Q: Last April I purchased a pair of shoes from a local seller. A few days ago I wore them because it was raining. Unfortunately, my feet got wet as rainwater seeped through the material, even though I avoided stepping into puddles.

I returned the shoes to the seller and asked for them to be replaced. At this point I was told that the shoes were not sold as waterproof and since the damage was caused by rain I was not entitled to a replacement or another type of remedy.

I was very disappointed, as I did not buy a pair of shoes that could only be used in dry weather. What are my rights?

A: The law gives consumers the right to claim a remedy from sellers when the product purchased does not conform with the description and specifications in the contract of sale. This means that unless you either specifically requested shoes that are waterproof or the seller informed you that the shoes you were buying were waterproof, I am afraid that the seller is not obliged to provide you with a free remedy.