The REI return policy is only good for a year. The change occurred June of 2013. Older gear is grandfathered into the old return policy.
In regards to the pack. Doesn't look like heavy use to me. I have an Osprey Aether 45 that has the same problem after 10 years of hard use. So, the pack shouldn't have that issue so soon. Note: I'm not returning my Aether. Think I got my money's worth there.
A lot of outdoor gear seems to be marketed to the casual user these days. That translates into lower price points and lower quality for higher profit margins. There is also pressure to lower weight which makes gear less durable as well.




