The best anti-chafing shorts will stop your thighs from rubbing together during warm weather. If you suffer from thigh burn, a pair of shorts, similar to cycling shorts, worn under dresses or skirts could be the answer to banishing sore skin for good.
The best anti-chafing shorts are many women's secret weapon when it comes to wearing dresses and skirts, particularly during summer months. Worn either over the top of, or instead of your regular briefs, anti-chafing shorts help you avoid thigh rub, as the legs of the shorts cover your thighs and create a barrier, so no more sore rubbing. Some anti-chafing shorts also offer silhouette sculpting properties, for a smoother finish too, meaning they can double up as the best shapewear too. With several different lengths available, you can easily slip anti-chafe shorts on under dresses of all lengths, from mini to maxi length. And better still, no one will know, so you can simply get on with enjoying every day to the max. To keep cool, make sure to choose either cotton iterations or those crafted from breathable or moisture-wicking fabrics for the ultimate comfort.
These shorts will keep you cool and comfortable whatever the weather and occasion. Made from stretchy fabric, anti-chafing shorts will feel similar to various body shapers or shapewear you've tried before. With a high rise, they'll also help to contour your silhouette, ideal for those who usually wear stylish dresses to hide a tummy. Anti-chafing shorts might not be the sexiest item in your lingerie draw, but when it comes to practicality, a pair of thigh-protecting shorts is hard to beat.
Best anti chafing shorts - selected by a fashion editor
Best anti-chafe shorts for colour range
RRP: £20
Sizes: 8-22
Most of us think of M&S as one of the best lingerie brands for women, 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, making them ideal if you're figuring out what to wear to a wedding this summer.
Combining comfort and practicality, the shorts are available in 7 colours and an essential piece of kit in your summer capsule wardrobe. Stocked up to a US size 20 / UK size 22, this is a fairly inclusive buy too.
Reasons to buy: Good value and range of sizes
Reasons to avoid: Thin feel
Best sculpting anti chafing shorts
RRP: £38
Sizes: 0-30
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 any of the best midi dresses this summer.
Reasons to buy: In-built sculpting and great size range
Reasons to avoid: Expensive compared to others
Best short anti-chafing shorts
RRP: £14
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
Reasons to avoid: Only three colourways
Best longline anti-chafing shorts
RRP: £8
Sizes: 20-26
If you're more familiar with the thigh rub issue, particularly 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, making them also ideal for apple body shapes as they gently sculpt a tummy.
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 ruing the line of your outfit.
Reasons to buy: Ideal for plus sizes
Reasons to avoid: Can only be worn with longer hemlines
Best period anti-chafing shorts
RRP: £30
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 some of the best swimsuits that are 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. 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.
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 three basic colours, 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, 'where have these been all my life'. Making them the best anti chafing shorts for those that like a little more give.
Reasons to buy: Good stretch and value
Reasons to avoid: No specific wicking properties
Best plus size anti-chafing shorts
RRP: £9.49
Sizes: 4-36
Having the best anti chafe shorts can really open up your wardrobe and whether you choose to make them a feature, in a bright and colorful pair or opt for something discreet, indie clothing brand, Snag has an impressive array of designs that will help you embrace frocks again. The tights are already a favourite amongst plus size shoppers and some of the best fashion bloggers, with the brand's Chub Rub shorts made from the same 80 denier material as its tights collection.
Designed to keep you cool with a cotton gusset, the shorts help regulate body temperature, taking heat away from the body as speedily as possible.
Reasons to buy: Great size range and price
Reasons to avoid: Quite long
Best for price
RRP: £4.20
Sizes: 8-34
Available in four shades, this pair of anti chafing shorts is an absolute bargain at just £4.20 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 size range and value for money
Reasons to avoid: Not ideal for hot weather
Best anti-chafing shorts for size range
RRP: £14
Sizes: 4-30
Available in three neutral hues, these anti chafing shorts have a longer line, making them ideal for wearing under midi and maxi dresses. In sizes S-3XL, these shorts are inclusive and the high waist design offers light smoothing and sculpting.
In a nylon/elastane mix, these shorts don't have any special breathable properties but will be similar to sturdy tights. Although they are panel free, they have front and back seams across the stomach and bum, which is something to consider if the outfit you're wearing is particularly close fitting.
Reasons to buy: Great size range
Reasons to avoid: Not breathable fabrics
Best anti-chafe 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
Reasons to avoid: The style might take some getting used to
Best anti chafe shorts for size 26+
RRP: £18.95
Sizes: 8-36
Available up to a size 36, The Big Bloomers Company lingerie mix style and practicality with ease. The shorts feature a high waist and sculpted back panels to help contour your shape, for light molding - as opposed to heavy shaping. The ribbed leg openings ensure the shorts don't ride up, ensuring everyday comfort and the fabric is soft, light and seamless, offering a figure flattering fit.
"These are really comfortable for all day wear, with great stretch. Sizing down is recommended and this will give a smooth fit that's not constricting. Rather than having a shapewear element, the slightly denser fabric just gives a nice smooth finish, without feeling tight. The ribbed bands at the leg opening definitely makes a difference and they don't roll down or up so I can get on with my day, forgetting I'm wearing them", says Rivkie.
Reasons to buy: Great size range and sculpted back panels
Reasons to avoid: No cotton fabric
The best anti chafe 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
Reasons to avoid: Boxer style won't be for everyone
How to choose the best anti-chafing shorts
Thigh rub can really inhibit summer outfit ideas and if you've found yourself avoiding dresses, opting instead for a flattering jumpsuit, simply to protect your thighs, then investing in some great 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.
