Best BIFL SocksUnder $20
The under-$20 tier is the sweet spot for value-conscious buyers who want better quality than Costco without paying full Darn Tough prices. You'll find USA-made options and near-premium performance here.
What to Expect Under $20
- Higher quality construction than budget tier
- USA-made options available
- Some limited warranties (1 year typical)
- Good durability for 2-3 years of regular use
- Closer to premium sock feel and performance
Darn Tough Factory Seconds
Darn Tough factory seconds offer full DT quality with minor cosmetic defects at 50%+ off. No warranty, but the same legendary durability. Best value if you can find them.
Buy on AmazonTop Pick: Darn Tough Factory Seconds
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
- No warranty coverage
- Limited availability
- Can't choose exact style/color
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
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
Ready to spend more?
Check out our guide to socks under $30 for options with better durability and premium features like lifetime warranties.
View next tierFrequently Asked Questions
Where can I find Darn Tough seconds?
Darn Tough's factory store in Northfield, Vermont sells seconds year-round. They occasionally do online seconds sales. Reddit's r/frugalmalefashion tracks these sales.
Is $20 enough for good hiking socks?
Yes. The $15-20 range includes solid options like People's Socks and Darn Tough seconds. You sacrifice the lifetime warranty but get similar performance to premium socks.
What's the difference between $15 and $20 socks?
$20 socks typically have better construction, higher quality materials, and often USA manufacturing. The upgrade from $15 to $20 is noticeable in feel and durability.
Should I save more for Darn Tough instead?
If you'll use them heavily (hiking, work boots, daily wear), yes—the lifetime warranty pays for itself. For occasional use, under-$20 options are fine.