Smartwool Socks or Darn Tough Socks

[@brunosco]

To sum up the video: Smartwool socks are smarter and Darn Tough socks are tougher.

[@frugalfoot4973]

I like that.

[@brunosco]

@@frugalfoot4973 🙂

[@LKaler-ic6zl]

LOL!!! ...there's ONE in every crowd!!!!!!! (Retired teacher...I should know!!! LOL!!!)

[@brunosco]

@@LKaler-ic6zl 😊

[@theonewhomjesusloves1005]

😂

[@H.C.Q.]

I wore Smartwool socks in Russia in the dead of winter for months. They kept my feet warm in extremely cold weather while walking for miles.

[@keenobservations3050]

I love my darn tough socks, I wear steel toe boots inside a warehouse 9 hours a day and my feet love these socks. Now if my wife hasn’t done laundry and I’m stuck wearing my Fruit of the loom brand socks I actually hate taking a break because my feet hurt when I have to stand up again. Darn Tough are great socks

[@MikeSamuelsII-ve8gp]

Been wearing the same Smartwool socks for almost 15 years, very good product.

[@johnb9005]

I have some Smartwool medium weight hiking socks, and they perform very well. One day last year, I wore them and hiked 5 hours and bicycled 4 hours and my feet were fine. My favorite sock that I wear year round is the Woolrich Big Wooly. It is a heavy weight hiking sock made out of 88% merino wool, 10% stretch nylon and 2% Lycra Spandex. I bought all 7 pairs they had at the Nordstrom Rack near me for only $14.97 a pair in December 2021. The Big Wooly's are the best non-scratchy socks that I have worn. I even used a pair as make shift mittens in zero degree weather, and my hands stayed warm. Since switching to socks made mostly of wool and not containing any cotton, I no longer get blisters.

[@frugalfoot4973]

Mega training day! 👍

[@miopera40]

Those are the best but hard to find at a discount. I use big woolies in super hot weather, no sweating, no smell.

[@johnb9005]

@@miopera40 Thanks for the reply. I also wear the Woolrich Big Wooly in warm weather and same results as you. A couple of days ago, I hiked/walked about 10 miles while wearing Woolrich Big Wooly and some blisters were starting to form near the front of the foot on the sole. I am going to use something like body glide foot anti blister balm and that should extend my range. I have also used Woolrich Big Wooly as make shift mittens and they kept my hands warm in zero degree weather.

[@danielmcgregor8803]

Swear by darn tough. They're comfy and do last forever.

[@ArnieD17]

When it comes to wool socks it is in one's best interest to read the labels carefully.

[@cobbler88]

My conclusions after years of wearing both: Smartwool socks for running Darn Tough socks for rugged/Alpine hiking Smartwool BICYCLE socks for easier hiking, w trail runners and/or in hot weather. Note: I don't like much cushion when I run, and DT's socks are all a little too thick for that purpose as far as I'm concerned. The SW bicycle socks were a nice discovery. Lightweight enough for running and not as thick as your standard DT hiking sock. They shine on trail walks/hikes. Don't trust REI merino wool hiking socks. They start getting beat up after one or two wearings. I would apply this to pretty much all those brands he mentioned at the end as well. Everyone wants to dip his toe in the merino wool pool, but almost all try to do it on the cheap.

[@frugalfoot4973]

I like your input. Thank you.

[@RickyM-hk8nx]

🎉📟 🏃🚶🏃🧍🧘

[@hunterscrackdealer6650]

Haven’t tried Darn Tough… but I love my Smartwool snowboarding socks!

[@docjnsn73a]

I used smartwool for years but have since switched to darn tough as they last longer and I prefer the denser weave. Another sock I consider superior to both of these are Dahlgren alpaca socks I bought on sale years ago. Still have both pairs

[@patrickirish9427]

I have to say I own both and I find darn tough vary lots depending on the variety you buy. I love the darn toughs I have more than any other wool socks, by far!

[@patrickirish9427]

My darn toughs have 65% merino as well.

[@cobbler88]

I stick with DT for rugged/Alpine hiking. But you're right. They're not all the same. The lighter weight ones are tighter on the shin below the calf and I don't care for them. I think adding all of these "lifestyle" versions is muddying the waters for DT and SW. For lighter hikes and/or on more manicured trails, I stumbled upon Smartwool's BICYCLE socks. Still have the good % of merino wool, but light weight enough to run in if you wanted. Basically, if I need to wear hiking shoes like Merrells or heavier, I go with a typical weight DT sock unless it's really hot. But if the route is one I can do in a trail runner, I go with the SW bicycle socks. And they've got pretty decent color/designs. Basically, match the weight of the sock with the weight of the footwear.

