Darn Tough Hiker Micro Crew Socks

9.6

9.6 score

(Gearweare.net) score (9.6)/10

Our Gearweare.net score is based on 3 different factors: Editor's rating after in-depth testing. User ratings submitted on this page Overall score from the "reviewmeter" based on reviews across the web the weight of each factor is: 40% editor rating 15% user ratings 45% reviewmeter.

Editor rating: 10.0 / 10

User's rating: based on 0 user ratings

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By Brian

Darn Tough Hiker Micro Crew Socks Review Facts

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Darn Tough socks are made tough to last, and at a slightly higher price, the value is clear. They are specially designed to be comfortable, breathable, and durable. Regardless of your style choice, these socks are going to outperform competitors most every time. Waterproofing is not an option, but a quick drying capability makes up for it. There is availability in most any style and a bunch of color and pattern options. No matter the weather, your feet will be warm but not clammy. Stringent inspection procedures ensure that each pair is of high quality and free of imperfections. A lifetime guarantee that is genuinely for a lifetime sets this brand apart the rest. Let's dive into more the Darn Tough's hiker socks' features.

Editor's Pros & Cons

Pros

Lifetime guarantee
Unmatched comfort
Perfect for most any climate
Long lasting
Quick drying

Cons

Initial investment is pricey
Limited color variety

See How

What are buyers saying?

We have spent 3 hours analyzing a total of 2435 reviews.

These reviews are then categoried into "Positive" and "Negative" feedback.

Below you will read a summary of them:

Positive

The high quality of material and craftsmanship is apparent.
Reviewers say these socks are worth the price.
They won't cause your feet to overheat.
They have a nice amount of elasticity and cushion.
There are a variety of colors available.
Buyers like these for time on the trails.
They won't bunch up under your feet.
Reviewers say they wear well and can last for years.
They live up to their name and can handle a lot of heavy activity.
They are warm and protective.
They keep your feet dry, and if they get wet, they'll dry quickly.
There are no complaints of getting blisters while wearing these socks.
They are made in the U.S. and come with a lifetime guarantee.
There are positive reviews from a range of ages.
Compared to other socks, most reviewers agree that these are the best they have tried.
The material resists any build up of unpleasant smells.
Over time and use, the quality doesn't deteriorate.

Negative

For a few reviewers, the top cuff it too tight.
These reach above the ankle, but are too short for what some buyers prefer.
They are more expensive than average socks.
These socks require proper care and washing to prevent shrinking.
There is no plain white option available.
These are best for cool weather. Some reviewers say that they can be too hot for warm weather hiking.
There are mixed reviews about the sizes.
Although they are warm and protective, they are not as thick as some other wool socks.
There are several complaints that they can slide down over the ankle.

Reviewmeter

Of the 2435 reviews we found in total, 7% were negative, and 93% were positive.

9.3

Comfort

From everyday comfort to hiking the Appalachian trail, these socks have you covered. They are made using Merino wool and a 168 needle sewing machine to create unmatched comfort with a seamless design. The wool has special properties which allow it to dry quickly, keeping your feet cool and dry. Lycra and nylon are used to provide the sock with even more durability and comfort. The fit is a little tighter than most, but it tends to provide more comfort that way. If it does not feel like you are walking on clouds, your socks may not be Darn Tough.

Price

Depending on the style, the price can vary for one pair of socks. While the price point may seem high, the value you receive makes it well worth the purchase! Your socks should last a lifetime and never need to be replaced. However, if they do need to be replaced, Darn Tough will send a new pair for the cost of shipping. In the end, you could pay the same price for a pack of socks that will only last a year or never have to buy socks again!

Brand

Darn Tough has been making quality socks for about 40 years. It is a family owned business in its third generation of ownership. Unlike so many other companies, all socks are produced in a single factory in Vermont. Each product is inspected immediately after being sewn and then stretched mechanically. They are then placed over a mannequin foot to ensure proper size and to again check for imperfections. An inspection occurs one last time during packaging. Taking a multi-tiered approach to quality control sets this company apart and ensures high-quality products.

Breathability

These socks are perfect if you struggle with smelly feet! Merino wool breathes so well that they can be worn for multiple days in a row and not stink. This is because of a noticeable difference in how sweaty or clammy your foot gets. Many people associate breathability with an inability to keep you warm. With 1441 stitches per square inch, having cold feet will be the least of your worries. Users have reported running for hours in wet snow but not feeling the cold in their toes.

Color

There are mixed reviews on the color offerings for Darn Tough socks. Men’s colors tend to be more earthy, focusing on brown, orange, black, and tan. Women’s colors tend to be flashy and unique. One of the very few complaints about this product stem from men who want more vibrant color selection and women who are searching for the earthy color tones. The official website does offer a few products to meet each person’s need, but the selection is minimal.

Durability

The needles on the sewing machines used to produce these socks are the reason that they are so durable. The stitching has such a high density that it is exceptionally difficult to tear. There are reports of socks lasting even after being used for 700 miles. If you do somehow manage to beat them down to a useless state, there is always the lifetime guarantee to start the cycle again.

Another great product we reviewed is the Darn Tough Vermont Merino Wool Crew Cushion Sock, so make sure to check it out as well.

Weight

You won’t find these socks winning any ultralight contests, but when you only need to pack one pair for a multi-day hiking trip Darn Tough wins out every time. Ultralight socks aren’t going to keep your feet warm while hiking in the cold and snow like these will. Compared to other wool socks, these are a lighter and less bulky option. For non-athletic sock styles, the weight difference is not even noticeable compared to other brands.

Size

Overall, if you follow the official sizing chart most people report that the fit is perfect! The seamless design helps to accommodate those who have wide feet. Men’s sizes range from XS to XXL while women’s only range from S to L, but the socks are not really gender specific. Socks are packaged pre-shrunk, so as long as you follow care instructions they should not shrink. The fit is tighter, so if you are on the edge between sizes, it is usually best to go up rather than down.

Bottom Line

You’ll never need to buy socks again. What better reason do you need? This high quality, USA made, guaranteed for life product will not disappoint. While it is a bit pricey, it’s a one-time investment to last the rest of your life. These are perfect for those hiking trips when you have to unexpectedly fjord a stream, just hang them to dry for a little while and put them right back on. Whether you are going on an extended hike or just out shopping, these socks will keep your feet warm, dry, and comfortable no matter the weather.