7 Best Biker Shorts Reviewers Say Prevent Thigh Chafing

via merchant

Best overall biker short

Girlfriend Collective High-Rise Bike Short

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.”

Pros

• Compressive style and long inseam prevents thigh chafing
• Available in sizes XXS to 6XL
• Can be mixed and matched with a variety of bras
• Made from recycled water bottles
• Provide UPF 45+ protection
• Versatile design works as activewear or casual wear
• Comes in 7 colors

Cons

• Pricier than other options on this list

Shop Now

via merchant

Best value biker short

High Waist Biker Shorts

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.

Pros

• Affordable price point
• Available in three inseam lengths
• Features exterior pockets and a hidden pocket at the waist
• Sizes extend up to a 3XL
• No front seam
• Reviewers note that they don’t ride up during use
• Up to 26 color and fabric combinations
• 85,000 Amazon ratings and a 4.4-star average

Cons

• Sizing can be tricky
• Sweat might be visible during vigorous workouts

Shop Now

via merchant

Best biker short for working out

Alo Yoga High-Waist Biker Shorts

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.”

Pros

• Versatile for any type of exercise
• Feature four-way stretch
• Hit at mid-thigh to prevent chafing
• Sweat-wicking
• Odor-resistant
• Available in 3 core colors and 6 limited edition ones

Cons

• Limited sizing (XS to XL)
• Some reviewers say the Airbrush fabric is slightly see-through

Shop Now

via merchant

Best biker shorts for thick thighs

Beyond Yoga High Waisted Biker Short

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!”

Pros

• High-quality material prevents chafing on bigger thighs
• Available in sizes XXS to 4X
• Comes in a variety of core and seasonal colors
• Holds up to regular washing

Cons

• Pricey, but worth the investment
• No pockets

Shop Now

via merchant

Best biker shorts for under dresses

Anti-Chafing Spandex Shorts

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.”

Pros

• Provides seamless coverage under dresses
• Very affordable
• Available in a range of colors and sizes (0-22)
• Inseam is long enough to prevent chafing
• Versatile design
• 8,500 Amazon ratings and a 4.5-star average

Cons

• May pill on the inner thighs
• Aren’t designed to provide shapewear-like support (try these shapewear for under dresses picks instead)

Shop Now

via merchant

Best biker short on Amazon

10″ Biker Shorts

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.

Pros

• Long inseam helps prevent chafing
• Available in 15 fun patterns
• Sold in sizes XS to 5XL
• Two hidden pockets hold small belongings
• Quick-drying fabric
• 4,300 Amazon ratings and a 4.6-star average

Cons

• No exterior pockets

Shop Now

via merchant

Best cooling bike short

Thigh Society Cooling Bike Shorts

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.

Pros

• Performance fabric pulls heat and moisture from the body
• Sizes extend up to 6XL
• Cools body temperature up to one degree
• Stretchy waistband molds to your body
• Sheer fabric is breezy in hot weather
• Available in 9 colors
• 4 length choices

Cons

• Too sheer to wear alone
• Ordering the wrong size may cause them to roll up

Shop Now

What to look for when buying biker shorts

When shopping for women’s biker shorts that prevent thigh chafing, focus on two major features: a high-quality fabric (one that won’t pill or ride up) and a longer inseam that covers the majority of your thigh. Once the search has been narrowed consider a few other features.

Are these shorts for working out, casual wear or dresses? Do you want a compressive style? What about pockets? Determining how, where and when you’ll wear biker shorts will help you shop for the perfect pair.

How we found the best biker shorts

As shopping experts, our only job is to help you find a winning product. We start with the research and reporting basics—what products are made of, what they look like and how much they cost—to ensure that we’re only recommending the buys that are worth your time and money. Then, we research the features that speak to the product’s quality, taking advice from industry insiders and subject matter experts on what makes a product a smart value (or worthy of a splurge). Finally, we do the work of combing through user reviews to see how real people interact with the product, and if it stands up to the test.

FAQ

How do I pick the right length to prevent thigh chafing?

To prevent thigh chafing, the more protection, the better. That often means a longer inseam. Consider anywhere between a six- to 10-inch inseam, depending on where you want it to hit your leg. Ultimately, your body type will help determine the right length.

Should biker shorts be tight or loose?

Biker shorts should be tight—but not too tight. If a pair uncomfortably cuts into the waist or thighs, go up a size. A good-fitting pair of biker shorts, which are usually made out of a blend of polyester and stretchy elastane, should feel equally supportive and comfortable.

How do you style biker shorts?

Oh, the endless possibilities! Use Princess Diana as inspiration. She would pair biker shorts with an oversized sweatshirt and sneakers for a day of errands. Create a casual vibe with a tank top, open linen shirt and sandals. Dress them up with a fitted tee, blazer and strappy pair of heels. Pair biker shorts with a sports bra and chunky sneakers for an athleisure look.