Strongest Socks
4 Durable Socks Guaranteed For Life – Well Rigged
Some folks have feet that just seem to eat socks for breakfast. If you are one of these poor unfortunate souls take heart! I’ve got some seriously durable socks for you to consider.
In my pursuit of the long-lasting products, one of the most surprising niches I’ve discovered was five particular sock brands that actually guarantee they’re socks for life even if you wear them out.
That’s the closest you’ll ever get to getting free socks for life!
These 5 Sock brands are clearly duking it out in a no-holds-barred battle for sock supremacy.
Ha! Who knew sock-making could be such a cut-throat game?
The Toughest Sock Brands
All five of these brands offer lifetime replacements on their socks except for purposeful damage or accidents like a naughty pet who likes to chew.
Here’s an in depth comparison of the top two on this list.
Darn Tough FeeturesIce Breaker (Amazon Link)Bombas (Amazon Link)
Bonus: Tilley Travel Socks (3 year guarantee)
Update: Redhead Socks from Cabelas used to be on this list. While they are tough, they no longer come with lifetime replacements.
What to Look for in Durable Socks
Merino Wool
Merino Sheep
Four out of the five sock brands on this list use Merino wool in their socks. Merino is soft, exceptionally high wearing, isn’t itchy, and has very favorable thermal-stable properties. It will keep you warm in cold weather and cool in hot weather.
Perhaps the most stunning property of Merino wool is its odor resistance. That’s not just in socks either. Travelers like backpackers, motorcyclists, and air travelers prefer Merino apparel because of its anti-microbial properties. Translation: no stink after literally days of wear.
I know you won’t believe me. I didn’t until I experienced it myself. The difference between Merino wool and cotton is downright astonishing.
Long-Staple Fibres
Premium wool fibers are longer than average (aka “long-staple fibers. ”) As such, they are able to be woven more securely and continuously. Durability doesn’t rely as much on the thickness of the yarn but on how long the natural fibers are within the yarn and how they are plied together.
For example, imagine trying to fashion a rudementary rope by braiding 3-inch blades of grass together. Now imagine doing it using 24-inch blades of grass instead. Not only would the 3-inch blades be harder to work with, but your rope would also be far messier and more fragile.
Long-staple yarns also yield less pilling. Pilling is the result of shorter, less premium, fibers coming loose at one end and balling up while remaining anchored to the yarn on the other end. That’s why it’s hard to remove the pills. Low-quality cashmere also pills for similar reasons.
While some pilling will still happen with premium Merino wool socks, it is far less severe.
High-Density Knit
Tightly knitted socks with finer premium yarns are stronger, lighter and far more durable than bulkier cheap socks with a loose-knit.
Some Darn Tough Socks have up to 1441 stitches per square ’s because the strength of a fabric depends largely on the quality of the fiber and density of the weave.
Let’s get on with it and take a look at the most durable sock brands:
1. Darn Tough Socks
Rating: 4. 5/5Price: $15-30/pairStrengths: Athletics, Work, Cold Climates, Unique/colorful designsWeakness: Few plain-colored options
These puppies are unconditionally guaranteed for life with no strings attached. If you ever wear out your Darn Tough sock, just send the old pair in for a new pair! Awesome!
Of all the durable socks out there, Darn Tough Socks from Vermont has the most legendary reputation for durability on this list. These are my go-to socks. I’ve been wearing them for a couple of years now without a hitch.
Darn Tough also has the most variety and options. They specialize in creating durable socks for outdoor pursuits like running, hiking, hunting, and skiing.
So, if you’re into wearing a creative variety of patterns and colors Darn Tough is your best bet. In fact, you’ll be hard-pressed to find a plain black or white pair of socks. They are always coming out with special edition designs to add some pizazz to your sock drawer.
For more on Darn Tough Socks, check out my full review.
Best Seller: Hiker Micro Crew Cushion
Hard-core hikers borderline worship this sock as evidenced by over 600 rave reviews on Darn Tough’s website.
