Best BIFL SocksUnder $15
You don't need to spend $25 per pair to get quality socks. The under-$15 tier includes legitimate merino options that deliver 80% of premium performance at a fraction of the cost. Here's how to upgrade from cotton without breaking the bank.
What to Expect Under $15
- Real merino wool blends (not pure cotton)
- Shorter lifespan than premium options (1-2 years vs 5-7)
- No true lifetime warranty (though Costco has generous returns)
- Good moisture wicking and odor resistance
- Perfect for trying merino before committing to $25+ socks
Kirkland Signature Merino Wool Trail Socks (4-pack)
At $15 for a 4-pack (~$3.75/pair), Kirkland Merino Trail socks are the best value in the sock world. Real merino wool, decent construction, and Costco return policy.
Buy on AmazonTop Pick: Kirkland Signature Merino Wool Trail Socks (4-pack)
Kirkland Signature Merino Wool Trail Socks (4-pack)
72% Merino Wool, 27% Nylon, 1% Spandex
Various
Costco Satisfaction Guarantee
80% of Darn Tough performance at 15% of the price. Real merino wool, solid construction, and Costco return policy. The best value entry point into quality socks.
- Incredible value (~$3.75/pair)
- Real merino wool content
- Costco's generous return policy
- Good entry point to merino
- No true lifetime warranty
- Wears faster (1-2 years typical)
- Less dense knit
Alternatives
People's Socks Merino Wool Crew (4-pack)
71% Merino Wool, 27% Nylon, 2% Spandex
USA
1 Year
Made in USA merino socks at a budget price point. Good quality for the price with a 1-year warranty. Available on Amazon with Prime shipping.
- Made in USA
- Good value at ~$7.50/pair
- Real merino wool
- Available on Amazon Prime
Darn Tough Factory Seconds
Same as regular Darn Tough
Vermont, USA
None (cosmetic defects)
Full Darn Tough quality with cosmetic defects (minor color issues, small imperfections). No warranty but same durability. Available at their Vermont factory store or occasional sales.
- Same durability as regular DT
- 50%+ discount
- Made in Vermont
- Minor cosmetic issues only
Ready to spend more?
Check out our guide to socks under $20 for options with better durability and premium features like lifetime warranties.
View next tierFrequently Asked Questions
Are Kirkland socks as good as Darn Tough?
No, but they're 80% as good at 15% of the price. Kirkland socks wear out faster (1-2 years vs 5-7 for DT) and don't have a true warranty. But for occasional use or budget-conscious buyers, they're excellent value.
Where can I buy cheap merino socks?
Costco (Kirkland brand) is the best value. TJ Maxx/Marshalls occasionally has discounted Smartwool. Amazon has various budget merino brands. Darn Tough seconds are available at their Vermont factory or occasional sales.
Is it worth upgrading from cotton to budget merino?
Absolutely. Even budget merino is transformatively better than cotton for moisture, odor, and comfort. The upgrade from cotton to budget merino is more noticeable than budget merino to premium.
Do I need a Costco membership for Kirkland socks?
Yes, Costco membership is required to purchase in-store. Sometimes Kirkland socks appear on Amazon at marked-up prices. The membership is worth it if you shop there for other items.