I started backpacking as a kid in the Boy Scouts doing overnighters. In the last few months, I have caught a bug that wants me to go out and see things that a relatively few people have seen. This has drawn me back to backpacking. I have found it to be the most enjoyable thing I know. I have gotten my wife involved and we get out and hike at least once a month. I generally carry about 40 lbs (18 kg) and am in the process of decreasing that weight.

I have used these socks in the Western Oregon area in altitudes from sea level to about 5000 ft (1500 m). I used the socks in wet, rainy conditions as well as sandy, beach conditions. It will be used on trails and on open beaches. I used the socks for any hiking that I have done as well as during all outdoor work that I have done. I have worn the socks every weekend since I received them and have washed them about 6 times. Temperatures have been between 10 F (-12 C) and 50 F (10 C). I have worn these socks in wet weather and in snow.

I have been very impressed by the quality of these socks. They are the most comfortable cold-weather socks that I have ever worn. They are very warm, yet comfortable. They are effective as hiking socks and perform to the expectations that I have.
The socks have been put through a grueling trial on my big feet and through my washing machine. I have worn them for as many as four straight days without washing and have had no issues with odor or discomfort. They hold well to my calf and do not drop down my leg at a bothersome rate. I have tried other socks that are cold-weather hiking socks and they had to be constantly pulled up. The Dahlgren socks have not had this problem. The elasticity in these socks has been excellent. They have the same snug, controlled feel when I put them on as they did when I first got them. I have washed them six or seven times since I received them and they have held up well. They do have some pilling, but that is what I would expect to have in a sock like this. I have not found it to be problematic, but will watch this as I move forward in the test.
These socks are very warm. I have cold feet when sitting and then I get very warm feet when walking or hiking. I have found that my feet do get warm in the cold weather, but have never felt any perspiration or discomfort. The wicking ability of these socks has been as good as is needed for the conditions that I have been in. I have had no problem with these socks sliding down into my boots or into my shoes. They have caused me no blisters and they have not caused sliding in my boots.
I have found myself wearing these socks around my house as they keep my feet nice and toasty. I almost use them like slippers in my house. They are soft and very comfortable. The padding in the heels and toes has been effective and I have enjoyed the extra comfort. So far, I would rate these socks a nine out of ten. I look forward to continuing this test and reporting on long-term durability. I will be watching for excessive pilling and breakdown of the elasticity in the upper portion of the sock.