Worth every cent, Darn Tough is absolutely the best sock brand I have ever owned, I have tried many name brands in my search for a perfect pair of winter hiking socks and these are it. After receiving my initial order for style number 1440 (extra cushion over the calf) I immediately loaded up on both the 1/4 socks and hiking 3/4 length and they are just as awesome. You will know these are quality socks the first time you wear them! I use the 1440's for winter hiking/camping but they are just as awesome to wear around the house on a cold winter day/night as they keep your toes completely warm inside a shoe/boot or stand alone. I wear shoe size 10.5 medium and the size large in the 1440 was perfect. These socks literally blow my JB's and Smartwools outta the water.

When I first received them and tried them on I was just thrilled, my wife literally had to ask me to quit talking about them, they are that good. Oh yeah, they are pricey but you get what you pay for and I would not hesitate one second to replace my Darn Tough's if they were lost or worn out.

Full extra cushion of a very dense fabric from bottom to top but not abnoxiously thick like some wool socks. The nylon and spandex makes them conform to your foot without slipping or bunching up when walking in them without shoes on. They stay up over the calves with maximum comfort, I have fairly large calves and these socks do not restrict blood flow or feel tight at all, in fact you can hardly tell you have them on. The toe seams are very flat with no obnoxious fabric/thread knots that can cause blisters as I have had on some other high dollar name brand socks. Best part of all they DO NOT itch one iota! The very dense merino wool, nylon and spandex has to be felt and enjoyed in person to be appreciated. I have NO negatives or exceptions to mention.

I contacted Darn Tough with a few questions concerning size, colors, new models etc and they were first rate, answered my questions professionally and made me feel like a valued customer. They have earned my business for life, unless something better comes along which I clearly do not foresee.

Updated 12-18-13: Only thing I would like to add years later is a request that they PLEASE make an equally nice solid white crew sock, this is a hard to find item and I would load up on them.