Another option for the minimalist set, this is a lighter, all-synthetic version of the brand’s Vertex sock, which fits and performs differently than the cushioned wool version in the test. 

Fit/Comfort
Some runners felt these fit too tight in the toe, which affected fit elsewhere in the sock, while another felt the toe box was stretched out. Some testers said the Darn Tough Coolmax Vertex socks felt warm during cooler runs. Like other socks tested, the polyester fibers in these are for performance and a lower-volume fit inside the shoe rather than comfort against the skin and some testers dinged it for that in the comfort category.

Wicking
A few testers found this to be the fastest-drying sock. The Coolmax polyester wicks well and isn’t compromised by other materials.

Durability
The tight construction and hard fibers were well-rated for durability – with the exception of one tester who noted these developed some bare spots.

The materials in the Darn Tough Coolmax Vertex ultra-light socks are durable and wick sweat well.

We called in 10 pairs of socks from established brands as well as newer entries to the market. We tested a mix of socks that will either debut in spring 2018, or are 2017 sock styles that will carry over into 2018 with new colors or patterns. Samples of variant styles were sent to our testers, who as road shoe testers, tended to prefer low-cut, thinner socks. Some ran in taller, more cushioned socks, though testers judged each pair based on the design’s intended use. We focused on the performance features in the foot of the sock, and our testers reported differences in the low-cut socks tied to the shape of their feet and the types of shoes they wore. 

Our testers ran in these throughout the fall in different climates, including Colorado, California and British Columbia. Most of the testing coincided with our road shoe testing, though several runners took these on trail and training runs, too.