10 best anti-chafing shorts 2024 UK: we tested chub rub shorts for sweaty thighs and curvy figures
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LOOKING for the best anti-chafing shorts? We've found you the top contenders for staying dry and chafe-free this summer.
As fun as a heatwave is, there's no denying the horrors of the dreaded thigh chafe; it can turn a simple walk or workout into a seriously uncomfortable ordeal.
Thank goodness, then, for anti-chafing shorts. These babies are a game-changer, allowing you to still wear your favourite summer skirts and dresses without the need for sweating it out in tights – and without feeling like your thigh skin is about to blister up.
When it comes to shopping for a pair, the options are endless, so we've made life easier by rigorously testing a variety of styles – including specialised underwear – ensuring they'll keep you cool and prevent the dreaded 'chub rub.'
Read on to discover the perfect anti-chafing shorts to wear this summer and beyond.
Best anti-chafing shorts at a glance
- Best overall: M&S Collection 2 pack anti-chafe shorts
- Best budget: Everybody shape enhancing seamless mid thigh short
- Best soft material: SEFI Define ruched shorts
- Best cycling shorts: Yana Active 3.0 Ocean shorts
- Best shorts to keep you cool: Fabletics Oasis PureLuxe high-waisted 6'' shorts
M&S Collection 2 pack anti-chafe shorts
M&S Collection 2 pack anti-chafe shorts, £20
Pros: Anti-chafing, lightweight, soft and comfortable, available in seven shades
Cons: None
Rating: 5/5
At two for £20, these M&S anti-chafing shorts are a bargain. They really work, too.
They're super soft, seamless and lightweight, so you won't see them under your clothes or feel like you've got an extra layer on.
And they're available in seven different shades, so you'll be able to find a pair that suits your skin tone.
If you find shapewear to be a little too intense but want an extra layer of support and security when wearing a short dress, these will work.
I found that these shorts made my waist look a little bit smaller, too.
Size: 8-22; Material: 81% Polyamide, 18% Elastane and 1% Cotton; Shades: seven
Marks and Spencer Magicwear Waist Cincher & Thigh Slimmer
Marks and Spencer Magicwear Waist Cincher & Thigh Slimmer, £35
Pros: 4 neutral shades, available in sizes 8 to 22, waist cinching, thigh slimming, anti-chafing
Cons: None
Rating: 5/5
The Magicwear Waist Cincher & Thigh Slimmer from M&S lives up to its name by providing a smoother, more streamlined look for your waist and thighs.
With five versatile shades available – black, rich quartz, rose quartz, opaline, and rich amber – you'll easily find a colour that complements your skin tone and outfit.
When I initially tried on these shorts, I was worried about the fit. Stepping into them was simple, but pulling them over my hips and stomach was tough due to the strong tummy control feature.
However, once I had them on, I appreciated the snug fit as they effectively shaped my body and kept everything firmly in place – even when dancing.
A standout feature is the waistband, which extends up to just below your bra. This design eliminates any gaps in your underwear and avoids random bulges, creating a smooth, seamless silhouette. The fabric’s seamless nature ensures that the shapewear remains discreet.
While the thigh control isn’t as intense as the stomach control, this is actually beneficial as too much compression on the thighs could cause unwanted bulges at the bottom of the shorts.
My thighs appeared slightly slimmer, but the shorts excelled at keeping my tummy in check, reducing thigh jiggles while walking, and preventing chafing.
And despite the material feeling quite thick, the moisture-wicking Cool Comfort technology kept me from overheating.
Size: 8-22; Material: 62% polyamide, 38% elastane; Shades: five
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Yitty Nearly Naked shaping high waist short
Yitty Nearly Naked shaping high waist short, £49 (£9.79 for members)
Pros: Anti-chafing, fashionable, waistline doesn't roll down, stretchy, comfortable, seamless, recycled fabric, moisture-wicking, flattering
Cons: Can't wear on its own as it's shapewear
Rating: 5/5
The Yitty Nearly Naked shaping high waist shorts are technically shapewear and not anti-chafing shorts, but they will reduce chafing while sculpting your legs, bum and tummy.
These are my go-to shapewear for whenever I want my waist to look extra cinched and my thighs and bum to stay put under a tight dress. But, I'd definitely wear it on its own in place of regular biker shorts with a cool pair of trainers.
I find these shorts to be incredibly flattering on the stomach, bum and thighs, without any obvious contouring seams or panels. More than any of the other shorts on this list, I found these to lift my bum, slim my thighs and support my tummy without any restriction.
Plus, the clingy clear silicone band (with the Yitty logo repeated all the way across) on the inside of the waistband ensures that the shorts stay up and don't roll down — without digging into your skin.
