Compare two hiking socks side by side

Choose two pairs to see how their fit, materials and care differ.

First sockSecond sock

Show differences only

Example: Darn Tough Hiker beside Smartwool Hike Classic Edition Crew. Choose any two socks.

Solid: Darn Tough Men's Hiker Micro Crew Midweight Cushion. Green outline: Smartwool Hike Classic Edition Crew Full Cushion, SW013000. Where the maker publishes no height, the cuff is drawn at a typical height for its name.

Darn Tough Men's Hiker Micro Crew Midweight Cushion

When you want cushion under the foot

Smartwool Hike Classic Edition Crew Full Cushion, SW013000

When you want full cushioning in a crew

61% merino wool, 36% nylon, 3% lycra

66% merino wool, 33% nylon, 1% elastane

Check price on Amazon ↗

View Darn Tough’s product page

Check price on Amazon ↗

View Smartwool’s product page

Sock type

Standard sock

Material blend

61% merino wool, 36% nylon, 3% lycra

66% merino wool, 33% nylon, 1% elastane

Each layer

Single layer

Cuff height

micro crew · 8.5 in on average

crew

Size chart

Men’s / unisex chart

Unisex chart

Weight (maker’s term)

midweight

medium thickness

Cushion (maker’s term)

cushion

full cushion

Cushion location

underfoot

full foot

Wool-free

Care

Wash inside out on a cold, gentle cycle. Use low tumble heat or hang dry. Avoid bleach and dry cleaning.

Wash on a gentle cycle in warm or cool water. Tumble dry low. Do not bleach, iron or dry clean.

Keep in mind

Its 8.5-inch average cuff may sit below a tall boot collar. Compare the two heights before choosing a micro crew.

Smartwool labels this medium thickness. Compare Extra Cushion only if you have room for its heavier construction.

Facts from

Maker’s US product page

Check each sock’s size chart before choosing: Darn Tough Men's Hiker Micro Crew Midweight Cushion size chart · Smartwool Hike Classic Edition Crew Full Cushion, SW013000 size chart. Each sock’s page lists its sources.

Try socks with your hiking shoes

Use the footwear-fit checks to check heel position, toe room and every layer you wear together. The cushion guide explains why one brand’s “light” is not another’s.