As I started to train for my first 10k, I realized I needed to look for some serious performance socks . My long runs left my feet sore and blistered and after asking a few running friends about their suggestions for the best running socks …..I noticed a pattern. Almost everyone recommended bombas running socks so…..I had to try them out for myself.
I never thought I’d be writing this review. In fact, I never thought I’d run more than a few miles at a time. But here we are. Last summer, I started training for the Princess 10k Race at Walt Disney World. In recent years , I’ve done a lot of jogging but I always stopped at about three miles. Well, a 10k race is about 6.2 miles…..so clearly I had some training to do.
As I slowly increased my milage, I started to notice a few hazards that come with races and not so happy feet . There is definitely a risk of blisters and chafing (and not just on your feet). I found that after any run that was over 5 miles, I usually had blisters on my feet (and I also developed athlete’s foot more than once, sorry if that’s TMI). I realized that I needed moisture-wicking materials in my socks. That even if I was running in cold weather (well, California’s version of cold weather)……that I would still sweat.
I asked for tips and suggestions. Almost everyone that answered suggested bombas socks and let me tell you, I wasn’t pleased. If we’re being transparent, bombas running socks are pricey. I couldn’t imagine paying this much for a pair of socks but……at this point, I was willing to try almost anything.
Well, I did. And this? A full review of my bombas running socks (spoiler, I’m OBSESSED).
bombas running socks review : are they worth the money?
Let’s talk performance. Listen, I wanted to dislike these socks. Could great socks really make that big of a difference with my running? Let me tell you, within the first mile of the first run in my bombas running socks ……I was sold. These slight compression socks have stay-put heel grips , strategic zone cushioning , and really do wick sweat away from your feet while running. These things combined? Meant, no more blisters. Not only that…..my feet felt less sore after the run.
So let’s talk about Bombas as a company. Bombas is a buy one give one company. What does that mean? That for every pair of comfortable socks you buy, an essential clothing item is donated to one of many grass roots, local community organizations that distribute to those in need. To be more specific, Bombas donates the three items most needed in homeless shelters (shirts, socks and underwear). On their site, you can actually look at specific giving partners and distribution locations to find the ones closest to you.
Now back to the bombas running socks . There are options when it comes to style (they have ankle socks with a no slip heel tab as well as taller calf socks). I personally prefer the ankle socks and found that the heel tab protected the back of my foot (last thing you want is an exposed heel that rubs and causes blisters on a longer run ). I found that this style has a great way of protecting my upper foot while I still get that ankle socks style that I prefer.
Bombas running socks are fairy thin socks . They don’t rub (I think this is because of themerino wool blend that they’re made of) AT ALL. The first time I ran in them, I was totally floored. The fabric combined with the seamless toe and slight compression? Really do make them a great all-purpose performance sock for runners. Within a few runs, my blisters had completely disappeared. Pretty impressive!
Now let’s talk pricing. Because honestly, this is where I was apprehensive. Bombas running socks are almost $20 A PAIR. Listen, before I started training for this race…..I would have laughed as loud as could be at the idea of spending twenty dollars on a PAIR OF SOCKS. I probably also would have laughed at the idea of me doing distance running so…..never say never. Here’s the thing, SO MANY OF YOU recommended these socks. Over and over again. And I can see why. When you’re running more than two or three miles at a time, that repeated motion can REALLY cause rubbing and blisters and it’s painful. So socks that prevent that? Absolutely worth it.
A few things to note about the bombas product line:
- they have free returns with free shipping and NO time limit : so decide they’re not for you after a month? Or two months? return them.
- Lose a sock? THEY’LL REPLACE IT. Anyone who makes a purchase on their website can make a replacement claim within one year of the original purchase date, and will be send a replacement pair or gift card worth the price of the original pair plus free shipping.
- lifetime guarantee: if your socks rip or tear or get a hole…..they’ll replace them. FOREVER.
Kind of makes a different when it comes to that price tag, right?
So, all in all …..do I think that bombas running socks are worth the money? Yes I do. In fact, I just ordered a few more pairs. You can’t put a price on comfort, especially when training or on race day.
Have you tried bombas running socks ? Thoughts?
