Return policy comparison · 2026
Bernardo 1946 vs Darn Tough
Policy data verified July 21, 2026 (Bernardo 1946) and July 24, 2026 (Darn Tough)
Bernardo 1946
C+
2.4 / 5.0 · Fair
Winner
Darn Tough
A
4.5 / 5.0 · Excellent
The verdict
Darn Tough has the more generous return policy in 2026, grading A (4.5/5.0) against Bernardo 1946's C+ (2.4/5.0). It wins 3 of 5 scoring axes; the biggest gap is the restocking fee: no restocking fee versus restocking fee charged.
Score breakdown
Five axes, 5.0 points total — the same deterministic grader behind every Thrifle policy page.
Bernardo 1946Darn Tough
Return window · worth 2.0
Restocking fee · worth 1.0
Return shipping · worth 1.0
Holiday window · worth 0.5
Transparency · worth 0.5
Key terms side-by-side
| Bernardo 1946 | Darn Tough | |
|---|---|---|
| Return window | 30 days (unworn, original box) | ✓ 90 days (regardless of wear; 120 days for holiday gifts) |
| Free returns | Yes (full-price items) | Yes |
| Restocking fee | $9.95 deducted from refund for promo code, sale, or final sale item returns | ✓ None |
| Return shipping | Free (regular returns); $9.95 deducted for promo/sale/final sale item returns | Free return shipping on all returns and exchanges |
| Holiday extension | — | ✓ Gifted socks purchased during holiday periods get 120 days instead of the standard 90 |
| Non-returnable | Sample sale items, final sale items (store credit only), items from department stores or independent retailers (must return to original retailer) | None published |
| Watch-out items | — | — |
Bernardo 1946 tip
Sale items can still be exchanged for free even though returning them for a refund costs $9.95 - opt for exchange instead of refund on markdowns to dodge the fee.
Darn Tough tip
Even socks that are years old and worn through get covered - after the 90-day return window, Darn Tough's Unconditional Lifetime Guarantee kicks in for socks bought anywhere, not just their own site.
Frequently asked questions
Who has the better return policy, Bernardo 1946 or Darn Tough?
Darn Tough has the more generous return policy in 2026, grading A (4.5/5.0) against Bernardo 1946's C+ (2.4/5.0). It wins 3 of 5 scoring axes; the biggest gap is the restocking fee: no restocking fee versus restocking fee charged.
What is Bernardo 1946's return window?
Bernardo 1946's return window is 30 days (unworn, original box).
What is Darn Tough's return window?
Darn Tough's return window is 90 days (regardless of wear; 120 days for holiday gifts).
Does Bernardo 1946 or Darn Tough offer free returns?
Bernardo 1946: Yes (full-price items). Darn Tough: Yes.