We are presenting a solution to every runner's mortal enemy: chafing. Don't settle for slathering deodorant on your inner thighs! Instead, find shorts that prevent this issue. If you are someone who is prone to chafing, this is particularly important for you and your running journey. With the right shorts, it will be easier to unlock your full potential.
However, it can be tricky to find shorts that work for you. After searching the Internet high and low, our favorite shorts are the Women's High Waist Biker Shorts from BALEAF. They come in three different lengths and all shorts are made with chafe-free lock seams for your ultimate running comfort. Check out the rest of our list of the 10 best chafe-free shorts, some with liners and some with pockets, and make sure to check out our buying guide reviewed by a personal trainer for helpful advice!
Image | 1 ![]() Baleaf | 2 ![]() Tracksmith | 3 ![]() adidas by Stella McCartney | 4 ![]() Outdoor Voices | 5 ![]() Brooks Running | 6 ![]() On | 7 ![]() Nike | 8 ![]() Soothfeel | 9 ![]() Patagonia | 10 ![]() Lululemon |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Name | Women's High Waist Biker Shorts | Session Shorts | Truepurpose High Intensity Shorts | Hudson Shorts | Chaser Women's 7 inch Running Shorts | Sprinter Shorts | Tempo Luxe Run Division Women's 2-In-1 Running Shorts | Women's 2 in 1 Running Shorts | Women's Strider Running Shorts | Wunder Train High-Rise Short |
Features | Stretchy and Slip-Free Bike Shorts | Do Your Best on Race Day | Stay Breezy and Covered With These High-Waisted Shorts | Sustainably-Made Lightweight Shorts | Flowy Shorts for More Coverage | Sustainable Shorts With Handy Features | Contemporary Shorts That Come in Tall Sizes | Short and Lightweight With a Double-Layer Design | Sustainable Shorts For Casual Runs | Sweat Less With These Size-Inclusive Bike Shorts |
Price | $20.99 | $68.00 | $80.00 | $58.00 | $60.00 | $69.99 | $50.00 | $26.99 | $49.00 | $58.00 |
Sizes available | XS-3XL | XS-XL | XS-XL | XXS-3XL | XS-2XL | XS-XL | XS-2XL | XS-XL | XXS-XL | 0-20 |
Type | Biker shorts | Short-length shorts | Two-in-one shorts | Short-length shorts | Longer-length shorts | Biker shorts | 2-in-1 shorts | 2-in-1 shorts | Short-length shorts | Biker shorts |
Materials | 87% polyester, 13% spandex | 86% nylon, 14% elastane | 86% recycled polyester, 14% elastane | 86% recycled polyester, 14% spandex | Not specified | 65% recycled polyamide, 35% elastane | 100% nylon | 90% nylon, 10% elastane | 100% polyester | 77% nylon, 23% elastane |
Colors available | 28 | 2 | 1 | 11 | 5 | 2 | 2 | 16 | 4 | 12 |
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We found the best chafe-free running shorts based on our buying guide and user reviews. We made sure to include various lengths and types so that there are options for everybody!
*Please note that these products were chosen after extensive research by mybest writers. The choices are not necessarily affiliated with or recommended by Gentry Washburn unless explicitly stated so.
