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Other => Off Topic => Topic started by: heybro on August 27, 2018, 10:46:02 PM

Title: Recommend a good SOCK. Yes, I said Sock!
Post by: heybro on August 27, 2018, 10:46:02 PM
Hello,

I always bought a bag of socks at Target for like 10 bucks and got like 10 pairs in the bag.  The socks were Gildan although I hardly cared about the name.  The socks were white and had a gray patch on the toe and heal.  The socks also looked like the shape of your foot in profile (they were not just some huge tube).  And, they were ankle high.  They also seemed to be a blend of cotton and polyester together.
Well, Target stopped carrying them.

And now I am at a loss of where to get just a decent good sock.

I tried the Hanes and the Fruit of the Loom but they are all sophisticated with air vents and moisture whicking and they just don't feel right to me.

I also tried buying Dickies from Walmart thinking a person can't go wrong with a working man's sock!  They felt SO GOOD in terms of fabric -- very comfortable.  But they had a weird thing going on in the middle of the sock (the toe and heal felt great but the middle section seemed to be smaller and all odd).

Why is this so complicated!  haha.

Anyone recommend a decent sock for a guy?

Thank you.
Title: Re: Recommend a good SOCK. Yes, I said Sock!
Post by: Spiffsome on August 28, 2018, 02:21:23 AM
Hand knitted. Best way to go.
Title: Re: Recommend a good SOCK. Yes, I said Sock!
Post by: DreamFIRE on August 28, 2018, 04:52:57 AM

https://forum.mrmoneymustache.com/reader-recommendations/socks-and-boxers-that-aren%27t-crap/
Title: Re: Recommend a good SOCK. Yes, I said Sock!
Post by: Rubic on August 28, 2018, 01:03:37 PM
I pay up for Darn Tough Socks (https://www.socksaddict.com/brand/darn-tough).
Title: Re: Recommend a good SOCK. Yes, I said Sock!
Post by: JLee on August 28, 2018, 01:08:28 PM
I pay up for Darn Tough Socks (https://www.socksaddict.com/brand/darn-tough).

As do I.
Title: Re: Recommend a good SOCK. Yes, I said Sock!
Post by: Stash Engineer on August 28, 2018, 01:24:20 PM
I'm a fan of Gold Toe socks, although their quality seems to have gone down in recent years.
Title: Re: Recommend a good SOCK. Yes, I said Sock!
Post by: JLee on August 28, 2018, 01:27:30 PM
I'm a fan of Gold Toe socks, although their quality seems to have gone down in recent years.
'

I used to love Gold Toe...then I ordered them again (same item from Amazon) and they were way worse. This was years ago and I haven't gone back.
Title: Re: Recommend a good SOCK. Yes, I said Sock!
Post by: Glenstache on August 28, 2018, 01:29:38 PM
If the Gildan socks really float your boat, you can just buy them somewhere other than Target. Looks like Amazon sells 10-packs for $11.
https://www.amazon.com/Gildan-Ankle-Socks-Black-White/dp/B06W5XZMS8/ref=sr_1_5?ie=UTF8&qid=1535484517&sr=8-5&keywords=gildan+socks

Title: Re: Recommend a good SOCK. Yes, I said Sock!
Post by: MasterStache on August 28, 2018, 07:13:52 PM
I pay up for Darn Tough Socks (https://www.socksaddict.com/brand/darn-tough).

As do I.

Love darn tough. Expensive but worth every penny IMO.
Title: Re: Recommend a good SOCK. Yes, I said Sock!
Post by: Dancin'Dog on August 30, 2018, 07:34:09 AM
Carhartt sells impressive socks.  They're not expensive and last an incredibly long time.  I think the first ones I got lasted about 5 years. 


I was so impressed that I recently ordered 6 pair on Ebay for a really good price. 
Title: Re: Recommend a good SOCK. Yes, I said Sock!
Post by: nereo on August 30, 2018, 12:52:33 PM
Another vote for Darn Tough.  Last longer than any of my others and hella comfortable.
If i won the lottery i’d buy 20 pairs (then put the rest into my index funds).  Boring?  Maybe...
Title: Re: Recommend a good SOCK. Yes, I said Sock!
Post by: Greenback Reproduction Specialist on August 31, 2018, 09:03:30 AM
I like gold toe, also like cabelas brand wool socks.
Title: Re: Recommend a good SOCK. Yes, I said Sock!
Post by: Systems101 on August 31, 2018, 07:38:48 PM
I pay up for Darn Tough Socks (https://www.socksaddict.com/brand/darn-tough).