The Micro Crew has mid-level cushioning and undetectable seams to keep you comfortable over long hikes.
With 61% Merino, these hikers are great all-season socks; not to warm, not too cold, but ahhh… just right.
2. Feetures Socks
Rating: 4/5Price Range: $13-45/pairStrengths: Runners, Hidden/No-show, TherapeuticWeakness: Not cold climate/outdoor pursuit socks.
Feetures makes quality merino wool socks that are comparable to Darn Tough but are more focused on athletics. They also offer a no-questions-asked lifetime warranty.
Feetures are made by runners for runners. They don’t do heavy-duty hikers or alpine socks. On the other hand, they do make high-quality therapeutic compression socks and specially cushioned socks for plantar fasciitis.
Feetures are generally more reserved in their color choices. They are more mature and understated than Darn Tough.
Overall, they are a very solid choice especially if you’re looking for a good athletic sock. You can often get Feetures socks on sale a fair bit cheaper than Darn Tough socks too.
Best Seller: High-Performance Cushion No-Show Tab
High-Performance Cushion No-Show Tab
These cushioned performance running socks are Feetures claim to fame.
Made by runners for runners, the High-Performance range of models brings the best of merino, moisture-wicking, breathability and odor resistance while still offering a soft landing for your feet mile-on-mile.
Available in multiple colors, they are super-durable socks and don’t have any irritating toe seam, feature a Y-heel construction for a clean snug fit and a topside mesh for maximum ventilation.
IceBreaker Socks
Rating: 3/5Price Range: $18-40/pairStrengths: Outdoor pursuits, cold weather, casualWeakness: Highest price, Warrantee claims a more complicated
IceBreaker makes tough socks but they are best known for their high-quality Merino wool apparel. They are well-loved as travel wear because of Merino wools remarkable odor resistance.
IceBreaker makes about 50 varieties of socks for the men’s and women’s lines but color choices are limited. They have the highest price point on this list but when they go on sale you can get some great buys.
My main complaint is that to get your replacement socks you have to provide a proof of purchase and return it to the store you bought it from. That’s super impractical especially if you bought them online from a retailer three years ago!
Yes, they’re durable socks, but it’s too bad they make it so hard to return them.
Best Seller: Women’s Run+ Ultra Light Micro
Ice Breaker Women’s Run+ Ultra Light Micro
IceBreaker’s best-selling Run+ Ultra Light is a good all-round athletic sock with plenty of top-side ventilation, 61% Merino and ultra-light cushioning.
Bombas Socks
Rating: 3/5Price Range: $10-15/pairStrengths: Low prices, large kids lineWeaknesses: Long-staple cotton instead of Merino wool
Bombas uses premium long and extra-long-staple cotton fibers to make tough socks and apparel. While-long staple cotton is a premium fibre, it’s not as tough as Merino and doesn’t have the same thermal and anti-microbial benefits.
This trade-off means they can offer a much more affordable sock than Feetures and Darn Tough can.
Bombas focuses mainly on casual and athletic socks. Darn Tough and Bombas are the only lifetime warranty sock brands that also offer kid’s sizes. Yup, kids are definitely hard on socks. It might be nice to have free replacements for those little rascals.
Best Seller: Bombas Original Ankle Socks
Bombas Original Ankle Socks
Bombas originals are constructed from premium extra-long staple cotton and feature honeycomb arch support, a seamless toe, blister protection zone, and stay-up technology.
They are a great value if you are willing to live without the benefits that Merino wool brings to the table.
Bonus: Tilley Travel Socks
Tilley Travel Socks
As a final suggestion for durable socks, I’d have a look at Tilley’s socks.
I’m a big fan of Tilley hats and travel clothes. They make some seriously durable stuff and most of their stuff up with full lifetime warranties. For example, their travel clothes are even warranted against wear and tear!
While Tilley doesn’t have a huge lineup of socks, they do have a 3-year “all holes barred” guarantee. Definitely worth taking a look at.
