Our Favorite Balega Running Socks Fully Reviewed
Melanie Green
Runnerclick
While you may know your go-to Balega sock already, we have taken into account the most important elements runners look for and compiled a list of the best Balega running socks currently available. Take a look at our custom criteria below to see why we chose the socks we did, and check out our FAQ for any questions you might have about Balega gear or running socks!
In a Hurry? The test winner after 15 hrs of research
Low profile design is hidden in running shoes
High breathability improves comfort and health
Seamless toe construction is a big benefit for comfort and durability
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Hidden Comfort No Show -
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Hidden Contour -
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Silver Compression -
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Ultralight No Show -
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Hidden Dry 2 -
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Blister Resist No Show -
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Enduro No Show -
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Blister Resist Crew -
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Zulu No Show -
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Enduro V-Tech Crew
- Criteria Used for Evaluation
- Other Factors to Consider
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Sources
Our Favorite Balega Running Socks
1. Hidden Comfort No Show
Low profile design is hidden in running shoes
High breathability improves comfort and health
Seamless toe construction is a big benefit for comfort and durability
Low profile may not fit well in all shoes
Elastine and profile may apply pressure to some foot types
Fit may run a bit tight for some
For a high-quality running sock, try the Balega Hidden Comfort Athletic No Show Running Socks for Men and Women with Seamless Toe. Not only are they designed to be comfortable, but they are also designed to give you other features that make them effective for runners. You can get them for men and women, and they come in a wide range of color options to fit your personal style.
Read moreSize
Balega Hidden Comfort running socks are available in sizes from small to extra large. They have a running shoe design, meaning that they are ankle-cut socks that are meant to be unseen in running shoes. With an elastic feel, these socks can run a little tight.
Features
The Balega Hidden Comfort running socks have hand-stitched toes to avoid the use of seams in uncomfortable places. The heel is reinforced to provide comfort. The lip of the sock is thicker so that it will not slide down into your shoe as you run.
Specs
The Balega Hidden Comfort running socks are made out of Drynamix Polyester which helps control moisture, Polyamide Nylon, and Elastique which makes it retain its shape. A mesh construction method is used to increase breathability. A seamless toe closure adds to the overall comfort.
Value
In terms of value, the Balega Hidden Comfort running socks are a good option for low profile running socks. Their design makes them highly breathable which adds to their long-term health benefits. The improved fit also improves the pressure placed on your feet for added long-term benefits.
2. Hidden Contour
Extra support from medium constructed fabric
Heel tab prevents socks from slipping into your shoe
Can help to avoid blisters
Expensive compared to other socks from this brand
Thicker fabric than many running socks
The Balega Hidden Contour Athletic Running Socks are a smart choice for both men and women. The socks are comfortable, with several comfort-focused features such as a seamless toe closure and heel tab. The plush under sole cushioning only adds to its comfort.
Read moreSize
The Balega Hidden Contour Athletic Running Socks are available in four different sizes. However, not all of the colors come in the X-Large size. The X-Large size only comes in a few colors, including black, grey, and pink.
Features
The use of Elastane throughout helps them hold their shape better over time and provide you with extra support. A heel tab helps keep your socks from sliding down in the running shoes. The mesh helps to improve ventilation.
Specs
The socks are made from synthetic fibers that are breathable. Their construction gives them a tighter fit that adds support where it is needed. Additional padding in key areas may make them feel snug in tighter running shoes, but the socks themselves have a normal fit in most conditions.
Value
This style of sock is among the more expensive running socks from Balega, compared to other socks that are sold individually. However, if you would benefit from added structure in your sock, this is a great option that is comfortable to wear.
3. Silver Compression
Compression design is helpful in improving your running
The high amount of Drynamix Polyester creates strong moisture control
Overall design matches that of running shoes for a better fit
Compression fit may run small
Heel slipping may occur for some runners
Washing on the wrong cycle may weaken their structure
Compression socks are popular among runners. The Balega Silver Antimicrobial No-Show Compression-Fit Running Socks are a great option since they offer a compression design that will be effective but not uncomfortable. These socks have a unique look to them as well which will make you want to wear them at every opportunity.
Read moreSize
The Balega Silver socks for men and women are available in sizes from small to extra large. They run a bit tighter than other socks since they are designed for compression. They have a medium volume construction making them a comfortable but snug fit.
