I’m not one for splurging on expensive hiking gear! I try to buy good value items at a reasonable price that I think will last a long time. For instance, you’re not going to see me sporting a $150 REI hydration pack, when I can pick up an equivalent elsewhere for a third of the price. Sure, there are upgrades in the more expensive gear, and maybe it’ll last a few more years, but normally I can’t justify the extra expense.
However, when it comes to footwear, I don’t skimp. I’ve found a pair of boots from Merrell that I repeatedly buy (as needed), because foot-fatigue is real, and I don’t want those last few miles of a nice long hike being nothing but pain.
So….along the same lines, I splurged on a pair of Darn Tough (style 1959) hiking socks some time last year. I’ve estimated that I’ve run up approx 100 miles on them at this point (~16 6+ mile hikes), so I thought it’d be a good time to offer an opinion on them. A couple of wears or so would only be good enough to speak to immediate feel and comfort, but when you’re spending $20+ on one pair of socks, you really need them to last.
I can honestly say, that after my last hike 2 days ago (Iron Mountain in Poway), that these socks are really standing the test of time. They are primarily made of wool and nylon, and definitely meet the needs of a warm weather hiker. I have not noticed any sweat issues (sweaty/smelly feet etc), and they are as comfortable now as I first wore them.
Before I made the switch to purpose-made hiking socks, I would wear just a regular athletic sock. I’d pick the ones in the best condition in my sock drawer and they would be fine initially. What I noticed though, is they wear out fast, and definitely have more of a sweat-factor to them.
Would I buy again?
Darn Tough offers a lifetime wear and tear replacement guarantee. At this point, I wouldn’t take them up on that offer for these socks. 100 comfortable miles (so far) has definitely been worth the $23 I paid, and I believe it’s only fair they get to keep that money at this point. However, if I were to need a new pair, just like the Merrell boots, I’d most certainly choose Darn Tough again.
I’m always open to hiking tips and suggestions though, so if you have a brand of hiking socks that you love and trust, please let me know!
Thanks for reading.