[mothered]

Doing a partial in this case would (probably) not work, as the shoes are 880g.

Way too heavy to partial It.

An Investigation will deem the Item was enclosed In the package as It was travelling through the carrier's network.

DNA, doesent make sense as i've picked up the package myself at a postal office with cameras everywhere

Under the circumstances, It's obviously out of the question.

Perhaps i could claim, that I'VE recieved the beat up shoes that im planning on sending back. But what would the chances being of that?

Disregard It.

Zalando Is well aware that It's extremely unlikely, If not Impossible, to dispatch a used pair of shoes.

i have no idea how "lazy" they are, or whether they refund the amount as soon as they see the package is headed their way

It's not refunded on tracking.

The return must be received and when It checks out, the refund will be processed.

i just really cant think of any flawless method of approach.

Use the wrong Item received method.

In future, be sure to research the company and method before formulating the SE.