Features
The Balega Silver socks feature a compression design that applies gentle pressure to your feet and makes running easier. The heel pockets are deeper than other designs which can make them more comfortable. The hex pattern stitching adds compression along the arch and top of your feet while allowing your toes to move easily. The climate-control material quickly moves moisture away to keep your feet dry.
Specs
Balega Silver No Show socks are available in six color combinations. The stitching along the center color adds compression while the heel and toes are free to move. They are mostly made of Drynamix Polyester mixed with nylon and elastane for support. They come in pairs.
Value
In terms of value, these socks are the preferred option if you need compression for running. The mix of compression and non-compression areas is a great way to improve your running posture and performance without binding your feet with total compression socks. For the price, several pairs of these could make a strong addition to your running gear.
4. Ultralight No Show
Extremely lightweight construction and feel
Added protection in important areas
Strong temperature and moisture control
Light construction may affect long-term durability
Light feel may not be appealing unless you are a minimalist runner
Thin construction may make normal shoes feel big
If you run for speed over distance, then a lightweight sock is important for your performance. The Balega Ultralight No Show Athletic Running Socks for Men and Women are ultra-lightweight socks designed for high speed running. It is designed with features that reduce foot stress and can help you improve your sprints.
Read moreSize
The Balega Ultralight No Show running socks are available in sizes from small to extra large. Because of their thin construction, these socks can fit even the tightest shoes comfortably.
Features
Balega Ultralight socks are designed to extremely lightweight using a specialized construction method. Reinforcement padding throughout helps to improve durability and comfort from high-impact running. Each pair is made by hand to ensure a high-quality level. The use of performance yarns helps to control moisture and reduce heat from sprinting.
Specs
These Balega Ultralight socks are made primarily from Drynamix Polyester, Nylon, and Elastane. The fit for these socks is created by a high needle count knitting machine with thin threads to create a durable but thin sock structure.
Value
In terms of value, Balega Ultralight No Show socks give you the most value when you need a minimalist running sock. They are thinner and lighter weight than other socks for a minimalist feel that is great for sprinting. They are also good at providing the protection that you need for high intensity running.
5. Hidden Dry 2
High-quality construction
Added support
Excellent moisture-wicking properties
Socks run smaller than other brands
Made from synthetic materials
Thin material
Balega Hidden Dry 2 Moisture Wicking Socks have been designed to keep you dry, even on the longest of runs. With a lightweight blend of synthetic fibers, you can benefit from moisture protection without any added bulk. There is also a host of features available in this pair of socks to increase comfort, such as a reinforced microfiber heel.
Read moreSize
The Hidden Dry 2 Socks are available in four sizes. This includes Small, Medium, Large, and X-Large. Sizes tend to run small, so runners should try out one pair before ordering several.
Features
These socks have a microfiber heel, toe, and arch band to help wick away sweat, add comfort, and increase longevity. The Triple Y heel design creates deeper heel pockets and helps to create an ergonomic and supportive environment for your feet. The enhanced elastic grip construction further improves the close fit.
Specs
These socks come in a wide range of colors that interest both male and female runners. These colors include black, blue, grey/red, neon yellow, pink, royal blue, and white. The seamless toe closure and heel tab prevent slippage and blisters.
Value
The price of these socks varies significantly depending on the size and color you choose. At its lowest price, these socks are a steal based on the features, performance, and color options. At its highest point, these socks are at an average price point.
6. Blister Resist No Show
Very breathable
Tab to help get on and off
Comfortable
Anti-blister material and design
Some users had durability problems
This is the no-show version of the Blister Resist, a highly rated product that's perfect for runners. They're made of Balega's Drynamix fabric so they're breathable, comfortable, and despite being quite thin they're fairly durable. The seamless toe box minimizes the friction that causes blisters and they do a good job of helping your feet stay cool in summer and warm in winter.
Read moreSize
These are available in the usual sizes from small to x-large. Users reported them running true to normal dimensions.
Features
These have a seamless toe-box and padded cupped heel. They also include mesh ventilation panels and a tab in the back to help you get them on and take them off easily.
Value
Products from this company aren't the cheapest when it comes to price, but they are good quality and we didn't find a lot of instances of buyers feeling like they paid too much.
