Socks can make or break a trail run or hike. Pick a bad pair and you’ll regret it but there’s nothing you can do about it when you’re miles from the trailhead. Balega makes a variety of socks with a focus on running and the Ultralight Quarter Socks have been trusty companions for miles.
Balega Ultralight Quarter Socks Features:
- Reinforced cushioned heel and toe
- Broad elastic arch support
- Left/Right specific construction
- Mesh panels for ventilation
- Balega’s trademark hand-linked seamless toe
- Triple Y heel pocket
- MSRP: $13
Oh Balega, where art thou?
I’m a sock guy. When I pick my favorites, I stick with them. After surprisingly falling in love with some of Balega’s thicker designs (because I typically prefer ultralight socks), I thought it would be a good idea to try their Ultralight Quarter Socks for trail running.
The Ultralight’s feature right/left-specific construction for foot-cradling comfort. A great pair of socks will provide immediate and noticeable arch and ankle support once you slip them on. No question, the Ultralight Quarter’s are tops when it comes to providing foot support.
Some might question my hygiene, but I’ve had the same pair of Ultralight’s in my Altra Olympus 2.0’s for at least two months. They breathe so well that there’s really very little moisture in the socks when I’m done with a 4-mile trail run. In Utah, they dry out in a jiffy in the back of the Pathfinder.
On the trail, the Ultralight’s simply disappear. Yes, they are providing support and slight cushioning, but I don’t notice it because they are so snug. Balega calls them “Ultralight” but these are really what I would call a lightweight thickness, not really ultralight. That said, the thickness is such that it doesn’t take up too much volume and remains extremely breathable.
In the end, I’m really liking these socks and all other Balega socks I’ve been wearing around town and on the trails.
The Good
- Foot-cradling comfort
- Quality materials
- Breathes well
- Lightweight design doesn’t add bulk
- Stays stink-free
The Bad
- I don’t always know my lefts from my rights
The Bottom Line: Balega Ultralight Quarter Socks
I’ve been hitting the trails in comfort with the Balega Ultralight Quarter Socks on my feet. They offer excellent foot-cradling comfort and haven’t ever given me any hot spots whatsoever.
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