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CNN
30-04-2025
- Lifestyle
- CNN
Darn Tough's Micro Crew hiking socks are designed to last a lifetime — literally
Buying premium wool socks isn't exactly the best-kept secret. Many brands offer some version of a wool sock that promises superior comfort, a cozy and snug fit, and reliable durability. But only one truly checks all three of those boxes: Darn Tough. As a small family brand from Northfield, Vermont, Darn Tough isn't the same kind of ubiquitous household name as Patagonia, Bombas or even Smartwool. But to me, Darn Tough's Micro Crew wool socks are far better than anything those three brands sell. It's not just that they're more comfortable (which they are) or that they fit better (which they do). It's that they're also 'unconditionally guaranteed for life.' If a pair of Darn Tough socks meets its fate for any number of reasons (i.e., it becomes a dog toy, snags and rips on a branch, tears while you put it on and so on), Darn Tough will replace them, no questions asked. That's value mixed with performance, the likes of which you just don't get anywhere else. I get it, to wax poetic about a pair of socks seems silly. But trust me: Darn Tough is the real deal. Here's why. Darn Tough Hiker Micro Crew Midweight Hiking Socks Darn Tough's Hiker Micro Crew hiking socks are the perfect blend of durability, versatility, support and comfort. Plus, the brand's lifetime guarantee backs any damage to the socks for the life of the product (and you). They're incredibly comfortable It should come as no surprise that the socks I'm recommending as a CNN Underscored All-Star product are comfortable. But it's worth exploring exactly why Darn Tough's Hiker Micro Crews are so pleasant to wear. For starters, their cushioning ratios are the perfect blend of being supportive yet not too bulky. They snugly hug my feet while providing padding in the right places to avoid hot spots or blisters. At the same time, I never have trouble fitting my feet into whatever footwear I choose to put on, including my low-top Vans sneakers, some Birkenstock clogs and even a pair of leather Danner boots. I feel the same high level of comfort no matter what I step into. They also require little to no readjusting throughout the day. No bunching, no sliding around on my feet, nothing. I may have to pull them up occasionally, but those instances are far fewer than what I'm used to with any other pair of socks in my sock drawer. And don't let the fact that they're made of wool steer you away. While wool tends to get a bad rap for being scratchy, these socks are anything but. They're soft to the touch (both in hand and on foot) and utilize a blend of merino wool, stretchy spandex and nylon that allows them to go on easily and conform to my feet. This unique blend makes the socks highly durable too. They're versatile The supreme comfort native to Darn Tough's Micro Crew socks also makes them quite versatile. Despite having the word 'hiker' in the name, I don't only use them for that. They're just as much my go-to for commuting and casually wearing around my apartment as they are when I hit the trail. Because Darn Tough's hiking socks are made of merino wool, they work well in any season too. They effectively regulate temperature, so I find them as comfortable and cool in warmer weather as I do cozy and warm when temperatures drop. I may not wear my thicker pairs in July or August, but if I had to, merino is sweat-wicking enough that my feet wouldn't produce uncomfortable pools of sweat. Darn Tough's lifetime warranty is legit The tangible highlights of Darn Tough's Hiker Micro Crew socks are easy to convey, but the brand's lifetime warranty truly puts it at the top of its class. For any pair of socks that starts to thin in the heel, show signs of wear and tear, or simply doesn't live up to the brand's lofty standards, you can send them in to be replaced, no questions asked. Seriously. I've had a few pairs that started showing signs of thinning where my hiking boots meet the backs of my feet, and it was a breeze to send them in to be replaced. All I had to do was fill out an online form via the Darn Tough website, send in my old socks (after I washed them) and the brand sent me a code I could use to get a new pair. I didn't even need to supply a receipt of when or where I bought them. It's the kind of 'buy it for life' product anyone can appreciate. They don't stink Put plainly, cotton socks stink. As anyone who's worn them for a full day can attest, cotton socks are capable of producing an incredibly foul smell when you finally take them off. This is almost