One of the most important pieces of equipment you need to have as a runner, is a good brand of socks that work well for your feet, your body, your shoes, and your training.

It is important to have the best socks for you in order to avoid your feet slipping in your shoes, your feet slipping in your socks, blisters, chafing, or other issues caused by over pronation or too much moisture due to a material that is not your perfect fit.

Let's dig into to very popular running socks: Balega vs Darn Tough.

Balega and Darn Tough are made from similar materials, however, Darn Tough socks are slightly thicker making them great for trail runs and longer races. On the other hand, Balega's material is the perfect amount of blister protection and comfort.

My Top Pick: Balega Hidden Comfort:

Balega vs Darn Tough - Let's Dive in:

The following article discusses two of the more popular and well known running sock brands, Balega vs Darn Tough out there right now. Hopefully this can help you to narrow your search for the perfect running socks!

Balega:

Balega running socks come in no show cushioned running socks that provide comfort and performance during extended training and activity, such as races.

They have Proprietary Drynamix technology which helps to wick moisture away from your skin, and they also have specially constructed, reinforced microfiber mesh ventilation panels that help to keep feet your dry.

There is a hand linked seamless toe box that helps to minimize friction, prevent chafing on the top of the foot.  There is also a specially reinforced heel and toe for durability through your longer miles.

Balega socks have a high heel tab and extra deep heel pocket in order to prevent socks from slipping down.

They also have enhanced Elastane technology that helps to provide additional no slip security.

Finally, the high volume impact resistant cushioning and plush 200 needle count fabric offer race tested foot protection. Two of the most popular blister preventing Balega socks are the Hidden Comfort and Contour, this article details the differences. And this article fully reviews the Hidden Comfort. 

Darn Tough:

Darn Tough uses a custom-count, shrink-treated merino wool that enhances comfort and durability for outdoor activities such as running and hiking.

The Merino wool wicks away excess moisture and helps to provide breathability in order to regulate temperature for outstanding comfort in a variety of conditions.

Darn Tough hiking socks offer great mid-level cushion density under the foot. They provide reinforcement at the heels and toes of the socks as well as an elastic support around the arch.

Ring-toe construction hides seams and enhances comfort.  They also have non-cushioned, wide ribbed, crew height legs.

Darn Tough recommends that you machine wash socks inside out in warm water on gentle cycle and tumble dry on low.

These socks do cost a little bit more and they are available for purchase on the Darn Tough website

Balega vs Darn Tough - Comparison

These are both fantastic brands of socks; both are incredibly durable and will last the mileage without falling apart or getting too badly worn out.

If you are an avid hiker and do not run nearly as much, then I would highly recommend the Darn Tough hiking socks.

These socks are specifically made to last throughout long full days of hiking with the support needed in hiking boots.

While they do cost a little bit more money per pair of socks, they would be worth the price for an avid hiker.

If you are mostly a runner and/or do other kinds of training in addition to running, then I would highly recommend the Balega running socks.

They have a great compression level that works well for runners in order to keep blood circulation constant and healthy.

Personally, as a runner, I have found that Balega is a wonderful brand to run in as well as hike or ride your bike in as they are not too expensive and have wonderful moisture wicking material that helps with decreasing the risk of blisters.

Overall, both of these brands of athletic socks are wonderful choices for all athletes looking for a new brand of socks that will help you through your next training and racing or competing block.

It is important to know what will work best for your feet, shoes, body, and training.  Narrowing down all of the brands can be incredibly intimidating, so hopefully this article can be helpful for you.

Happy training!