Recently, Balega, the performance running sock brand with an avid following among distance runners, launched its Feel the Difference™ campaign, a global initiative that emphasizes comfort and performance. For Michael Polk, CEO of Implus, Balega’s parent company, the message is clear: comfort isn’t just a feeling, it’s an engineered result.

“The Feel the Difference™ campaign demonstrates the product point of difference of Balega socks for runners, athletes, and other consumers living active lives,” Polk said. “Balega offers several styles, sock heights, and designs that deliver different levels of cushioning and compression to create a uniquely comfortable performance sock.”

The campaign marks a focus on technical performance in a market saturated with lifestyle brands. Rather than simply focusing on the aesthetics of running, Balega puts the spotlight on how its socks actually performs down to the fiber.

Engineered for the Perfect Blend of Comfort and Compression

At the center of Balega’s innovation is its proprietary Drynamix™ yarn. Unlike many

moisture-wicking fabrics that rely on post-production treatments, Drynamix integrates moisture management directly into the yarn structure. This approach prevents the gradual wear and

wash-out of performance coatings and keeps feet dry. Each pair features seamless construction, reducing friction and pressure points so customers can engage in their favorite activities without any discomfort.

The Feel the Difference™ campaign highlights four product lines that reflect this engineering-first mindset:

• UltraGlide — designed to reduce friction and minimize heat build-up
• Ultralight — for runners who value minimal weight without sacrificing structure
• Enduro — built for high-mileage durability
• Hidden Comfort — featuring deep heel pocket construction and plush cushioning

Together, these products serve as a roadmap for every type of runner, from sprinters seeking aerodynamic precision to marathoners chasing stability mile after mile.

Balega’s commitment extends beyond design. With production facilities in the U.S., Turkey,

Slovenia and South Africa, the company’s multi-national presence allows it to source

high-performance yarns globally while supporting sustainable manufacturing practices. In 2023, Balega achieved Climate Neutral Certification, underscoring its pledge to measure and offset its carbon emissions.

A Broader Strategy Under Implus

Michael Polk, who took the helm of Implus in 2020 after eight years leading Newell Brands, brings extensive experience in scaling consumer goods through brand differentiation. At Newell, he oversaw more than 30 acquisitions and divestitures, expanding e-commerce from 9% to now over 25% of total revenue. Polk’s strategic acumen now guides Implus with a portfolio spanning 16 active lifestyle brands distributed in over 70 countries and 80,000 retail outlets.

Implus’ diverse portfolio includes SKLZ sports specific training aids, Harbinger weight-lifting and fitness gloves and belts, Yaktrax winter traction devices, TriggerPoint recovery tools, Sof Sole footcare products, RockTape kinesiology and athletic tape, and Spenco insoles. Within this portfolio, Balega serves as the flagship brand in the running segment, combining biomechanical precision with comfort-driven craftsmanship.

By centering Feel the Difference™ on product performance, Balega reinforces a simple but powerful message: the best gear doesn’t just complement the athlete; it enhances the entire experience.

For more information, visit balega.com or follow Balega on Instagram and Facebook.