The Alternate Stitch

How Long Do Socks Last? Understanding Sock Lifespan
How long do socks last? It’s a stumper of a question, since there are so many variables that go into their lifespan. Online, the most common answer is three to six months. If you’re thinking “geeze, that’s not very long,” likely you own a pair of Darn Tough socks.
The Long and Short of It: Should You Wear Long or Short Socks for Running?
The height—or should we say length?—of your running socks plays a crucial role in both your performance and comfort, whether you're navigating snowy trails or sprinting around the block.  So, why do people wear long socks when running?
Why You Shouldn't Wear Cotton Socks
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
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
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.
5-ish Reasons to Wear Merino Wool Socks in Summer

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.

Smelly Sock Solutions: Merino Wool Is the Answer
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.
How to Wash Merino Wool Socks

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.

How to Choose Walking Socks: Why Merino Wool Makes the Best Socks for Walking

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.

Why Merino Wool Makes the Best Moisture Wicking Socks
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.
Our Sock Cushions: A Complete-ish Guide
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
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.
Our Sock Heights: A Complete-ish Guide
We have nine heights here at Darn Tough. Six main ones, with a few in-betweeners. Before you say Nine? Nine! That’s too many! We’ve broken down each height so you understand the benefit of each and how and when you should wear it.
Different Types of Socks: A Complete-ish Guide

There are a lot of types of socks; trust us, we know. Working at a sock company, you quickly learn that there are so many different types of socks, with no shortage of ways to group and categorize them. To make things a little bit easier, we made a (mostly) comprehensive, no-nonsense guide on all types of socks. 

Why You Don’t Want 100% Merino Wool Socks
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.
Coolmax Socks: What They Are & Why We Knit Them
Merino Wool is the ultimate performance fiber; however not everyone wears Wool. That shouldn't stop you from receiving our Lifetime Guarantee. Learn more about Coolmax, a vegan fiber with similar properties to Merino wool.
5-ish Merino Wool Myths, Debunked
We take Merino Wool’s reputation seriously. Why don’t more people wear wool socks? We think these common Merino Wool myths have something to do with it.
Should Running Socks Be Thick Or Thin?
Should running socks be thick or thin? We’ll lay out the pros for each, but the biggest factor is personal preference. What might work for one person might not work for another.
You (Didn’t) Ask, We Answer: Should You Sleep with Socks On?
Sometimes you have to look deep and ask yourself the age-old questions: Am I living up to my full potential? Does a falling tree demand an audience? And should I, or should I not, wear my socks to sleep?
How to Choose the Right Socks for Skiing and Snowboarding
From boots to helmet, by the time you get on the mountain, it could seem like you’re swimming in gear. You might be wondering; do I need ski socks? Or maybe, what are the best ski socks? Let's dive into it. 
5-ish Reasons You’ll Love Merino Wool Socks for Winter
And after keeping your feet cool and fresh all summer, Merino Wool socks are still going to be your warmest socks and the best socks for winter. Let’s celebrate 5-ish reasons why Merino Wool makes the best warm winter socks.