Darn Tough Hiker Micro Crew Socks Review
When it comes to hiking, your feet are your most important asset. A functional pair of hiking socks can really be the difference between a good time or a painful time on the trails. But there are a ton of socks on the market which can make it difficult to figure out which ones will work for you. If you have been looking at the Darn Tough Hiker Micro Crew socks and are wondering if they will work for you. Keep reading as I dive into my honest review from my experience with wearing these socks out on the trails for the last several years.
Darn Tough Hiker Micro Crew Midweight Socks
MSRP: $24 | Fabric: 61% Merino Wool, 36% Nylon, 3% Lycra Spandex |Cushion: Midweight
Pros
- Well fitted and comfy
- Excellent durability
- Breathable and quick drying
- Awesome designs and bundles
Cons
- A little pricey, but well worth the value
- Fabric can feel a little slippery
Bottom Line
The Darn Tough Hiker Micro Crew socks are very comfortable socks with superior durability and versatility. These socks have lasted years without any noticeable wear and tear. They are made with a Merino wool blend which makes them highly breathable, moisture-wicking, and odor resistant. I have used these socks in various environments and temperatures without any discomfort and the micro crew height works well for providing a little extra coverage while still providing a little bit of more breathability and flexibility.
Performance: Darn Tough Hiker Micro Crew Socks
When trying to find the best pair of hiking socks there are a lot of factors to consider. Depending on the season you will want either a lighter more breathable pair or a heavier and warmer pair of socks. Important factors to consider are the comfort, breathability, and wicking ability of the sock to minimize blister formation. Also, the durability of the socks, will it hold up against the elements or fall apart with use.
Comfort & Mobility
In terms of comfort and mobility the most updated Darn Tough Hiker Micro Crew sock offers more breathability and feels a bit softer to the touch. In addition to fairly pretty good underfoot cushioning that wraps from the toes to the base of the Achilles. In this review I tested my midweight cushioned Micro Crew sock. I found it to be still fairly light and extremely comfortable and durable.
I have easily worn my Darn Tough Hiker Micro Crew Midweight socks for a couple years and the versatility really shines. These socks work well in the mountains, deserts, and for treks near the ocean and even can function in colder weather.
The 61% Merino Wool, 36% Nylon, 3% Lycra Spandex and midweight cushioning really work to provide increased comfort, warmth, and breathability. The higher blend of nylon really makes these socks very durable and stay formed to the foot.
In the past I have worn socks that just roll and sag when out on the trails. With the Hiker Micro Crew socks, I do not find myself having to pull or adjust these socks very often. These socks stay formed to my feet without falling down and the micro crew is such a great versatile cut.
Breathability
These socks are extremely breathable and wick moisture off easily. I have worn these socks on countless backpacking, hiking, and trail running trips without any discomfort. Even when these socks do get wet, they dry very quickly. They are not quite as breathable as the Light Hiker Micro Crew. But the midweight option is much more versatile in my opinion.
On longer treks the socks will start to hold a little more moisture but, what I usually do is take my boots or shoes off during stops. I have found that it does not take much to air dry these socks at all. In moderate temperatures these socks did excel and performed at the higher end compared to other wool blend socks I have worn in the past.
Durability
This is one area that Darn Tough really does excel in, backed up by their Darn Tough Guarantee if your socks do get worn out you can send them in and get a new pair. But, I can confidently say I have not had to use the guarantee and have been wearing these socks for years with over hundreds of miles on them in various conditions. I have not seen a hole yet…knock on wood!
Warmth
When it comes to warmth these socks are moderately warm, they are slightly on the lighter side making them best for 3 season use. However, because they are made a little thicker with midweight cushion they do hold up in the winter conditions as well.
The wool blend of materials with the midweight sock is a lot thicker compared to the Light Hiker. I noticed with these socks my feet stay warmer in the winter and have even used these socks for sleeping. If you are planning on doing heavier winter snowshoeing or mountaineering, I believe there are better options such as Darn Tough’s full cushion socks.
In the summer, if you tend to get super warm then you might opt for the Light Hiker Micro Crew socks which are a bit more breathable. But if you are looking for a good middle of the road option then you cannot go wrong with the Darn Tough Hiker Micro Crew Midweight socks.
Drying Speed
Drying speed and breathability is an important attribute for hikers especially during any water crossing or rainy days. Being able to really prevent your feet from becoming macerated aka avoiding trench foot, helps to minimize foot softening and blisters. Though this is not super common it does happen with prolonged exposure to moisture.
With the drying test, Hiker Micro crew sock did fairly well on drying speed out on the trails. Their nylon and wool blend really make these socks super at wicking and drying. During most of my wet hikes with multiple creeks crossing the socks appeared to hold up well and during stops would easily be completely dried within 15 minutes or so in the sun.
What Other Hiking Socks Should You Consider?
Darn Toughs, Hiker Micro Crew Midweight sock is a great pick when it comes to versatility, comfort, and durability. But, when it comes to hiking socks, it can help to have multiple pairs for different seasons, conditions, and occasions.
For really hot weather you may want to go with the Light Hiker Micro Crew for added breathability. And for really cold conditions the Darn Tough Full Cushion or Icebreaker Hike Heavy are warmer and more comfortable. If you are planning on hiking with sandals, then I would check out the Injinji Crew which I like to sometimes wear with my Choco’s.
Want to find other awesome socks check out this article, Best Socks for Hikers
Should You Buy The Hiker Micro Crew?
Overall, you cannot really go wrong with the Darn Tough Hiker Micro Crew Midweight it is one of the most versatile and classic hiking socks out there. In addition, it is backed by one of the best guarantees out there. When it comes to hiking socks, this is one I reach for very often because it just works in various types of conditions and weather. If you are wanting a sock that will be worth every penny this sock is definitely worth it.
