Do you know that L.L. Bean has a lifetime guarantee on their clothing? So since the pockets ripped you can certainly return the t-shirts. Of course, exchanging them is a problem if you aren't pleased with their color selection. But you might be compensated in some other way...refund or another type of exchange.

American Apparel was known for their well-made t-shirts. AA has gone out of business, but you surely can find some t's on Amazon or ebay.

Also, what about Nordstrom?