[@godofstones]

I bought a pack of Kirkland merino wool socks from Costco. 57% wool, 40% nylon, 3% spandex. My first time wearing wool socks and these feel pretty good so far. I'm not a very outdoor person so I just want something that feel comfortable, can handle moisture since I sweat a lot and decently durable. Price is hard to beat so it'll probably be a while until I try buying other more expensive socks from Darn Tough or Smartwool.

[@PabloTheThinker]

How much did you pay?

[@godofstones]

@@PabloTheThinker I don't remember exactly but probably less than $20.

[@mr.skeptical3071]

Darn tough are the best for hiking hands down!

[@jasonbeary5771]

Like you, started w/Smart Wool, then was introduced to Darn Tough. I'm an "outdoors person" (who doesn't wear camo in public) I agree with your analysis of the materials. HOwever, I haven't found Darn Toughs to slump down any more than SmartWool's do. And I do test them well wearing waders and 9-10" hunting boots. Which I prefer depends on the individual sock design, and how would one know until until one tries that sock in that application? I endorse either/both. They are just a bit different. Darn toughs DO last longer, but BOTH last.

[@frugalfoot4973]

Good input Jason. Thanks for the comment.

[@ryantowers2313]

I have the darn tough over the calf hunting socks I love them but they do slide down on me could be my legs a buddy don't have that problem thou, haven't tried smart wool yet

[@ashtonhatch7145]

I wear Grip6 Merino wool socks. They are the best socks I have ever worn.

[@killacoiler1707]

Darn Tough makes a series that are designed with Airmen in mind and have a military approval for flight Crews that contain a much higher level of Merino wool and are designed similarly to the Smartwool sock. They are much more cushioned than the ones depicted in this video.

[@A19csd]

Yup, T4021s by Darn Tough. Best boot socks I’ve ever owned. I’ve done multiple long marches of 12-18 miles with not a single hot spot. Good breathability and cushion. Quality construction.

[@TwinGrimm]

I'll have to pick me up a pair of the military grade ones, heaviest duty.o es they got most likely

[@killacoiler1707]

@@TwinGrimm I have the heavy weight tactical ones and have been brutalizing them for almost 3 years now and they show no signs of giving up. I work 12 to 15 hours a day in safety toe shoes and the cushioning of these socks are unrivaled. I have two pairs that are rotated every couple of days. If you follow the cleaning and care directions they are like brand new every time you put them on. I used to work in subzero refrigerated storage and pulled 36 hours straight in a pair, they never got wet or uncomfortable. I would recommend Darn Tough without any hesitation, they are by far the most comfortable and durable socks I have ever owned. What I find to be a side benefit is that no matter how bad your feet sweat your socks and boots never smell like they would with cotton or other fibers.

[@georgeclark7208]

I wear any brand merino wool socks that are at least 80% wool, and any wool socks, not necessarily merino wool, that are at least 80% wool in the winter, usually two pairs, properly sized so the outer layer isn't too tight. Thusly I have never tried either of these brands because I like more wool in my wool socks.

[@rrr2cats]

Ballston's light or medium weight is an excellent value for the money.

[@rrr2cats]

My rule of thumb for merino wool socks is they must be 80% to 85% wool or better.

[@JamesBerkey]

What brand do you suggest

[@TheEchelon]

Your rule sucks

[@chrissanchez6675]

I would like to add that Darn Tough have different styles of socks that are more dense and have different ratios of merino wool/nylon/lycra to them (Just as I imagine smart wool does as well). I personally wear the tactical version (T4033's and T4050's). You may appreciate this little nugget, but I've found that these thicker versions offer my feet additional cushioning support that I previously would have only attributed to better insoles. I do a lot of standing on my feet at work, sometimes 10+ hours a day, and these socks just comparatively make my day feel so much better than wearing regular socks. It's a difference of having foot and back pain (and sweaty feet), vs not. And lastly thinking back on it, the real kick in my rear to purchase these socks was not because of the comfort, but because I was looking for thick sock to keep my feet warm in refrigerated rooms. Overall, I'm glad I discovered these, and I'll be a lifetime customer no doubt.

[@frugalfoot4973]

Thanks for adding your input. I'm certain a lot of people will appreciate your experiences and opinions.

[@SUGAR_XYLER]

You should try socks made with aloe, extremely comfortable !

[@frugalfoot4973]

@@SUGAR_XYLER I'll have to look for those. Thank you for the suggestion and the comment.

