These 10 Running Shorts Are the Secret to a Chafe-Free Workout
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Running isn't always easy, but there's definitely something rewarding about having sore muscles the day after hitting a new PR, or being drenched in sweat after pushing yourself to go to the gym. Thigh chafing, on the other hand, is more frustrating than motivating, especially when you have to keep stopping in the middle of your run to readjust your shorts.
Chafing happens when your skin rubs together and the repeated friction causes skin irritation, according to Cleveland Clinic. It most often occurs in warm, moist areas, so it's a risk that unfortunately comes with the territory of exercise — and running, especially.
Yes, chafing is caused in part by your inner thighs coming in contact with each other as you run, but there's a lot more that factors in, says Brett Durney, running coach, personal trainer, and cofounder of Fitness Lab. "Factors contributing to chafing also include moisture, heat, improper clothing, and prolonged or intense activity," Durney explains. Luckily, you can keep some of those things under control with the right pair of running shorts.
How to Pick Running Shorts That Don't Chafe
When shopping for anti-chafe running shorts, Durney says there are four aspects you'll want to evaluate: type of material, breathability, seams, and fit.
- Material: "Look for shorts made of synthetic materials like polyester or nylon," Durney says. These fabrics wick away moisture and sweat, reducing the amount of friction (and therefore chafing).
- Breathability: A breathable design with features like mesh lining is always a plus. "Opt for shorts that allow airflow and ventilation to keep your skin cool and dry during exercise," Durney advises.
- Seams: Bulky seams are a red flag. Instead, look for shorts with flatlock seams — or better yet, no seams at all — to keep irritation to a minimum, Durney says.
- Fit: Durney recommends compression- or liner-style shorts, but stresses that you don't want anything to fit too tight or too loose. "Loose fabric can create excess friction, while overly tight clothing can also cause irritation," he points out. A fit that's somewhere in between is ideal.
It can also help to wear shorts long enough to cover the areas where you chafe, but contrary to popular belief, length alone isn't always enough. For full protection against chafing, it's best to look for a pair of shorts with at least one of the special features Durney mentioned.
If you're still not sure where to go from here, don't stress, because we've got you (and your thighs) covered. Ahead, you'll find some of the top-rated running shorts that prevent chafing, including a pair from Durney's favorite brand.
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Best Budget-Friendly Running Shorts to Prevent Chafing
Custer's Night Running Shorts ($17)
If you need functional anti-chafe running shorts but don't want to spend too much on them, look no further than this pair from Amazon. Despite their lower price point, these running shorts still effectively prevent chafing through their protective two-in-one design and quick-drying polyester material.
Why we love it: The inner shorts never ride up, according to many customer reviews.
What's worth noting: If you're sensitive to certain fabrics, the windbreaker-like material of these shorts might be too rough for you.
Additional details: Sizes: S-XXL | Colorways: 16
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Best Mid-Length Running Shorts to Prevent Chafing
Athleta Mesh Racer Run Short ($26-49)
Running on a hot day is uncomfortable enough, and chafing can easily make it worse. These four-inch Athleta running shorts, however, are made with fabric that dries as soon as you break a sweat in order to prevent chafing. They also have UPF 50+ built in to protect your skin from prolonged sun exposure.
Why we love it: In addition to the fabric being chafe-resistant, they're also good for the environment: these shorts are made out of sustainable materials, including recycled plastic bottles.
What's worth noting: Since they're so lightweight, some customers feel these shorts are are too see-through.
Additional details: Sizes: XXS-3X | Colorways: 6
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Best Anti-Chafe Running Shorts With a Shorts Liner
Under Armour Play Up 2-in-1 Shorts ($31, Originally $40)
Many shorts are great at preventing chafing at the start of your run, but after a few miles, they start to bunch up and your inner thighs end up rubbing together. With these Under Armour running shorts, however, you'll never have to worry about stopping to readjust, because the built-in compression shorts don't budge.
Why we love it: The outer shorts are lightweight and ventilated so you won't get too hot even though there are two layers of fabric.
What's worth noting: There are side pockets, but customers have complained that things slip out of them easily because they are shallow and don't zip up.
Additional details: Sizes: XS-XXL | Colorways: 8
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Best Lightweight Running Shorts For Chafing
Nike Dri-Fit Swift Running Shorts ($43-$75)
Since one of the best ways to keep chafing under control while running is to wear shorts that maximize airflow, these Nike running shorts are a solid choice. They feature lightweight Dri-Fit fabric and a breathable inner shorts layer made of a breathable mesh.