As do I.

Love darn tough. Expensive but worth every penny IMO.

I'd say +1, but it's probably more like +0.5, since they discontinued the white athletic sock last year >:(
Title: Re: Recommend a good SOCK. Yes, I said Sock!
Post by: Lnspilot on September 02, 2018, 02:07:46 PM
Darn Tough. I've had multiple pairs for over 8 years now and only one pair is starting to wear. They feel brand new after each washing.
Title: Re: Recommend a good SOCK. Yes, I said Sock!
Post by: tawyer on September 02, 2018, 02:33:48 PM
Another vote for Darn Tough. Backed by lifetime guarantee, too.
Title: Re: Recommend a good SOCK. Yes, I said Sock!
Post by: Dancin'Dog on September 02, 2018, 03:54:15 PM
$20 per pair should last a long time.



Title: Re: Recommend a good SOCK. Yes, I said Sock!
Post by: nereo on September 02, 2018, 04:16:43 PM
$20 per pair should last a long time.

I proudly wear the label "cheap-ass bastard" but here I'm glad to pay $15* for a pair of Darn Tough. One example where paying up for quality wins out over the long term. They've outlasted my Smartwool, REI and Wigwams by a wide margin, and are more comfy to boot (pun intended)


*shopping sales I can usually get them for under $15, sometimes under $10.
Title: Re: Recommend a good SOCK. Yes, I said Sock!
Post by: big_owl on September 02, 2018, 04:40:26 PM
I've always found the best socks to be from Smartwool.  They last the longest and stink the least after a sweaty workout.  I do mountaineering as a hobby and I don't think there's a worse sport for foot odor...I only take Smartwools on my climbs.  After a week in the mountains where your feet are all torn up and haven't seen the light of day or dried out for days, Smartwools are just one wash away from smelling fresh again.  They are expensive but oh so worth it IMO.  Life is too short for cheap ass socks.
Title: Re: Recommend a good SOCK. Yes, I said Sock!
Post by: mountain mustache on September 02, 2018, 04:49:56 PM
Darn tough for everything. Hiking socks, every day running socks, ultra thin ski socks. I'm embarrassed by how many I have. They are amazing, never wear out, and look great.
Title: Re: Recommend a good SOCK. Yes, I said Sock!
Post by: MasterStache on September 02, 2018, 06:59:47 PM
$20 per pair should last a long time.

Check GoBros.com I paid somewhere around $15 for good mid weight hiking socks. Worth every penny. It's why you are getting so many recommendations for them. Expensive, yes. But you might cycle through multiple pair of cheapo socks while still enjoying your first pair of Darn Tough as if they were still new.  Buy a pair and try them out.
Title: Re: Recommend a good SOCK. Yes, I said Sock!
Post by: Dancin'Dog on September 02, 2018, 08:42:49 PM
$20 per pair should last a long time.

Check GoBros.com I paid somewhere around $15 for good mid weight hiking socks. Worth every penny. It's why you are getting so many recommendations for them. Expensive, yes. But you might cycle through multiple pair of cheapo socks while still enjoying your first pair of Darn Tough as if they were still new.  Buy a pair and try them out.


We have a Thorlo outlet nearby and I've worn them for years.  They are great socks, and the outlet prices are great in the off-season. 


I don't really need such a high quality sock as much now.  I don't work outdoors as much and am not on my feet all day on the job either.  The Carhartt socks that I mentioned earlier aren't as heavy duty or as cushioned as the Thorlo or the Darn Tough socks appear, but they are thicker & tougher than common "cheap" socks.  After 5+ years I finally wore a hole in the heel of a couple of them, so I looked for moreon Ebay & found 6 pair for about $15.  The OP was asking about good quality affordable socks, and I really think the Carhartts are hard to beat. 


When I finally wear out the Thorlos I have I will try a pair of Darn Toughs.  These days I'm only wearing socks a couple of days per week, but I'll be living in the mountains again eventually & good socks will be important again. 


