7 of 7 people found the following review helpful:
5.0 out of 5 stars
Excellent for running, December 22, 2010
This review is from: Darn Tough Vermont Merino Wool 1/4 Cushion Sock (Apparel)
I am a serious runner (1200 miles per year) and am always interested in trying new socks for running. After buying one pair to test them, I just ordered four more pair because these are one of the most comfortable running socks that I have used, which is why they have earned consistent five star reviews.
Unlike other cushioned running socks that I own, these do not fit as tight, and the wool is not only very comfortable, but also keeps my feet nice and warm in the cold winter weather that we are having now in the Northeast. The wool does not bunch up,and stays smooth. The cushioning feels luxurious, but is not so thick that I cannot comfortably wear my running shoes. On the other hand, I use minimalist running shoes that are not cushioned (Nike Free Run+). With the heavily cushioned running shoes that I used to wear before I read Born to Run, however, the fit is very snug, and may be too tight for some runners.
I wear a size 8 street shoe and 9 1/2 running shoe, and the medium size fit me--but just barely. I then ordered a large size and like the fit much better. Order up in size if in doubt.
I bought the Lime color because I got free shipping with Amazon Prime, and this was less expensive than the other colors.
I also bought the Coolmax version of these socks (I have reviewed them on Amazon), which also work really well and are slightly less snug than the wool if you use highly cushioned running shoes.
Bottom line: These socks are not cheap, but they are very well made and make running a pleasure. I recommend them.
Update January 28, 2010: One of the benefits of wool is that it keeps you warm even when wet. I went running at night and stepped into an icy slushy mess while waiting to cross the street, and immediately felt the cold water go into my right running shoe. But after the initial shock, I was able to finish my run without feeling cold at all, and when I got home my foot was not cold even though the sock was wet.
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3 of 3 people found the following review helpful:
5.0 out of 5 stars
Darn warm, made in Vermont, January 11, 2011
This review is from: Darn Tough Vermont Merino Wool 1/4 Cushion Sock (Apparel)
Yes, they are expensive and, yes they are worth the expense if the goal is to keep you feet warm. I have some peripheral blood flow issues, meaning that I am more likely than most to get frostbites on my feet even when it's not too cold but these socks took care of the problem and my feet are now happy and warm all winter long.
Getting into specifics, they are made of:
- 65% Merino wool
- 31% Nylon
- 04% LYCRA spandex
They are also Made in the USA. In Vermont, to be more specific.
The makers claim that the Merino wool is highly breathable, itch-free, fast drying and... naturally anti-microbial. I don't know what that last claim means but I can confirm that these socks, indeed, are are a very comfortable wear, they do keep my feet dry and warm and they don't look too bad either. I can't verify the claim that these socks will be keeping you cool in the summer because I haven't had them last summer.
The makers of Darn Tough promise an 'unconditional lifetime guarantee' stating that "if our socks aren't the most comfortable and durable socks you've ever owned, return them for your money back". I'm not sure how that works but I'm not planning to return them because I really like them on my feet.
--
>> Brush your teeth, it's the law! <<
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3 of 3 people found the following review helpful:
5.0 out of 5 stars
These socks are awesome!, October 12, 2010
These socks are great. I use them for running. They are thick and long-lasting. Be aware that the extra thickness might make your shoes a bit tight.
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