One thing I am always looking for is items that will last a lifetime. Planned obsolescence is one of the most evil things you could do with a company. If someone makes a high-quality item that will last forever and can be passed on to future generations - sign me up, whether it's a shovel, an axe, good winter boots, or especially the roof for a house.
One great quality item I have learned to love is Darn Tough Socks.
[author's note: nobody cares about socks so I'm wedging this post between other, more interesting articles. We return to better stuff next post.]
Why These Socks Are Great
Morale Booster
It might seem silly and crotchety to get excited about socks. But these beauties are incredible. Comfortable, cozy, and warm they instantly make me feel better, and I can wear them all day without any problems. I keep a pair inside a water-proof bag inside my Go Bag, because for me they are an amazing morale booster. Had a tough day where you had to flee, scramble, fear for your safety, or run away with your family and make do in tough conditions? No problem: have some warm, dry socks. The ability to dry your feet and put on a clean pair of warm socks is a huge step toward morale and comfort.
The trio for happiness is "dry feet, warm back, full stomach". Darn Tough Socks seem to deliver any time.
Lifetime Warranty
I have now successfully returned and exchanged three pairs of socks under the company's Lifetime Warranty. For whatever reason, apparently I wear sock the wrong way, and wear out a particular spot on the bottom of my foot. Perhaps the pairs I had were some first generation where the stitching, material, or padding wasn't as good yet. Or who knows. The important part is: it doesn't matter, and I don't need to know why they failed - the company will simply swap and replace my socks.
For the low cost of $3, I can stick a pair of (clean!) socks in the mail and several weeks later get back a new, improved, replacement pair at no charge. It's amazing.
The company also seems to actually make their product right in Vermont, and not use any low-pay, horrible working condition sweatshops, which is important and fantastic. So it feels good to support them.
Not A Shill, Just A Fan
Lastly it must be said: I am not getting paid for this. I am not a secret advertisement in disguise and I'm not getting any compensation, kickbacks, bonus product, or anything of any kind. I'm just a regular person who really likes quality, and I'm thrilled to have found it here in these socks.
Darn Tough Socks cost more than a pair of 'regular', average, low-quality socks. It may take a long time to save up and buy enough pairs before I can make it through a whole week. But they are definitely worth it and I will keep working toward it, because they are a fantastic product.
May your feet be regularly warm and dry.