Living on the water can make you a little soft after a while.  ;)



Title: Re: Recommend a good SOCK. Yes, I said Sock!
Post by: golden1 on September 03, 2018, 11:39:05 AM
No way in hell I would pay $20 for socks, no matter how good they were.  I lose too many socks to do that.  I’ll resist the hedonic adaptation in this case and keep buying 1 bag of Hanes socks a year.   
Title: Re: Recommend a good SOCK. Yes, I said Sock!
Post by: JLee on September 04, 2018, 09:53:30 AM
No way in hell I would pay $20 for socks, no matter how good they were.  I lose too many socks to do that.  I’ll resist the hedonic adaptation in this case and keep buying 1 bag of Hanes socks a year.
I am proud to say that I have never lost a Darn Tough sock, except for one time I stayed with Darn-Tough-wearing friends for a week+ and did laundry at their house, and now one pair of mine live with theirs and I'm not sure I could conclusively tell which pair they were, lol.

I'm far more motivated to go find the missing one when I put laundry away and have an odd number than I was with super cheap socks.
Title: Re: Recommend a good SOCK. Yes, I said Sock!
Post by: MasterStache on September 04, 2018, 03:50:01 PM
No way in hell I would pay $20 for socks, no matter how good they were.  I lose too many socks to do that.  I’ll resist the hedonic adaptation in this case and keep buying 1 bag of Hanes socks a year.

They aren't $20. Yes they are still expensive (roughly $13-15/pair). I can justify it by knowing I need less pairs, they last year's longer ( haven't worn through a pair yet), and are considerably more comfortable. I am a cheap bastard forany things, but socks.
Title: Re: Recommend a good SOCK. Yes, I said Sock!
Post by: Rural on September 04, 2018, 08:34:09 PM
Darn Tough. Three years in a row I bought one pair and then I got one for my birthday. I expect never to have to buy another sock.
Title: Re: Recommend a good SOCK. Yes, I said Sock!
Post by: heybro on September 05, 2018, 03:43:12 AM
For everyone recommending Darn Tough, is that wool going to be a problem if one is generally allergic to, say a wool sweater, that always seemed to be scratchy and bad?
Title: Re: Recommend a good SOCK. Yes, I said Sock!
Post by: nereo on September 05, 2018, 05:11:22 AM
For everyone recommending Darn Tough, is that wool going to be a problem if one is generally allergic to, say a wool sweater, that always seemed to be scratchy and bad?

It's merino wool, so even people who tend to find wool sweaters scratchy don't react to them.
Title: Re: Recommend a good SOCK. Yes, I said Sock!
Post by: use2betrix on September 16, 2018, 06:53:02 PM
Interesting stumbling across this thread. I had a family member buy me a few pairs of darn tough socks a few years ago. I had no idea they were “nice” or expensive. I’ve been wearing them constantly for everything for years and have noticed they all still look brand new. I had never even looked at the brand. I started running more the last few months and wanted a couple more pairs of socks. I was always impressed by them, so looked them up online for the first time and read more about them and saw the cost. I was surprised at the cost, yet it made 100% sense. I had used them unbiasedly not knowing their cost for years, and they outlasted many other pairs. Because of this, I happily ordered two more pairs. Will likely get more, taller socks for work eventually as well.
Title: Re: Recommend a good SOCK. Yes, I said Sock!
Post by: tungsten on September 21, 2018, 06:47:12 PM
If you're looking for hot sock market tips, I also say Darn Tough.  Buy and hold.
Title: Re: Recommend a good SOCK. Yes, I said Sock!
Post by: Davnasty on September 26, 2018, 12:53:17 PM
I have mixed feelings about buying something I had no idea I needed until this discussion came up, but now that I've done some more research and signed up for an REI credit card to get the $100 gift card, I don't feel too bad about buying luxury socks. However, I have one question that I haven't been able to figure out. Are all styles of darn tough socks equally great?

They have everything from no show, ultra light athletics to high top, cushioned hiking socks. I'm looking at starting with the ultra light, no show or the ultra light cushion, no show (not even sure there's a difference). Does anyone have specific advice on these styles? Or specific advice on any of the other styles?
Title: Re: Recommend a good SOCK. Yes, I said Sock!
Post by: JLee on September 26, 2018, 12:55:42 PM
I have mixed feelings about buying something I had no idea I needed until this discussion came up, but now that I've done some more research and signed up for an REI credit card to get the $100 gift card, I don't feel too bad about buying luxury socks. However, I have one question that I haven't been able to figure out. Are all styles of darn tough socks equally great?

They have everything from no show, ultra light athletics to high top, cushioned hiking socks. I'm looking at starting with the ultra light, no show or the ultra light cushion, no show (not even sure there's a difference). Does anyone have specific advice on these styles? Or specific advice on any of the other styles?

