Montana Merino Wool
Socks, an integral part of most people’s daily life, can be a bit of trial and error with respect to comfort, quality, and longevity. Once you find a pair that works, you might pick up a few to stock your sock drawer. With the dryer inevitably swallowing a few pairs every year, the need for replacement socks does not relent. In my quest to shift the domestic vs international born apparel ratio in my closet, socks are on the list of my wardrobe refresh journey.
After recently introducing American-made socks to my snowboard gear, I was on the hunt for an option to check a couple more boxes: everyday wear in colder weather and hiking. The search did not take long as I reviewed Origin US’s directory and discovered a company based out of Bozeman, Montana, offering a collection of apparel produced with American grown wool. The Merino wool, produced by Duckworth’s co-founders and fourth generation sheep ranchers, is the backbone to the company’s clothing collection. From shirts, sweatpants, jackets, & vests, to base layers and socks, their lineup promises a durable and functional boost to your wardrobe.
Midweight Hiking Crew Sock by Duckworth
Ok back to socks. I picked up a pair of the Midweight Hiking Crews with the goal of everyday use during the colder months. I can attest that these socks performed well this past winter. What I experienced was a well cushioned, odor-free, and itch-free staple now elevated to the top of my drawer. The sock is unisex, available in multiple colors, and boasts moisture-wicking and quick-drying features. Looking closer into the sock’s construction, it’s comprised of 67% Montana Merino Wool, 24% Nylon, 6% Elastic, and 3% Lycra - giving it a superior balance of stretch and comfort in my opinion.
This summer, I plan to validate the socks’ performance in a hiking environment. I have no doubt they will perform well based on what I’ve seen so far, but would like to confirm as the activity and environment will differ greatly than what they’ve seen to date.
Duckworth’s story is a great one and I’m really happy to support a business priding itself on being the only apparel brand in the world' utilizing 100% source-verified Merino wool grown exclusively on Montana ranches. The company’s Sheep to Shelf™ mantra rings true as their supply chain maintains every step in the U.S. From the sheep to the wool shearing and cleaning, to the yarn spinning and fabric milling, the final garment manufacturing and distribution all take place in the United States.
Do yourself a favor and check out Duckworth’s offerings.