Comparative review of five Balega sock models
Reviewed in the United States on July 26, 2016
I have a number of pairs of Balega socks which I've worn for running, and the Soft Tread is my favorite overall. Here's a few comparative thoughts.I've bought five different types of Balega socks in total:Balega Soft Tread No Show (Balega Soft Tread No Show - Royal BAL8926)Balega Ultralight No Show (Balega Ultralight No Show Socks - Royal Blue/White - Small)Balega Hidden Contour (Balega Hidden Contour Socks, Black/Yellow, Large)Balega Hidden Comfort -- THIS PRODUCTBalega Blister Resist No Show (Balega Blister Resist No Show Socks, White, Large)The Balega Ultralight are very thin and rather smaller--especially in comparison to the other models. I've bought size Large in every sock, and they vary quite a bit. (For reference, I normally wear a men's 10, though I wear 11s for running.) If you like thin small socks, you may like the ultralight. Or go a size big if you want them to fit more comfortably.On the other hand, the Blister Resist were way too thick and large. They had so much excess material that they felt horrible and my feet moved around in them. They are very hot. The material on the top of the foot is actually very thin, but the bottom makes up for it. That said, They make a comfortable sock to walk around in on my wood floors in the winter. Since I won't run in them, I give them use around the house.The Hidden Contour and Hidden Comfort are similar. The Hidden Comfort are a tad thicker. They are both a bit thicker and larger than the Soft Tread socks, but they are comfortable and nicer for winter weather, when I tend to wear them running. If I were buying more, I'd go for the Hidden Comfort. Mine have stayed superbly comfortable longer than the Hidden Contour and still feel more padded.I like the Soft Tread best (for running) because they are thick enough to be padded and comfortable, but I have to pull them snug on my feet so there is no room for my feet to move against the sock. Also, they are not so thick that I feel my feet get hot -- and I run in 100 degree Texas summer weather. Finally, the Soft Tread are made R and L foot specific, which I've found to be helpful for fit. The Ultralights are as well, but not the other three models, if I recall correctly. Though the Hidden Comfort came with an L on each sock, that stands for "Large", not "Left". Also, the heel tabs on a lot of these sock models, including this one, are great and do a lot to make sure the sock stays in place.Hopefully this review helps a few folks decide what Balega sock might be best for them if they're looking to purchase. If you have questions, comment and I'll try to answer them.
great exercise sock
Reviewed in the United States on August 6, 2012
I love these. I just wish they came in tan!
Not genuine Balega
Reviewed in the United States on November 7, 2018
I have bought multiple pairs of these exact socks from various different stores in the past. As far as I can tell these socks (https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0016CL88E) are not genuine Balega socks.* The weave of the fabric is not as tight.* The fit of the socks is not they same (they come higher on the ankle).* The lettering on top of the socks does not match my other Balega socks.* There are simple spelling mistakes on the packaging (eg. pereormance instead of performance).* The printed cardboard packaging says made in South Africa, but there is sticker on the outside of the package that says made in China.The socks I bought were sold by ALXMJ SPORT BAND (https://www.amazon.com/sp?seller=A3OCO0GGZLIM0G).
Likely counterfeit item. â¹ï¸
Reviewed in the United States on December 16, 2018
These are comfortable, but not like any Belega I own. I believe I received counterfeit socks. Packaging says, "Made in China." Balega manufactures in South Africa and North Carolina only. Some wording on the packaging is "off." Logo embroidery on the socks is larger, and the elastic band around the ankle is missing.
Most comfortable socks I've ever worn
Reviewed in the United States on May 30, 2015
The socks are not too thin nor too thick. Just perfect. I played basketball with it as well as train for a 10k run with it. My feet always felt cool while just having enough protection from blisters. I wear a sz 9 shoes and the M fits like a glove.
SIZES ARE DIFFERENT ON PRODUCT!
Reviewed in the United States on February 27, 2016
I went by the sizes in the product description and ordered a medium, since I am a female with a size 8 shoe. When I received them, I noticed the sizing on the product was different: according to the company, I should've ordered a small. They seemed ok when I put them on, so I thought it would still work - it was just half a size off, right? I wore them for the first time this morning when I ran 5.5 miles and I felt like I had two blisters coming up on my toes. The only thing I can think of is that they're slightly big, so they were rubbing more than they would normally. They seem to be great socks though, and I might consider ordering a small next time. Just wanted everyone to be aware.
