Shocking service!!!

I bought a shoe at Europa art Clearwater mall on the 3rd of September around 17:00. When I got home I put on both shoes but they were extremely uncomfortable, first thing in the morning of the 4th I returned the shoe to the store. Looked around to see if I could take something else and all the other shoes I liked were either too big or too tight and I opted for a refund. I was told they can’t refund me, I have to get a gift card or credit note, I find this very disturbing as no one told me about this policy prior to me buying the shoe. The sales person was very much aware that I was hesitant to buy the shoe and at that point she should have said if you are doubting leave it because you won’t be able to return it but because she was pushing a sale she kept quiet. Is this even in line with the consumer protection Act????i left the shoe in the store and waiting for head office to contact me.