About Darn Tough
Darn Tough is a family owned and operated company that sells durable, weather-performing socks. Three generations and counting, Darn Tough’s founders are experts on all things sock related. Their promise is simple: to provide their customers with socks to last a lifetime. This Darn Tough socks review takes an in-depth look at the brand and its products to help customers make an informed purchase decision.
Overview of Darn Tough
Founded in 2004 by the Cabot family, Darn Tough has spent the past 16 years creating weather-performing socks in Northfield, Vermont. With Vermont’s rainy, snowy, and all around changeable climate, the Cabots are no stranger to the elements socks have to endure. Maybe that’s why they seem to do such a great job creating them.
With a family of avid skiers, snowboarders, hikers, bikers, and runners (whew, I’m tired just thinking that), the Cabots are not afraid to put their product to the real test. Darn Tough socks are worn outside in Vermont’s cold temperatures, designed and manufactured with that in mind. The journey these socks go on guarantees they’re ready for their final destination: you.
Our Darn Tough socks review revealed that the brand only uses merino wool that has been sustainably and ethically sourced. On top of that, they work with the Responsible Wool Standard to protect animal welfare by using sustainable farming practices. Not only is merino wool comfortable, but it also makes for the warmest Darn Tough socks possible.
Although Darn Tough began in 2004, the Cabot family has been in the sock business for over 40 years. Their socks are created in their family-owned mill in Vermont. Why don’t they outsource their business to make it cheaper? It’s simple, really. Darn Tough prides themselves on creating the highest quality socks and to do so, they need to oversee their day-to-day operations.
In this Darn Tough socks review, you’ll find all you need to know (and probably more) about this family-owned company. We’ve condensed all that information down into a few easy points, just in case.
Pros
- Lifetime warranty
- Sustainably sourced materials
- Family owned and operated
- USA made
- Wide variety of colors, styles, lengths
- Free returns and exchanges
- Amazing reviews
- Available online and in stores
Cons
- Higher than average sock prices
If you want to learn more about Darn Tough socks, like how to wash them and where to buy them, keep on reading this Darn Tough socks review.
Socks Designed For Activity
Darn Tough offers customers the ability to browse their sock catalogue based on activity. Whether you’re looking for socks to wear hiking, biking or running, you can find the best darn tough socks for you. For all the categories and socks offered, keep reading this Darn Tough socks review.
Hike/Trek
If you’re lacing up to go on a long hike, you definitely need a pair of socks that you can count on. Darn Tough hiking socks might just be that. Their cushioned sole and performance fit are some of the key features that allow these socks to endure a rigorous trail.
Run
If you’re a runner, then you know how important light-weight socks are. You don’t want to feel weighed down while you’re getting in those 10,000 steps, do you? Darn Tough running socks weigh only 13 grams and are still durable as ever.
Bike
Chances are that while cycling, your socks will be covered by tights or shoe covers. You don’t need anything flashy, which is why Darn Tough keeps it simple. With their ultra-light and moisture-wicking material, these socks will keep you pedalling all day.
Athletic
Darn Tough athletic socks are designed with two things in mind: performance and protection. With a sculpted heel, arch support, and featuring highly breathable mesh paneling, these athletic socks are ready to help you achieve your goal.
Snow
In this case, the name says it all: Darn Tough snow socks will keep your feet warm on even the coldest days. But don’t worry about them being too warm. Their merino wool fabric is breathable and odour repellent. Grab a pair and hit the ski slopes if you want to see for yourself.
Lifestyle
Darn Tough lifestyle socks are ready for your daily routine. Wear them in the car, to the office, then all the way back home. Need to make a pit stop? No problem. These lifestyle socks promise to give you non-stop comfort, all day long.
Hunting
At Darn Tough, they know that weather can be unpredictable. A sunny day can end in rain, and their hunting socks are designed to take you from one condition to the other, easily. High density and ribbed knitting makes these socks the perfect partner for those days spent in the woods.
Work
The people at Darn Tough are no stranger to hard work. And neither are these socks. They’re designed to withstand even the toughest working conditions. Cushioned for ultra comfort, they hold up even under steel-toe boots. Long work day ahead? Meet your new coworkers.
Darn Tough Socks Womens Review
Hiker Micro Crew Cushion Sock
The Hiker Micro Crew Cushion Sock is one of Darn Tough’s bestselling hiker socks for women. With a comfortable fit and durable design, these socks are a buyer favorite. Mid-level cushioning keeps your feet happy on those tougher terrains.
Thick merino wool ensures your feet remain blister free, while keeping them cool, dry, and free of any stinky smells. These socks come in a range of colors. With bright blues and pinks, no one said hiking couldn’t be stylish and exhilarating. The Hiker Micro Crew Cushion Sock sells for $23.
