Altra Torin 6 Running Shoes (For Men)

I have warn Altras for years and this is my 4 pair and my family has worn 6 other pairs so I am familiar with the brand and several retailers.
Let's start with the shoe itself. The Torin 6 is a slimmer fit than other Altra shoes and much slimmer than the trail running shoes. I ordered a half-size up for this reason. The fit was great and traction was as expected. What wasn't expected was the improper attachment of the toe box to the sole on the right shoe. The toe box was attached in such a way as to cause the entire toe box to buckle inwards in the second and third toes. Stepping in the shoe was uncomfortable and I wouldn't ever consider running in them. I returned the shoes promptly after only a few steps around the house. Horrible quality control for Altra and Sierra.
Next let's look at customer service. I explained the issue and was told that shipping should be covered but it was ultimately up to return service. Mind you I had just purchased 4 pairs and one was a dud. Yesterday my return was processed and not only did they not offer an exchange, they charged me shipping. Worse, they marked it as "customer didn't like/changed mind". This probably means that my defective shoe will probably be sent to some unsuspecting customer. Buyer beware.