Darn Tough
Born from Cabot Hosiery Mills (founded 1978), Darn Tough launched in 2004 when the Cabot family pivoted from corporate contracts to consumer socks. Made in Vermont, USA, with their unconditional lifetime warranty, Darn Tough has become the gold standard for BIFL socks.
Quick Facts
Founded
2004
Headquarters
Northfield, Vermont
Country
USA
Warranty
Lifetime
Why Darn Tough is Buy It For Life
Darn Tough was the first sock company to offer an unconditional lifetime warranty. Their guarantee: if socks aren't the most comfortable, durable, and best-fitting you've owned, return them for another pair. No strings, no conditions, no questions asked. Every sock is made in Northfield, Vermont using fine-gauge knitting machines.
Brand Story
The Cabot family has been making socks in Vermont since 1978 under Cabot Hosiery Mills. When major retailers moved manufacturing overseas, the Cabots pivoted to premium consumer socks under the Darn Tough name in 2004. The unconditional lifetime warranty was a bold bet that their quality would speak for itself.
Warranty Details
Darn Tough offers an unconditional lifetime guarantee. If your socks develop holes, wear out prematurely, or simply don't meet your expectations, send them back for a free replacement. No receipt required, no questions asked. This guarantee covers all Darn Tough socks for the lifetime of the product.
Repair Program
Darn Tough doesn't repair socks - they replace them. Under their lifetime warranty, send worn-out socks to their Vermont facility and receive a brand new pair. The process is simple: fill out the online form, mail your socks (you pay shipping to them), and receive a replacement in 2-4 weeks.
Sustainability
All Darn Tough socks are made in Northfield, Vermont, reducing shipping emissions and supporting American manufacturing. Their lifetime warranty means fewer socks end up in landfills. The factory uses solar panels and sources Merino wool from responsible farms. Worn-out returned socks are recycled.
Notable Products
1466 Hiker Micro Crew
1405 Hiker Boot Sock
1657 Mountaineering
Tactical Boot Sock
Run No Show Tab
More Clothing & Footwear Brands
View All BrandsRed Wing
Charles Beckman founded Red Wing Shoes in 1905 to supply workers in mining, farming, and logging with durable, comfortable footwear. 120 years later, the company remains in the same Minnesota town, making boots the right way. The Heritage line represents their classic American craftsmanship.
Patagonia
Founded by rock climber Yvon Chouinard, Patagonia started as a climbing equipment company. In 2022, Chouinard donated ownership to a trust ensuring all profits go toward addressing climate change. The company is renowned for its Ironclad Guarantee lifetime warranty.
Barbour
Founded by Scottish immigrant John Barbour to outfit sailors facing harsh North Sea conditions. Now 5th generation family-owned, Barbour holds Royal Warrants from the Duke of Edinburgh, Queen Elizabeth II, and King Charles III.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does Darn Tough really have a lifetime warranty?
Yes, Darn Tough offers an unconditional lifetime guarantee on all their socks. If your socks develop holes, wear through, or simply don't meet your expectations, send them back for a free replacement pair. No receipt is required. This isn't a gimmick - Darn Tough has honored this warranty since 2004.
How do I exchange Darn Tough socks under warranty?
Visit darntough.com/pages/our-guarantee and fill out the warranty claim form. Mail your worn socks to their Vermont facility (you pay outbound shipping). They'll send you a brand new replacement pair within 2-4 weeks. You can request the same style/size or choose a different model.
Are Darn Tough socks really worth it?
Darn Tough socks are worth the $20-30 price for most people. With a true lifetime warranty, you're essentially buying socks once. A single pair of Darn Toughs replaces multiple cheap socks over time. They're made in Vermont, USA, with fine-gauge knitting that prevents blisters and regulates temperature. Most customers find they never go back to regular socks.
What is the best Darn Tough sock model?
The best Darn Tough model depends on your use case. For hiking, the 1466 Hiker Micro Crew Cushion is the most popular choice with medium cushioning. For cold weather, the 1657 Mountaineering Extra Cushion provides maximum warmth. For everyday wear, the Lifestyle Crew offers office-appropriate styling. For running, the No Show Tab models are preferred.
Where are Darn Tough socks made?
All Darn Tough socks are made in Northfield, Vermont, USA. The company operates out of the same Cabot Hosiery Mills facility that has been making socks since 1978. They use fine-gauge knitting machines and employ local Vermont workers. This USA manufacturing is part of why they can offer their unconditional lifetime warranty.
Explore Related Guides
Looking for More BIFL Recommendations?
Explore our guides for detailed product reviews and recommendations across all categories.