It's not Darn Tough to Find Truth, Justice and the American Sock

So, at home, there is a purple freak who skis and a Zumba queen who does not.

But when looking for their winter gear, there is one-stop shopping in the never-ending battle for truth, justice and finding an American-made sock.

Darn Tough does it again.

The Vermont-based company has been in the sock business for more than three decades and its Merino wool is about as itch-free and comfortable as it gets.

The company also provides two comfort levels in its ski and ride over-the-calf hosiery - cushion and ultra light.

For the 7-year-old, who skis the greens and blue cruisers for the most part, the choice was easy - the padded over-the-calf socks.

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There is a purple pair - called Night Shade.

Yes, the performance is there, but the trick with the kids is to combine that and fashion, There is a purple jacket over purple pants over a purple base layer and a purple vest. Right now the helmet is pink, but that will soon change.

Other colors include teal, Rad Red and Groovy Green. 

Finding winter socks for the wife was another story. About a decade ago, I had her all comfortable on the hill after acquiring a set of 123 CM learning skis. A trip to Bretton Woods, N.H. had her confidence soaring and then …

And then …

She's pregnant. That was seven years ago with the daughter who now skis. A set of twins in that time frame as well put her skis on the shelf and she is now a testament to why hot tubs, porches, indoor pools, and other off-the-mountain amenities were created.

Oh yes, that Zumba class in the fitness center. That seems to be her sport now.

Alas, the Tabitha Taupe women's life/style sock was the perfect fit for her. It's warm enough to wear under a winter boot for a walk or a ride on a mountain coaster or lounging around the lodge. It is also thin and breathable for that trip over to the Zumba studio at the resort.

And the Zumba studio back home.

The other warm feeling you get from Darn Tough is the price.

David McClure, the owner of New England Ski & Scuba in Vernon, said he was turned on to Darn Tough at a recent trade show and is considering adding them to his store because of the price and the Made in the USA label - a big selling point in this economic climate.

The ski and ride socks retail for about $20 - relatively cheap considering the quality - and can be found at outdoor stores all over the region - particularly Eastern Mountain Sports at 380 West Main St. in Avon, Manchester and West Hartford.

For a full description of the Darn Tough line,check out the DarnTough Web site.

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