Why Do Socks Get Holes in Them? August 30 2019, 0 Comments
It seems to happen far too often: You buy a brand-new pack of fresh socks. For a little while, you feel like you’re walking around with pillows on your feet. Then, one day, when you’re doing laundry, you notice those perfect pillows aren’t so perfect anymore. Your finger goes through a giant hole in the big toe, signaling that it’s time to go back to the store and replenish your sock supply yet again.
Why do some socks get holes in them so often? And what can you do to extend their lifespan? Let’s take a look at some of the most common reasons socks wear out and what you can do to prevent those pesky holes.
Stay Off Your Toes!
Some of us have more of a “pigeon-toed” walk than others, and this can cause those troublesome holes in the front of our socks that allow our toes to poke out.
If you’re concerned about the way your gait affects the longevity of your socks, your best bet is to invest in high-quality socks that don’t wear down so easily. It’s very difficult to change the way you walk, as it results from the way your entire body is built. But if walking on your toes causes problems for your socks and other parts of your body, maybe it’s time to put some effort toward staying off them.
Trim Your Toenails!
The longer your toenails grow, the sharper they become. If you let them get too far out of control, they can poke holes in your socks and potentially cause pain by getting jammed in your shoes or becoming ingrown. Experts recommend trimming your toenails at least every six to eight weeks.
Wear Shoes!
Walking around in only your socks increases friction on their fabric and causes them to wear out faster. This is especially true (and especially painful! ) if you’re walking on concrete, brick, or stone. But even less abrasive surfaces like tile or hardwood flooring can wear out your socks over time.
The downside of wearing shoes more often is that it’s more difficult to show off your socks, but crew socks, knee-high socks, and baseball stirrups are a great way to keep your shoes on and still express yourself through your choice of socks!
Stay Away from Cheap Socks!
The cheap, generic athletic socks you find in department stores might seem like the wise option, but if you’re an athlete or your job requires long hours on your feet, those low-quality socks aren’t serving your needs. Opt instead for custom socks made from high-quality fabrics designed to support the most dedicated athletes. Not only will your socks’ performance improve, but you’ll also get to have fun choosing your own colors, text, and more!
Holes in your socks are a pain, so we hope you feel better prepared to protect your socks and your feet by keeping them hole-free. Stay tuned to the Socks Rock blog for more on how to choose the best socks for your lifestyle and make them last.
At some point, virtually everyone has pulled on their favorite pair of socks only to find that they’re not wearing their beloved, toastiest socks anymore; they’re wearing drafty socks with holes in them. It seemingly happens in an instant: One day you’re wearing pristine socks. The next day they have holes the size of Minnesota.
Frequently Asked Questions
How Long Do Socks Last?
It depends heavily on how they are being used. The normal lifespan is between six months to a year.
What Causes Sock Holes?
Holes in socks are caused by:
Long toenails
Unbalanced step patterns
Not wearing shoes
Improper laundering
Improper folding
Unfortunately, you might not be able to avoid socks with holes created by the way you walk. Other causes are preventable.
How Do I Prevent Holey Socks?
You can prevent holey socks by purchasing quality socks, trimming your toenails and allowing the socks to dry flat. Hanging them to dry or using a clothes dryer can cause the elastic to wear out faster. You can also use fabric softener to help protect your socks.
What Are Some Other Uses for Socks With Holes?
If cleaning out your sock drawer has left you wondering what to do with old socks, here are some popular suggestions:
Use them as rags
Make sock puppets
Cut the toes out and use them as fingerless gloves
Pack breakables with them
What Kind of Socks Last the Longest?
High-quality cotton and wool socks last the longest, as long as you treat them right. Although any sock can develop holes, thinner nylon socks are usually the first to break down. Remember, even expensive socks can end up being socks with holes. Good socks mean happy feet no matter how hard you work or play. Trust Socks Rock to fulfill all of your quality sports and custom socks needs.
