A 100% American Merino-synthetic blend sock that is perfect for a variety of uses.
Performance Comparison
This mid-calf length sock is comfortable and fit for any adventure. Its midweight merino-wool blend is perfect for taking on the wet climates of Iceland! A perfect option for those seeking a hiker that can take on all types of weather conditions.
Comfort
Featuring midweight cushioning and super soft materials, this is one comfortable sock! The length rides up to the calf, providing warmth and coziness on the coldest nights out on the trail. The cushioning is ample where needed, with 19.5-micron gauge Merino wool woven in a tightly packed configuration that limits bulk but still amps up comfort.
Ample cushioning in the heel and forefoot add additional comforts. In addition, the stretchy compression panelling around the arch of the foot keeps it in place while out on the trail.
We took this sock with us through the Mountains of Colorado and into the swampy and cold climates of Iceland. Through it all, we appreciated the comfort of the materials underfoot, even when tackling 20+ miles in a day. Our only qualm is that the front of the foot isn't super fitted and when wet, it can bunch at the toe. Other then that, we appreciate the compression zones that keep the sock on foot and doesn't allow it to ride down while on the go.
Warmth
While this isn't the warmest sock on the market, it is certainly suited for use in all four seasons. As a midweight sock, it does wonderfully as both an activewear option while hiking or backpacking, and as a great lounge around option when temperatures dip way down.
Even when wet, these Merino wool socks keep your feet warm! Warm them around a cold campfire or while tackling the nastiest terrain you're willing to put your feet through.
When hiking and backpacking in temperatures that dipped below zero, our feet were left warm and happy. Because of its longer length, this sock is our go-to option when short socks might be too cold. The extra length provides additional insulation. When wet, it still offers a lot of warmth, which is characteristic of socks constructed of primarily Merino wool.
Wicking and Breathability
Utilizing a fine-gauge Merino wool, wicking and breathability is not a problem. Farm to Feet does a wonderful job balancing both of these. We tested this sock primarily in the wet climate of Iceland and the Faroe Islands and found our feet to be comfortable and happy, minus the days where the sock was supersaturated from swampy endeavors. The wool-synthetic blend wicks away perspiration, but it won't keep you dry when completely wet…no sock will.
Hiking and running in wet climates demand a sock that will wick and breath well. Here we run it out at the start of a 20-mile day on the remote island of Hornstrandir in Iceland. Through this run, we encountered wet, sandy beaches, tall grass, and heavy rain. Through it all, this sock kept our feet relatively happy and warm.
In addition to wicking ability, breathability is quite impressive. Utilizing 45% nylon in addition to 52% merino wool in the blend allows for better breathability than some 100% merino wool options. Also, while the fine-gauge wool provides comfort and cushion, strategically placed compression panels make for opportune airflow where it's needed most. This makes it a great choice for activities that require high and low activity. Everything from sitting around the campfire to running 20 miles in the rain.
The cozy fabrics are able to grab moisture and send them to the surface for quick wicking and ample breathability.
Durability
My, my, aren't we impressed! Even after 200+ tumultuous miles of trudging through tangled terrain, we noticed only minor pilling and very little wear and tear. If you're in the market for a durable merino-blend option, this is a brilliant choice.
A look at some of the pilling after many, many miles. No fly-aways, tears, or deformities were noted.
Farm to Feet is a 100% American company that not only sources its products within the USA but also sources its production to American workers. This brand also supports a 100% lifetime guarantee. If you're not happy, return it for a new pair!
Drying Speed
With a synthetic-merino wool construct, we are totally stoked about the drying speed of this sock. While tackling 20 miles of swamps and wet weather with high humidity, we hung our socks to dry. The Farm to Feet Damascus Midweight sock dried much faster than other 100% Merino wool options, making it a great option for long trekking days. When backpacking on the Hornstrandir Nature Preserve in Iceland, it served us well. During our controlled dryer tests, it proved to be one of the fastest to dry. Perfect for long or short adventures in wet weather.
A line dry test while camping in the humid, cold, and remote Hornstrandir Nature Preserve in Iceland. The result? The Darn Tough light hikers took way longer to dry then the Farm to Feet Midweight hiker...mostly attributed to the fact that Darn Tough packs in more fibers per square inch.
Best Application
Wear it on any adventure! The longer cut goes up the calf, making it compatible with both hiking boots and hiking shoes. As a midweight option, it's perfect for warm to cold weather but isn't the best option for super hot temperatures. We enjoyed using this sock while day hiking, backpacking, sailing, trail running and more. Its performance allows for a wide range of applications. Wear it while hunkered down in your tent or while tackling the treacherous terrain or wet environments.
Run, hike, explore! We took these socks for a walk in the fjords of the Faroe Islands, a small island cluster hardly found on any maps, just Southwest of Iceland. A perfect place for this versatile hiking sock.
Value
At $26, this is on the more expensive end of the sock spectrum. If you have a little extra cash, don't be afraid to splurge as it features a lifetime guarantee and versatile performance. That said, if you're on a budget, other options might suffice for your needs.
Conclusion
This 100% home-grown American sock is perfect for those seeking a hiker that is multi-faceted and functional for a wide range of activities. The synthetic-merino wool blend balances the best of both fabrics, making it a great option for everything from day hiking to backpacking for days.
Enjoy the views! Here we hang out at the top of a peak in Southwest Colorado. This sock is suited for all conditions...rain or shine.