Size: XS--5XL; Material: 52% Recycled Nylon, 34% Nylon, 14% Elastane; Shades: seven
Everybody shape enhancing seamless mid thigh short
Everybody shape enhancing seamless mid-thigh short, £18
Pros: Comfortable, sculpts and lifts, works on tummy, thighs and bum
Cons: Tricky to get on
Rating: 4.5/5
Very's Everybody range's shapewear is super comfortable and anti-chafing, while slimming, lifting and sculpting your tummy, thighs and bum to enhance and support your figure.
They have a tight fit and are a little tricky to get on, but they are still comfortable enough to wear all day long under clothes.
And, despite being snug, they aren't so tight that they cause unflattering fat bulges on the thigh or tummy where the fabric ends.
Size: S-3XL; Material: not known; Shades: one
SEFI Define ruched shorts
SEFI Define ruched shorts, £46 £27.60
Pros: Flattering fit, antibacterial, breathable, and moisture-wicking fabric, great for the gym
Cons: Limited restocks
Rating: 4.5/5
SEFI makes some of the most fashion-forward and flattering gym gear in the game, and these shorts are no different. These shorts are made from super soft fabric that sculpts your curves but they're much more lightweight than a regular pair of gym shorts.
The shorts are just long enough to protect against chafing, and the buttery material allowed my thighs to smoothly glide past each other rather than aggressively rub.
They're also antibacterial, breathable, and moisture-wicking, even further reducing the likelihood of chafing.
I love the ruched V waist and found it helped hold my tummy in while making my bum look more lifted. Plus, it's just a really pretty feature that makes the shorts more interesting.
I'd wear them solo, but you could get away with wearing them underneath a loose dress.
While there's only limited sizes available, do keep your eyes peeled for restocks.
Size: XXS - XL; Material: 74% Nylon, 26% Spandex; Shades: two
Yitty Major Label shaping high waist logo short
Yitty Major Label shaping high waist logo short, £59.95 (£11.98 for members)
Pros: Shapewear and clothing combined, made from recycled fabric, moisture-wicking
Cons: Bright colours might not be for everyone
Rating: 4.5/5
I'm a huge fan of Yitty shapewear, and these high-waisted logo shorts are my new obsession.
Not only do they prevent chafing, but they also hold and shape your bum, tummy and thighs.
So, they're stylish, comfortable, functional and flattering. What more could you want?
You might not want to wear the vibrant shades (the one pictured is aptly named Bright Ass Blue) under your clothes, but the black and ivory versions are perfect for this. Or, team it with a sports bra and wear it to the gym.
I'll definitely be wearing the blue ones out and about this summer with a baggy tee and some '90s-style trainers.
Size: XS-6XL; Material: 84% Polyester/16% Spandex; Shades: four
Spanx The Perfect A-Line black formal shorts
Spanx The Perfect A-Line black formal shorts, £104
Pros: Formal enough to wear to work, great for taller figures, comes with tummy control
Cons: Only one colour, very pricy
Rating: 4/5
If you don't want to wear anti-chafing shorts under your clothes and need a pair of regular shorts to prevent rubbing thighs, these ones from Spanx are what you need.
The A-Line shape is so classy and formal that you could even get away with wearing these to work with a pair of loafers or to a dressy event with a pair of heels.
I'm 5'10 and have very long legs, and these shorts were still long enough to cover my thighs to prevent rubbing.
And, they're super high-waisted and have built-in core-shaping technology to support your tummy.
Size: XS - XL; Material: 64% Polyester, 24% Elastane, 12% Cotton; Shades: one
Fabletics Anywhere high-waisted 6" shorts
Fabletics Anywhere high-waisted 6" shorts, £49 (£9.79 for members)
Pros: Anti-chafing, no front seam, sweat-wicking, lightweight, pocket for phone
Cons: Only three colours
Rating: 4/5
For hardcore workouts, long walks, chilling at home, or running errands, these shorts will not let your thighs chafe.
They're still super short and fitted, but they cover enough of the thigh and the material is sturdy enough to ensure your thighs won't rub.
And, the fabric is super stretchy, lightweight and sweat-wicking, so you won't be restricted or held back in any way.
The best thing about these shorts, though? There's no front-centre seam, so they won't give you a camel toe.
There are only three colours, black, red and a blue pattern, but this design is universally flattering.
Oh, and there's a built-in pocket for your phone at the back of the waistband. Great thinking, Fabletics.
Size: XXS-4XL; Material: 73% Recycled Polyester, 27% Elastane; Shades: three
Fabletics Oasis PureLuxe high-waisted 6'' shorts
Fabletics Oasis PureLuxe high-waisted 6'' shorts, £49 (or £9.79 for members)
Pros: Anti-chafing, pockets, UPF protection, stretchy, moisture-wicking,
Cons: Sells out quickly
Rating: 4/5
Another great option from Fabletics, these shorts come in a variety of vibrant colours and patterns.
