13 best anti-chafing shorts to wear and save your thighs this summer
Ever found yourself googling “what can I wear so my thighs don't rub”? Me too. Luckily, anti-chafing shorts are here to save the day (and our sanity).
It's no secret that my mood completely changes as soon as the sun starts to shine (hello, endorphins), but it can switch just as quickly as I begin to feel that familiar, painful rash between my thighs. Chafing is extremely common – it can occur in all shapes and sizes, sexes, genders and so on – but it's rarely spoken about.
What is chafing?
Chafing occurs when your thighs (or any parts of your body, really) rub together as you move, causing an uncomfortable friction rash that often sticks around for far too long. As well as chafing cream, there is a fool-proof solution to relieve your thighs: anti-chafing shorts. The best part? You don't have to apply, pat, roll or spray anything onto your skin. Bliss.
What shorts are good for legs that rub? What shorts prevent chafing?
There are thousands of anti-chafe shorts out there, but there are two styles I regularly revisit for their affordability factor and general practicality.
- ASOS Design Curve Two Pack Anti-Chafing Shorts, £15, ASOS
- Period Pants Anti Chafing Shorts, £30, Modibodi
ASOS DESIGN's two-pack speaks for itself; you get two pairs for the price of one. They're super thin and lightweight, so easy to throw in your bag when you're on the go, and the seam-free design means they don't dig in anywhere – so no one's any the wiser as to what you're wearing. When its that time of the month, though, this pair from Modibodi are the ones I reach for. I don't have to think about changing my sanitary products every few hours or worry about leaking, they're genuinely some of the best period pants I've ever tried – as well as being a dream in the anti-chafing department, of course.
What is the best material to prevent chafing?
When shopping for a pair of anti-chafing shorts (or several, for that matter), the best material to look for is polyester, nylon and high-tech fabrics that are moisture-wicking and are designed to keep your skin dry. This is to avoid thigh rub (i.e. where your thighs stick together) and any friction from occurring. This two-pack of anti-chafe shorts from Marks & Spencer is made from polyamide (a synthetic material) and elastane (for stretch), creating a barrier between your legs and protecting you.
The next thing to look for is length; something long enough to cover most of your thigh, but not too long as to peep out from beneath short summer dresses and mini skirts. These ones from Amazon are semi sheer for a more seamless, discreet finish, while these Stay Cool Chub Rub Shorts from Snag can be pulled up for a more personalised result.
How we tested/chose the best anti-chafing shorts:
Combining our expert knowledge in fashion - including which brands are worth spending your money on live up to the hype - with customer reviews and data on what you’ve been searching for, we’ve curated what we feel is a selection of the best anti-chafing shorts on the market. We’ve rifled through the good and the bad so you don’t have to, and have paid particular attention to specifics like functionality, cost, fabrics, sustainability and wearability in order to narrow it down. Our aim is to find you pieces which will last as well as work, and, as a team of 30+ here at GLAMOUR HQ, we’ve tried our fair share of the best anti-chafing shorts to know which ones are worth shouting about.
For more from GLAMOUR UK's Commerce Writer Georgia Trodd, follow her on Instagram @georgiatrodd.
What are the best anti-chafing shorts? Take a look at our favourites below to find out…
Light Control Thigh Slimmers (2 Pack/Multipack)
Why we love them: “I can't stand the VPL that some anti-chafing shorts give you, so when I came across this pair from M&S I had to buy the store's entire stock,” says Lucy Smith, Commerce Writer. “They're smoothing on the thigh and have subtle tummy control, as well as having that ‘no-show’ fabric, but don't feel as restrictive as some of the best shapewear or spandex styles can. Thank you, M&S, for saving my thighs summer after summer.”
Pros: There are three colours.
Cons: They sell out quickly.
Other customers are saying: “Previous purchases have curled or the waistband has been obvious under clothes, but this wide, smooth waistband doesn't show at all. ”
Save when you shop for women's cool comfort anti chafing shorts with these Marks & Spencer discount codes at checkout.
Short Leg Anti-Chafe Shorts (2 Pack)
Why we love them: With added stretch and a touch of cotton, these shorts have a flexible feel that lets you move freely and a wide waistband that stays put. They're designed to eliminate chafing and static while shaping your silhouette. Two in one!
Pros: Most of the reviews are five star.
Cons: They're more expensive than other styles, but you do get two of them…
Customers are saying: “These are good but they come up big.”
Save when you shop for trending anti chafing shorts and other lingerie in the United Kingdom with these Marks & Spencer discount codes at checkout.
ASOS DESIGN Curve 2 Pack Anti-Chafing Shorts
Why we love them: “I don't think I've ever gone without chucking a pair of these in my handbag when we're experiencing hot weather. They're a godsend if you experience any form of friction in your inner thighs – or even if you just want some coverage in case a gust of wind gives you a Marilyn Monroe moment – and I can't fault the price of them. They're high waisted and finish just above the knee, so I remain chafe-free all day long,” says Georgia Trodd, Commerce Writer.
Pros: You get two of them in the pack.
Cons: They sell out on the reg'.
Other customers are saying: “They're handwash only which can be annoying.”
For free delivery/free returns and to save when you shop for anti chafing shorts to wear with maxi dresses and midi skirts, use these ASOS discount codes at checkout.
