Update: Darn Tough socks after 4 years of city commuting (warranty tested, what actually wore out)
Follow up to my old sock hunt: I bought several pairs of Darn Tough merino crew socks in 2022 after seeing them recommended here for daily wear. I wanted something that could handle lots of walking, subway stairs, and getting squashed into shoes while I run between work and evening hobbies.
How they held up: I rotate six pairs and wear them year round. Most still look and feel almost new, just a bit less plush in the heel. No stretched-out ankles, no sagging, and they never developed that permanent funky smell my old cotton packs always did.
What failed: One pair developed a thin spot right at the ball of the foot. Totally my fault; I tend to pivot there when I carry a tote with a board game box. It did not turn into a massive hole, but it was clearly headed that way.
Warranty experience: I finally tested the warranty last month. I followed the instructions, mailed the worn pair in, and got a replacement without any drama. Turnaround was a couple of weeks, which made me feel a lot better about paying more up front.
BIFL take: They are not literally forever, but rotating them plus the warranty has basically solved my sock problem for commuting. If anyone has a non-US brand that has held up as well, I would love to hear about it.