[@Tha_AntiChrist]

I hate the socks that have that weird tight band in the middle right around the arch because as soon as the sock starts to show some age the arch is always tight and hugging but the rest of the sock toes and heal are loose af it feels so weird it makes me want to gag.

[@annoyedok321]

Wool % changes with the type of sock for both brands. A thin running sock will have the lowest %, while a thick hiking sock will have a higher %. This is why the thicker Smartwool sock had a higher %.

[@이촌동파이리]

Nice detailed review!

[@alfonsocasillas7290]

Great video a lot of people in the Hikeing community use those darn tough socks

[@MJG70]

Darn Tough ALWAYS!

[@rezahelali6083]

Thanks ❤

[@evvignes]

I have many years of daily experience with both brands and I prefer Darn Tough…..but not by much.

[@nodescriptionavailable3842]

Darn tough mountaineer socks are the best in the galaxy 👌

[@cobbler88]

I really like mine. You feel bulletproof.

[@Kilo416]

Recently discovered Uphill Sports tactical socks, they also use Merino wool. I went with the "OPS" version that uses 60% wool

[@jarofclay8900]

Bought a pair of Smartwool socks for hiking. It rains a lot in my area so I do hike with wet feet at times. The Smartwool socks are very comfortable but take much longer to dry out than my other wool socks. These are fine for day hiking nearby but I would not take them for longer hikes with multiple overnights.

[@frugalfoot4973]

Thanks for your comment. 👍

[@gramps5157]

I just got Darn Tuff socks and a good thing I have narrow feet because they are very tight fitting. But even with the tight fit when I went for a long walk across a soy bean field the sock slid down and became very painful to walk on. I had to stop and take off my boots and pull the socks back up. I only wear them when I know I have short walks into the woods to hunt.

[@frugalfoot4973]

I would contact the company and give them your feedback.

[@atomicpsych0]

You need to get your socks replaced by darn tough since they are lifetime warranty. However this is the first I've ever heard someone saying this about their socks. Leads me to only 2 options. One, you got a dud pair of socks which is easily remedied. Two, you're not being 100% honest. Either way, tons of thru hikers praising these socks makes me confident that they are in fact great socks. While smart wool is also great, it is my experience that they don't last as long as darn tough which is why I'm assuming the thru hikers who will walk up to and over 2000 miles in a summer choose darn tough over smart wool

[@cobbler88]

No offense here, but it IS possible that you're not great at putting on your socks. I think John Wooden used to spend the first day of basketball practice at UCLA teaching college students how to put on their socks before hitting the court. There's kind of an art to it. I'm sure you're not far off, but maybe that 5% difference in technique is all it takes. Or they're just not the right length/weight. I've tried some of the lighter weight DTs and they're too tight on my shin below the calf. The standard, heavier ones are fine. Not all weights fit the same, unfortunately.

[@CamilleHarris]

So helpful! thank you!

[@frugalfoot4973]

Thanks for your positive comment Camille

[@TheBirdGardenNB]

Darn tough lifetime warranty. No contest.

[@squidgy6930]

so a smart wool under a darn tough for the win

[@rustyshackleford1069]

As someone who's lives in vermont and is bombarded with darn tough socks I can say in my opinion smart wool is way way better

[@cobbler88]

My conclusions after years of wearing both: Smartwool socks for running Darn Tough socks for rugged/Alpine hiking Smartwool BICYCLE socks for easier hiking, w trail runners and/or in hot weather.

[@billc3523]

Smartwool hands down. They wear longer for me than Darn Tough. Also a Vermonter

[@neobx2]

So which ones do you prefer ? I recently got 3 pairs of Darn Tough that I wear with steel toe boots and I like them very much, even though my feet still sweat a lot winter or summer. Any one has a recommendation for summer socks.

[@cobbler88]

Smartwool BICYCLE socks are my go-to for a lightweight hiker I can wear on trails and just out and about. Basically, if I need a thicker shoe/boot, I go with the thicker DT. When I can wear trail runners, I go with the Smartsool bicycle socks.

[@oscarbear7498]

Yes, saddles

[@willelliott5052]

Currently I wear Darn Tough, but there is one thing that bothers me. I find that they shrink over many washings, even when consistently hung to dry. My first pair shrunk to where I could hardly wear them. So I took advantage of their lifetime warranty and I have bought a size up since then. But then waiting on them to shrink is also not ideal.

[@not1au]

Don't wanna run to the bank with those "lifetime" warranties because when something happens to the sock and you contact the retailer or manufacturer you'll find out just how short a lifetime is. They will crawfish and whatever the problem it's your fault.

[@jasonbeary5771]

Not with Darn tough.