What sort of socks do you generally prefer? All the ones I've had have been fantastic quality, but my favorite by far are the light cushion crew socks. I like socks with some padding underneath them.
Title: Re: Recommend a good SOCK. Yes, I said Sock!
Post by: nereo on September 26, 2018, 12:57:47 PM
Are all styles of darn tough socks equally great?
I have the classic crew, ski sock and running socks.  All have served me well and have outlasted every otehr brand I've ever had.
I was actually surprised how much more I preferred their running socks - I thought my feet would get too hot vs. the normal cotton or polyester styles, but the wicking actually kept my feet dryer and happier than cheap-o cotton and they've outlasted every poly-blend running sock I've ever had.
Title: Re: Recommend a good SOCK. Yes, I said Sock!
Post by: Davnasty on September 26, 2018, 01:13:01 PM
I have mixed feelings about buying something I had no idea I needed until this discussion came up, but now that I've done some more research and signed up for an REI credit card to get the $100 gift card, I don't feel too bad about buying luxury socks. However, I have one question that I haven't been able to figure out. Are all styles of darn tough socks equally great?

They have everything from no show, ultra light athletics to high top, cushioned hiking socks. I'm looking at starting with the ultra light, no show or the ultra light cushion, no show (not even sure there's a difference). Does anyone have specific advice on these styles? Or specific advice on any of the other styles?

What sort of socks do you generally prefer? All the ones I've had have been fantastic quality, but my favorite by far are the light cushion crew socks. I like socks with some padding underneath them.

No show preferred. Thickness doesn't matter too much as long as they don't make me sweat. I'll probably get some crew to wear with boots later if they're really that great but I want to sample a pair I can wear to work and the gym for now.

Mostly I was worried that something with a name like ultra light won't be as invincible as they've been described here.
Title: Re: Recommend a good SOCK. Yes, I said Sock!
Post by: elaine amj on September 26, 2018, 01:23:48 PM
If you find Hanes too fancy, seriously shop for your fave Gildans on Amazon.

The snugger middle section is to grip the sock over your arch so the sock doesn't slide. I think most of the fancy ones do this.  I have been buying fancy Adidas socks ( I dream of Darn Tough) for my family for years and recently I got cheapo socks from Aldi for my son. He's not impressed with his socks sliding down throughout the day although he's going to suck it up until he wears through this batch of socks.

---------------------

Camp Mustache Toronto (Sep 21-23) is where all the cool Mustachians will be gathering for meatball parties,  karaoke in the bell tower and VolleyHockeyBall!

Title: Re: Recommend a good SOCK. Yes, I said Sock!
Post by: mountain mustache on September 26, 2018, 02:15:53 PM
The ultra-light no shows are my favorite for every day wear, or for running. I like the regular every day "fashion" high socks for boots in the winter. For skiing I love the over the calf ultra light
Title: Re: Recommend a good SOCK. Yes, I said Sock!
Post by: Rural on September 26, 2018, 07:03:38 PM
I wear the dress crews because they look good enough for , well, dress, but are plenty sturdy enough for hiking boots, which is what I wear in winter to all events less formal than funerals.
Title: Re: Recommend a good SOCK. Yes, I said Sock!
Post by: MasterStache on October 02, 2018, 08:16:52 AM
Reviving because great sale going on for Darn Tough socks:

https://www.gobros.com/darn-tough.html?irgwc=1&clickid=xrhX4jQ1FWNiUyrTy%3Ay%3ArXQMUkgzt9SUEVyKxQ0
Title: Re: Recommend a good SOCK. Yes, I said Sock!
Post by: Bracken_Joy on October 02, 2018, 08:24:40 AM
For everyone recommending Darn Tough, is that wool going to be a problem if one is generally allergic to, say a wool sweater, that always seemed to be scratchy and bad?

I'll be the voice of dissent from the 'it's fine' group. I am quite allergic to wool (have to wear a scarf any time I wear a wool jacket that has a less than 1/4" wide band showing at the neck, and it's a very high quality wool)- and I DO react to wool socks. Admittedly, I haven't tried the Darn Tough ones, but I have worn smartwool and Icebreakers. The weird thing is I don't *always* react to the merino, but often enough that I don't buy it anymore and gave away almost all merino items. I do still have one icebreaker pullover I don't react to that I'll wear hiking, it's my only 'safe' item.
Title: Re: Recommend a good SOCK. Yes, I said Sock!
Post by: Cubert on October 04, 2018, 05:10:43 AM
GoldToe all the way, baby.
Title: Re: Recommend a good SOCK. Yes, I said Sock!
Post by: caffeine on October 04, 2018, 08:05:28 AM
For running, the best socks I've ever bought are Wrightsock Coolmesh II Lo.

