Balega Blister Resist and Hidden Comfort Review
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Socks can be a runner’s best friend or worst enemy when it comes to comfort, durability, and blister protection. Balega has focused on creating a high-quality running sock that can meet the needs of both serious and recreational athletes. I tested two styles: the Blister Resist and the Hidden Comfort.
The Balega Blister Resist is a high-cushion sock that combines synthetic yarn with wool to create an extremely comfortable fit while fending off blisters. Balega’s Hidden Comfort running sock uses high a thread count to pack in extra surface area to provide cushion and to maximize sweat-wicking characteristics. I tested both socks on a wide variety of runs. From smooth pavement and rough single track, through muddy puddles to very hot and freezing temperatures. Both performed and held up well in all conditions.
Balega Blister Resist and Hidden Comfort Performance
The biggest change that Balega made with the latest design of the Blister Resist is that they added mohair (Angora goat hair from South Africa). This material wraps the deep heel and toe, protecting against sheer friction during higher volumes of running. It works perfectly with Balega’s Drynamix material, which is their classic yarn fabric. I was very satisfied with the moisture wicking-properties this sock provided, especially on a hot 10-mile pavement run. Balega Blister Resist has high cushioning which provided a very comfortable foot strike. The high tab heel did a great job at keeping dirt and gravel particles out on a trail run.
Balega Blister Resist high tab heel and extra-deep heel pocket
Balega Hidden Comfort has a tighter weave then most socks which allows the terrycloth loops to increase the area of contact on the foot. This allows the sock to wick away moisture and retain its cushion longer. The toe seam of Balega socks are sewn across the top of the toes, preventing blistering in the front where runners typically see hot spots. The stretchy mesh panels across the top of the sock are designed to maximize ventilation.
Balega Hidden Comfort heel tab and 200 thread count
Balega Blister Resist and Hidden Comfort Fit
The Balega Blister Resist has more cushion than the Hidden Comfort. The entire upper surface of the sock was made with the thinner Drynamix material, allowing it to hug my foot. The mohair wool provided warmth on the cold runs and good ventilation on hot days. The deep heel and elastic panels throughout the mid foot and arch provided a custom fit. The comfort band wraps around the ankle and helps prevent the sock from slipping into the shoe.
Balega Blister Resist protects from sheer friction blisters
The Balega Hidden Comfort is built with a medium cushion construction. I also enjoyed the fit of this sock, and did not experience any slippage during any phase of my testing.
Balega Hidden Comfort hand-linked toe seam
Balega Blister Resist and Hidden Comfort Final Thoughts
The Balega Blister Resist ($13) and Hidden Comfort ($12) both durable after several long test runs and trips to the washing machine. Both socks come in a variety of colors.
The Balega Blister Resist is ideal for individuals looking for a comfortable sock built with medium volume construction to protect from blisters. I’d recommend this sock to individuals who enjoy a medium amount of cushioning with great comfort, sweat-wicking, and protection against hot spots and blisters.
The Balega Hidden Comfort is one of the best all-around performance running socks I’ve tested. The fit was ideal, and I experienced exceptional sweat-wicking, and made my great long runs that much better. For more information on the Blister Resist and other Balega products visit https://www.balega.com/.