nonexistent with a pair of Darn Tough socks, even after multiple days of wearing them. Now, I wouldn't recommend not washing your socks, but if you need to throw on yesterday's pair of Darn Toughs in a pinch, you can proceed with your day knowing they won't stir up any toxic odors by day's end. Having done this several times, I can confirm this to be true. The same goes for CNN Underscored associate testing writer Joe Bloss, who intentionally went several days between washes to assess this claim when testing for the best wool socks. They won't have that fresh-out-of-the-dryer smell, but they won't give off a scent that'll bother anyone within smelling range either. As mentioned, premium wool socks aren't unique to Darn Tough, and there are several competitors in the brand's vicinity. The biggest of which are likely Smartwool and Bombas. However, both these brands have their limitations when it comes to selling versatile wool socks. For Smartwool, it doesn't offer the same ironclad lifetime guarantee as Darn Tough, and a few of its styles don't feature the same snug fit. The brand does make great socks and arguably offers better color options and prints, but you have to nitpick when comparing premium to premium. Darn Tough edges out Smartwool (however slightly) in nearly every category. To Bombas' credit, it's mostly a running sock brand — and a great one at that. But that doesn't mean its wool socks are intended purely for runners (similar to how some of Darn Tough's socks aren't only for hikers). Where Bombas excels is comfort. Take its merino-cashmere-blend socks, for instance. They don't have the same snug compression Darn Tough offers, but the cozy feel of cashmere and merino can't be understated. I wear both of these brands too. And it's not just because I'm CNN Underscored's senior testing editor. Sure, I prefer Darn Tough to either, but I still enjoy the socks I have from both Smartwool and Bombas. It's just that when it comes down to it, if I had to buy one pair of socks, it would be from Darn Tough. The versatility of Darn Tough's Hiker Micro Crew hiking socks makes them a great purchase for many people (there's also a quarter-height version if you prefer your socks to be taller). Those spending time outdoors can appreciate these socks' durability and support for hiking or backpacking trips, while the frequent city commuter will like their all-day comfort and clear upgrade over standard socks. They're also something you can quite literally buy for life. With Darn Tough's lifetime guarantee, once you purchase that first pair, you'll have one forever. No other sock brand's quality guarantee comes close to this, and it's what makes Darn Tough a true All-Star product. Does the lifetime warranty truly guarantee Darn Tough socks for life? Does the lifetime warranty truly guarantee Darn Tough socks for life? Yes, Darn Tough's lifetime warranty is exactly that: a warranty that 'unconditionally' guarantees the quality of the socks for life. The brand will take any pair of tattered socks and provide a code to purchase a new pair, free of charge, on Darn Tough's site. Do Darn Tough socks shrink? Do Darn Tough socks shrink? No, Darn Tough socks shouldn't shrink, as long as you follow the recommended instructions for properly washing and drying them. What kind of wool are Darn Tough socks made of? What kind of wool are Darn Tough socks made of? Most Darn Tough socks are made of merino wool, or a blend of merino, nylon, spandex or polyester. Do Darn Tough socks ever go on sale? Do Darn Tough socks ever go on sale? Yes, sometimes Darn Tough socks are discounted during sales events such as Black Friday and Cyber Monday, as well as Amazon Prime Day. You may even find them on sale during CNN Underscored's Deals Fest. How do you wash Darn Tough socks? How do you wash Darn Tough socks? Darn Tough recommends machine washing socks inside-out in cold water before hanging them to dry or tumble drying them on low. But never use bleach with them. CNN Underscored editors thoroughly test all the products we review and provide full transparency about how we test them. We have a team of skilled writers and editors with many years of testing experience who ensure each article is carefully edited and products are properly vetted and tested. For this CNN Underscored All-Stars article, senior testing editor Rick Stella leaned on years of familiarity with Darn Tough's Hiker Micro Crew socks to deservedly sing their praises. He also tested several new Darn Tough releases to confirm the brand's socks were still as excellent as he remembered and that the lifetime guarantee was still as dependable.
