We tested the Darn Tough Light Hiker Micro Crew Socks on a fall hike with uneven surfaces and varying elevations. To say the least, the socks were a darn tough accessory and kept us warm, dry, and comfortable throughout our hike.
The cushioning for such a thin pair of socks was remarkable for such a long hike. Not once did we experience slipping or sliding, and these socks’ material proved to be hypoallergenic. The combination of Marino wool and nylon kept our feet dry for most of the journey. At the same time, the Lyrca Spandex was elastic enough to give us the freedom of movement we required.
Performance Comparison and Testing Results
Comfort and Fit
While we hiked for a day, the Darn Tough Light Hiker Micro Crew socks made a premium difference in our experience regardless of their lightweight. The socks are a combination of 54% Nylon, 43% Merino Wool, and 3% Lycra Spandex, creating a soft, durable, comfortable and breathable material.
Unlike your regular cotton socks, Light Hiker has a tight-knit design that molds to the shape of your feet and fits snugly around the heel and the ankles.
We were skeptical about the promises of cushioning for the arch and the heel of the foot since the Light Hikers are extremely lightweight. However, we were pleasantly surprised yet again.
The reinforced heel and the micro crew length provided mid-level cushioning density, which proved extremely lucrative for our uphill journey. There was no excess fabric to halt the spring-back action, and neither was there any friction to slow us down.
To ensure a perfect fit, Light Hiker socks have a seamless construction. The heel and toe reinforcements allow for a premium in-step performance and the mid-calf length allows you to pair them with ankle-high boots.
Performance and Durability
We tested this pair on a long haul and were satisfied with Light Hikers’ resilience. The nylon-merino combination holds to its tough weave. It doesn’t lose shape after exposure to friction, sweat, or repeated washes.
The material and the construction of these socks really enhance their durability. Nylon is known for retaining its shape against wear and tear. Even after a tough hike, we found no holes or abrasions caused by friction.
To sweeten the pot, Darn Tough promises a new pair should damage occur to the socks that you have bought. However, Light Hiker socks are a long-lasting product and would carry their weight through the roughest of challenges.
Merino wool is known for its wicking qualities. It absorbs moisture and wicks it away from your feet, keeping them dry and reducing the chances of sweat pooling within your shoes.
The porous surface of the socks allows great ventilation so your feet have a dry and cool space within the shoes. Merino wool is also one of the most hypoallergenic fabrics, which guarantees the elimination of odor-causing bacteria. Not only will you be safe from smelly feet, but you will also be protected from rashes and blisters.
Wicking and Breathability
The combination of Nylon and Merino wool provides increased wicking and breathability compared to other cotton socks. Nylon is known to have a porous surface with large pores to let water vapor escape and allow air to ventilate the fabric thoroughly.
The Light Hiker socks did not give us a minute of worry when it came to wicking. We continued our journey without having to air out our feet.
Regardless of how much sweat you produce, the breathability of Light Hiker doesn’t let moisture accumulate; it regulates the temperature within the shoe and keeps your feet dry.
Warmth
Our fall hike did not need extra layering. However, as soon as the temperatures dipped, our feet did feel colder.
The merino wool of the Light Hikers provides a good layer of protection against cooler weather conditions. The nylon aspect of the composition promises temperature regulation as it keeps you cool in summer and warm in winter.
However, for winter hikes with sub-zero temperatures, the Light Hikers aren’t a very convenient option, and layering them might not provide you enough freedom of movement. The Light Hikers perform lucratively with your hiking gear for a summer, spring, or fall hike.
Water Resistance and Dry Time
We might not see any Omni-wick technology in the Darn Tough Light Hiker Micro Crew socks. Still, the socks’ material provides substantial protection against exposure to water.
Once wet, the drying time for this pair is quick. The breathability of nylon allows accelerated ventilation. The porous surface allows water vapors to escape quickly and in large numbers. Thus, a little wind or sun is enough to dry these socks.
The Light Hikers don’t have a lot going on the hydrophobic front. However, merino wool has some hydrophobic qualities, and we are ready to bet on them. Since the wicking is great, we felt water resistance isn’t the hill Light Hikers should die on.
Pros and Cons
The unrestricted movement and heel-to-toe reinforced fit has to be the star qualities of Light Hiker socks. The mid-crew length is suitable for hiking with cuffed boots. The material’s durability gave us a worry-free trip since wear and tear are almost negligent.
The downside to Light Crew is their inability to be used in winter. Not only do they not have the capability to keep you warm, but they can’t be used with higher-top hiking boots.
Layering might be an option for cooler hikes; however, a high-intensity winter hike needs more cushioning than the Light Hiker can provide.
Final Verdict
Our review ends with recommending Darn Tough Light Hiker Micro Crew Socks. They are designed to withstand long hauls that require cushioning, increased breathability and resist wear and tear. Our verdict is based on the nylon-merino material that Darn Tough carefully chose and structured into a seamless, abrasion-free sock.
These socks compliment your hiking gear as they come in various colors, styles and designs. Not only are they a good fit for hiking but you can wear them for work that requires long periods of standing or walking.
Related: Do Hiking Socks Make a Difference?