If rubbing between your thighs is getting in the way of having fun this summer, it's worth investing in a pair of the best anti-chafing shorts. A pair of discreet shorts worn under your favourite dresses and skirts could be the answer to keeping stinging skin at bay.
Curvy hips should be celebrated and can look great under a pretty frock or swishy skirt, but if like me, you aren’t blessed with a thigh-gap, your thighs can often start to rub and leave your skin feeling horribly sore. As somebody that has experienced thigh rub, I totally understand how painful it can be. The stinging friction that can build up when you’re out and about can be unbearable at times, and can quickly take all the joy out of a sunny day.
Thankfully anti-chafing shorts are available to act like a discreet barrier to prevent any rubbing or irritation, and can make a huge difference to how comfortable you feel – especially during the hotter weather when your skin is more prone to sweat. The best anti-chafing shorts are like a secret weapon when it comes to wearing exactly what you want to wear from your capsule wardrobe, as the shorts cover your thighs to create a shield that stops your legs from touching and rubbing – which means no more ‘ouch’!
There’s really nothing to be embarrassed about when it comes to buying the best anti-chafing shorts, and they can be found at some of the best British clothing brands, all over the high street, where there’s plenty of different styles, colours and lengths to suit your body shape and budget. While anti-chafing shorts can often look like the best shapewear pieces, their main use is to keep your thighs safe rather that smoothing lumps and bumps, and are often more comfortable than shaping pieces, so if 'chub rub' is getting you down, avoid browsing for the best shapewear on Amazon and look for shorts designed to be thigh-savers.
How we tested the best anti-chafing shorts
Why you can trust Woman & Home Our expert reviewers spend hours testing and comparing products and services so you can choose the best for you. Find out more about how we test.
We know how uncomfortable the dreaded thigh sting can be, so we put the shorts to the test to find the very best pairs to keep your legs happy and comfortable on even the most busy of days.
When testing out, we considered the fabrics and how breathable they were, how comfortable they felt after hours of wear, and of course, how well they protected our inner thighs from rubbing and damage while we clocked up our steps. We also looked at design details like the colours available, the trims, and the leg-lengths, as they can all make a difference to how you might feel about choosing your perfect pair of thigh savers.
Best anti-chafing shorts - selected by a fashion editor
We have selected the very best anti thigh chafing underwear below to make shopping for your best anti-chafing shorts all the easier. We found some great options from a wide variety of brands, but overall our top choice was from M&S. I actually forgot I was wearing the shorts as the fabric was super comfy , and they genuinely kept my thighs feeling protected and sting-free from morming til night. It’s an extra big thumbs up from us!
Best anti-chafing shorts for colour range
RRP: £20
Sizes: 8-22
Most of us think of M&S as one of the brands for the best bras, as they really do combine comfort and practical detailing with beautiful design and luxe fabrics. Their underwear has been trusted by generations of women of all shapes and sizes, and these anti-chafe shorts are worthy winners too. Cool and comfortable so you won't overheat in the height of summer, the shorts are seam-free on the outer leg so they won't show up under dresses. I completely forgot I was wearing them as the fine fabric feels a like a pair of tights, and has plenty of stretch and softness.
Comfortable and stylish, the shorts are available in 7 colours and are an essential piece of kit to wear with the best wedding guest dresses. Stocked up to a UK size 22, this is a fairly inclusive buy too.
Reasons to buy: They come in a 2 pack which makes them great value, and they are available in an impressive size range. They weren't restricting yet stayed in place and didn't ride up on legs.
Reasons to avoid: The fine fabric means they might be more prone to snagging overtime.
Best sculpting anti-chafing shorts
RRP: £38
Sizes: XXS-4XL
When it comes to high-quality shapewear, American clothing brand SKIMS has it down, making some of the best plus size shapewear, they stock up to a 4XL in all styles. Kim Kardashian has built an undergarment brand that solves a multitude of wardrobe dilemmas, so when it comes to the best anti-chafing shorts, of course, SKIMS has the answer.
The mid-thigh shorts offer protection for your thighs and sculpt your natural figure, without compromising on comfort. With an ultra-soft finish, these shorts are seamless to give you a smooth finish under tight-fitting clothing. With a slightly longer leg, they're ideal for wearing under stylish dresses to hide a tummy this summer.
Reasons to buy: In-built sculpting adds gentle hold and firmness to thighs and bum, and great size range
Reasons to avoid: Expensive compared to others
Best short anti-chafing shorts
RRP: £9.80
Sizes: S-2XL
Jockey's Skimmies come in two lengths, a short style, ideal for higher hemlines and the classic slip short that finishes mid-thigh. In a silky soft microfibre, they're light and comfortable for all-day wear and while they aren't shapewear per se, they do offer a smooth finish. Like many of the best anti-chafing shorts, they have a seam-free finish, making these your best-kept style secret.
"I've loved Jockey's Skimmies for years and while I don't wear them every day of the summer, I certainly would never go on holiday or particularly energetic days without them. I even wore a pair under my wedding dress!" - woman&home fashion editor, Rivkie Baum.