Materials
These are made from the company's Drynamix fabric and have added elastane to a good fit as well mohair. Mohair is a natural fiber that is made from the hair of Angora goats and helps these socks to regulate temperature so you'll stay cool in summer and warm in winter.
Breathability
These are pretty high on the ventilation scale, making them perfect for runners, especially those who regularly run in hot climates.
7. Enduro No Show
Bright color options
Added support through VTech system
Not as lightweight as other options
Feminine color choices
More expensive than others
The Balega Enduro V-Tech No Show Socks are among the most popular Balega running socks that you can wear for both running and everyday life. The no-show design is perfect for most pairs of shoes. Plus, the V-Tech adds much-needed support for your arches, which is a nice option if you have flat feet.
Read moreSize
The Balega Enduro V-Tech No Show socks are available in three different sizes. This includes Small, Medium, and Large. Since Balega socks are known to run smaller than some other brands, you should order the next size up if you typically wear socks between sizes.
Features
These Balega socks have a V-Tech arch support system, which adds structure and support to the socks. It is, therefore, a smart option for runners who look for added arch support. The seamless, hand-linked toe eliminates abrasion and discomfort while you wear the sock. These are available in three color varieties: mid-grey and sherbet pink, Pinkberry and lilac, and white and aqua.
Specs
These socks are made from a synthetic blend of 80% Drynamix polyester, 18% nylon, and 2% elastane. They are lightweight and effective at wicking away sweat. The mesh construction increases ventilation, while the reinforced heel pocket adds comfort and durability.
Value
As one of the more expensive socks available for purchase as a single sock, the Balega Enduro V-Tech No Show socks may not be the first choice if fit and color options aren’t your priorities. However, if you are looking for feminine color choices, these make an excellent choice.
8. Blister Resist Crew
Climate-control reduces blisters
Mohair adds softness for foot comfort and blister-resistance
Affordable price makes them a mainstay in your running gear
Softness may not last over excessive washing cycles if not treated properly
Soft feel may change the feel of shoes and running in general
Puffy texture adds softness but may make it difficult to fit tighter running shoes
The Balega Blister Resist Crew Socks running socks are a must-have for active runners and those who spend a lot of time on their feet day in and day out. If you are prone to blisters, then these socks are a great way to protect your feet and make your runs more enjoyable. With a high level of comfort, blisters are no longer a problem!
Read moreSize
The Balega Blister Resist socks come in all sizes so no matter how big or small your feet are you should be able to easily find a pair to meet your needs. There are some reports of sizing running a little small but most reviewers love the contouring fit the Blister Resist Crew Socks offer.
Features
Synthetic Drynamix material was created to keep your feet comfortable while it wicks moisture to keep feet dry. These socks are made from soft mohair regulates temperature for a comfortable run and minimizes friction to protect your feet. With this unique combination, you can ease pressure points, improve support, and promote circulation even on the longest and most intense running sessions.
Specs
Seamless construction and deep heel and toe pockets both help the socks stay in place and keeps you comfortable. Medium-volume cushioning supports your feet with every step that you take.
Value
Spending close to $20 for a pair of socks may seem a bit much for some, but experienced runners and those who have had to suffer from blistering feet will appreciate the Balega Blister Resist Crew Socks and everything they have to offer.
9. Zulu No Show
Midweight
Cushioned
Seamless design
Reinforced heel and toe
Vented panels
Merino wool content
Comfortable with a close fit
Prevents blisters and hotspots
Sizes run small at times
The Zulu No Show socks from Balega is a great option for runners who want the comfort and protection of quality socks without all the fuss and bulk of larger socks. No show socks combine the best of both worlds and are among the popular Balega socks available today!
Read moreSize
The sizing for the Zulu No Show include small, medium, large, and extra large and are available in both men’s and women’s sides so you can find the fit that is just right for your feet.
Features
These socks are designed with a specialized seamless toe closure and a heel tab that helps prevent the sock from slipping into your running shoe as you run. New and improved Elastane is used throughout these shocks for a more structured and comfortable fit. With a reinforced heel and toe, mesh construction for ventilation, and soft material choice, the Zulu No Show socks are great for beginners and pros alike!
