The Alternate Stitch

Moving from NYC to Vermont: A Sock Designer's Story

I grew up in a tiny town in Indiana with big dreams: I wanted to be a high-end fashion designer, to live in New York City. Coming from a place where such dreams seemed impossible, I could have easily given up. But I didn’t. I was determined to make it happen. But designing socks? That wasn’t even on my radar.

Designing Socks in Vermont: Video

When we say our socks are still made in Vermont, USA, we mean we own the entire process. Our team in Vermont designs the socks, from the research and development to knit-downs and fit testing, knits them, and finishes them (wash, dry, and packaging) so they're ready for you to wear. 

Darn Tough's Guide to Vermont: Local Favorites from the People Who Know It Best

When our customers visiting Vermont asked us for recommendations, we had the thought… who better to provide authentic Vermont experiences than the people who live here? So, we surveyed our employees to discover their favorite spots across the state to help you create the quintessential Vermont experiences.

History in Hand: Vermont Glove Video

Located in the same factory for 100 years and counting, Vermont Glove remains true to their craft — hand making industrial-quality gloves right in Randolph, and creating skilled jobs along the way. 

At Home in Vermont: Jake Blauvelt Video

Made in Vermont is part of our brand mission, and we found a partner in Jake Blauvelt who understands its meaning. Jake is a highly-respected and accomplished snowboarder, constantly captivating audiences with his smooth, creative, and effortless riding style. 

Still Made in Vermont, USA: Video

We don't knit socks in Vermont because it's easy. This community made us who we are, and we're proud to still knit every pair of socks right here in Vermont, USA, with the highest quality yarns sourced from America and around the world.

Darn Right: Socks Made in USA

So, what does it mean that all Darn Tough socks are still made in Vermont, USA? All the knitting, washing, drying, finishing, and packaging behind these USA made wool socks occurs in Vermont Mills, run by Vermonters. And we've never done it any other way. 

"She Got All the Pens Out" Warranty Letter Video

It’s people like Kate who remind us why we have the best customers on the planet. And while you might not have her artistic chops, just know there's plenty of room on our fridge for your note.

We Don't Have a Great Story; We Are a Great Story Video

Together, we all win. And together, we’re creating something that people are passionate about. We don’t have a great story; we are a great story. It’s more than just about knitting socks or making a living. The responsibility of Darn Tough stretches across multiple disciplines.

Exploring New England: Places & Socks We Recommend

We knit socks designed to take your feet out your front door and onto less traveled roads… although they're equally good for couch surfing. As a Vermont-based company, it’s safe to say we know New England best. So, if you’re planning a 2025 trip to the Northeast, here’s some places (and socks) we recommend.

Staff Picks: Customer Service Bares All

If anyone’s qualified to convince you that buying a pair of Darn Tough socks is a good (nay, great) idea, it’s our Customer Service team. Not only do they answer the call, but their sock picks do, too. Curated by our all-star team of sock-talkers, this round of Staff Picks is dedicated to the friendly folks behind the phone.

Support You Can Count on: A Tribute to Our Customer Service Team
Here at Darn Tough, we have an adage, “You don’t outsource for quality.” While typically we are referring to the socks we make, this statement rings true in all areas of our business, especially in regard to our Customer Service Team.
Who Makes Darn Tough Socks?
We get asked a lot about Mill tours. We don't currently have them, but if you've ever wondered who makes Darn Tough socks and what our process is, we did want to give you an inside look.
Spotting Bigfoot in Vermont
Do you remember Bigfoot aka Sasquatch? They have been spotted in the Green Mountain State. Hearing about this legendary American cryptid made me think of a question. If Bigfoot bought a pair of Darn Tough socks, which ones would they choose?
45 Years of Service: Thank You, Laura
There's a handful of people still here who witnessed the birth of Darn Tough all those years ago, people here from day one that are still coming into work day-in and day-out. Of those people, no one has been here longer than Laura.
Staff Picks: Hidden Gems

Let’s face it… we knit a flock ton of socks. And some of our “best” pairs don’t always make it as best sellers. 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.

Loons, Owls, & Nuthatches: Sock Designs Inspired by Birding
I’m a birder, and you can often find me walking around Montpelier, VT, with a pair of binoculars around my neck looking into the North Branch Winooski River or up in the trees for birds and wildlife. I also design Darn Tough socks. 
From Skateboarding to Snowboarding: Jake Blauvelt Leads Charge for Waterbury Center Skatepark
For the past 4 years, a small group of volunteers and myself have been fundraising, strategizing, and jumping through all the necessary hoops in order to be granted the space to construct a state-of-the-art concrete skatepark at Hope Davey Park in Waterbury Center, VT.
The Origins of the VanGrizzle Sock
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
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
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.