It has two layers of material that allows your foot to slide a bit and reduces friction. It is the anti-blister sock and works.
Title: Re: Recommend a good SOCK. Yes, I said Sock!
Post by: Turkey Leg on October 06, 2018, 03:44:16 PM
Reviving because great sale going on for Darn Tough socks:

https://www.gobros.com/darn-tough.html?irgwc=1&clickid=xrhX4jQ1FWNiUyrTy%3Ay%3ArXQMUkgzt9SUEVyKxQ0

A bad experience on my first order with GoBros...apparently one pair of socks I ordered is out of stock, so they just cancelled that part of the order. (I would have preferred being contacted to substitute. Actually, they should have not allowed me to order it in the first place.)

Also I ordered five of the same sock (same size, color, style), and they sent me three of the wrong size.

We’ll see how good of a job they do at rectifying this. I just replied to their “let us know if you have any questions or issues” email.
Title: Re: Recommend a good SOCK. Yes, I said Sock!
Post by: JLee on October 07, 2018, 02:41:03 PM
Reviving because great sale going on for Darn Tough socks:

https://www.gobros.com/darn-tough.html?irgwc=1&clickid=xrhX4jQ1FWNiUyrTy%3Ay%3ArXQMUkgzt9SUEVyKxQ0

A bad experience on my first order with GoBros...apparently one pair of socks I ordered is out of stock, so they just cancelled that part of the order. (I would have preferred being contacted to substitute. Actually, they should have not allowed me to order it in the first place.)

Also I ordered five of the same sock (same size, color, style), and they sent me three of the wrong size.

We’ll see how good of a job they do at rectifying this. I just replied to their “let us know if you have any questions or issues” email.

That's unfortunate. I've never had a problem with them.
Title: Re: Recommend a good SOCK. Yes, I said Sock!
Post by: MasterStache on October 07, 2018, 02:56:23 PM
Reviving because great sale going on for Darn Tough socks:

https://www.gobros.com/darn-tough.html?irgwc=1&clickid=xrhX4jQ1FWNiUyrTy%3Ay%3ArXQMUkgzt9SUEVyKxQ0

A bad experience on my first order with GoBros...apparently one pair of socks I ordered is out of stock, so they just cancelled that part of the order. (I would have preferred being contacted to substitute. Actually, they should have not allowed me to order it in the first place.)

Also I ordered five of the same sock (same size, color, style), and they sent me three of the wrong size.

We’ll see how good of a job they do at rectifying this. I just replied to their “let us know if you have any questions or issues” email.

That's unfortunate. I've never had a problem with them.

Me either, through multiple orders. That is unfortunate. Hopefully they rectify the problems.
Title: Re: Recommend a good SOCK. Yes, I said Sock!
Post by: J Boogie on October 09, 2018, 08:54:00 AM
The best value I've found in socks is at costco. I get my socks and underwear from them at this point, I like uniformity in my sock drawer if at all possible and costco's black sock with the orange toe is super versatile. It can be a dress sock, a hiking sock, a cold weather sock, everything but an athletic sock you wear with shorts.
Title: Re: Recommend a good SOCK. Yes, I said Sock!
Post by: Rasputin on January 25, 2019, 09:21:47 PM
I pay up for Darn Tough Socks (https://www.socksaddict.com/brand/darn-tough).

They are worth every penny.
Title: Re: Recommend a good SOCK. Yes, I said Sock!
Post by: WhiteTrashCash on January 25, 2019, 09:26:41 PM
Life Hack: Buy all your socks in black. That way you can just swap them out whenever any of them wear out PLUS they last longer because they don't show dirt.
Title: Re: Recommend a good SOCK. Yes, I said Sock!
Post by: dragoncar on January 26, 2019, 12:59:49 AM
At one point I only wore black calf-hugging gold toe socks from Costco.  I bought like theee weeks worth and they went fine with everything from casual to office.  But Costco stopped carrying them and as others have said, the amazon gold toes do not get the same good reviews.  Many years later, I’m getting low on my pairs of gold toe.

