Features:

  • No-show cushioned running sock provides comfort and performance during extended training and activity
  • Proprietary Drynamix wicks moisture away from skin, and specially constructed, reinforced microfiber mesh ventilation panels keep feet dry
  • Hand-linked seamless toe box minimizes friction, preventing chafing on top of the foot; reinforced heel and toe for durability
  • High heel tab and extra deep heel pocket prevent socks from slipping down; enhanced Elastane provides additional no-slip security
  • High-volume impact resistant cushioning and plush 200 needle-count fabric offer race-tested foot protection
Excellent find...what a difference!

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

Very comfortable, will glady buy more

This is my first pair of Balega socks, but it won't be my last. I was drawn to the thick texture of the sock and the padded heel tab that helps prevent slipping. These socks are very comfortable! They feel good on my feet, and they allow my feet to breathe. The socks stretch well without feeling tight. The heel tabs really do help keep the socks in place, although they did slip down once. Overall, I'm pleased with this pair of socks. The price fluctuates a lot, so watch for a deal. At the time I bought my pair, it cost 3 times as much as my regular socks. I'm not sure they are 3 times better, but are at least twice as nice. They are comfy and they wear well.

You'll feel as though you're walking on marshmallows!

These are my favorite sock for running! If they were cheaper, I could easily justify buying enough pairs to wear them as my daily sock. I wear an size 8.5 US running shoe (size 8 non-running shoe) and used the sizing chart on Balega's website to find my size. I purchased a medium. Imagine cloaking your feet in the most soft, comfortable sock ever. These socks will make you feel as though you're walking on marshmallows, without the sticky feeling. I cannot say enough about how extremely comfortable these socks are. They are designed in a way so that you have cushion specifically in all the right places without the sock being too bulky or thick. I especially like the cushion on the back where your heel might otherwise rub the back of your shoe. The socks breathe very well. I wear them for running in a warm and humid climate, and they stand up well to regular wear. I have been able to wash and dry them without them shrinking or breaking down. I love love love these socks!

My new favorites

I have NEVER liked no-show socks, and I was reluctant to try these, but they were highly rated and recommended. I love this socks. I will repeat that. I love these socks. They do NOT slip down. Recently wore them for a half marathon in the rain and they did not budge. My new favorite running socks. I want all colors.

Most comfortable socks I've ever worn

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.

My go to for recovery after ultras

Great socks for running these are my go to for recovery after ultras.

Comparative review of five Balega sock models

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 PRODUCT Balega 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

I have arthritis and these are comfortable and well padded to soften my steps in my exercise shoes. After using them at least three times a week for over six months, they are still smooth, soft, and cushion my feet well. The complete size chart on the package says: Small is european 36 - 39.5, men's 4.5 - 6.5, and women's 6 - 8; Medium is european 40 - 42.5, men's 7 - 9, and women's 8.5 - 10.5; Large is european 43 - 45.5, men's 9.5 - 11.5, and women's 11 - 13; Extra Large is european 46 - 48.5, men's 12 - 14, and women's 13.5 - 15.5

I had no idea what I was missing...until I found Balega

I am an overweight woman, so I am harder on my feet, shoes, and socks than most people. I exercise most days of the week, and I mostly use the treadmill and elliptical. With the treadmill, I ALWAYS have hot spots on the bottoms of my feet and that just makes me want to quit sooner than I should. They HURT! I decided to do some research on shoes and socks that were supportive and comfortable...and for ME they have to be DURABLE. That's when I found Balega. I read the reviews and finally decided to pay crazy money (or so I thought at the time) for a SINGLE PAIR of socks! "UNHEARD OF" I thought. But...you usually get what you pay for...so I decided to see if these were as exceptional as they seemed. AND THEY ARE. OH MY GOSH. They are THE BEST PAIR OF SOCKS I HAVE EVER HAD. They are soft, comfortable, supportive, cushiony (I know that's not a word, but let's pretend it is) on the bottom and in the back (no blisters!) and they let your feet BREATHE. I no longer get hot spots! And in fact, my feet felt SO GREAT the first time I wore them, that I ACTUALLY RAN ON THE TREADMILL! That's something I've never felt comfortable doing. So not only do these help my feet feel great while exercising, but they are ACTUALLY going to help me reach my goals faster by allowing me to do more in my exercise! What could be better?? Nothing as far as I'm concerned. :) Thanks Balega!

Favorite socks

I have one pair of these and several other brands (powersox, dri-fit, etc). These are my "go to" socks. I just bought two more pair so that I don't have to worry about washing the one pair to have it ready for the next run or ride. Very soft, keep feet dry and comfortable (even on the long runs). The Dri-fits are ok, but I feel like they are "slippery" inside the shoe. These are more substantial and feel better.

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