When I think Darn Tough, an image immediately comes to mind of one of those pristine workshops coated in white and chrome where they test formula 1 race cars. The perfectionism that the folks at Darn Tough press, smash, and pour into the DNA of each and every sock they create is staggering. I would venture to say they aren't so much making socks as they are reconstructing and revitalizing that good old fashioned notion that a product should last.
Their slogan; "unconditionally guaranteed for life" is no joke. They have a group of people dedicated to their chosen sport or outdoor enthusiasm, who test the new products out in the real world, and it this dedication that I believe drives them forward through ever increasing innovations and experiments in comfort and sustainability. If you think they couldn't get more home grown and genuine, they're family owned, and centered in the USA. Its almost as if they realized that quality shouldn't be sacrificed for quantity! How about that?
You may say I sound like I'm a die hard fanboy, and while I wouldn't say you're wrong, I don't want you to get the idea that I'm biased. I'm still coming into my own here in this industry, and I have no delusions of grandeur, they're just socks...right? What I do want to convey is how great it is to own a product that wasn't made to eventually fail, it wasn't engineered with an in built "life span" or made from flimsy materials, like so many things made today seem to be. Does that mean they wont tear, break down or unravel if torn and tested rigorously enough? No, but that's not the point, the point is, that they were crafted with the intent that they last forever, and evidence suggests, that they may very well outlive you and yours.
At the end of the day, I can honestly say I've never been happier owning a pair of socks, I can put them on and do anything, and not have to worry about them riding up, falling down, or causing pain. I'm not old enough to remember when products were made to last, but it doesn't take much to see the difference between what was, and what is, and whats still around (looking at you singer sowing machines) and I'm excited that people still want to create and innovate with quality products, and that there are still companies who have heart and soul.