Anti Chafing Activewear Shorts/Cycling Shorts
Why we love them: “I find I experience chafing the most when I exercise during the summer, so I've been looking for something I can wear to prevent friction while working out and these shorts are spot on. I don't even need to wear anything on top of them as I've found they're utterly squat proof, and yet they still feel different to my other activewear cycling shorts. It must be magic, but I'm not complaining,” says Sophie Cockett, Senior European Commerce Editor.
Pros: They're breathable as well as moisture-wicking, with an 8-inch inseam to reduce the risk of chafing all the way down your thighs.
Cons: They're not as high-waisted as other styles.
Other customers are saying: “I actually don't run…I bought these shorts to wear under my trousers and they are the best anti chaffing underwear I have ever worn.”
80 Denier Elasticated Anti-Chafing Biker Shorts
Why we love them: Priced at less than a tenner and available up to a size 3XL, what's not to love?
Pros: Reviewers say the material is thin but a good quality a doesn't rip when you put them on.
Cons: They sell out so damn fast.
Customers are saying: “Best purchase ever to prevent thigh chafing. Wore these for 14 hours straight under my dress whilst walking around Rome in 33 degree heat and they were a saviour!”
Confident Curve Anti Chafing Short
Why we love them: These anti-chafing shorts by V by Very go up to a size 34 and feature a wide elasticated waist band so as they don't roll down.
Pros: One reviewer said they are the best shorts they've ever bought and after washing they remained the same shape as when they were new.
Cons: Only one colour available.
Customers are saying: “The tights-like material makes them more lightweight and breathable compared to my usual anti-chafing shorts.”
Save when you shop for anti chafing shorts with a broad size range/UK size guide with these Very discount codes at checkout.
YOURS Curve Nude Lace Trim Anti Chafing High Waisted Shorts
Why we love them: Trimmed with a pretty strip of lace to the hem, these anti-chafing shorts feel slightly more elevated than other styles.
Pros: You can get two for £20.
Cons: They're currently only available in sizes 16 and above.
Customers are saying: “Came up a little large but such a lovely product. Will be great for keeping cool under a dress.”
Black Thigh Length Anti-Chafing Shorts
Why we love them: Available in three sizes - small, medium and large - these anti-chafing shorts come in black and beige for a variety of outfits.
Pros: They cost less than £10.
Cons: They don't go beyond a size large.
Customers are saying: “So soft and thin!”
Save when you shop for new in and bestseller anti-chafing shorts with these New Look discount codes at checkout. Always read the FAQs.
We Are We Wear Anti-Chafing Short
Why we love them: Designed for comfort and discretion, these anti-chafing shorts come courtesy of swimwear and intimates brand We Are We Wear. They have a broad size range, too, which is a huge tick from us.
Pros: They come in a few different colours and patterns.
Cons: You should wash them cold if you want them to last longer.
Customers are saying: “They're really discreet under dresses on a hot summer's day.”
Stay Cool Chub Rub Shorts
Why we love them: Made from tights material, these plus size 80 denier anti-chafing shorts are enhanced with special yarn to help you keep cool and comfy in the heat. No more uncomfortable summer days!
Pros: They come in a variety of colours.
Cons: Unless you're tall, you might find these are too long for you - some reviews state they found themselves pulling them up as they showed beneath shorter dresses.
Customers are saying: “The length of these changes with the size unlike other styles.”
YADIFEN 3 Pack Anti Chafing Long Brief Shorts/Slip Shorts
Why we love them: As well as preventing that horrible friction that occurs between your thighs, these anti-chafing shorts are also seamless beneath form-fitting clothes for a smooth finish.
Pros: They have four-way stretch.
Cons: They are see-through, so you won't be able to wear them on their own.
Customers are saying: “The fabric is breathable and super stretchy. My trousers no longer rub.”
Save when you shop for anti chafing shorts that hold up with these Amazon discount codes at checkout.
Period Pants Anti-Chafing Shorts
Why we love them: Commerce Writer Georgia Trodd says, “I can live my TOTM life sans any underwear in this pair of shorts, which is an absolute dream for me. They double as period pants and hold up to three teaspoons worth of blood as well as keeping the risk of sore thighs at bay. Let's be honest, period cramps and chafed thighs are not the one, so these are a true life saver.”
Pros: They help to eliminate disposables (tampons) as well as chafing, so they're better for the planet and for your bod'. The best part? They go up to a size 6XL.
Cons: Only available in two colours.
Other customers are saying: “Great for wearing under dresses and being on the move. Very soft and comfortable, with some control, and not restrictive.”
Save when you shop for anti chafing shorts with an absorbent gusset and other period pants and knickers with these Modibodi discount codes and vouchers at checkout.
Sloggi Basic+ Anti-Chafing Long Brief Shorts
Why we love them: Heavenly soft and so lightweight you'll barely notice them there, these lace-trimmed anti-chafing shorts are spot on for the warmer days of summer.
Pros: There are a wide range of sizes available.
Cons: They can rise because they're thin.
Customers are saying: “Long enough so they don’t look like hot pants on me - I’m rather tall.”
Save when you shop for stretchy anti chafing shorts with these Amazon discount codes at checkout.
