and pricing: Display prices in USD, with the dollar sign placed before the amount (e.g., $99.99). Price range filters should reflect common U.S. spending habits.
- Measurement units: Use imperial units for dimensions (inches, feet) and weight (pounds, ounces), as these are standard in the U.S.
- Language: Ensure product descriptions and filters use American English terms. For instance, use "color" instead of "colour" and other terminology familiar to U.S. shoppers.
Additionally, consider seasonal and logistical factors. For example, include filters for time-sensitive collections like back-to-school or winter gear to match seasonal demand. Shipping filters such as "Free shipping", "2-day delivery", or "Ships from USA" also align with U.S. customers' expectations for fast and reliable service. These adjustments not only meet regional preferences but also enhance conversion rates by making the shopping experience more relevant and user-friendly.
Benefits of Collection Filters for Conversion Rate Optimization
Collection filters can turn your Shopify store into a more personalized and efficient shopping experience. When customers can quickly sort through a large selection of products to find exactly what they’re looking for, they’re much more likely to complete a purchase. Beyond convenience, well-designed filters can lower bounce rates and even increase the average order value.
Faster Product Discovery
In e-commerce, time is everything. Collection filters let shoppers refine their searches by criteria like size, color, or price range, saving them from scrolling endlessly through irrelevant products. This speed is especially crucial during busy shopping periods like Black Friday or holiday sales, when customers are comparing options across multiple stores. A user-friendly filtering system keeps shoppers engaged, letting them focus on exploring products rather than struggling to find what they want.
By helping customers find what they need faster, filters not only save time but also build confidence in their purchase decisions. This streamlined process creates a smoother shopping journey, which naturally leads to a better overall experience.
Better User Experience for U.S. Shoppers
Shoppers in the U.S. expect filters that align with familiar standards, like U.S. sizing or numerical measurements, to make their buying process easier.
For mobile users, touch-friendly filters - like collapsible menus and large buttons - are essential. These features keep users engaged during quick browsing sessions, whether they’re shopping on their commute or during a lunch break, and reduce the chances of them leaving the site without buying.
Regional preferences also matter. Some customers may want filters for eco-friendly products, while others might prioritize seasonal options that fit local weather conditions. Tailoring your filters to these preferences not only improves the shopping experience but also provides valuable data for refining your store’s conversion strategies.
Data Insights for CRO
Every filter interaction offers a glimpse into what your customers care about most. For example, if many shoppers start their search by filtering for price, it might make sense to emphasize pricing options in your product displays.
On the flip side, if customers frequently apply multiple filters but leave without purchasing, this could point to issues like mismatched inventory or poorly optimized pages. These insights can guide adjustments to your filter setup or even influence product development to better meet customer needs.
Seasonal trends in filter usage can also help you make smarter inventory decisions, ensuring you have the right products available at the right time. By analyzing these data points, you can continuously refine your filters to align with your conversion goals and improve the overall shopping experience.
Best Practices for Shopify Collection Filters
To create effective filters for Shopify collections, focus on clear organization and simplicity. This approach ensures shoppers can quickly find what they're looking for without feeling overwhelmed.
Designing Clear Filter Systems
Organize filters by logical product categories. For instance, in a clothing store, start with categories like tops, bottoms, and accessories, then refine options by size, color, and price. Electronics stores might prioritize filters like brand, features, price range, and customer ratings.
Use familiar, straightforward terms that your customers immediately understand. Swap "hue" for "color" and "dimensions" for "size." Stick to standard U.S. clothing sizes (XS, S, M, L, XL). For price filters, display clear ranges like "$25 - $50" or "Under $100."
Limit the number of initial filter options to avoid overwhelming users. Start with 5-7 main filters, and let shoppers expand for more detailed choices. This strikes a balance between simplicity and comprehensive options.
Display product counts next to filter options to show how many items match. For example, label filters as "Blue (23)" or "Size Large (8)." This transparency helps users make quicker, more informed decisions and avoids the frustration of empty results.
Set smart defaults based on popular products or seasonal trends. For example, during summer, prioritize filters for lighter fabrics and bright colors. Around the holidays, highlight gift-friendly price ranges.
Once filters are well-organized and labeled, focus on adapting their design for mobile users and accessibility needs.
Mobile and Accessibility Optimization
After structuring your filters, ensure they work seamlessly on mobile devices and for users relying on assistive technologies.
Design touch-friendly buttons that are at least 44px by 44px, with enough spacing to prevent accidental clicks.
Use collapsible menus on mobile to save screen space. Let users expand categories they care about while keeping others minimized. Include a "Filters" button that opens a full-screen or slide-up menu for easy navigation.
Provide clear feedback when filters are applied. Use visual cues like color changes, checkmarks, or badges, and create an "Applied Filters" section at the top of the results page. This allows users to easily remove specific filters without starting over.
Ensure smooth keyboard navigation for assistive technology users. Filters should be accessible via tab navigation, and screen readers must clearly announce filter states.
Add descriptive labels and alt text for visual elements like color swatches. For example, instead of just showing a blue square, include a text label like "Navy Blue."
Test loading speeds regularly, especially on mobile networks. Filters should update results within 2-3 seconds, even for large catalogs. Use techniques like progressive loading or skeleton screens to maintain a smooth shopping experience.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Even with a well-designed filter system, there are pitfalls to watch out for.
Avoid inconsistent or unclear labels. Stick to the same terminology throughout the site. For instance, if you call it "Price Range" in one place, don’t refer to it as "Cost" elsewhere.
Never hide the "Clear All Filters" option. Shoppers should always have an easy way to reset their search. Place this option prominently near the active filters display.
