This thread, and in particular the response of the owner/manufacturer, remind me of why larger firms hire PR companies to handle customer communications. Owners today have to deal with social media and the like, and it can be a pain to see your product criticized when you have invested your very life in the success of your enterprise. I have no dog in this fight, and hope that the OP and manufacturer can work it out. I do agree that the pics of the wear are cause for concern. Good luck getting resolution!