A Trusted Friend in a Complicated World
Updated on Aug. 15, 2024
Summer and chafing can go hand-in-hand, but that's not the case with these biker shorts. Forget all about thigh soreness and sweatiness this season.
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As summer approaches, the temperatures rise and we shed our winter layers of fall sweaters and sweatpants. As fleece-lined leggings are swapped out for shorts, you know what that means: thigh chafing.
The dreaded rubbing can cause rashes and make legs feel sore, sweaty and overall uncomfortable. But with a quality pair (or two) of women’s biker shorts, soon summer will be your favorite season.
There’s no shortage of ways to incorporate biker shorts into your style. The activewear staple is great for workouts, especially pairs made from performance fabric. The best biker shorts also make your butt look great, thanks to the flattering compression.
To start summer off with a dose of confidence, we narrowed down the best women’s biker shorts that’ll prevent thigh chafing, no matter your size. Read on for our favorites.
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To rightfully earn the title of best overall women’s biker short, these high-rise shorts from Girlfriend Collective had to check a lot of boxes. Are they available in a wide range of sizes? Yes, they’re sold in sizes XXS to 6XL. Is the material thick and compressive, and is the inseam long enough to prevent pesky thigh chafing? Also check. Can they be worn for workouts as well as with casual outfits? Definitely.
Another bonus: These biker shorts are made out of recycled water bottles and come with UPF 45+ protection. Add in that they’re available in a slew of neutrals and bright hues, with a myriad of matching sports bras to make a complete outfit.
Take it from us, or from reviewer Noella S., who wears these shorts for yoga, running and weight lifting. “Everyone needs these bike shorts to work out in,” she says. “No riding up, no wedgies, no thigh chafe! Also, totally cute to wear out anywhere, thanks to the striking color and reliable opacity.”
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Over 85,000 Amazon ratings don’t lie. These biker shorts are worth adding to your cart—especially because they’re a total steal. These shorts are sold in three different inseam lengths (go with eight inches to prevent chafing), as well as various colors and sizes from XS to 3XL. Whether you’re headed to a yoga studio or a friend’s house for a casual brunch, the exterior pockets will come in handy.
“I’ve always had thick thighs and hated how most shorts either rode up in the middle as I walked or my thighs chaffed,” says verified purchaser Allison Clay. “These shorts are the answer to all my previous dilemmas.”
We agree these shorts are an Amazon must-have that will improve your workouts and everyday routine.
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Whether your preferred workout is a Peloton ride or going for a relaxed stroll, these high-waisted Alo Yoga shorts are a must for exercises of all intensities. Thanks to their four-way stretch, these biker shorts move with you in all directions, whether you’re running, stretching into downward dog or vacuuming. They’ll stay perfectly in place, all while wicking away sweat and resisting odor.
We also love that these biker shorts come in three versatile neutrals, as well as eye-catching, limited-edition bright hues. Reviewer Julia S. can attest to their greatness. “As a thick-thighed lady, shorts usually never work,” she says. “They either ride up or my rubbing thighs cause them to roll, but the length of these are just perfect—super flattering to look sporty and feminine.”
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When it comes to preventing thigh chafing, a high-quality performance material is key. These Beyond Yoga shorts are made with a four-way stretch material that has UV protection, moisture-wicking capabilities and a soft, buttery feel. Chances are, you won’t want to take them off.
You’ll reach for them day after day for both workouts and everyday wear so these women’s biker shorts are worth the investment. Verified buyer Alexandra L. writes in her review, “It’s so so soft and just fits your body—no tugging or tightness. I also struggle with shorts because of my bigger thighs, but these fit no problem and I actually feel confident in them!”
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If you’re dreading the sultry days of summer when thighs get well acquainted with each other under spring dresses and exercise dresses, we have a solution: these ultra-affordable (under $11!) seamless bike shorts. They’re lightweight, so they won’t add bulk or warmth—both no-gos in the summer.
Instead, slip these shorts on under formal attire for a wedding or a breezy linen dress at work. They won’t just keep thighs from rubbing together, but they’ll also provide an extra layer of coverage, which is especially great for semi-sheer or short dresses. These shorts are perfectly form-fitting without suffocating legs, so they’ll stay in place but won’t dig into the thighs or waist.
Verified purchaser Emma Nitz is a big fan. “Ladies with thick thighs all know the chub rub struggle,” she says. “These are great if you’re looking for something to throw on under your flowy skirts and sundresses to keep your thighs from chafing. Super comfortable, didn’t make me sweaty and didn’t roll at all.”
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Not only do these Amazon biker shorts come in a variety of colors and patterns, but they also feature a 10-inch inseam, which hits just above the knee to help prevent thigh chafing. These shorts are best for all-day wear with their long length, compression feel and tummy-control waistband. Use them for workouts or daily walks since the fabric dries quickly.
These shorts are one of the best Amazon activewear deals, but you can also shop the best leggings from Amazon for more coverage.
No exterior pockets
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Summer means peak chafe potential, which is caused by heat friction. Protect your thighs with these ultra-thin, cooling bike shorts that can be worn under dresses, skirts, shorts and pants. They come in four different inseam lengths, nine colors and sizes up to a 6XL.
Keep in mind that the fabric is sheer, so they’re best worn underneath clothing. Still, they don’t cut into your belly or thighs, and they’ll quickly become a summer staple.
