No returns on online sale

I made a purchase recently on the crocssa online store and bought a sale item which once received did not look as good as the photo. I was told that I can't get a refund and I'm force to do an exchange for a replacement that I don't really want. I asked if I could return it to any of their stores and was told that I could. I went to the waterfront store in Cape Town only to be told that they are a 'partner' store and would not take back the particular shoes as it was discontinued. I am appalled at the fact that online sale is subjected to a no return policy as one can only inspect the item once you've paid and received it. I have been to the Canal Walk store only to find a limited range and nothing that appeals to me. I now have to travel all the way to access park in another attempt to get this shoe returned. all my other purchase sale items or not have been returned without charge with other retailers.