Buzz Feed
06-02-2025
- Lifestyle
- Buzz Feed
Perpetually Cold People Reveal Their Favorite Warm Socks
Now that temperatures are dropping in earnest, those of us who are perpetually cold are starting to suffer. Despite my best efforts, I can't ever manage to keep my extremities warm, leading to crankiness, panic and overall despair. No amount of faux fur blankets and cozy sweaters ever seems to be enough, but the right pair of socks can make a big difference in my comfort levels. This humble item of clothing does some serious heavy lifting during the frigid months, and finding the right pair can make or break my comfort level. And who better to speak on such a topic than people who are always cold? Below, I've rounded up the best warm sock suggestions from individuals with expertise in frosty limbs. Take a look for yourself and pick up a pair or two to keep your tootsies toasty all winter long. 1. Naadam The Essential cashmere socks Once you go cashmere, there's no going back. While these are admittedly a splurge, there's nothing quite like slipping on cloud-like ultra-soft cashmere socks on a cold, dreary day. I love to wear mine while lounging around the house or when I want to add a bit of subtle texture to my outfits. And when I'm not wearing compression socks on long-haul flights, they're my go-to for travel days. You can get these in navy. 2. Amazon Our senior editor, Jillian Capewell, loves Darn Tough hiker socks. They're made with shrink-treated merino wool that helps to make them long-lasting and durable while also making sure they're as comfortable and warm as possible. They're perfect for hikes and other outdoor activities or cozy on days spent lounging on the couch. They're available in a variety of sizes and colors. Get them from R.E.I. in men's sizes for $26. 3. Carhartt heavyweight synthetic wool blend boot sock Amazon Promising review: "A couple years ago, I wanted a boot sock that was just slightly more refined than typical wool hiking socks, but still warm enough for snowy conditions and tough enough to last forever. On a whim, I bought these heavyweight wool-blend boot socks from the workwear brand Carhartt, and immediately knew these socks meant business. They are both tough and warm, naturally odor-resistant, and the perfect thickness for many of winter boots. I was impressed with how warm they kept my feet, and how they come out of the washing machine looking like new every time. They are reinforced with abrasion-resistant yarn and have plenty of cushioning for added comfort and blister protection, too." —Janie Campbell, senior editor Get them from Amazon in women's sizes for $10.90+ (available in women's sizes S–L and four colors). 4. R.E.I. My eternally cold friend, art therapist Ingrid Mellor, swears by these hiking socks from R.E.I. She has Reynaud's disease, which can cause her extremities like fingers and toes to feel numb and cold in response to certain situations, making warm socks absolutely imperative. These cushy socks are breathable and moisture-wicking and can keep your toes nice and toasty no matter how cold it is outside. Get them from R.E.I. in men's sizes for $16.95 (available in sizes S–XL and three colors). 5. A pair of super soft fleece-lined slipper socks with grippers Amazon Promising review: "When I want juuuust a bit more traction than regular socks while hanging around inside, I often turn to these thick and cozy fleece-lined socks with little grippy silicone gel dots on the soles. Not quite a slipper but more than a sock, they both keep my feet warm and keep me from sliding on the tile in my apartment. I loaned my first pair to a friend and never saw them again, which tells you how comfy they are." —Campbell Get them from Amazon for $13.99 (available in women's sizes 6–13 and 31 colors). 6. SmartWool classic hike crew socks Amazon There's a general consensus among those polled that SmartWool is an absolute must during the cold months. Mellor, head of visuals Christy Havranek and breaking news reporter Ryan Grenoble all recommended SmartWool socks. They're fully cushioned for maximum comfort, while the innovative wool fabric keeps feel cozy and warm without getting too sweaty. Get them from Amazon for $23 (available in women's sizes S–XL and five colors). 7. cashmere-blend trouser socks When I want to enjoy a cashmere feel that's a bit more lightweight than the Naadam socks listed above, I go for these adorable trouser socks from I stock up every season, and not only are they perfectly warm and cozy, but they also look stylish. You can get them in six colors and really make a statement. Get them from for $44.50+ (originally $59.50). 8. Wigwam merino comfort hiker socks Amazon Lili Petersen, news editor, loves her Wigwam socks. Made with a delicious merino wool blend that provides cushion without feeling bulky, they are odor-resistant and naturally moisture-wicking. They're available in several different colors and sizes. 9. Alvada merino wool hiking socks Amazon Promising review: "Merino wool is naturally odor-resistant, temperature-regulating and sweat-wicking, but it can be really pricey. I love these unisex merino wool hiking socks from Amazon, because you get three pairs for less than the price of one from a fancy name brand! I bought a pack last year and was really impressed by their thickness and quality, and how they kept my feet super warm and cozy in snowy rural Michigan (their 4.5-star rating suggests a lot of people agree with me). They've also got a cushioned footbed and reinforced heel and toe areas; I've been wearing these year-round in the house ever since and they are holding up beautifully and are still toasty warm." —Campbell
