Darn Tough Men’s Micro Crew Lightweight Hiking Sock review
“We make one thing, and we make it better than anyone else” is the mission statement on Darn Tough’s website from founder Ric Cabot.
A sock with a tough history. 20 years ago, desperate and on the verge of losing the family business, Darn Tough Vermont was born. When manufacturing jobs began to move offshore and the business started failing, 2004 saw the company knit the first Darn Tough sock.
Needing somewhat of a Hail Mary, the company decided to hand out 3,500 pairs at the Vermont City Marathon for free. No marketing, instead a simple promise: if you can wear out our socks, we’ll replace them for free. Two decades later that promise still stands.
Our verdict: The best hiking socks I’ve tried to date – comfortable and durable they instantly feel like part of your foot.
- Best for: Day and multi-day hikes in the mountains
- Price: £28
- Our rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️(5/5)
Summary
An outstanding, all-round hiking sock built for durability and comfort. With a lightweight merino wool blend, these socks have kept my feet both comfortable, dry and blister-free. I love the lifetime guarantee, especially given the cost, but these socks are wise investment for serious hikers — just be sure you’re comfortable with the £28.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Comfortable | Initially expensive – but they do come with a lifetime guarantee |
| Durable | |
| Lifetime guarantee |
Specification and Features
- Weight: Lightweight
- Materials: 45% Merino Wool, 52% Nylon, 3% Lycra Spandex. *Fiber percentages of socks may vary slightly.
- Season/Rating: Excellent for all seasons – especially great for winter hiking
- Other: Average 21.5cm from heel to cuff – expect them to show 15.5cm above a low hiking shoe
Jump to: Design & Build • Durability • Value • Compared • Final Verdict
Design and Build
Well cushioned made from merino wool adding an additional layer of comfort as they naturally move moisture to keep your feet fresh and dry in all weather. They are a good height also coming a good distance above my hiking boot – something I’ve struggled with other hiking socks.
Durability
Excellent long term wear, I’ve had these socks for over 12-months and they are still in great condition with no signs of failure yet. They have also washed really well in the time I’ve had them and dry out really quickly. Coming with a lifetime guarantee also offers great peace of mind — especially considering the initial cost.
Value for Money
The Darn Tough lightweight hiking socks overall offer great value for money. The initial outlay of £28 might seem expensive but they are built to last, are extremely comfortable and of course come with the lifetime guarantee. They are best suited for serious hikers who want to invest in important hiking kit to look after important body parts – their feet. People who only hike every now and then would probably benefit from a less-expensive sock.
Competitor Comparison
| Brand and Style | Weight | Spec | Price | Link |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Smartwool Light Cushion Mountain Range Crew Socks | Lightweight | Merino Wool | £25 | Check price |
| Farm to Feet Lightweight Crew Merino Wool Socks | Lightweight | Merino Wool | £25 | Check price |
There isn’t much to choose from price wise for either the Darn Tough, Smartwool or Farm to Feet lightweight hiking socks — Darn Tough are slightly more expensive at £28 but offer the unconditional lifetime guarantee.
Final Verdict
- Comfort: 5/5
- Weather Resistance: 5/5
- Weight: 5/5
- Value: 5/5
I honestly struggle to mark the Darn Tough men’s Micro Crew lightweight hiking socks down on any aspect really. As discussed in the review above the initial cost seems expensive but for the quality, durability and comfort aspects as well as the guarantee they are a smart investment for serious hikers.
Tested by Mike Richardson — field-tested in the Peak District, Snowdonia and Scotland between May 2024 – October 2025. This product was gifted to us to test out. We never accept payment for positive reviews.
