The Alternate Stitch

Why You Shouldn't Wear Cotton Socks
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.
How to Choose the Right 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:
How to Choose the Right Socks
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.
The Origins of the VanGrizzle Sock
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.
Women Move Mountains: Celebrating Female Trailblazers in the Outdoor Community
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.
People Who Have Been Here from Day One
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.
Darn It: How One Wrong Turn Made Things Right
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.

Meet Onion River Outdoors: Darn Tough’s First Retailer
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.
Are Running Socks Worth It? According to Reddit
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?
The Boots (and Socks) on the Ground: Partnering with the Appalachian Trail Conservancy
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.

The History of Merino Sheep and Wool Manufacturing in 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.
Unlocking the Science of Merino Wool Fibers
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.
Beyond the Big Names: Top 10 Small Mountain Towns for Hiking & Backpacking
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.
Our Sock Cushions: A Complete-ish Guide
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. 
Our Sock Weights: A Complete-ish Guide
Sock 101 ·
Our Sock Weights: A Complete-ish Guide
by Darn Tough Vermont
Professional governing bodies recognize a total of 17 weight classes in boxing. Professional governing bodies recognize a total of 4 weight classes in Darn Tough socks. When we talk weight, we are referring to the specific yarn in the sock and the relative thickness of that yarn.
Vermont Farmers Are Darn Tough
Here in VT ·
Vermont Farmers Are Darn Tough
by Darn Tough Vermont
Whether it’s getting stuck behind a tractor, seeing the beautiful red barns tucked into the green mountains, or the weekly farmer’s markets, it's hard to deny how farms have influenced Vermont culture. In our neck of the woods, if you don’t own a farm, chances are you know someone who does.
Which Animal Socks Match Your Personality?
Community ·
Which Animal Socks Match Your Personality?
by Michael Seigies

We put together a list in no particular order to help you find animal socks that align with your personality. Whether you’re the type of person who likes farm animals, owl socks, or bear socks, there is a sock on this list for you.

The Support System Behind the Pacific Crest Trail
Hiking · Our Partners ·
The Support System Behind the Pacific Crest Trail
by Peyton Hamblin, PCTA
A lot of folks call the Pacific Crest Trail a home away from home. Every year, thousands of eager hikers set their sights on the path ahead, soaking up sunshine, taking on rainstorms, enjoying the unparalleled viewsheds, and inevitably encountering a few hurdles along the way.
Why You Don’t Want 100% Merino Wool Socks
Merino Wool · Sock 101 ·
Why You Don’t Want 100% Merino Wool Socks
by Darn Tough Vermont
In this post we’re cover the finer points of sock materials, from yarn selection to construction, answering questions like: Is 100% Merino Wool good quality?
Can you have 100% wool socks? What percent of Merino Wool in socks is best? The answers are more nuanced than you might think.