Product return question

[brewco]

My H bought me hiking boots in September from REI. I wore them around the house a few times without any issues- they are a bit heavy but fit good, I thought. Now that our weather has turned, I've worn them outside for walks around our neighborhood, ranging from 1.5-4 miles each time ( very flat neighborhood). I am having pain on the outside of my right foot, in the middle. Would you consider returning these under REI's 1 year return policy? Any tricks to try to break them in that might help with the pain? They don't feel too narrow and just putting them on does not cause pain. My foot starting hurting within the first 0.5 mile walk today- it did get better or less noticeable with distance but now that I am home and have them off there is a tender spot if I touch my foot. I feel guilty even considering returning a product that I've used outside after 6 months, but, they were $175 boots that I am nervous to take on any kind of multi day or long distance trip. Thoughts or experiences with REI and returns? Any recs of hiking boots that you super, duper love?

[labbie]

I would absolutely return them, that's what the policy is for! I've been to a ton of their classes lately and at pretty much every one, the instructor reminds folks of that policy because so often you just can't tell if something is for you until you do use it. It's part of the reason I don't mind paying a bit more if need be to purchase there.

[wawa]

I actually returned a pair of hiking boots to REI after having them for months and going on a 3 day trip. I hemmed and hawed over it and felt wildly guilty and the guy at REI laughed at me. He was like "somebody will snap these up at the garage sale and be thrilled to get the discount. Let's get you boots that work"

[dcn]

Don’t feel bad, return them!

[sadlebred]

Return them! REI has a great return policy.