As you guys know, I’m a total creature of habit when it comes to my running gear. Well, actually, when it comes to anything involving running. From my shoes to my clothes to my fueling to my pre-race rituals, I simply can’t help it. I just like to stick with what I know. I’m not a fan of surprises…especially on race day.
One piece of gear I’ve become obsessed with a loyal fan of over the years are Balega socks. Which is funny, because out of everything, socks are probably the easiest thing to overlook. I should know. That was me once upon a time. I thought socks are socks, how important can they be?
But ask any runner (especially any runner with foot issues) and they’ll tell you socks are critical. Too much cotton (as in 100%), or too many prominent seams, and you’re in Blister City. Too low cut, and hello, ankle chafing.
I discovered Balega at a running store when I had a $15 merchandise credit to use. I needed some new socks (to replace my 100% cotton Target brand) and the salesperson recommended Balega. I grabbed a pair of pink and white socks (which I still have to this day), and the rest is history. Once I ran in these socks, there was no going back. My feet were happy, and there’s no way I was gonna mess with a good thing.
I can pretty much guarantee you that in any photos you see of me running — from long runs to races — my feet are snug and happy in my Balegas.
I admit I’ve been lucky over the years to be able to add to my Balega collection thanks to various blog or race swag bags, and they’re now the only socks I will run in. I’ve got specific pairs I’ll use in the dead heat of summer, others I’ll wear in the rain, a few for those frigid mid-winter runs, and two pairs that are my go-tos for racing.
My friends at Balega recently sent me three new pairs to try and it was like Christmas morning the day they arrived at the house.
I love that each of these socks has a different purpose and is meant for a specific type of run.
Second Skin Fit Ultralight: I admit I haven’t run in these yet but I’m so curious about them, given my plantar fasciitis issues, since they feature elastic grip construction in the arch and ankle, plus there is a heel “pocket” ergonomically formed to the actual shape of your heel. The ultra thin fabric also means these will be perfect for summer runnnng.
Enduro No Show: These are my everyday socks, especially for long runs not in 90 degree or 10 degree weather. Love the plush cushioning, plenty of ventilation, and the heel tab in the back prevents the socks from slipping into the back of your shoe.
Natural Fiber Performance: The natural mohair fibers in this sock offers awesome protection against friction blisters (my arch nemesis) and keep your feet cool and dry — meaning they would also be phenomenal for running in the cold or the rain.
Giveaway time!
So now you understand why I’m so excited to be channeling my inner Oprah right now and giving away some of my favorite things. Thanks to my friends at Balega, one lucky reader will receive the same exact three pairs of Balega socks that I recently received! Trust me, you won’t be sorry. All you have to do is enter using the form below. This giveaway ends next Wednesday, Oct. 21 at 12:01am ET.
Good luck!
Please note this giveaway is open to U.S. residents only. The winner will be randomly chosen by Rafflecopter and will be contacted by email within 24 hours of the conclusion of the giveaway. He or she then has 48 hours to respond. If they do not respond, another winner will be chosen.
Disclaimer: I received the socks mentioned above for the purposes of a review and giveaway, but all thoughts and opinions are my own and, like I think I made pretty clear, I’m no stranger to Balega socks 🙂
Tessa says
I have to run with my garmin watch!
Joanne says
My Brooks!
Nicole says
I have to run with my Sweaty Bands headbands. They’re the only ones that keep my hair in place!
elt says
MY PLAYLIST ON SPOTIFY!
Sarah says
My Saucony shoes!
Erin Ellis says
My headbands!
Danielle Kempe says
Thanks for this contest! I’m wicked in need of better running socks.
My go to gear is my fitbit flex and garmin watch.
Lauren p says
My sauconys and athlete capris. I can’t run in anything else!
sarahviz says
My fave running gear is my armband ipod holder!
Aline says
Can’t run without my sweaty bands!
Cheryl says
My altra sneakers and glide!
JessicaE says
My go-to running gear (besides well fitting shoes, of course) is my MP3 player. I really need good music in my ears when I run. Thanks so much for the giveaway. <3
paige c says
My garmin and nike sports bras
Jeffrey says
I can’t leave without my Garmin! Sometimes I don’t even look at it but it just needs to be on my wrist and I enjoy perusing my results online. My go to shoe was the Mizuno Wave Elixir but they killed the line and I’m almost out of stock! The good news is that Mizuno might be putting out another shoe that is quite similar in 2016, I have my fingers crossed!
Cheryl says
My go-to piece of running gear is good shoes.
Nicole L says
I can’t run without my music!
Shannon says
My Balega socks are my favorite.
Tina@GottaRunNow says
I’ve had a couple of pairs of Balega socks and really like them for running in the heat here in Texas. My go-to running gear is my Garmin, but good socks are really important, too!
Wehaf says
I love my Nike N7 shoes. I haven’t yet found a pair of socks that I really love, though.
Rachel says
fitted capris are my go-to for running
DJ says
My ipod. I have to have my tunes!
meredith says
I need my capris and headband
Em Mahr says
A good, supportive sports bra!