How to Use Conditional Logic for Product Options in Shopify

What Is Conditional Logic for Product Options?

Conditional logic is a dynamic way to show or hide specific form fields (like dropdowns, text inputs, or image uploads) based on customer interactions. Examples include:

• Selecting “Engraving: Yes” reveals a text field.
• Selecting “Gift Wrap: Premium” reveals more color choices.
• Choosing “Custom Size” shows dimension input fields.

Why Use Conditional Logic on Shopify?

• Enhanced UX: Show only relevant fields to reduce cognitive load.
• Better Data Collection: Fewer errors and cleaner inputs.
• Higher Conversions: A streamlined checkout encourages purchases.
• Customization: Perfect for product personalization.
• Reduced Confusion: Eliminate irrelevant options.

Key Use Cases

• Personalized gifts with conditional message fields
• Custom product measurements or image uploads
• Bundle logic to show add-on offers
• Variant-based option reveals (e.g., advanced features for “Pro” users)

Techniques for Implementing Conditional Logic in Shopify

1. Shopify Liquid + JavaScript

Use Liquid to set up form fields and JavaScript to toggle visibility based on selections.

2. Third-Party Apps

Apps like Bold Product Options, Infinite Options, and Product Options & Customizer offer easy UIs for logic setup.

3. Custom Apps & Shopify Functions

Use Shopify Functions or custom app code for enterprise-level control and data storage.

Step-by-Step: Build a Conditional Product Form

1. Set Up Shopify Theme Files

<select id="engraving-select" name="properties[Engraving Option]">
  <option value="">-- Select --</option>
  <option value="No">No</option>
  <option value="Yes">Yes</option>
</select>

<div id="engraving-message" class="hidden">
  <label for="engraving-text">Enter engraving message:</label>
  <input type="text" id="engraving-text" name="properties[Engraving Message]" maxlength="40">
</div>

2. Add Variant-Based Conditions

<div id="size-custom" class="hidden">
  <label>Enter your custom size (inches)</label>
  <input type="text" name="properties[Custom Size]" maxlength="10">
</div>

3. Use AJAX & DOM Manipulation

document.getElementById('engraving-select').addEventListener('change', (e) => {
  const el = document.getElementById('engraving-message');
  el.classList.toggle('hidden', e.target.value !== 'Yes');
});

const variantSelect = document.querySelector('select[name="id"]');
variantSelect.addEventListener('change', (e) => {
  const customBox = document.getElementById('size-custom');
  const selectedText = variantSelect.options[variantSelect.selectedIndex].text;
  customBox.classList.toggle('hidden', !selectedText.includes('Custom'));
});

4. Enhance Accessibility & Validation

• Use ARIA attributes.
• Limit characters and validate fields.
• Scroll to or alert users if fields are required and hidden.

Testing, Troubleshooting & Maintenance

• Test across all devices and browsers.
• Use dev tools to inspect visibility logic.
• Check analytics for form abandonment.
• Ensure logic persists on variant change or reloads.

Performance & Optimization Considerations

• Keep JavaScript lean and defer where possible.
• Use Shopify's product JSON for efficient rendering.
• Avoid reflows and excessive DOM changes.

SEO & UX Benefits

• Improved navigation and speed scores.
• Cleaner forms help reduce bounce and abandonment.
• Minimal impact on canonical URLs or duplicate content.

Final Thoughts & Best Practices

• Keep logic simple: Don’t overcomplicate the flow.
• Use clear labels: Explain why new fields appear.
• Monitor & iterate: Adjust based on analytics.
• Provide fallback: Ensure graceful degradation if JS fails.
• Consider apps for complex logic needs.