[@not1au]

@@jasonbeary5771 good to know

[@A.RandomLattin]

Darn Tough Vermont Socks are moisture wicking.

[@madrush24]

Darn tough for me! They don't slouch above ankle like Smartwool.

[@carloshidalgo3298]

Hi Dr. I wear cotton socks and I’m exposed to sun as a car salesman, my feet smell and seems like I currently have athlete’s foot. What socks do you recommend??

[@watchmanexpert]

How is the elastic to tight? For diabetic person

[@camperjack2620]

I bought some socks that had elastic around the foot that was so tight I had to get rid of them. Now I'm leery of what I get. Seems like all the socks are being infiltrated with elastic and they're not comfortable anymore.

[@SCwirlify]

Darn Tough costs like 30$+ in Norway. A pair! I have to buy other 60% Merino socks.

[@cobbler88]

They're about $24-$32 here, depending on the sock. And the only real competition is usually in that same ballpark if not pricier.

[@PerryCodes]

I've had a few pair of Smartwool - including the exact pair being shown here. The pair shown here didn't last very long :(

[@2wheeluke165]

I’m looking for the best socks for demanding environments, hot and humid Florida. I wear logging boots as a mobile diesel mechanic and am on my feet 14-16 hours a day on asphalt. I will be spending good money on custom fitted boots but am worried they will be too hot. What are the best, most comfortable socks money can buy for sweaty long hours?

[@lisamelting]

Darn tough. No question.

[@jasonbeary5771]

I've been in the south before and felt that heat. There ain't NUTHIN that will make you feel better, just less bad! Those are terrible conditions and I feel for you. I'm in PA and I can always put on a sweater or thermals, but I can only get so naked when its hot. I would suggest a "TACTICAL" (hate that word) Darn-Tough sock.

[@brianbush2922]

I am a utility worker spending 8-14hrs a day in logger style boots, commuting 30-60 minutes a day by bike. Comfort and health for my feet in all kinds of weather takes some effort. I’ve tried Darn Tough, SmartWool, and Farm to Feet. Of the three, SmartWool probably does conform the best to my feet, but also feels less substantial in a way that hurts comfort. Both Darn Rough and Farm to Feet have excellent comfort, but both don’t quite grab my large, narrow feet right. The Darn Tough are the better, more workable option, and I find last dramatically longer. The Farm to Feet dump heat better but I wear large holes in the heels and ball quickly.

[@frugalfoot4973]

Thank you for the feedback.

[@bullyjay1957]

How much is the shipping cost for the warranty?

[@tjellis1479]

your cost to them...free from them

[@timvibes]

Which one is the thinnest?

[@jasonbeary5771]

I bought 3 pairs of knee-high thin DarnToughs for using in chest waders for summer fishing in Montana. I needed waders but NOT warmth. They worked well. (nothing is great. My feet are in neoprene. There's sweat.)

[@cobbler88]

If you want a thin sock to run in, go Smartwool PdD. If you want a thin sock to hike/walk/wear around, Smartwool BICYCLE socks are the way to go. Even with lightweight running socks, Darn Tough still tends to be thicker than Smartwool. I do think DT is a better sock, but I can't compare because I only wear DT on tougher hikes where I can take advantage of the thickness, which means that I wear out my thinner Smartwool socks faster, since I wear them about 4x as often.

[@daviddahl83]

I have pronated feet/ankles. I have an arch so I'm not really sure why my feet overpronate as it doesn't appear to be flatfoot. Is there any way to correct this?

[@daviddahl83]

sorry my question isn't related to the video. But I just had to ask.

[@SillyOmega]

I was getting pre plantar fasciitis. I found mine is caused by being over weight. I found as I lost weight my feet felt better.

[@AguilaTX2011]

Out of those two, Darntough, Farm to Feet are much better

[@zagko]

Smartwool products have two years warranty inside the US or CA. You have no warranty even you bought the products from authorized dealers in other countries. I won't suggest anyone to buy Smartwool products.

[@tonyturner3588]

Hi James - thats not 100% accurate. Smartwool has a satisfaction guarantee right on the box. That's for the life of the product - not two years.

[@SUGAR_XYLER]

@@tonyturner3588 I have socks made with aloe vera, most comfortable socks ever !!

[@RealMuperSan]

@@tonyturner3588 hi. Satisfaction guarantee is a bit different from a lifetime warranty. Abuse of satisfaction guarantees is what led to changes in L.L. Bean or REI policy.

[@jackp9570]

Very helpful doc! Do you have a preference for hot summer hiking?