Specs
Designed with a medium volume construction, these socks feature a unique blend of quality materials that include Drynamix Polyester 84%, Polyamide Nylon 14%, and Elastique 2%.
Value
All of Balega's running socks have been race tested and incorporate a hand linked seamless toe, eliminating abrasion across the top of the foot. This combined with quality seamless design and padded fabric cushioning you get a quality running sock that helps keep your feet dry and comfortable. You can get Zulu No Show socks for a great price, making them the perfect sock to have on hand anytime anywhere!
10. Enduro V-Tech Crew
Crew style makes these socks useful for sports
Added padding increases impact resistance
Material and construction improve blister control
Crew style is inappropriate for running and running shoes
Added padding may make them fit snugly in tighter sport shoes.
Washing in the wrong settings could cause shrinkage
If you run consistently but not in running shoes, then you will want to check out the Balega Enduro V-Tech Crew Socks. They are crew-cut socks that work well for other sports that involve a lot of running, like football. They offer many of the features of running socks, but in a different cut style that is better for other sports.
Read moreSize
The Balega Enduro V-Tech Crew Socks are available in small and large sizes. They include non-constricting compression areas that add some level of compression without binding your entire foot. Additional cushioning is included which may make them big small in running and other tight sports shoes.
Features
The Balega Enduro V-Tech Crew Socks have additional padding in the heel and balls of the foot to improve impact resistance. They are also climate-controlling to manage the amount of moisture in your shoes. Mesh construction helps ventilate them for better breathing as well.
Specs
The Balega Enduro V-Tech Crew Socks are made of Drynamix Polyester, Nylon, and Elastane which allows them to control moisture well. Thicker padding and compression bands are used to give them a better feel and improve your performance. VTech arch support provides extra protection for your arches. The heel pocket is also made deeper so that they do not slide down as you run.
Value
In terms of value, the Balega Enduro V-Tech Crew Socks are most valuable as an activewear sock when you play sports like football. They are a good alternative for active sports that give you extra support like shin protection and leg warming that running shoes cannot give you. At an affordable price, you can add a few to your active gear without a problem.
Criteria Used for Evaluation
Size Socks come in different sizes. For instance, women’s running socks frequently come in “6 – 11” or “5 – 10.” If you are a size 5 or 11, this can be the most important deciding factor in which socks to buy, as not all of the socks sold will fit you. If you size in the middle, it won’t necessarily make a difference.
Features Some of the Balega running socks on this list offer a set of features to runners that might make a tremendous difference in the level of comfort you’ll experience. This includes if the fabric is moisture wicking, so you’ll stay drier as you run, or if the socks help to prevent blisters. Most runners don’t think about the features that running socks can offer since socks seem to perform such a simple function.
Value No matter what you’re buying, you want to make sure that you get the most value for your dollar. We’ve evaluated these Balega running socks against competitor styles and the other socks on this best of list. We’ve noted which styles give you the highest quality sock for the smallest amount of money. Even though Balega products are more expensive than other options, the old adage that "you get what you pay" for applies. You can buy a pack of 6 or even 9 pairs of cheap socks at your local big box retailer for what you'd pay for a single pair of high-quality Balega socks. But you'll probably find yourself disappointed in their quality and performance, especially if you use them for running, and you could even wind up with blisters and other injuries that could interrupt your training. We prefer to spend a little more upfront to ensure we get a quality item. This also saves us time and money going back to rebuying cheap items that fall apart quickly or just don't perform up to our expectations.
Materials Balega socks are well-crafted at their factories in Cape Town South Africa and Hickory North Carolina, USA. They pride themselves on their proprietary Drynamix fabric which is highly breathable, sheer, and lightweight. Another really cool thing is that the company take sustainability pretty seriously, and all their packaging is made from recycled materials and they use advanced wastewater recycling in their manufacturing plants. A lot of people don't know this, but the clothing industry is the second largest polluter in the world, so anything we can do as runners to decrease our footprint will help to leave behind a world our children can run in to. As far as the fabrics that Balega uses for their socks, runners love it for its excellent blend of breathability, comfort, durability and design. They feature enforced heels for durability, and seamless design in the toes and the heels to help prevent chafing and blisters. Most of the products on this list use Balega's basic Drynamix fabric but some will add more or less other fabrics such as elastance depending on the design and what they're intended to be used for.
