Darn Tough Vermont makes, well, darn tough socks. Everyone knows that. I was first introduced to the company through their excellent and long-lasting ski socks. But now that mountain biking season is here, my sock needs go from thick and warm to lightweight and breathable. Thankfully Darn Tough Vermont has just the thing in their new Element athletic sock. I’ve been on a few rides in the Salt Lake City singletrack and have some thoughts on their performance. But fist, the details.
Darn Tough Vermont Element
Darn Tough Vermont Element Socks feature:
- Performance Fit: No slipping, no bunching, and no blisters.
- Fine Gauge Knitting: Unprecedented durability and their unique “put it on, forget it’s on” feel.
- Fast Action Wicking: Pulls moisture away from skin. Fast drying.
- All Weather Performance: Cool in the summer, warm in the winter.
- Guaranteed For Life: No strings. No conditions. For life.
- Merino Wool is fast drying, breathable and odor resistant for all-day comfort.
- True Seamless™: Undetectable seam fusion for an ultra smooth, invisible feel.
The Test
Mountain biking is my primary outdoor activity in the summer. But Darn Tough doesn’t have a “bike” category. However, their athletic line of socks are every bit as good, if not better, than my bike-specific socks of old. I have a confession to make – all of my bike socks are freebies from competing in races. Ergo, they’re probably pretty cheap. On my first ride in the Element socks, my suspicions were confirmed.
As far as socks go, the Element at first glance don’t seem much different than any other sock. But when I put them on, the difference felt immediate. The Element are snug but with plenty of stretch for a dialed fit. A bit of cushion underfoot provides excellent comfort, especially on long uphill slogs on my flat pedals. This is welcome because, let’s face it, mountain bike shoes are not the cushiest footwear by design.
Warm weather mountain biking is a sweaty endeavor. So I was thrilled after a ride to find that the socks wick moisture away, but also stink a lot less than my synthetic-sock counterparts. That’s because the Darn Tough Element is partially made from Merino wool. There’s also a mesh panel on the top of the foot for added breathability.
One of the hallmarks from Darn Tough Vermont is that their socks are seamless. There’s not much that’s more annoying then feeling a rough sock seam under the toes. That problem simply does not exist with any Darn Tough socks.
Darn Tough also offers an unconditional lifetime warranty. They say that if their socks “are not the most comfortable, durable and best fitting socks you have ever owned, return them for another pair. No strings. No conditions. Socks guaranteed for life.” Pretty sweet.
The Element are available for both men and women, and come in three different versions: no show, crew and over-the-calf. They also come in three colors (thankfully black is an option as that’s my preference for mountain biking.)
Final Word
After miles on the trail, the Darn Tough Vermont Element Athletic Socks are my new gold standard. A snug fit combined with seamless technology, cushion underfoot, and breatheabilty provide unmatched comfort. These socks would undoubtedly perform for any outdoor activity from mountain biking to hiking, trail running and more.
Find your pair at darntough.com