[@frugalfoot4973]

I use Louis Garneau socks when I run and bike. If its really hot then I use them when I go hiking. But they are not a hiking sock. amzn.to/3gDPGfz

[@litespeed65]

Smartwool fits very small, the Men's Large (my recommended size) are absolutely tiny. Do people actually want to wear socks this tight?

[@cobbler88]

I think most folks are like me, in that they've never put on a tight pair of socks and noticed them still feeling tight once they have their footwear on.

[@Zisjejk]

My feet are always cold , I can keep warm , why

[@omar10213245]

Poor circulation? Try taking methylated vitamin B

[@jochenstossberg5427]

They're fine if there's nobody around to actually see your socks, or care what your socks look like, and judge you buy them. The pilling issue is with Smartwool socks is seriously bad. They pill after one wash. This guy really seems to have a very intense relation ship with men's hosiery. I think it's the shirt and tie. I hope it's just the shirt and tie.

[@FABM27]

Lifetime warranty on socks??? Wow!!! What does the warranty cover???

[@zioxei]

shooting them with an assault rifle, that's for sure

[@JOMFSE]

@@zioxei let’s hope so

[@lelandivy2207]

It's not even close! Smartwool is not even in the same league as Darn Tough.

[@adamr63]

Beware, budget brands are NOT the same as DT and SW, the quality of the Merino wool used in all of the knock-off and budget brands is way lower with shorter yarns, and is far less long wearing and without the insulating and wicking properties of those brands. Darn Tough has half and fully cushioned socks, you are comparing their dress socks here to SM's sports socks, it's not a straight comparison. The DT cushioned socks are extremely comfortable and supporting, though not as spongy as the SW ones. I far prefer Darn Tough, they keep their shape longer and don0t wear through at the heel like the Smartwool. Add the lifetime guarantee and the choice is a no-brainer.

[@GreenFordFocus09]

A sock really won't do shit to support your arch.

[@cobbler88]

It's nice to feel that bit of tightness there, but it's kind of like bench presses to a lot of folks. You get a nice stretch, but it's not really doing much for you. But the fact of the matter is that we really don't need arch support from socks. And most of us shouldn't even look for much of it in a shoe. If the shoe is supporting your foot instead of the arch, guess what happens to the condition of those muscles in the arch?

[@threshingfloor8591]

Darn tough overrated. Had so many holes appear and a really rude retailer in UK who hates adhering to darn toughs lifetime guarantee to the extent he refused to replace, making DT actually ship direct from the states to England...will not be buying DT again.

[@cobbler88]

So the company went to the trouble of shipping you socks, internationally, and you're no longer going to give them your business? Sounds to me like it's the local retailer you should be punishing.

[@misomicro]

May be wrong, but this sounds like a total shill

[@TheMNBlackBear]

Is it really worth it to pay over $15.00 for a pair of freaking socks?! What kind of nonsense is this?!

[@coolhand1966]

they last longer and have other benefits so yes, treat yourself.

[@TheMNBlackBear]

@@coolhand1966 I did. I bought two pair of Darn Tough Socks. I like them. Now... we'll see how long they last. If they do last as long as they say they will, it only makes sense to buy them (mine were $23.00 a pop), as opposed to what I usually buy, for the cost alone. Buying DTS is actually cheaper than buying cheap socks--and they are vastly superior to my old brand.

[@stevensiegert]

You can for example wear socks with merino wool longer (especially in ordinary days), so there's no need for a lot of pairs. It's totally worth the money when they last long. In the case of Smartwool and DarnTough (I don't know about other brands) there are also stylish looking socks that stand a bit out. Better than buying normal socks from a luxurious brand with just the logo on it (e.g. Gucci).

[@PurpleDog06]

2019 was the first time I made over $15/hour in a high cost of living area, and I'm only making about $2 more now. I've only worn these expensive socks for about a decade, but they last forever, wear incredibly well, and are very comfortable. They also replace them if you wear a hole in them.

[@FiLipiNoJezus]

@@PurpleDog06 A warranty, for socks. That’s how serious these socks are. Just spent $18 on a pair of wool socks from Red Wing. It is life changing

[@product8498]

Crap socks, only lasted 2 months, not retuned my socks 5 months and counting. do not buy, do don't give Darn Tough your money, Seal Skinz lasted me 25 months and still going strong.

[@Nuke-China]

Darn Tough has a lifetime warranty. If they crapped out on you they'll replace them.

[@XIPUFFIX]

I think this guy works for seal skinz cuz this is the second video I’ve watched and he has the same comment on them both so why would he be watching the videos if he already knows about them lol

[@terryadkins9831]

Stick a sock in it