Breathability The company claims that their proprietary Drynamix fabric is highly ventilated and moisture wicking and real-world users agree. They consistently get high marks and positive reviews from runners, other athletes, and even just regular users looking for a great pair of socks. The key to these socks is in the material. They use their own blend of polyester, nylon, and elastane, and create the fabric with a mesh design to maximize the ventilation capabilities. The reason that these socks and other breathable athletic gear is made out of synthetic materials such as polyester, nylon, and elastane, is that synthetic fibers can't absorb moisture. Natural fibers such as cotton, on the other hand, tend to absorb a lot of moisture and take a long time to dry out. But with synthetic fibers, since they can't absorb moisture, it simply moves around them to the outside air where it can dry naturally. This is why you'll always find gear that is breathable to be made from synthetic fibers. The other important factor in this is the density of the weave of the fabric. If the weave is too tight moisture won't be able to pass around it to the outside air for drying so it will stay stuck close to your skin and cause discomfort and possibly chafing and blisters. This is the reason why it's important to air dry these socks and your other breathable gear. Drying them in a hot dryer can cause them to shrink which makes the weave tighter and negates any moisture wicking abilities they have.
Expert Interviews & Opinions
Size Features Value Materials Breathability 
Socks really aren't just socks when you're talking about Balega. They're reinforced in the places where wear and tear are most prevalent, as well as behind the heel to reduce rubbing.
They've really thought of everything, including extra padding where you're striking your foot in your stride. This ensures that your feet are comfortable and well taken care of, even though Balega socks are known for being thin and are designed that way on purpose to help reduce weight and the potential for chafing and blisters.
Other Factors to Consider
Advanced Features The specs of the socks include additional information about fit. For instance, the type of socks: crew, low cut, and no-show. Most runners have a personal preference about which option they’d like to choose from this list.
Additionally, this includes what fabric the socks are made from. The type of material used to make a sock can change what the sock does, how it fits, and any extra practicality it isn't. For example, socks made from 100% cotton will be breathable but they will also be terrible at wicking moisture. Nylon does a good job of wicking moisture but isn't as breathable. All materials have different qualities and you want to find a pair of socks with a good blend so that it will have plenty of functionality.
Color It makes sense to choose a few pairs of socks in each color. While many socks are available in plain white or black, you can find some pairs of socks in bright prints and colors. If you have a large number of socks that are the same color and style, you’ll have an easier time finding a match after you remove the laundry from your dryer.
Style As previously mentioned, not all socks fit all shoe sizes. It is important to find a pair of socks that does. In addition, not all socks make sense for all styles of running shoes. For instance, you wouldn’t necessarily want a no show running sock if your shoes would rub your heels without a higher cut.
Frequently Asked Questions
While cotton socks might be more breathable than socks made from synthetic materials, cotton socks are not the best option for runners. Running socks are typically made from moisture-wicking synthetic fibers that keep your feet dry and blister free. In a pair of cotton socks, your feet will end up wet from sweat.
Blister-free socks are made from special synthetic fabrics that wick away moisture without necessarily adding bulk to the sock. Some blister-free socks have additional padding in areas that are prone to blistering. It is important to note that not all running socks made from synthetic fibers are designated as “blister free”.
To prevent blisters while running, you should always wear a properly fitting shoe and a pair of running socks. If you have a shoe that rubs your feet because of poor fit, there is little that a pair of socks can do to protect you. You can choose a pair of running socks specifically designed to prevent blisters. Lastly, some runners choose to wear two pairs of socks when they run, as this means that the socks rub up against each other and not against your skin.
If you are doing trail running or marathon running, it is okay to wear a pair of regular running socks. Some brands may mark up these specialized running socks even though the socks are more or less the same. Make sure to look for specifics about why specialized socks are better, otherwise, you can stick to your regular socks.
A pair of running socks can last you between 300 and 500 miles. The number of miles you average each week, the number of running socks you own, and how you take care of your socks will all influence how long they last.
Sources
- , Balega, Company Website, Jan 01, 2018
- , How to Choose the Best Running Socks,
- , How to Choose the Right Running Socks,
- , Banishing Blisters, Jul 12, 2007
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