Walking Equipment and Accessories

Darn Tough Hiker Micro Crew Socks | Review

US sock brand Darn Tough believes they make the toughest and most comfortable hiking socks out there. And they back that up with an unconditional lifetime warranty

When you’re walking a long way over tough terrain, you want a sock that offers three essential things: durability, a great fit and comfort. And in the longer-term, those ‘four for a tenner’ sports socks from down the market probably aren’t going to cut it. But if you’re going to fork out on a premium hiking sock, you want one that’s going to last the distance – literally. So, why not turn to the company that has been the sock of choice for countless US long-distance hikers? Plus, Darn Tough are so confident in the performance and quality of their products that every pair comes with a lifetime guarantee.

Who Are The Darn Tough Hiker Socks For?

As the name suggests, they’re for hikers and go well with walking shoes and light hiking boots. The quarter height makes these a good fit for trail shoes as well.

The company has just launched a brand new dedicated website where not only will you find the full range from Vermont but you can also purchase new couples-specific sock packages, with two pairs of socks each in the size of your choice.

OM editor Will using the Darn Tough Hiker Micro Crew on a hike in the Scottish Highlands. Photos: Dave Macfarlane

Materials

A quality hiking sock should almost always have a high proportion of Merino wool in the fabric blend. After all, Merino is nature’s very own miracle-fibre – it’s soft, moisture-wicking, temperature-regulating and naturally anti-microbial.

Why not just make socks from 100% Merino then? Well, you could – and indeed, some sock manufacturers do. The problem is that since the material is so soft, it’s not always very durable. And wool is also not known for great shape retention, particularly after regular washing (which, let’s face it, is a must when it comes to walking socks).

That’s why most quality socks use a blend of Merino wool with a synthetic fibre like nylon, which adds strength and durability, while also being relatively fast wicking. And lastly, there’s also normally some Lycra (also called elastane, or Spandex) in the mix, which ensures a foot-hugging fit rather than socks that droop around your ankles.

Case in point: Darn Tough’s Midweight Hikers are comprised of 61% Merino wool, 36% Nylon and 3% Lycra. We’d say that’s just about the perfect blend of natural and synthetic fibres for a high performance, long-lasting walking sock.

Features

All Darn Tough’s socks are based on their ‘Performance Fit’, which has been developed over the years to ensure no slipping, no bunching and no blisters. In practice, that means you get a reinforced heel and toe with no prominent or bulky seams, plus a ribbed cuff that is not too tight, not too loose.

The brand also uses a blend of different knitting techniques to provide cushioning, durability and moisture-wicking performance. These crew-length hikers feature terry loops under the foot, which also extends above the ankle for comfort and protection. Fine Gauge Knitting ensures softness, but also makes it less likely for snags or pulls to develop, which is a plus for lifetime durability too.

Aside from the socks themselves, another stand-out feature of all Darn Tough products is that they come with an unconditional lifetime guarantee. If you have an issue with your socks, you can send them back and exchange them for a brand-new pair, no questions asked. And even though Darn Tough is an American brand, the warranty applies internationally, not just in the USA.

Conclusion

Comfortable, long-lasting and great fitting, these are undeniably superb socks. And thanks to Darn Tough’s impressive unconditional lifetime guarantee, there’s no risk, only reward: if you have a problem, you can simply swap them out for a new pair. What’s not to like?