Don’t leave users stranded with empty results. If no products match their filters, suggest alternatives or similar items instead of showing a blank page with "No products found."
Avoid slow filter updates. If filters take too long to process, shoppers may abandon their search. Use predictive loading or caching to speed things up.
Keep filters functional during sales or inventory changes. Ensure your filter system adapts to stock fluctuations to avoid broken or frustrating experiences.
Don’t overcomplicate filter hierarchies. Make your most important filters accessible with minimal clicks to keep navigation straightforward.
Top Shopify Apps for Advanced Collection Filtering
Shopify's built-in filtering works well for basic needs, but many U.S. stores find third-party apps essential for features like visual filters, smart search suggestions, and detailed analytics. These tools can take product discovery to the next level.
Popular Shopify Filtering Apps
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Shopify Search & Discovery
This free, native app enhances search functionality while offering product recommendations and customizable filters. It supports visual filters, making it a great choice for stores that emphasize attributes like color or size. -
Product Filter & Search by Boost Commerce
Known for its speed and flexibility, this app allows filtering by custom product fields, making it ideal for stores with large inventories. Its high level of customization ensures it can adapt to unique store needs. -
Smart Product Filter & Search by Globo
With a drag-and-drop interface, this app enables filtering by price, tags, vendors, and custom metafields. It also lets you create collection-specific filters, offering a personalized shopping experience. -
Searchanise Search & Filter
This app combines advanced search capabilities with robust filtering options. Features like autocomplete suggestions, synonym management, and customer search insights help you understand and improve how shoppers explore your catalog. -
InstantSearch+ by Fast Simon
Using AI-powered search and filtering, this app improves search relevance and offers personalized product recommendations. It also includes features like visual similarity search and merchandising tools to enhance the shopping journey.
Explore these apps to find the one that aligns best with your store's goals and inventory size.
How to Choose the Right App
When picking a filtering app, think about your store's specific needs. Apps that integrate directly with Shopify often perform better in terms of load times and theme compatibility. On the other hand, standalone apps may offer more advanced customization options. Take advantage of free trials to test these tools with your product catalog and see how they fit your store’s requirements.
Conclusion: Aligning Filter Strategy with CRO Goals
Collection filters are more than just navigation tools - they’re a direct route to boosting conversions on your Shopify store. When shoppers can effortlessly locate what they need, the likelihood of them completing a purchase skyrockets.
Think of filters as essential conversion tools. The secret is ensuring every filter leads customers to products that truly meet their needs. Focus on what matters most to your U.S. audience, such as price ranges in dollars, familiar sizing standards, or product features that solve common problems. These details can make all the difference in guiding shoppers toward a purchase.
Don’t overlook mobile optimization. With most U.S. consumers shopping on their smartphones, filters must work seamlessly on smaller screens. Features like collapsible menus, clear indicators, and touch-friendly designs aren’t just nice to have - they’re crucial for keeping mobile shoppers engaged and converting.
Pay attention to how customers use your filters. The patterns you uncover can reveal what drives their buying decisions. These insights are invaluable for refining your overall conversion rate optimization (CRO) strategy, influencing everything from product offerings to marketing campaigns.
Remember, filters aren’t a one-and-done setup. To keep conversions growing, you need to regularly test and tweak filter layouts, labels, and functionality. Treat your filtering system as a dynamic, evolving part of your store - one that adapts to customer behavior and conversion data. The most successful Shopify stores continuously refine their filters to stay aligned with customer needs and business goals.
At Clean Commit, we’ve seen firsthand how optimized filters can transform conversion performance. By analyzing filter usage, testing configurations, and making data-driven adjustments, we’ve helped Shopify merchants create filtering systems that not only improve user experience but also drive tangible increases in revenue and average order value. Filters aren’t just tools - they’re powerful drivers of growth.
FAQs
How can I make Shopify collection filters more mobile-friendly?
When designing mobile-friendly Shopify collection filters, consider using collapsible menus or slide-in panels. These options help save valuable screen space while keeping navigation smooth and user-friendly.
Make sure your filters include large, touch-friendly buttons and clear, concise labels to ensure they’re easy to use on smaller screens. A clutter-free layout is essential - avoid filters that result in empty searches, as these can irritate users. The goal is to create a simple, intuitive experience that helps mobile shoppers quickly locate what they need, boosting their satisfaction along the way.
What should I avoid when setting up Shopify collection filters?
When setting up filters for your Shopify collections, it's important to keep things simple. Too many filter options can overwhelm shoppers, making it harder for them to find what they’re looking for. Focus on offering filters that are most relevant to your products and your audience's needs.
Another pitfall to avoid is mislabeling or incorrectly tagging products. If your products aren’t tagged consistently or accurately, your filters won’t work properly, leading to incomplete or inaccurate results. Take the time to ensure every product is categorized and tagged correctly.
Finally, make sure your filters are straightforward and user-friendly. Cluttered or confusing filter designs can frustrate shoppers, driving them away. Prioritize clear, functional filters to create a smoother shopping experience and boost engagement.
How do Shopify collection filters influence customer behavior and boost conversions?
Shopify collection filters are a game-changer for improving the shopping experience. They help customers zero in on what they’re looking for by narrowing down options based on attributes like size, color, price, or style. This not only cuts down on the time spent searching but also makes the process feel more intuitive and less overwhelming. The result? Shoppers are more likely to stay engaged and make a purchase.
Well-designed filters don’t just make customers happy - they can also drive sales. When people can quickly find products that meet their needs, they’re more likely to complete their purchase, reducing the chances of abandoned carts. Tailoring your filter options to match your customers’ preferences and shopping patterns can make a noticeable difference in your store’s performance.