Hunter Over-the-Calf Extra Cushion Sock
The Hunter Over-the-Calf Extra Cushion Sock is, shockingly enough, for hunters. The high length ensures your legs are just as warm as your feet for those extra cold days. Going hunting in the summer? Don’t sweat it. Your feet will stay dry with this breathable, fast-wicking merino wool fabric. Cushioned and antimicrobial, your feet have to thank you for these.
Coming in two colors, charcoal and forest, we can’t be the only ones surprised these aren’t available in camouflage, right? These women’s hiking socks sell for $30.
Garden Crew Light Sock
Not only are these Garden Crew Light Socks cute to look at, but this Darn Tough lifestyle sock is designed to keep you going from day to night. Stylish, comfortable, and completely seamless, these socks appear to be a great fit for those days you want to lounge at home or run a million errands.
The floral design on these Garden Crew socks are both whimsical and fun, coming in a range of colors to fit your everyday wardrobe. Go bold with the plum color pictured above, or more subtle with a medium gray. Wear them as you rediscover your garden in the spring, with a dress, or another casual outfit. These Garden Crew socks are priced at $21.
Darn Tough Socks Mens Review
Hiker Micro Crew Cushion Sock
Darn Tough’s Hiker Micro Crew Cushion Sock is their best selling men’s hiker sock. With their mid-high length, you don’t have to worry about those heavy-duty boots cutting into your legs anymore. Their cushioned sole keeps your feet comfortable during those long days hitting the trails. Antimicrobial and moisture wicking fabric means your feet are dry and odourless in all weather conditions.
Available in seven neutral colors, these socks sell for $23. If you’re a hiker, you may just have to put these “world’s best hiking socks” to the test. This quote doesn’t come from our Darn Tough socks review, it came straight from the founders!
The Standard Crew Light Cushion Sock
From Darn Tough’s lifestyle collection, the Standard Crew Light Cushion Sock is known for its versatility. A light-cushioned sole means maximum comfort for feet, no matter what the day has in store for you.
With a seamless design and fine gauge knitting, throw these on with your favorite loafers or trendy sneakers because they promise to be comfortable all day long. The rest is up to you. The Standard Crew Light Cushion Sock is available in black, charcoal, medium gray and navy for $22.
Vertex No Show Tab Ultra-Light Cushion Sock
The Vertex No Show Tab Ultra-Light Cushion Sock is one of Darn Tough’s many running socks. Runners know that light-weight fabrics are key, and this ultra-light cushion promises to keep you comfortable and running faster than ever.
The no-show cut means they’re invisible beneath your shoes, and moisture-wicking merino wool keeps your feet both cool and warm, whatever the weather demands. Available in four different colors, these no show socks sell for $17. Time to lace on up and give ‘em a try.
Darn Tough Socks Vermont Review
The Darn Tough Vermont collection is an ode to the casual style the people of Vermont wear all day, every day. This collection pays tribute to Vermont’s cold weather and the socks that help them get through it. The Vermont Casual collection features five pairs of women’s lifestyle socks.
Good Witch Crew Light Socks
Named after a witch’s signature striped stockings, Darn Tough’s Good Witch Crew Light lifestyle socks are equal parts cool and comfortable. Don’t let this amusing design fool you, though. Like all of Darn Tough’s socks, these are weather performing, lightweight and have a snug, comfortable fit.
Made from merino wool, these socks are sure to keep your feet warm and dry. Wherever, whenever. The Good Witch Crew Light Sock comes in five fun colors that are sure to add a little flare to your outfit, priced at $21.
Pebbles Crew Light Cushion Socks
Darn Tough women’s Pebbles Crew Light Cushion lifestyle socks feature a whimsical pebble design that takes you right back to the beach. These socks have a thin layer of cushioning on the soles, making them ideal for everyday, casual wear.
The crew length hugs your calf and fits snug enough that you don’t have to worry about your socks falling down to your ankles during the day. Playful and patterned, this design is great for anyone trying to upgrade their sock drawer. The Pebbles Crew Light Socks are available in eclipse, taupe and black for $22.
Are Darn Tough Socks Worth It?
While writing this Darn Tough socks review, I have to admit that I was kind of blown away. And by “kind of” I mean this company knocked my socks off, pun definitely intended. I was amazed by the amount of care that goes into the creation of these socks. From reading through their website, you truly get a good feel for how much this company cares about their socks and customers.
To be fair, I’ve spent the majority of my life wearing cotton socks from Walmart and I’ve never had a single problem. But, if you’re someone that lives a more active lifestyle and finds yourself regularly hiking, running, or any other activity that puts your feet through a lot, then I definitely think Darn Tough socks are for you.
To get at the heart of this Darn Tough socks review, my favorite feature is their colourful patterns and designs. You wouldn’t necessarily think that heavy-duty socks could come in bold, eye-catching colors, yet Darn Tough delivers on that. Their socks are both weather performing and original, which is a win-win for me.
Darn Tough Socks Review: What Do Customers Have to Say?