Reasons to buy: Great price and ideal for wearing under shorts without peeking out at the hem.
Reasons to avoid: Only three colourways and quite a plain and simple design.
Best longline anti-chafing shorts
RRP: £8
Sizes: 20-26
You may be more familiar with the thigh rub issue if you have a pear-shaped body, as this means fuller hips, so your thighs are more likely to rub together when you walk. These light and breathable shorts have a flattering high-rise as well as a longer leg line - they sit just above knees for a wider area of protection.
The elasticated waist adds comfort and a sheer finish makes them airy in the summer. The seam-free design ensures you can wear them with tight fitting fabrics, without ruining the line of your outfit.
Reasons to buy: Ideal for plus sizes and the longer leg will keep a bigger area of your thighs protected.
Reasons to avoid: Can only be worn with longer hemlines.
Best period anti-chafing shorts
RRP: £25
Sizes: 12-26
If you've already invested in the best period underwear then you should be familiar with Australian clothing brand, Modibodi. Producing underwear, activewear and swimwear that is leakproof for your period, the brand's anti-chafe shorts offer a further extension to its range.
Made from soft fabric, the mid-length shorts, come in two colourways and are invisible under clothing. With a lining that can handle moderate to heavy flow - you don't even need to wear underwear with these shorts and you can keep the same pair on all day without any worries about leaks or odour. Give them a rinse, and then pop them in the wash on a cold cycle, and they will dry quickly to be ready to wear again without the need for sanitary products. Protecting your thighs and offering a more sustainable way to tackle your period, these are a summer must-have.
Reasons to buy: Doubles up as period underwear.
Reasons to avoid: No sizes below size 12 available.
Best value anti-chafing shorts
RRP: £19.99 for a pack of 3
Sizes: 8-22/24
Tagless and smooth, these shorts are ideal for wearing under light summer dresses. Available in packs of three that cover everything from basic black and white to pretty pink and navy, these mid-length shorts are designed to stop thighs rubbing together and while the fabric has no specific wicking properties, the length aims to stop sweat gathering and from thighs rubbing.
In a nylon/elastane combo, you can guarantee a figure-hugging fit that will naturally offer light shaping and sculpting. With rave reviews, customers adore the stretchy nature of the shorts - one even exclaimed, ' I wear shorts under all my dresses to combat chub rub. These shorts are perfect!' on Amazon. Making them the best anti-chafing shorts for those that like a little more give.
Reasons to buy: Good stretch and a good choice of colour options available.
Reasons to avoid: No specific wicking properties, and the sizing comes up a little smaller than other brands.
Best design anti-chafing shorts
RRP: £10
Sizes: 10-32
The small and delicate lace trim on this hero pair of thigh-savers add a sexier feel to an otherwise practical piece of clothing, and will look pretty if they peek out from under your dress hem. They have a slightly longer leg too which is great for taller women, and helped to avoid any riding up throughout the day.
They are made from recycled stretch fabrics that have plenty of give without losing their shape or feeling baggy.
Reasons to buy: Great size range, brilliant price and the lace details add a stylish twist.
Reasons to avoid: Quite long so may not be great for shorter women, and they are only available in black.
Best anti-chafing shorts for price
RRP: £6
Sizes: 8-34
Available in six shades, this pair of anti-chafing shorts is an absolute bargain at just £6 a pair. They're also available in one of the largest size ranges we found (8 to 34). Using a tubular knitted fabric for a contoured and seamless fit (ideal under tighter fitting fabrics), they're slightly shorter (covering mid thigh to belly button). With stretchy leg openings, you'll find that these shorts won't dig in and offer all day comfort.
The main downside is the lack of cotton in the fabric make up, so you might want a pair of cotton anti-chafe shorts particularly when struggling with what to wear in the heat, however as an everyday, under the best dresses basic, these are fab.
Reasons to buy: Great range of nude shades and bargain price.
Reasons to avoid: The cotton-free materials may feel sweaty in hotter weather.
Best anti-chafing shorts for fabric
RRP: £22
Sizes: 8-24
This 2 pack of anti-chafe shorts is available in a few colour combinations including black, beige and navy.
The impressive material mix contains 95% cotton and 5% elastane, with a fully cotton gusset. This made them the most breathable and cooler feeling shorts we tried and they felt super soft to touch. The higher cotton content did mean they felt a little loose after a full day or wear compared to some of the other clingier shorts we tested, but overall they held up well and felt very comfortable on even the most humid of days.
Reasons to buy: Breathable cotton fabrics, and good colour choice.
Reasons to avoid: Weren't as smooth and fitted under tighter clothing as some of the other seam-free styles.
Best anti-chafing thigh bands
RRP: £18.99
Sizes: 6-28
If you don't want the added bulk of shorts around your middle, but do need to protect your thighs then Bandelettes could be the answer to your thigh chafing issues. A sleek and simple, no-nonsense design, as the name suggests, these stretchy bands sit around your thigh area.