Why we love it: They have four roomy pockets plus a key loop to ensure you can stash everything you need for a long, chafe-free run.
What's worth noting: Customers say these shorts run a bit small, so you may want to size up.
Additional details: Sizes: XXS-XXL (fits 00-22) | Colorways: 3
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Most Size-Inclusive Running Shorts For Chafing
Fabletics Perforated Run 5-inch Short ($50)
Available in sizes up to 4X, these running shorts feature a stretchy, mesh waistband that won't dig into your curves, a lightweight outer shell, and most importantly, a liner for added coverage and protection against chafing.
Why we love it: These shorts are covered by a 90 Day Perfect Fit Guarantee, entitling you to a refund or exchange if they don't fit or perform how they should.
What's worth noting: The outer layer is lightweight but doesn't have as baggy of a fit as most two-in-one shorts.
Additional details: Sizes: XXS-4X | Colorways: 3
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Best Sweat-Resistant Running Shorts For Chafing
The North Face Summit Series Pacesetter Run Shorts ($75)
Sometimes lightweight fabric alone isn't enough to prevent you from sweating — and ultimately chafing. If that's the case for you, you'll want to be wearing these North Face running shorts the next time you go for a run. They're constructed out of nylon-based FlashDry-XD material that wicks away sweat before it has the chance to irritate your skin.
Why we love it: They'll last you a long time because they have built-in abrasion resistance.
What's worth noting: Instead of a layer of shorts on the inside, it has a brief, which some may find uncomfortable.
Additional details: Sizes: XS-XL | Colorways: 1
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Best Short Running Shorts to Prevent Chafing
Outdoor Voices The Exercise 2.5-inch Short ($68)
If you feel like ill-fitting shorts are the main cause of chafing while you run, these Outdoor Voices shorts might be just what you need. The comfy LightSpeed material of these Outdoor Voices running shorts combined with a slightly looser overall fit keeps any fabric-induced irritation to a minimum.
Why we love it: They have elastic belt loops on the back that are sturdy enough to secure an extra T-shirt or even just a pair of keys.
What's worth noting: The length is fairly short, so depending on where you chafe, these may not work for you.
Additional details: Sizes: XXS-XL | Colorways: 4
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Best Trail-Running Shorts to Prevent Chafing
Patagonia Multi Trails Shorts ($69)
Made specifically for trail running, hiking, and just about any other adventuring you want to do, these Patagonia running shorts are designed to hold up to both chafing and outdoor wear and tear. Not only are they made of a blend of sweat-resistant, chafe-resistant polyester and spandex, the sturdy yet stretchy fabric also features a protective layer of DWR (durable water repellent).
Why we love it: Along with their sweat-wicking properties, these shorts also have a layer of HeiQ on the inside to combat odor. One happy customer reports wearing them for running, yoga, hiking waterfalls, and even surfing.
What's worth noting: As one reviewer who's 5'3" noted, these shorts can be a little long on shorter people.
Additional details: Sizes: XS-XXL | Colorways: 5
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Best Compression Running Shorts to Prevent Chafing
Lululemon SenseKnit Running High-Rise Short ($69-79, originally $108)
Runners who prefer a more snug, supportive fit won't be disappointed by this pair from Lululemon, Durney's go-to brand for anti-chafe running shorts. The SenseKnit material hugs your body with the right amount of compression, and they have strategically placed grippers that keep your shorts in place so chafing doesn't become an issue.
Why we love it: Though these look like regular bike shorts from the outside, on the inside they have a drawstring that can be adjusted for a more tailored fit.
What's worth noting: Reviewers say the hidden pocket in the waistband can feel bulky even when you don't put anything in it.
Additional details: Sizes: 0-14 | Colorways: 3
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Best Long Running Shorts to Prevent Chafing
Adidas by Stella McCartney Truepace Cycling Shorts ($100)
Though they're technically made for cycling, these bike shorts are versatile enough to be used for running and other activities, too. The moisture-wicking Aeroready fabric combined with the extended length delivers maximum coverage against chafing whether you're on a treadmill or a stationary bike.
Why we love it: The designs printed on them are reflective, providing extra safety when you run in low light.
What's worth noting: These shorts run longer, falling just above the knee, so if you're on the shorter side, they might be an awkward length.
Additional details: Sizes: XXS-XL | Colorways: 3
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