US
Staff Picks: Hidden Gems
Now Entering Uncharted Toe-itory
Let’s face it… we knit a flock ton of socks. And while our opinion is that they’re all great, some of our “best” pairs don’t always make it as best sellers. But when you’re spinning Merino like we do, that much is expected.
For this round of Staff Picks, we asked our employees which pairs they think don’t get enough attention, and more importantly, why they think they should.
Diane C. —
Diane’s Pick: Mother Clucker
Position: QA & Training Manager
If you know anyone that lives in Vermont, chances are they (or someone they know) have chickens. It’s kind of a thing here. And while Diane isn’t one of those people, her eggs-traordinary taste in socks makes up for it.
“The Mother Clucker,” she says with a noticeable grin, “is a new sock that’s light, comfy, and way too much fun to talk about.” A farm-fresh addition to our budding Lifestyle collection, this Lightweight with Cushion Crew ensures people like Diane (who don’t have time for actual chickens) still have what it takes to rule the roost.
A Rutgers University grad (RU Rah, Rah!) with a degree in Chemical Engineering, Diane has worked in manufacturing for over 20 years yet is quick to say that “Darn Tough is the one of the best places I’ve ever worked. The people,” she adds, “the product, and the fact that we’ve yet to produce our best sock, make me extremely proud to be a part of this family.”
David C. – 8 months
David’s Pick: Pacer
Position: Production Knitter
He’s no Luka Dončić, but Dallas-native David Cole shows up every day with the same level of intensity. His job as a Production Knitter – like every ballplayer’s footwork – is a fundamental piece that makes championship teams even better. “Plus, it’s something I genuinely enjoy doing.”
A father, husband, and amateur disc golfer, David and his wife fell in love with Vermont, and the socks that our brave little state is known for. “The Pacer,” he says, “is an unsung hero and the perfect sock for summer. It’s got something for everyone and not just runners.”
When he’s not manufacturing the world’s best socks, you can find David exploring the Green Mountains with his family or tinkering with cars. A former auto-tech, David loves working with a lot of moving parts, which he says is “another huge reason why I excel here.”
Mark L. – 2½ years
Mark’s Pick: Ranger
Position: Production Scheduler
As Darn Tough’s resident rock ‘n roller, Mark’s pick is always on him (both in his pocket and on his feet). Originally from Northfield, Mark Lester sings the praises of the Ranger, citing its “cool colors, perfect height, and cushion underfoot.” Not to mention its commando-inspired name.
A gatekeeper of Vermont’s alternative-rock scene, Mark’s role as a Production Scheduler is rooted in keeping things on time (and in tune). “I help get the socks onto the machines and ensure production flows rhythmically.” Spoken like a true musician, sir.
When he’s not at the Mill or performing live at Northfield’s annual blueberry festival, you can find Mark working on his vocals or making his way up Camel’s Hump with his best-bud (and loyal office pooch) Duke. You can check out Mark and his band at “Press Record Music” on YouTube.
Kendra N. – 3 years
Kendra’s Pick: Fruit Stand
Position: QA Specialist
As a seventh-generation Vermonter, Kendra knows that every adventure starts with a good pair of socks… and typically, a trendy, thrifted outfit. Her sock pick – the Fruit Stand – is “funky, bold, and bright,” and like the juicy orange slices decorating her favorite Lightweight Shorty, “very light and refreshing.”
A new-ish height for the brand, the Fruit Stand Shorty is a blossoming style that’s “citrus-ly” chic – and one that Kendra always has in rotation. Her family in nearby Barre owns a dairy farm that’s being transformed into a winery, and they agree… this sock ages like a fine glass of Ramato.
“At Darn Tough, quality is everything,” Kendra says proudly, “and we’re always looking for new ways to improve.” As a Quality Specialist, her role is imperative to ensuring your socks fit perfectly, “and that’s something I take great pleasure in.”
