Vinted issues

[LakeFlyPie]

I've received my item (ski pants) new with tags as described and they look great but they smell damp / mildewed. Not sure if washing will get rid of the problem if smell is ingrained in fabric and it's more complicated than just sticking in wafting machine as they'll need re waterproofing after washing.
Am I correct in thinking buyer has to pay return postage?
I haven't contacted seller yet. What's my best option?

If they were described as brand new then I'd argue they're not as described. Brand new should be the condition they would have been in when they were originally bought. Would that mean the seller has to pay the return postage?

Even if you have to cover postage I'd do it and get your money back and go to TKMaxx who usually have skiwear heavily reduced.

I buy a lot of stuff on eBay and Vinted second hand but with skiwear you need to know it's in good condition. Given the cost of a ski trip you don't want some ski kit that hasn't been stored properly (I'd imagine if they are mildewy that might affect the waterproof properties) to ruin a trip.

I think you have to pay postage

There is now an option for the seller to pay return postage, but I think they have to tick the box when they accept the return, if they don't you'll have to pay it yourself. I'd message them and get them to agree before you start the return process.