I’m always on the lookout for quality socks, because I take my daily step count goals pretty seriously. So, I got excited when I heard about Darn Tough Socks. Made in Vermont, the socks the company offers are knitted from merino wool and promise, as you might expect, to be “darn tough.” After purchasing a pair of the Style 1959 hiking socks, I can say that these socks rock, and are worth the high price tag. I found them to be comfortable, breathable, and designed in such a way that they did not feel out of place in hiking boots or sneakers. Plus, they’re covered by one of the most generous lifetime warranties I’ve seen. Darn Tough believes in these socks, and so do I.
Pros
- Durable.
- Comfortable fit.
- Breathable.
- Excellent lifetime warranty.
Cons
- Expensive.
Specifications
- Material: 59% Merino Wool, 38% Nylon, 3% Lycra Spandex.
- Height: 0.25 inches.
- Available colors: Onyx black, dark teal, chestnut, taupe.
- Country of origin: Vermont, USA.
- Price: $22.95.
Darn Tough (Style 1959) Men's Hiker Quarter Midweight with Cushion Hiking Sock
What I Like About Darn Tough Style 1959 Hiking Socks
They Fit Nicely
The cheapest feet pics I have ever taken, but joking aside, these socks fit well.
I ordered the Style 1959 in medium and wore them for several weeks. I felt like they fit my size 10.5 feet well. On average, I walked a little over three to five miles in them per day. The lack of toe seam meant that, at the end of my sauntering, I never thought they pinched or cut into my feet. The cushion on the sole also really helped make the socks come across as luxurious.
I also found the cuff — the opening of the sock — to be well knitted. It never threatened to fall down, nor did it strangle my calf. The height of these socks means they work with boots and sneakers in equal measure.
They Breathe Well and Are Insulated
On a very warm day, the Style 1959 breathed well and wicked away moisture, leaving my feet feeling comfortable.
Darn Tough knitted the socks out of 59% merino wool, which is famous for both its ability to insulate and wick away sweat. I wore the Style 1959 during a three-mile walk on a 76°F day, and my feet remained dry at the end of the day. I live in New England, so even on warm Spring days, the mornings start at around 45°F, and these socks kept my feet toasty.
They’re Super Durable
Through multiple washes, hikes, and even an encounter with a screwdriver, these Darn Tough socks lived up to the name. You pick them up and you instantly get the feeling that they’re heavy-duty. (Just to check, each sock weighs about 33.5 grams, compared to 21 grams of my regular Fruit of the Loom socks of similar dimensions, so Darn Tough socks are literally heavier.)
What I Don’t Like About Darn Tough Style 1959 Hiking Socks
They’re Expensive
I purchased this pair of socks for about 23 dollars. A majority of people would consider shelling out more than ten dollars for a sock insane. I totally understand that. What you’re buying are socks you’ll wear for years to come. Not everyone wants that: Some people don’t even wear socks, and I respect that.
Darn Tough (Style 1959) Men's Hiker Quarter Midweight with Cushion Hiking Sock
Who I Think Would Benefit From Darn Tough Socks
Anyone who wants nice stuff that lasts will be into getting Darn Tough Socks. In my expert opinion, they’d make a great gift: The pair that I’ve been wearing feels luxurious and comfortable. Darn Tough knitted them out of mostly merino wool, so they’re breathable and insulate well against both hot and cold. Above all, these socks are durable and unlikely to tear or get holes in them. And, even if they do, they’re backed by a lifetime guarantee, a rare sight these days.