When it comes to Darn Tough socks, customers have a lot of compliments to give. And by a lot, I mean hundreds upon hundreds of five-star reviews. Verified buyers cannot seem to get enough of these high performance socks.
Their men’s Hiker Micro Crew Cushion socks have nearly 800 reviews with an average of 5/5 stars. Pretty impressive, right? One verified buyer puts it this way in his Darn Tough socks review: “Most comfortable and durable socks I’ve ever owned.”
The women’s Hunter Over-the-Calf Extra Cushion socks are one of their best sellers. With over 200 five-star reviews, one verified buyer writes: “Best socks ever! I was on a Hotshot firefighting crew and wore these socks everyday for 6 months. They lasted me the entire season -which was one of Utah’s busiest fire seasons in recent memory…”
Darn Tough makes the promise that their socks are the world’s greatest and the best you’ll ever own. After reading these reviews, it appears they actually might not be exaggerating.
Darn Tough Promotions & Discounts
When you join the Darn Tough email list, they’ll choose one winner a month to get seven pairs of socks for free. This promotion ends in the month of July after six winners have been chosen.
Darn Tough socks military and first responders discount gives customers 20% off their purchase.
Looking for coupons and clearance in this Darn Tough socks review?
- Darn Tough socks coupon: Currently, Darn Tough does not offer any coupon codes. This is probably because they already provide free shipping for most orders.
- Darn Tough socks clearance: Darn Tough socks don’t appear to go on clearance or have any sales. This is most likely because of their lifetime warranty.
Where to Buy Darn Tough Socks
It seems that Darn Tough socks can be purchased anywhere. Along with their online store, Darn Tough socks can be found on these major online retailers:
- Darn Tough Socks Amazon: Darn Tough socks are sold on Amazon but you need to be careful, there are knock offs being sold, too. The authorized sellers are: Dearborn Supply, Gear Coop, Outdoor Gear Exchange (GearX), Go Bros, Lone Cone, Pike To Peak, Shoe Annex, Sole Provisions, Outdoor Equipped, Zappos, and Marathon Sports.
- REI Darn Tough Socks: Recreational Equipment Inc. (REI) sells Darn Tough socks on their online store and their retail stores in the United States.
If you prefer to do your shopping in person, no problem. Darn Tough socks are sold at many stores in both the USA and Canada. They can be purchased at Walmart, Sporting Life, REI, Dick’s Sporting Goods, and virtually any store that sells footwear and athletic gear.
To find a store near you that isn’t listed in this Darn Tough socks review, their website has a store locator where you can enter your address to find locations nearby.
FAQ
How to Wash Darn Tough Socks
Merino wool is known for being a little bit annoying to wash. Luckily for you, Darn Tough socks washing routine is fairly simple, since they are made from a blend of merino wool and other fabrics. Simply follow these steps listed in this Darn Tough socks review:
- Turn your socks inside out
- Machine wash in warm water on the gentle cycle
- Tumblr dry on low heat
Your Darn Tough socks care routine is as easy as that. But, there are two important things to remember: never dry clean your socks and never use bleach.
Darn Tough Socks Sizing
Darn Tough women’s socks are available in sizes small, medium and large. Their men’s socks are available in small, medium, large, extra large and extra-extra large.
Darn Tough provides a sizing chart to help customers find their perfect fit. For your convenience, we’ve included it in this Darn Tough socks review:
Darn Tough Shipping Policy
Darn Tough’s online store only ships to US addresses. Orders ship within one business day or, if placed before 2pm EST on a weekday, the order ships the same day.
For customers that order two or more pairs of socks, shipping is free. For orders of only one pair of socks, shipping costs $6. If you want your order to arrive as fast as possible, Darn Tough offers expedited shipping for an extra cost.
Although Darn Tough does not ship internationally, their socks are sold at retailers that do. If you live outside the USA and want to order a pair, check out these retailers:
- Rei.com
- Lifetimesock.com
- Backcountry.com
- Vermontcountrystore.com
Darn Tough Return Policy
Darn Tough socks return policy offers free 90 day returns or exchanges for all pairs of socks purchased from their online store. If you ordered the wrong size or want a different color, you can ship them back for free and have a new pair sent to your door, also for free.
Darn Tough Socks Warranty
The Darn Tough socks guarantee is that they’ll last you a lifetime. But, on the off chance they don’t, there’s no need to worry. Darn Tough socks lifetime warranty ensures that you can return your socks for a brand new pair, whenever.
Contact Darn Tough
For any other information not found in this Darn Tough socks review, feel free to contact their customer service team. They can be reached by email, through their online website, or by phone. Their customer service team is available from Monday-Friday, between 9am-5pm EST.
- Phone: (877) 327-6883
- Email: support@darntough.com
You’ve got loads of options when it comes to socks. Check out our in-depth reviews for other top brands:
