The Balega UltraGlide Friction-Free No-Show Running Socks for Men and Women are ideal for runners who are prone to hot spots—skin irritation that can lead to blisters on the feet. A highly technical sock, the UltraGlide features Balega’s proprietary Drynamix poly blend fiber, combined with friction-free nylon yarn, and a textile lubricant that reduces heat and chafing. Seamless construction, and anatomically cut left and right feet eliminate excess fabric and bunching. Targeted cushioning across the top of the foot reduces lace pressure, and the heel and toe is reinforced for comfort and durability. A variable density metatarsal pad provides additional protection and support during long runs. Compressive arch supports and the flat-knit structure hold the sock securely in place, while ventilation panels ensure breathability. The Balega UltraGlide Friction-Free No-Show Running Socks feature medium-low volume cushioning for performance and durability during extended training and endurance events. Balega launched in 2003 and set out to create the world’s best performance running sock. Built to perfection, Balega socks are composed of extra fine yarn on high needle count machines and are hand-linked for a fully seamless design. Balega socks are 100 percent hand-inspected for quality assurance..
S**A
Great Socks!
I absolutely love these socks! They come in a lot of different colors, they are comfortable and easy to put on. I am a runner and I enjoy the tabs on both the front and back so your feet never rub in your shoes. I enjoyed that they weren't too thick and a good height on your foot. I think these are great quality and good use of your money! They don't have any slip grips on the bottom, but I don't think they are necessary. I think my last pair I had for over a year and a half. I plan to continue to buy these!
S**.
Perfect running socks!
Love these socks! I usually don’t like cushioned socks but these are perfect. They have targeted padding rather than just being thick all over. They are soft and wash well. I try not to put my running socks in the dryer but sometimes they manage to get there. These socks have held up well and stay soft and don’t shrink. I also like the sizing. I wear a size 9 running shoe so I usually find myself at the upper limit of size medium but large would be too big. These size mediums fit perfectly. Running socks are expensive - these are worth the money.
A**Y
Perfect running socks!
I only wear Balega socks to run! They fit my wide foot perfectly and provide compression in my arch where I need it the most. These particular ones are thicker and therefore provide warmth without being bulky during colder runs. The colors are always so fun and do not fade after multiple washes.
C**H
Really help prevent blisters
Tried a ton of different socks when training and running marathons. Sensitive feet mean blisters and sores all the time for me. These socks by Balega are the best I have found. They stay perfectly in place which means no rubbing and dramatically decreases blistering risk. Nice and cushiony as well. They come in a wide variety of colors which is also really nice. Perfect socks for serious runners.
E**H
Excellent durability and comfort.
Great socks—I wear them primarily for tennis. They hold up better than other brands (Asics, etc.), lasting more than two seasons.
D**C
Premium Comfort, Predictable Lifespan, High Cost
I own about 12 pairs of Balegas accumulated over three years. After extensive use, a few consistent patterns emerge.Performance:- Fit and Compression: Tight, particularly around the toes—closer to a half-size small. I recommend sizing up. A medium was too tight and had to be donated.- Thickness and Protection: Thicker than comparable brands (Danish Endurance, Timberland), particularly at the heel and toe. Excellent for impact protection, which makes them suitable even for boots and heavier shoes.- Moisture Wicking: Strong but not dramatically superior to other high-performance options; notably better than standard polyester blends.Durability:- Real-world lifespan is 12–18 months. Thread splitting typically begins around the 10–12 month mark, with large holes appearing by month 14.- Even after major wear, ribbing and arch support areas often remain intact, keeping the socks usable for lighter use.- Shoe fit likely impacts wear rate—friction points accelerate breakdown more than general fabric fatigue.- Holds up after repeated washing (always cold, gentle or medium cycles, and low-heat drying)Cost Considerations:- Balegas are expensive relative to competitors. Cost-per-wear is roughly double compared to brands like Danish Endurance or Timberland.- I ultimately supplemented my rotation with Danish Endurance ultra-thin running socks—less flashy, but at nearly half the cost.Verdict:Balegas deliver superior fit, comfort, and targeted protection, but at a premium. If maximum softness, cushioning, and a perfect running fit matter most, they’re worth it. If cost-per-use and longevity are your priorities, look elsewhere.
S**D
Comfortable, supportive, & more reasonable price than alternative name brands
Ideal for my new tennis hobby. Snug, comfortable fit, supportive, perfect height on the ankle to shield it from shoe friction during play, & love the colors/design.Pricey for a pair of socks (but way cheaper than the popular, standard brands in comparison. Worth the money.
H**.
Amazing socks, get them
Absolutely love these socks. Was introduced to them at a local running store. I was skeptical of the tab in front and back, but they actually increase the comfort of my workout shoes. Been using these for several months (walking, cardio, weight lifting). No wear yet. My feet feel less tired, and they seem to hold up well to sweat. Not too thick, not too thin. My only complaint is I wish they came in a wider variety of colors.
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