Are expensive running socks really worth the money. I’ve been your bulk 4 pair of socks sort of guy. There’s been countless pairs I’ve been through (nike, adidas, asics just to name a few), but I finally landed on a great pair of socks. Below are my thoughts on the socks I’ve tried.

1). Bonds 1 STAR

Yep, these are your bulk purchase socks available at your local supermarket. They have a range of colours and they look fairly good and have a nice soft feel at first, but that is where it ends unfortunately. They are fine for walking in but I don’t recommend them for running.

Pros – Colour, Price, Good for Pilates and Yoga

Cons – Socks tend to rip at the heal, if you use for running, the fabric tends to go hard fairly quickly.

2). Thorlo Experia 3 STARS

These were my first specific running sock purchase. They have good support in the heel and toes and are comfortable. I found though with time that the lighter fabric started to fray and the socks lost their cushioning/comfort.

Pro’s – Initial Comfort, Design

Cons – Fraying of material, lost cushioning

3). X Socks 3 STARS

 

These socks had a lot of potential. A dedicated left and right foot sock and additional cushioning medially and laterally around the heel. As with the previous pairs, the socks started out pretty well, not quite as cushioned at the Thorlo’s but still pretty good. Elastic around the top of the ankle a bit tight though.

Pro’s – Medial/Lateral Cushioning, Left and Right Foot Fit

Cons – Tightness around Ankle, overall cushioning

4). Balega Hidden Comfort – 5 STARS

These were my most recent purchase and now having completed an Ironman and 3 halfs in them, I can say they are my favourite. Without doubt, they are the most robust sock I have used, they hold their cushioning, shape and comfort, keeping that first time feel long after you bought

Pros – Cushioning, Reliability, Comfort and the Fluro Colours

Cons – Cant fault them