I finally tried the weatherproof brand from Costco on sale.  These aren’t black, but I don’t go to ol the office anymore.  I’m pretty much sold.  Only want to keep 1-2 types of socks in my drawer so I don’t have to worry about matching them up.
Title: Re: Recommend a good SOCK. Yes, I said Sock!
Post by: soccerluvof4 on January 26, 2019, 04:14:38 AM
Gotta say golden toe. I go through about a pack of white socks a year as they get holes or lose there elasticity but my golden toes last what seem forever.
Title: Re: Recommend a good SOCK. Yes, I said Sock!
Post by: Radagast on April 14, 2019, 03:11:32 PM
https://www.gobros.com/ is selling socks for 20%x15% = 37% off. Don't know for how long.

Noticed as I was idly perusing, thinking I could get some later in the year. I really hope Darn Tough socks are worth it because I ordered 15 pair of matching "tactical 1/4 cushion" at $11.44. At this point most of my socks have holes and most of rest smell terrible within a couple hours . Tired of that.
Title: Re: Recommend a good SOCK. Yes, I said Sock!
Post by: JLee on April 14, 2019, 10:26:30 PM
https://www.gobros.com/ is selling socks for 20%x15% = 37% off. Don't know for how long.

Noticed as I was idly perusing, thinking I could get some later in the year. I really hope Darn Tough socks are worth it because I ordered 15 pair of matching "tactical 1/4 cushion" at $11.44. At this point most of my socks have holes and most of rest smell terrible within a couple hours . Tired of that.

90 day returns and 100% satisfaction guarantee from Gobros...you're not exactly taking a huge risk here.
Title: Re: Recommend a good SOCK. Yes, I said Sock!
Post by: MasterStache on April 15, 2019, 06:06:49 AM
https://www.gobros.com/ is selling socks for 20%x15% = 37% off. Don't know for how long.

Noticed as I was idly perusing, thinking I could get some later in the year. I really hope Darn Tough socks are worth it because I ordered 15 pair of matching "tactical 1/4 cushion" at $11.44. At this point most of my socks have holes and most of rest smell terrible within a couple hours . Tired of that.

I am converting all of my cotton to darn tough wool. I've been nothing but thoroughly impressed with their quality. I bought a big pack of Adidas cotton athletic socks last year. Nearly all of them have developed holes in them. I think in the long run it's going to save me money.   
Title: Re: Recommend a good SOCK. Yes, I said Sock!
Post by: Dancin'Dog on April 15, 2019, 02:36:07 PM
Flip-flop season is almost here.  :)
Title: Re: Recommend a good SOCK. Yes, I said Sock!
Post by: Metalcat on April 15, 2019, 02:49:56 PM
It's a source of constant conflict in my home.
DH loves Darn Tough and I think he's crazy because Ice Breaker are better.
Title: Re: Recommend a good SOCK. Yes, I said Sock!
Post by: nereo on April 15, 2019, 05:58:31 PM
Flip-flop season is almost here.  :)
please tell me you aren't wearing socks with flip flops...

Title: Re: Recommend a good SOCK. Yes, I said Sock!
Post by: Radagast on April 15, 2019, 09:26:42 PM
https://www.gobros.com/ is selling socks for 20%x15% = 37% off. Don't know for how long.

Noticed as I was idly perusing, thinking I could get some later in the year. I really hope Darn Tough socks are worth it because I ordered 15 pair of matching "tactical 1/4 cushion" at $11.44. At this point most of my socks have holes and most of rest smell terrible within a couple hours . Tired of that.

90 day returns and 100% satisfaction guarantee from Gobros...you're not exactly taking a huge risk here.
Good to know. My biggest fear is they will keep my feet too warm! Second is whether the cost will justify them over the next decade.

I am converting all of my cotton to darn tough wool. I've been nothing but thoroughly impressed with their quality. I bought a big pack of Adidas cotton athletic socks last year. Nearly all of them have developed holes in them. I think in the long run it's going to save me money.   
I investigated before buying, but even at the "low" cost of $11.44/pair they will not save money, at least not directly. Similar to what I bought is a 12-pack of Gildan cotton socks from Walmart for $12 per dozen pairs. https://www.walmart.com/ip/Men-s-Performance-Cotton-moveFX-Ankle-Socks-12-Pack/170864844. For the same price as my 15 pairs of Darn Tough I could buy 15 dozen pairs of cheap Gildan socks. Assuming the cheap socks break down at a rate of 8 pairs/year, the cost of my Darn Tough socks would buy enough cheap socks to last 21 years. Throw in investment gains if you strung your purchases of cheap socks over 20 years, and they are certainly less expensive. Even with two warranty replacements there is a good chance the Darn Tough socks won't make to 21 years. The DT brand hasn't even been around 21 years.