Available in two different depths, depending on the level of protection needed, they use non-slip silicon trims to avoid them rolling down. Bandlettes will slip easily into your suitcase too (even a handbag). They're made from a soft microfibre, but lacy designs are also available.
Reasons to buy: Great alternative to shorts and less fabric to wear on warmer days.
Reasons to avoid: The style might take some getting used to and they felt less sleek and smooth than shorts.
Best anti-chafing shorts for size 24+
RRP: £12
Sizes: 16-36
Available up to a size 36, plus size fashion brand Yours mix style and practicality with ease with these shorts. The design is simple but works as a fuss-free essential for keeping your thighs comfy under your favourite summer outfit. The waist band is high and will sit just above your bellybutton to add definition at your middle without feeling restricting.
Most anti-chafe shorts are available in basic black, nude and white shades but you can actually get this pair in a hot Barbiecore pink colourway that adds some fun to your underwear drawer.
Reasons to buy: Great size range and fun colour options.
Reasons to avoid: Hand wash only and the cotton-free fabrics means they might be a little sweaty.
The best anti-chafing shorts for fun designs
RRP: £18
Sizes: XS-3XL
Step One takes the silhouette of a traditional men's boxer and adapts it for the female form, for underwear and anti-chafing shorts in one. Made from sweat and moisture-wicking, organically-grown bamboo fabric, these shorts are ideal for keeping you cool and comfortable all year long.
The brand uses anti-friction panels and fabric to avoid fabric riding up the leg, so your shorts stay put and your thighs stay rub free for a more comfortable wear - and no wriggling and re-positioning your shorts in the day either. In a host of different colourways and limited edition prints, you can even make your anti-chafe shorts a feature of your outfit. Available up to a 3XL (UK size 22), they also offer a good size range.
Reasons to buy: Sweat-wicking fabric, relaxed design and plenty of colourful and printed options.
Reasons to avoid: Boxer style won't be for everyone and may feel a little bulky compared to other simpler pairs.
How to choose the best anti-chafing shorts
Thigh rub can really inhibit summer outfits for work and if you've found yourself avoiding dresses, opting instead for a flattering jumpsuit, simply to protect your thighs, then investing in some of the best anti-chafing shorts will help to open up a whole world of new style opportunities.
When choosing the best anti-chafing shorts, fabric and length will be key. Longer line shorts will work well under midi and maxi length dresses and skirts, while you'll want shorter lengths (that still cover your upper thigh area) for shorter hemlines. Make sure to invest in a few pairs, as you'll need to wash them between wears, in the same way you would your regular underwear.
Available in a range of hues, consider what you'll wear your shorts under, to avoid them showing through thinner fabrics and invest in styles that offer high waists and sweat-wicking properties for maximum summer comfort and support.
FAQs
What is chafing?
Chafing is when your inner thighs come in contact, and repeatedly rub against each other as you walk and move around. The friction between your thighs can start to irritate the skin leading to broken and inflamed patches that can become very painful. It can be much worse during the hot weather months as you will sweat more and the clammy skin can be more prone to pesky chub-rub.
What is the best material for anti-chafing shorts?
The materials that your anti-chafing shorts are made from can make a huge difference to how they will feel to wear. A lot of it is down to personal preference but if you're not sure with where to start, we spoke to Deputy Fashion Editor, Charlie Bell about what to look for - "Anti-chafe shorts are a great investment. Less messy and longer-lasting than a topical cream, they create a protective barrier between your legs to stop any friction. When shopping for the best anti-chafe shorts, look for materials that are moisture-wicking and have a hint of elastane to ensure they fit snugly and stay put. If you want a firmer fit, avoid thicker cotton and instead look for synthetic fabrics such as nylon and polyester, and extra comfort points if they are seamless and tag-free."
How can shorts prevent chafing?
Simply put, good anti-chafe shorts will work as a thin and comfortable barrier between you thighs to prevent skin-to-skin rubbing while you are out and about. If your skin isn’t rubbing, you wont have any irritation so you can carry on without any worries. They can be worn over your knickers and under your clothes for a discreet extra layer that nobody can see.
Do anti-chafing shorts actually work?
YES! As somebody that has struggled with painful red skin on my inner thighs each summer, I’ve found that anti-chafe shorts can make all the difference. The best anti-chafe shorts are easy to wear and discreet while keeping the skin on your thighs from touching. They can be a total game-changer for anybody struggling with painful friction at the top of their legs.
Charlie is the Deputy Fashion Editor at Future plc across multiple women’s magazines including Woman & Home, Woman and Woman's Own.She bagged her first magazine job in 2009 and has previously written for titles including Stylist, Closer and Dare. Over the years Charlie has embraced anything that was thrown at her from styling celebrities to testing out the best jeans on the high street to writing about must-have beauty buys.With a weakness for a printed midi dress, Charlie is on a mission to shop more sustainably and loves finding new ethical brands and second-hand buys.
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