$20.99
Sizes available | XS-3XL |
---|---|
Type | Biker shorts |
Materials | 87% polyester, 13% spandex |
Colors available | 28 |
$68.00
Sizes available | XS-XL |
---|---|
Type | Short-length shorts |
Materials | 86% nylon, 14% elastane |
Colors available | 2 |
$80.00
Sizes available | XS-XL |
---|---|
Type | Two-in-one shorts |
Materials | 86% recycled polyester, 14% elastane |
Colors available | 1 |
$58.00
Sizes available | XXS-3XL |
---|---|
Type | Short-length shorts |
Materials | 86% recycled polyester, 14% spandex |
Colors available | 11 |
$60.00
Sizes available | XS-2XL |
---|---|
Type | Longer-length shorts |
Materials | Not specified |
Colors available | 5 |
$69.99
Sizes available | XS-XL |
---|---|
Type | Biker shorts |
Materials | 65% recycled polyamide, 35% elastane |
Colors available | 2 |
$50.00
Sizes available | XS-2XL |
---|---|
Type | 2-in-1 shorts |
Materials | 100% nylon |
Colors available | 2 |
$26.99
Sizes available | XS-XL |
---|---|
Type | 2-in-1 shorts |
Materials | 90% nylon, 10% elastane |
Colors available | 16 |
$49.00
Sizes available | XXS-XL |
---|---|
Type | Short-length shorts |
Materials | 100% polyester |
Colors available | 4 |
$58.00
Sizes available | 0-20 |
---|---|
Type | Biker shorts |
Materials | 77% nylon, 23% elastane |
Colors available | 12 |
Deciding to go on a run can sometimes be a challenging task in itself. But, buying shorts that reduce as much friction as possible can give you a little push of motivation! To help you find the best shorts for you, we created this buying guide.
When it comes to anti-chafing shorts, there are three main types: long bike shorts, two-in-one shorts, and super-short shorts.
If you are a die-hard fan of running in leggings, try biker shorts for the days that are just too hot. They are essentially leggings made into shorts. Leggings keep chafing at bay, and so do their shorter counterparts. The compression effect should keep them from riding up and your thighs from rubbing against excess material.
Many biker shorts use Spandex and nylon for maximum coolness and stretch. Whether you choose short or long biker shorts, they should hug your thighs without squeezing them.
If you like the look or feel of more flowy shorts, two-in-one shorts are a great alternative. They have the look of traditional running shorts but provide inner compression shorts to keep your thighs from rubbing against each other and chafing.
These shorts are also great if you like wearing shorter shorts but feel anxious about any possible slips. They also tend to be cooling since the first layer is usually lightweight and spaced out from the inner layer.
Short-shorts are traditionally a popular option for professional runners. The short length keeps the fabric from rubbing against your thighs. This may be a more appropriate option for those whose skin is sensitive and chafes from fabric rubbing.
If you suffer more from chub rub, you could alternatively opt for longer shorts. Shorts that are seven inches or more in length will keep both excess fabric and your thighs from painfully rubbing against each other.
To avoid chafing, short shorts are likely most beneficial for those with smaller body frames. Especially if you tend to run on surfaces that absorb heat, such as tracks and turf, then short shorts are definitely a viable option.
When it comes to materials, you must prioritize what is most important to you. The best materials for running shorts include nylon, polyester, and Spandex.
If moisture-wicking is crucial for you, choose a mix with a high percentage of nylon. On the contrary, if stretchiness is more important to you, look at mixes with higher percentages of Spandex. If you’re set on fighting odor, look for synthetic materials or open weaves that keep bacteria from getting trapped.
Whatever you do, it’s probably best to avoid cotton-heavy mixes. Cotton is heavy and will get heavier when moist and cause painful chafing during runs. There are always exceptions, but as a general rule, cotton can be difficult to deal with while running.
While the type of shorts and material are certainly important, don’t forget to look at the liners and pockets. These extra features can make a difference in your runs.
Liners are built-in underwear. Since liners are lightweight and breathable, they wick moisture from the crotch area, keeping your run chafe-free and more sanitary.
Many runners suggest running without underwear when your shorts have a built-in liner. This keeps your running wardrobe as simple as possible. It also allows more flexibility for big strides and all types of runs.
Since most underwear is not built for heavy sweat, it can ultimately be more comfortable to use just the liner.
While holding too much stuff can slow you down, pockets are perfect for keeping your keys and wallet safely tucked away. This way, you can run with your hands free. We recommend looking for zippered pockets to prevent objects from bouncing out!
Along with reviewing and commenting on our buying guide, Gentry also took the time to answer a commonly asked question.
Gentry says, "I personally do not because I do not want them to ride up and give me a wedgie while I am running or working out, ha! It's all personal preference, though. Some people think it is gross to go without it. I say, do what makes you comfortable!"
Looking for other items that can help make running easier and more enjoyable? We've got you covered!
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