How should 404 pages be managed in Shopify themes?

Creating a specific "404.liquid" template is the best approach for managing 404 pages in Shopify themes. This template allows developers to customize the appearance and functionality of the error page when a user lands on an unavailable or broken link. By having a dedicated 404 template, you can enhance the user experience by providing relevant information, offering suggestions on what users can do next, or directing them to popular products or categories.

Customizing a 404 page with a specific template also allows for branding consistency across the site, ensuring that even when users encounter an error, they still see elements that are familiar and aligned with the overall theme design. This can help in retaining users on the site rather than causing frustration, as they are guided to other sections rather than simply encountering a generic error message.

Using a default template without customization might lead to a poor user experience, as it often lacks helpful information or navigation options. Redirecting users to the homepage automatically does not resolve their initial intent and may result in confusion or lead them away from areas they were interested in. Lastly, simply displaying a message in the sidebar is insufficient, as it doesn't utilize the full potential of the dedicated 404 page, leaving out critical aspects like navigation, search functionality, or contact options.