Of course, they're designed for workout sessions, but because they're totally chafe-resistant and moisture-wicking, I'll be wearing mine all summer long to beat chub rub.
Some other cool features of these shorts include easy-access pockets and UPF protection. Talk about high-tech!
Annoyingly, they are often sold out in most sizes, so if you're after this pair, make sure you keep checking Fabletics to see when they'll be restocked.
Size: XXS-4XL; Material: 82% Polyester, 18% Elastane; Shades: five
Yana Active 3.0 Ocean shorts
Yana Active 3.0 Ocean shorts, £44 £30
Pros: Anti-chafing, pocket, suncream, chlorine and oil resistant, UV protection, squat-proof
Cons: Only one colour
Rating: 5/5
A workout is the worst time to experience chafing, and that's where these shorts come in.
They're comfortable, flattering and squat-proof, and I can confirm that my thighs did not chafe in them at all.
Not only are they suncream, oil and chlorine resistant but they also have UV protection, making them perfect for summer outdoor workouts.
Plus, the hidden pocket in the waistband is great for carrying your keys and credit card (it's not big enough for your phone though, sadly).
At the moment, there's only a blue colour that's available so it might not suit everyone's colour preference.
Size: XS-XL; Material: recycled Nylon and Lycra; Shades: three
Where to buy chub rub shorts
You can buy chub rub shorts at many activewear and shapewear brands as well as some general clothing brands in store and online, including:
What are the best anti-chafing shorts?
Our favourite anti-chafing shorts right now are the Everybody shape-enhancing seamless mid-thigh shorts from Very's Everybody range as they're a great balance between price and performance.
Not only did they fit the bill for us, but they're available for under £15. Available up to a 3XL, they're great for plus size women too and ideal for under cute dresses and skirts.
How much do anti-chafing shorts cost?
Anti-chafing shorts come at a variety of price points, depending on the brand. You can find some chub rub shorts for as little as £15, or you could spend up to £70.
What causes chafing or 'chub rub'?
Chafing is caused by your inner thighs rubbing against one another as you go about your day.
This problem can be exacerbated in the summer when sweaty thighs rub, causing irritation - or in winter when the cold weather can dry out your skin.
How do anti-chafing shorts work?
Anti-chafing shorts work by reducing the friction between your thighs and helping your legs brush past each other without rubbing in the middle.
As an added bonus, some anti-chafing shorts can act as shapewear to smooth out your silhouette.
Can I wear anti-chafing shorts under dresses?
Yes! Anti-chafing shorts are designed to be worn under clothes.
It’s worth bearing in mind that some are longer to prevent chafing all the way down your thighs.
So if you like wearing mini skirts, it’s best to look for shorter shorts.
What else can I use to help prevent chafing?
Aside from anti-chafing shorts, there are several effective methods to prevent chafing.
Some people swear by anti-chafing creams and gels, such as this extremely affordable Lanacane anti-chafing gel available at Amazon. 'Best summer holiday [buy] for the girlies with thick thighs save lives. Won’t go on holiday without,' raves one reviewer.
Another great option is the FIRST AID BEAUTY Anti-Chafe Stick, which creates a smooth barrier on your skin, reducing friction and preventing irritation. Simply apply it to areas prone to chafing such as the thighs or underarms, for instant relief.
Body Glide Original Anti-Chafe Balm is another popular choice, providing long-lasting protection for sensitive areas.
For those who prefer a powder, Gold Bond Friction Defense offers a reliable solution, absorbing moisture and reducing friction.
Combining products like these with moisture-wicking clothing and staying hydrated will help keep your skin chafe-free throughout the day.
Do anti-chafing creams work?
Anti-chafing creams are basically moisturisers that you apply anywhere you’re experiencing chafing.
They act as a lubricant to reduce the friction caused by the rubbing, which should reduce or stop your skin from becoming red and raw.
They’re best for chafing caused by skin rubbing on skin rather than as a result of your clothes being too tight though.
How to soothe chafe
If your skin is raw from chafing, it's best to wash the affected area with lukewarm water and pat it dry.
Then apply your choice of soothing ointment - something fragrance-free and super moisturising is best.
If you have any skin damage, make sure the product you're using is suitable for damaged skin.
Then it's just a case of allowing the area to recover by stopping further rubbing.
You can also reduce any immediate pain with an ice pack.
How long does chafing take to heal?
This obviously depends on whether your skin is just sore or if there's any skin damage.
If it's the former, it can recover in a day or two but may take longer if there's skin damage.