I am hoping that the Darn Tough socks are, in my opinion, at least 2-4 times more valuable as socks, where value applies to factors other than lifetime $ of ownership :) Otherwise I'd do better with 15 dozen Gildans. I actually did NPVs before buying :)
Title: Re: Recommend a good SOCK. Yes, I said Sock!
Post by: Metalcat on April 16, 2019, 04:11:46 AM
https://www.gobros.com/ is selling socks for 20%x15% = 37% off. Don't know for how long.

Noticed as I was idly perusing, thinking I could get some later in the year. I really hope Darn Tough socks are worth it because I ordered 15 pair of matching "tactical 1/4 cushion" at $11.44. At this point most of my socks have holes and most of rest smell terrible within a couple hours . Tired of that.

90 day returns and 100% satisfaction guarantee from Gobros...you're not exactly taking a huge risk here.
Good to know. My biggest fear is they will keep my feet too warm! Second is whether the cost will justify them over the next decade.

I am converting all of my cotton to darn tough wool. I've been nothing but thoroughly impressed with their quality. I bought a big pack of Adidas cotton athletic socks last year. Nearly all of them have developed holes in them. I think in the long run it's going to save me money.   
I investigated before buying, but even at the "low" cost of $11.44/pair they will not save money, at least not directly. Similar to what I bought is a 12-pack of Gildan cotton socks from Walmart for $12 per dozen pairs. https://www.walmart.com/ip/Men-s-Performance-Cotton-moveFX-Ankle-Socks-12-Pack/170864844. For the same price as my 15 pairs of Darn Tough I could buy 15 dozen pairs of cheap Gildan socks. Assuming the cheap socks break down at a rate of 8 pairs/year, the cost of my Darn Tough socks would buy enough cheap socks to last 21 years. Throw in investment gains if you strung your purchases of cheap socks over 20 years, and they are certainly less expensive. Even with two warranty replacements there is a good chance the Darn Tough socks won't make to 21 years. The DT brand hasn't even been around 21 years.

I am hoping that the Darn Tough socks are, in my opinion, at least 2-4 times more valuable as socks, where value applies to factors other than lifetime $ of ownership :) Otherwise I'd do better with 15 dozen Gildans. I actually did NPVs before buying :)

You don't need 15 pairs of merino wool socks.
I only have 6 pairs of regular merino and I wear them every day. You can wear good merino over and over before having to wash it, that's part of the point. (I have more pairs, but they're heavy for outdoor wear in winter).

Merino is also temperature regulating. Thin merino socks won't make you overheat.

Almost my entire wardrobe is Ice Breaker merino wool because it's that comfortable and keeps my temperature more constant.
Title: Re: Recommend a good SOCK. Yes, I said Sock!
Post by: MasterStache on April 16, 2019, 06:02:05 AM
https://www.gobros.com/ is selling socks for 20%x15% = 37% off. Don't know for how long.

Noticed as I was idly perusing, thinking I could get some later in the year. I really hope Darn Tough socks are worth it because I ordered 15 pair of matching "tactical 1/4 cushion" at $11.44. At this point most of my socks have holes and most of rest smell terrible within a couple hours . Tired of that.

90 day returns and 100% satisfaction guarantee from Gobros...you're not exactly taking a huge risk here.
Good to know. My biggest fear is they will keep my feet too warm! Second is whether the cost will justify them over the next decade.

I am converting all of my cotton to darn tough wool. I've been nothing but thoroughly impressed with their quality. I bought a big pack of Adidas cotton athletic socks last year. Nearly all of them have developed holes in them. I think in the long run it's going to save me money.   
I investigated before buying, but even at the "low" cost of $11.44/pair they will not save money, at least not directly. Similar to what I bought is a 12-pack of Gildan cotton socks from Walmart for $12 per dozen pairs. https://www.walmart.com/ip/Men-s-Performance-Cotton-moveFX-Ankle-Socks-12-Pack/170864844. For the same price as my 15 pairs of Darn Tough I could buy 15 dozen pairs of cheap Gildan socks. Assuming the cheap socks break down at a rate of 8 pairs/year, the cost of my Darn Tough socks would buy enough cheap socks to last 21 years. Throw in investment gains if you strung your purchases of cheap socks over 20 years, and they are certainly less expensive. Even with two warranty replacements there is a good chance the Darn Tough socks won't make to 21 years. The DT brand hasn't even been around 21 years.