Excellent find...what a difference!
Reviewed in the United States on September 26, 2017
I discovered the Balega brand after an internet search of running blogs. For the gym and running, I have always just purchased whatever white ankle socks happened to be on sale at Target or Sears. Finally, after years and years of suffering with socks that both stretch and thin out after a very short while, I decided to practice the "you get what you pay for" method and splurge on some nicer socks.I am extremely happy that I did, and now I own five pairs. The are extremely comfortable, and since I have followed the washing instructions (no hot water, no bleach, no hot setting on dryer), they have not lost a bit of their fit, color, or comfort! A few days ago, due to procrastination, I had to search around and find some of my old socks (most are in the garage to use as rags now). It was such a disappointingly big difference that I almost used the excuse of not having my Balegas as a reason for me not to go run! Yes, they're that good.I have taken a photo of one inside-out so you can see the stitching for the extra padding for the toes and sole. There is also a small tab in the back that helps to prevent the heel of these socks from being sucked down into your gym/running shoes.Balega Hidden Comfort Athletic No Show Running Socks for Men and Women with Seamless Toe, (Medium) - Charcoal
Size is way off!
Reviewed in the United States on May 12, 2018
what is going on? I ordered 2 pairs.. both medium and these were HUGE! Take a look at pics... both are labeled the same size but they clearly aren't
Reviewed in the United Kingdom on August 14, 2014
I got a pair of Balega socks free with a shoe purchase last year and I'll never wear anything else ever again. They are AMAZING. I have since bought ten pairs - the first five I bought 18 months ago and they're still going strong, but I needed more as I usually train a couple of times a day so I bought another five pairs to make sure I never ran out between washes. They are the most comfortable socks I've ever worn and such good quality, despite my heavy training schedule the first five pairs have lasted well over a year and they are as good as new. I can't recommend them highly enough.
Reviewed in the United Kingdom on August 23, 2018
These socks are excellent, soft and mold to your feet like a glove. They stay in place. Will from now on always buy these. Trainer socks are very difficult to find with the heel tab on and am so glad found this company.
Reviewed in the United Kingdom on May 6, 2019
I cannot live without these socks & literally have them in every colour (twice)...Theyâre expensive for socks but worth every penny in my eyes.
Reviewed in the United Kingdom on August 22, 2019
Well made socks which is very soft and designed to stay put even while having a low profile. Best socks I've ever bought truth be told.
Reviewed in the United Kingdom on September 11, 2014
Was looking for a sock and saw DC Rainmaker (respected blogging triathlete) uses them - he says "No questions, these socksâ¦forever. So soft, just love them. Iâve never had blisters with them. Ever." So I ordered them on the strength of his words and agree totally, only thing I'd add is that the cushioning is lovely for troublesome feet like mine (morton's neuroma etc). They are also very easy to slip on.
Reviewed in the United Kingdom on November 19, 2019
Fantastic socks. Perfect profile, thickness and colour. Deducted a star because they donât age well. After one wash they have gone all bobbly.
Reviewed in the United Kingdom on May 28, 2018
Super comfy, much more so than many others. Just a little bit pricey
Reviewed in the United Kingdom on April 24, 2019
I bought all different types of running socks to try when I first got into running as everyone recommended something different. These are now the ones I always buy when I need new ones.
Reviewed in the United Kingdom on July 15, 2015
My brother gave me a pair of these with a pair of running shoes for my birthday last year, I bought more then and have just purchase another 5 pairs as the original ones are OK now for walking and gym work but I needed new for running. I can't describe just how different these socks are from anything you may have worn before, so comfortable, they have bounce built in and I have never suffered a blister since using them. If you run they are a MUST
Reviewed in the United Kingdom on November 6, 2017
This is a great brand and I think this is their best sock on the market. Iâve bought about 10 pairs of these over the years and Iâm sure to buy more.
Reviewed in the United Kingdom on November 25, 2019
very nice, soft and supportive feeling. my new favourite running socks.
Reviewed in the United Kingdom on October 6, 2018
Top quality love these, built to ladt
Reviewed in the United Kingdom on October 6, 2018
Love these, built to last
Reviewed in the United Kingdom on September 9, 2019
Feels quality on foot. Very comfortable.
Reviewed in the United Kingdom on February 14, 2018
These socks are perfect for long distance running
