“Winners & losers”

I've had one pair of Clarks shoes for at least four years and found them comfortable and durable. However, I recently purchased another pair in a sale for £33 and when I wore them in the rain for the first time (3 months after purchase) it left a watermark around the toe areas. Store manager refused to take them back, arguing that the shoes should have been treated with an aerosol sealant solution before being worn. I wasn't advised of that and pointed out that they should have been treated prior to sale.
Sent them back to Clarks who issued a £33 voucher (but no refund on cost of courier!). Overall, satisfied with outcome, but I still think the store manager (Stevenage branch) should have been more accommodating.