I am hoping that the Darn Tough socks are, in my opinion, at least 2-4 times more valuable as socks, where value applies to factors other than lifetime $ of ownership :) Otherwise I'd do better with 15 dozen Gildans. I actually did NPVs before buying :)

You don't need 15 pairs of merino wool socks.
I only have 6 pairs of regular merino and I wear them every day. You can wear good merino over and over before having to wash it, that's part of the point. (I have more pairs, but they're heavy for outdoor wear in winter).

Merino is also temperature regulating. Thin merino socks won't make you overheat.

Almost my entire wardrobe is Ice Breaker merino wool because it's that comfortable and keeps my temperature more constant.

+1

I have a combination of heavy winter hiking and ultra light wool. I probably have half as many pairs now.
Title: Re: Recommend a good SOCK. Yes, I said Sock!
Post by: nereo on April 16, 2019, 07:55:07 AM
There's also the environmental aspect to consider.  Cotton - particularly bleached, non-organic - has among the highest environmental footprint of any textile.

Buying several dozen pairs of cheap cotton socks instead of a few pairs of quality merino wool is akin to buying a huge stack of styrofoam cups as opposed to a set of four ceramic mugs.
Title: Re: Recommend a good SOCK. Yes, I said Sock!
Post by: Radagast on April 16, 2019, 08:45:59 AM
You don't need 15 pairs of merino wool socks.
I only have 6 pairs of regular merino and I wear them every day. You can wear good merino over and over before having to wash it, that's part of the point. (I have more pairs, but they're heavy for outdoor wear in winter).

Merino is also temperature regulating. Thin merino socks won't make you overheat.

Almost my entire wardrobe is Ice Breaker merino wool because it's that comfortable and keeps my temperature more constant.
Yeah this will not actually be my first pair ever, I experimented with a few pairs 5-10 years ago. I need to wash mine every 2 days of wear or the go bad. I wanted enough to only wash as seldom as 3 weeks, which works out to 11 pairs. Then I threw in 4 as spares for losses or non-warranty damage. Maybe could have 12 or 14 or something.
Title: Re: Recommend a good SOCK. Yes, I said Sock!
Post by: Dancin'Dog on April 16, 2019, 09:49:53 AM
I mentioned it earlier in the thread, but I have had very long life with Carhartt socks.  I originally had 6 pair that lasted about 5-6 years, so I ordered 6 more pair last year for about $18 on Ebay.


I used to wear Thorlos which are great socks, because we could get them at the local Thorlos outlet for less than 1/2 price.  I still wear Thorlos in the Winter, but not so much the rest of the year.


I don't see the same Carhartt socks on Ebay now.  It looks like they've gotten a bit more hi-tech looking & a little more expensive, 6 pair for $32 still seems reasonable. 


https://www.ebay.com/itm/Carhartt-6-Pack-Mens-Work-Crew-Socks-Breathable- (https://www.ebay.com/itm/Carhartt-6-Pack-Mens-Work-Crew-Socks-Breathable-Lightweight-Odor-Resistant/192841587555?hash=item2ce6411b63:g:YegAAOSw1Gtcd0RA)
[size=78%]Lightweight-Odor-Resistant/192841587555?hash=item2ce6411b63:g:YegAAOSw1Gtcd0RA (https://www.ebay.com/itm/Carhartt-6-Pack-Mens-Work-Crew-Socks-Breathable-Lightweight-Odor-Resistant/192841587555?hash=item2ce6411b63:g:YegAAOSw1Gtcd0RA)[/size]


I've had wool socks, but didn't care for them.  My SO really likes them though, so they live in her sock drawer now.  ;)
Title: Re: Recommend a good SOCK. Yes, I said Sock!
Post by: Saving in Austin on April 20, 2019, 04:33:18 PM
I was a gold toe guy for a long time but I find the athletic socks at Costco ($12 for 8 pairs) to be more comfortable. I have been wearing them for months now and they seem to be holding up well.
Title: Re: Recommend a good SOCK. Yes, I said Sock!
Post by: MasterStache on April 21, 2019, 07:41:13 AM
I ordered and received several pairs of Darn Tough with the latest sale. Good timing as my last couple pair of cotton developed holes. Perhaps I am just really rough with socks. I dunno but a year ago I probably had 20 pair of cotton socks. From now on it's Darn Tough.