Darn Tough vs Smartwool Hiking Socks Which Brand Is Better?
If you are looking for high quality hiking socks, then most likely you have come across Darn Tough and Smartwool. Both these manufacturers are favored by hikers and backpackers due to the high quality material of their hiking socks – Merino wool – their wicking properties and comfort.
However, one of them should find its way into your hiking boots.
Here is a comparative review of Darn Tough and Smartwool that is focused on such criteria as comfort, durability, cushioning, breathability, fit, price and overall value.
The following comparison will help you choose the best hiking socks between Darn Tough and Smartwool.
Quick Comparison
| Feature | Darn Tough | Smartwool |
|---|---|---|
| Material | Merino Wool Blend | Merino Wool Blend |
| Comfort | Excellent | Excellent |
| Durability | Outstanding | Very Good |
| Breathability | Excellent | Excellent |
| Moisture Wicking | Excellent | Excellent |
| Cushion Options | Multiple | Multiple |
| Warranty | Lifetime Guarantee | Limited Warranty |
| Best For | Backpacking, Long Hikes | Day Hikes, Everyday Hiking |
About Darn Tough
Darn Tough is a company based in Vermont, famous for their production of superior Merino wool socks that come with a lifetime warranty. The company has established itself on the basis of offering high-quality durability, performance, and comfort in hiking socks to hikers and backpackers. They manufacture hiking socks in three weight categories.
About Smartwool
The company is a pioneer in Merino wool hiking clothes for many years. Smartwool hiking socks have been engineered to provide comfort, breathability, heat control and minimize blisters during hiking. There is an extensive variety of Smartwool hiking socks for both novice and seasoned hikers.
Material Quality
Both sock manufacturers employ Merino wool as their main raw material. The fabric is known for its thermoregulation capabilities, antimicrobial properties, and moisture management ability that are superior to those of cotton.
Darn Tough usually offers thicker knitting in their socks, so the socks appear to be tougher and more durable. Smartwool puts emphasis on softness and performance of its products.
Winner: Tie
Comfort
The comfort factor plays an important role when hikers select Merino wool socks.
Darn Tough socks feature a tighter and more athletic type of fit, which decreases the chances of the sock slipping around inside the boot. The lack of seam in the toes of these socks reduces friction.
Smartwool socks tend to be softer and cushioning and therefore more comfortable in regular hikes.
Winner: Smartwool (by a small margin)
Durability
It is in this attribute that Darn Tough differs.
The company is renowned for offering socks which can withstand several years of hiking. The popularity of Darn Tough is owed to the durability offered by the dense knit socks and the lifetime warranty. Gear review tests have proven that Darn Tough socks are among the most durable hiking socks.
Smartwool socks are also durable but cannot rival the Darn Tough’s long-lasting performance.
Winner: Darn Tough
Breathability
These two companies provide high performance both in hot and cold climates due to Merino wool.
They absorb moisture from your feet, minimize sweating, and keep blisters away when hiking for a long time.
Breathability is almost the same if we don’t compare certain models.
Winner: Tie
Cushioning Options
Both companies offer:
- Light Cushion
- Medium Cushion
- Full Cushion
- Lightweight Models
- Midweight Models
For those looking for extra comfort, Smartwool can be a little more cushioned underfoot.
For those seeking maximum support when going hiking with heavy packs, Darn Tough will provide a firmer feel, which is liked by many hikers.
Winner: Tie
Fit and Performance
The Darn Toughs have an athletic fit that keeps them securely in place regardless of the incline.
The Smartwools provide a slightly looser fit that is perfect for regular hikes and walks.
Both brands avoid bunching if they are fitted correctly.
Winner: Darn Tough
Warranty
Another significant difference that we see is the warranty.
While Darn Tough gives you a lifetime warranty on all their socks, which is among the most robust warranties in the industry, Smartwool does not have such a warranty and can only offer you a warranty in case of any manufacturing defect.
Winner: Darn Tough
Price
The price difference is usually small.
- Darn Tough: Premium pricing
- Smartwool: Slightly lower depending on the model
Although Darn Tough costs a little more, its lifetime warranty can make it a better long-term investment.
Which Brand Is Better for Hiking?
Choose Darn Tough if you:
- Frequently go backpacking
- Complete long-distance hikes
- Want maximum durability
- Prefer a snug performance fit
- Value a lifetime warranty
Choose Smartwool if you:
- Enjoy day hikes
- Prefer softer cushioning
- Want excellent comfort
- Like a slightly more relaxed fit
Pros and Cons
Darn Tough
Pros
- Outstanding durability
- Lifetime warranty
- Excellent moisture management
- Secure fit
- Great for backpacking
Cons
- Slightly more expensive
- Firmer feel than Smartwool
Smartwool
Pros
- Extremely comfortable
- Soft cushioning
- Excellent breathability
- Wide range of hiking styles
Cons
- Warranty isn’t as strong
- May wear faster under heavy use
Frequently Asked Questions
Are Darn Tough socks worth the money?
Yes. Their durability and lifetime warranty make them an excellent long-term investment for serious hikers.
Are Smartwool socks good for backpacking?
Absolutely. Smartwool hiking socks perform well on both day hikes and multi-day backpacking trips, especially if comfort is your top priority.
Which socks last longer?
Darn Tough generally lasts longer thanks to its dense construction and lifetime guarantee.
If you have opted for Darn Tough owing to its high quality and value, it is also advisable to verify whether there are any discounts that may be going on. You can go through our
Darn Tough Coupon Code guide to check whether there are any promotions currently running that can help you save money on your purchase.
Final Verdict
Darn Tough and Smartwool make some of the finest Merino wool hiking socks available in the market.
If you consider long lasting socks with warranty as your top priority, Darn Tough should be your choice.
On the other hand, if you place comfort over everything else, Smartwool is definitely the better choice for you.
Either way, buying premium Merino wool hiking socks will ensure comfort and prevent blistering during your hikes.
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