Avoid the New Balance Online Shop

Bought new running shoes via the online store. Within a few months they started showing wear and tear and since I was within my 6 month warranty I logged a call via customercare, completed the whole questionnaire, sent the photos, etc. only to be informed "The New Balance technical department have assessed the questionnaire and images. Unfortunately, the item was not found to be defective." I did not accept their explanation, because surely a pair of shoes that sells for R2,499.00 should last a bit longer than 6 months? Again, same response. I asked for the query to be escalated. Same response. If you're going to fork out your hard-earned money for a pair of running shoes I recommend you visit an actual store and avoid the the New Balance online shop. And yes, my return claim was declined.