What Brand of Socks Last the Longest? – ModSock
Do you go through socks like wood through a chipper? Are you constantly wearing out your socks in the same spot? We understand your pain! While it’s normal to eventually toss socks once they get holes in the toes or thin areas on the heels, it’s not normal to be throwing away socks so often they may as well be disposable.
All the socks we carry meet a high standard of durability, but a few of our brands are even longer lasting than the rest. So if you’re struggling to make your socks last, here are our most durable socks, plus tips to extend your socks so you can stop wasting money and start enjoying your socks life!
The Guaranteed Most-Durable Socks
If you’re looking for socks for life, you need look no further than Darn Tough merino wool socks from Vermont. Not only are Darn Tough socks durable and specifically designed to resist wear and tear no matter the job or environment, they are also our only socks guaranteed for life. The Darn Tough socks warranty states that “Our unconditional lifetime guarantee is simple and without strings or conditions. If our socks are not the most comfortable, durable, and best-fitting socks you have ever owned, return them for another pair. ” Once you return your socks, Darn Tough will issue you store credit to order a new replacement pair.
This satisfaction guarantee is one part of why Darn Tough makes some of the best socks in the world, and the socks that last the longest. Their high-quality, hole-proof socks contain nylon for strength and wool for its temperature control and antimicrobial properties. Wool socks are also naturally moisture-wicking, keeping your feet dry and fresh for longer than most other materials.
Each sock is knit with strong stitching and details to improve their socks’ feel and athletic performance including breathable mesh tops, cushioned soles, arch support and seamless toes. Darn Tough makes a comfortable yet hard-wearing sock up to any task.
The Best-Quality Novelty Socks
Why should crazy socks mean flimsy socks? Our house brand ModSocks are fun socks specifically designed for fashion AND function with a reinforced heel and toe that significantly extends the life of the sock.
From floral stripes and sassy feminist socks to dapper dogs and handsome goat socks, ModSocks are the best socks to stay cute and last a long time. ModSocks brand socks are also wool-free vegan socks, containing just cotton, nylon, polyester and spandex in colors that resist fading.
Extend the Life of Your Socks
Besides buying the right kinds of socks, It’s important to understand that many factors can contribute to the longevity of your socks including choosing the correct sock size and shoe size, following proper sock care, keeping your toenails trimmed and even your body’s natural posture and gait!
A sock should be the right size to fit snugly around your foot without squeezing too tightly around your toes. To keep your socks from wearing too quickly, shoes shouldn’t be so tight that they’re causing friction or so loose that your foot wiggles around in your shoes, which also wears at the fabric of the sock.
Washing your socks according to their instructions and folding them instead of balling them will significantly increase their lifetime as well. (Balling socks weakens the elastic over time. ) If you’re rough with your socks or wear them frequently without washing them properly, the fabric will break down faster.
Good foot hygiene can also extend the life of your socks. Clean feet have fewer oils and bacteria that can break down fabrics, and neatly trimmed toenails prevent any snagged threads. If your feet are in particularly rough shape, take a little time each week to rest them in the foot soak of your choice. You deserve it! Not only will this feel AMAZING (especially after long days on your feet), but it will make both your feet and socks very happy.
Frequently Asked Questions about strongest socks
Why do my socks wear out so quickly?
Walking around in only your socks increases friction on their fabric and causes them to wear out faster. … if you’re walking on concrete, brick, or stone. But even less abrasive surfaces like tile or hardwood flooring can wear out your socks over time.Aug 30, 2019
Which socks last longest?
Wool socks are also naturally moisture-wicking, keeping your feet dry and fresh for longer than most other materials. Each sock is knit with strong stitching and details to improve their socks’ feel and athletic performance including breathable mesh tops, cushioned soles, arch support and seamless toes.
What is so special about Goldtoe socks?
The yarn in these socks—partially made from recycled plastic bottles—is ultra soft so you’ll be plenty warm (and plenty fly-looking) whether you’re in the great outdoors or just hitting the farmer’s market.Sep 23, 2019
