L.L.Bean — Local services in Boston

Would not return my boots. I wore them a handful (4-7) of times (granted out in the rain/snow) and they just weren't for me. The service rep told me that because the store can't resell them they fall under the category of "excessive wear and tear" and can't be returned.

I stepped out of the store and looked up LL Bean's return policy to make sure I wasn't crazy:

"If you are not 100% satisfied with one of our products, you may return it within one year of purchase for a refund."

There are a few exceptions to that including "excessive wear and tear."

So back in I went to make sure I didn't misunderstand something, and the service rep told me the same thing. Unless you only wear boots indoors only a couple times they are bound to get a bit dirty/scuffed. I cannot fathom how anyone would consider that excessive.

Included are photos of the boots - I didn't clean them before attempting to return them so the soles are a bit dirty.

Follow-up:

I called the LL Bean number and the phone rep told me the store was off-base in their resale criterion and that the boots should be returnable. Now I am mailing them back.

The store gets an extra star because the in-store rep, despite being totally unreasonable, was...

Hey I just wanted to reach out and say what a great company I think and particularly LL Bean is in particular this store. I had purchased from the store manager a yeti dog bowl I wanted one in seafoam green. That was not in stock but the manager who took care of me ordered one. Somehow it got delivered to the store instead of to my house which is about six blocks away from the store. He personally took the package and deliver it to my house without my requesting. That’s a person that takes a lot of pride in the way they do business and I really appreciate that. I mean this was a $49 purchase and he took the time after he close the store to walk all the way down to my home and deliver the item.

When a company has leaders like that that shows me the quality of...

Outstanding store filled with all of your favorite L.L. Bean items at clearance/closeout prices. Choose from an aspiring range of outdoor gear, footwear, camping items, and hunting/fishing equipment. Firearms and ammunition are also available.The sheer size of the store is overwhelming, but friendly staff are on hand to assist with finding exactly what one is looking for.

The store also features wildlife exhibits, plus a cafe, restaurant, and archery range. The restaurant was closed, unfortunately, but hopefully I will have a chance to sample the cuisine on a future visit.

All told my L.L. Bean experience exceeded my expectations, and I will definitely be back...