The Alternate Stitch

Woman wearing darn tough hiking socks made with merino wool, not cotton
Sock 101 ·
Why You Shouldn't Wear Cotton Socks
by Darn Tough Vermont
Now this isn’t an attack ad against cotton. This is more an informative piece, informing you that when it comes to what you should wear on your body while being active indoors or outdoors, it’s neither cotton’s time nor place.
Person in Camo pulling up Darn Tough Tactical Socks
How-to · Sock 101 · Tactical ·
How to Choose the Right Tactical Socks
by Darn Tough Vermont
If you previously thought tactical socks weren’t for you, read this post. We’re breaking down everything you need to know about Darn Tough socks generally, the specifics of our tactical lineup, and sharing some intel on choosing the right tactical socks to meet your needs. Let’s proceed:
Hiker wondering how to choose socks for hiking with his boots next to him
How-to · Sock 101 ·
How to Choose the Right Socks
by Owen Rachampbell
In this post, we will dive into the knitty gritty (pun intended) of how to find the best socks to fit your needs. We will consider your footwear, as well as the many heights, weights, cushioning levels, and tech features.
Feet wearing the VanGrizzle sock at a hiking shelter, the hiker reading a map
Here in VT · Hiking ·
The Origins of the VanGrizzle Sock
by Owen Rachampbell
People often ask me how I got my trail name, Sir Owen VanGrizzle, Duke of Beartown. It all happened at the Stratton Pond Shelter on the Appalachian Trail and Long Trail in southern Vermont, waaaay back when my best friend Ben and I hiked the Long Trail for our first time in 2010.
Feet posed on the summit wearing hiking boots and the Trailblazer, women-designed socks
Here in VT · Hiking ·
Women Move Mountains: Celebrating Female Trailblazers in the Outdoor Community
by Darn Tough Vermont
Inspired by the International Mountain Day theme, "Women Move Mountains," we proudly present the Darn Tough ‘Trailblazer’ sock. This design honors the incredible women who have played vital roles in the protection and stewardship of our mother earth, past and present.
Three people having a picnic on green grass while wearing wool socks in summer
Merino Wool · Sock 101 ·
5-ish Reasons to Wear Merino Wool Socks in Summer
by Sarah Nocito

As a company dedicated to knitting the absolute best socks out there, it’s probably no surprise Darn Tough views socks as all-season wardrobe essentials - yes, even in summer. Let’s bust the myth that wool is just for winter and consider five reasons why wearing wool socks in summer is awesome.

A Darn Tough employee showing another employee how to fix the knitting machine
Here in VT ·
People Who Have Been Here from Day One
by Darn Tough Vermont
We spoke to three long-time employees who’ve been with us for all 20+ years of Darn Tough’s history. We asked them what life was like before Darn Tough, what’s kept them here, and why they’ve always believed in the brand.
Hiker about to pull off his shoes, cause his socks aren't smelly
Merino Wool · Sock 101 ·
Smelly Sock Solutions: Merino Wool Is the Answer
by Darn Tough Vermont
The science is clear. That rank smell is the result our bodies’ natural cooling system being turned against us. Hear us out on this: it’s going to get a little icky before we explain how Merino Wool helps to prevent stinky socks.
a washing machine full of merino wool socks
How-to · Merino Wool · Sock 101 ·
How to Wash Merino Wool Socks
by Jennifer Hastings

If you’re standing by the laundry wondering how to wash Merino Wool socks, you’ve come to the right place. Here's detailed washing instructions for at home and in the backcountry.

Man seated on steps putting on converse and merino wool socks for walking
Hiking · Merino Wool · Sock 101 ·
How to Choose Walking Socks: Why Merino Wool Makes the Best Socks for Walking
by Darn Tough Vermont

Walking for exercise has many benefits for the body and the mind and is one of the most convenient activities we can do for our wellbeing. Some good, basic equipment will help ensure you get to focus on your walk and not your feet. Here’s a simple guide on how to choose the right walking socks.

Kate's feet wearing her running shoes and the original Darn Tough running socks
Here in VT · Run & Athletic ·
Darn It: How One Wrong Turn Made Things Right
by Kate Crocker

Hello — This is Kate Crocker, the Product Development Manager at Darn Tough Vermont. I have been working for this amazing brand for 5 years and counting, as of writing this. The story I’m about to tell you is not about how I started working for the company though, but about how I was first introduced to Darn Tough socks.

