The Alternate Stitch

Without your support, our contributions would have been minuscule. So, as we round up the end-of-year data on how we gave back, we do so with gratitude to you.  From local initiatives to global outreach, here are some of the most significant ways we made an impact in 2024:   

It’s once again the time of year to set goals and make resolutions. Whether that’s getting outside more, finishing that stack of books or investing in some new Merino Wool socks, now is the perfect time to set some sock-related resolutions to give your feet the best in 2025.

Nothing excites us more than seeing our socks out in the wild, whether in our own Vermont backyard or a totally different country. Of course, sometimes we’re the ones wearing those socks – and we’re happy to share with you where we went, what socks we packed, and some personal tips and tricks.

It’s a new year, and that means it is time to think about summer outdoor objectives! It is also time to put in for those tough to get lotteries. To help with your planning, below is a list of 8 of these lotteries with dates, some lottery tips and, of course, the perfect sock for when you win.

In 2013, The Rut Mountain Runs started off as a 50k and 12k race. We connected with Mike Foote, event organizer for the Rut, to learn more about his passion for trail running and what it takes to pull off one of the largest trail running festivals in North America.

Not sure if your socks fit? We've put together some tips and tricks to help you check. At Darn Tough, we knit all our socks with a performance fit so they act like a second skin, preventing slippage and blisters. If your socks aren't the most comfortable, durable, best fitting socks, you can return them for another pair. 

We’ve brought Space Dye to the finest-micron Merino Wool. The result? Totally unique socks that have moisture management, durability, and temperature regulation on lock.

Generally, ski and snowboard socks are the same. If you’ve ever questioned whether skiing socks and snowboard socks are the same…the simple answer is yes (and also no). Here’s the deal: Darn Tough has a single Ski & Snowboard category...

The holidays mark a time for great cheer,

When not all goes to plan (DARN IT), you have 
nothing to fear,


We’re there with you through breaks and bobbles,


What matters most is when friendship won’t wobble.



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.

If you're wondering how to pack for a thru hike, we've got you covered. Darn Tough employee Ryan Shamy, trail name Buzz, has thru-hiked the Appalachian Trail and Vermont's Long Trail. Ryan walked us through his thru hiking gear list and turned it into a downloadable checklist you can print and follow along. Happy hiking! 

The High Fives sock design revolves around the High Fives logo — a bold number 5 inside a badge. But it’s more than just a logo. The golden sun rising over a tree line symbolizes new beginnings, another day to live life to the fullest — something deeply meaningful to Roy.

The only thing cozier than relaxing by a crackling fireplace on a cold Vermont night? Doing it in Darn Tough socks. This holiday season, you can enjoy the fireplace sounds and familiar sights of our virtual yule log and favorite Merino Wool socks.

While there are minimal differences between ski socks and snowboard socks, there are drastic differences between ‘normal socks’ and Merino Wool socks designed for skiing and snowboarding, and those differences keep you warm, comfortable, and dry on the mountain.

How long do socks last? That depends on the sock, the wearer, and few other key factors.  We asked Emily from our Warranty department to share what she's learned about the Darn Tough sock lifespan from the socks you all send back to us under our guarantee. 

It’s no secret that Merino Wool socks are preferred by skiers… not to mention literally anyone else doing anything that involves comfy feet. And when it comes to choosing the right ski sock, we hear questions like: Should ski socks be thin or thick? Are thin or thick socks warmer?

If your socks make an impression (beyond just what people think of them) then you’re going to want to read this article. We’re covering performance socks: what they are, how to ensure they fit, the benefits they offer, and the marks they (might) leave behind.

In this post I’m going to get into the pros and cons of liner socks to help you determine your best footwear system. Spoiler: I truly don’t think you need liners if you have the right sock and shoe combo. So let’s get into it…

At Darn Tough Vermont, we believe everyone deserves a gift for the holidays. Naughty or nice… everyone needs socks. But seriously, can’t we all just get along? Isn’t it just easier to be nice? It’s certainly more fulfilling. And fun. Being nice is fun, right? 

We’ve partnered with pro skier Michelle Parker to make ski socks for a while now, with her latest input resulting in the new Enchanted sock. As we were wrapping that sock design process up, we did the math and realized Michelle holds the record for most sock design collaborations.

In a completely unbiased take, we think socks make the perfect holiday gifts. More specifically, we think Darn Tough socks are the perfect gift. Not only are our Merino Wool socks super comfortable and functional for anybody, but they’re also made to last forever.