Exterior view of the main entrance of Onion River Outdoors store in Vermont
Here in VT · Our Partners ·
Meet Onion River Outdoors: Darn Tough’s First Retailer
by Onion River Outdoors
When we were first approached by the “nice Cabot Mills folks” to see if we would be willing to bring in a few pairs of their new brand of high-end Merino Wool socks, we did it more to support a local manufacturer than anything else.
Staff Picks: Socks That Will Last the Next 20 Years
Staff Picks ·
Staff Picks: Socks That Will Last the Next 20 Years
by Darn Tough Vermont

We’ve been knitting Darn Tough Merino Wool socks for 20 years, and some of those socks from that first batch we knit 20 years ago are still being worn today. Which got us thinking… of the socks we’re knitting right now, which ones have the best chance to outlive the next 20 years?

Socks as Mule-shoes: Real Life "Darn It." Stories
Community · Lifetime Guarantee ·
Socks as Mule-shoes: Real Life "Darn It." Stories
by Darn Tough Vermont
We believe in our socks. A lot. So much so that we back them up with an Unconditional Lifetime Guarantee. No matter how hard your socks get put through the wringer, we’ll replace them at the end of their lifecycle. Life is tough. Our socks are tougher.
Running put on pink running socks (which are totally worth it)
Run & Athletic ·
Are Running Socks Worth It? According to Reddit
by Darn Tough Vermont
Buckle up buttercup, and put on your fanciest detective hats (or socks, in this case). We're diving headfirst into the Reddit rabbit hole, armed with nothing but a fresh pair of Darn Toughs and an age-old enigma that haunts runners more than Boston’s Heartbreak Hill: Are running socks worth it?
Volunteers on the A.T. eating ice cream as they do trail work
Hiking · Our Giving · Our Partners ·
The Boots (and Socks) on the Ground: Partnering with the Appalachian Trail Conservancy
by Darn Tough Vermont

In honor of National Trails Day this Saturday, we’re excited to share some history about one America's first national scenic trails and the nonprofit that is responsible for its conservation and stewardship.

Why Merino Wool Makes the Best Moisture Wicking Socks
Merino Wool · Sock 101 ·
Why Merino Wool Makes the Best Moisture Wicking Socks
by Darn Tough Vermont
Merino Wool has many natural benefits, including thermoregulation, durability, breathability, softness, and an unbelievable ability to manage moisture. Though other moisture wicking materials exist, we’ve found the best moisture wicking socks are made with Merino Wool.
A sign saying "welcome to Northfield home of Darn Tough Vermont"
Here in VT · Merino Wool ·
The History of Merino Sheep and Wool Manufacturing in Vermont
by Darn Tough Vermont
This year marks our 20th anniversary of making socks right here in Vermont. Vermont has a rich history of sheep farming and wool textiles. From the textile mill history behind our Nantanna location, to our commitment to Merino Wool, to the community itself, we’d like to think we’re keeping a legacy alive.
An infographic showing the anatomy of a merino wool fiber and how it works
Merino Wool · Our Partners ·
Unlocking the Science of Merino Wool Fibers
by The Woolmark Company
The science behind wool is both fascinating and intricate. So, buckle up! We’re about to step into the realm of microns and molecules to explore how nature’s original performance fiber naturally elevates your outdoor adventures.
A car driving down a road toward a small mountain town, with epic vistas
Hiking ·
Beyond the Big Names: Top 10 Small Mountain Towns for Hiking & Backpacking
by Darn Tough Vermont
We’re uncovering the top 10 small mountain towns that beckon hikers, backpackers, and nature enthusiasts alike. From beginner-friendly trails to rugged heart-pumping pursuits, these off-the-beaten-path gems offer up unforgettable natural landscapes, great local food, and splashes of unique culture.
A sock resting on a pillow, symbolizing cushion
Comfort · Sock 101 ·
Our Sock Cushions: A Complete-ish Guide
by Darn Tough Vermont
A complete-ish guide on just what cushioning is, how we make it, and what the benefits are for each type cushioning type we offer. We’ve diversified from straight-up “Cushioned” into multiple types of activity-specific padding. And it starts with Terry loops.