Few things are more delightful than throwing on a swingy dress once the warm weather arrives. Unfortunately, the combination of a dress or skirt with hot weather can cause an extremely uncomfortable (and oftentimes painful) side effect: thigh chafing.
But there is hope: The thigh chafing that accompanies the warm weather season can be combated in quite a few ways. Some people like to use anti-chafing products like powders, oils and other skin care-adjacent items, but you can also go the undies-as-shorts route to create a barrier between the thighs and prevent painful rubbing before it starts.
Below, we have rounded up popular, highly rated shorts and thigh bands to help prevent chafing this summer. They are available at a range of prices and styles, because what is comfy for one might not be for someone else. Take a peek and pick some up for yourself so you are ready when the time comes.
1. Aerie Smoothez Microfiber Bike Short Underwear
We have a feeling you will forget you are wearing undies when you try these barely there shorts from Aerie. They are comfy and smoothing without feeling restrictive or like you are wearing a corset. The fabric is super light and soft, and for under $25 a pair, you cannot beat the price. They are available in three colors in sizes XXS to XXL. $23 at Aerie.
2. Thigh Society The Cooling Shorts
Thigh Society has a range of different shorts options, but this is the brand's lightest, silkiest style, making it perfect for a hot summer's day. The thin, high-performance fabric is moisture-wicking and pulls heat away from the body, while the silky finish feels lovely on your skin. The shorts are available in 12 colors and six inseam lengths in sizes XS to 6XL, nearly guaranteeing that you will find some that are perfect for you. $39+ at Thigh Society.
3. Bandelettes Original Anti-Chafing Bands
As much as I love a pair of sturdy shorts, I live in my Bandelettes come summer. These garter-adjacent anti-chafing bands have been a staple in my wardrobe for as long as I can remember. They are soft, silky smooth and super cute, and they keep me chafe-free. The fabric is surprisingly sultry, and they have a thin strip of silicone along the top and bottom that secures them firmly in place no matter how sweaty I get. They are available in sizes S to 3XL in a range of colors. $23 at Amazon and Bandelettes.
4. Wirarpa Anti-Chafing Cotton Shorts Underwear 3-Pack
Stock up with three pairs of Amazon's most popular and highly rated shorts underwear. They have a soft, wide waistband and ultra-stretchy fabric, and they come in an array of color combinations. The inseam is on the longer side, at 8 inches, to keep you comfortable and give some extra coverage. They are available in sizes S to 5XL. $19+ at Amazon.
5. Spanx Fit-to-You Superlight Smoothing Midthigh Shorts
Get that famous Spanx tummy control with the added benefit of preventing thigh discomfort with these smoothing shorts. They are made with breathable fabric that has just the right amount of stretch so you can move with ease and comfort. They are available in two colors and two sizes. $38 at Spanx.
6. Commando Featherlight Control High-Waisted Shorts
Finding a pair of shorts with a lightweight fabrication is key during the hot summer months, and this option from Commando is made with sheer, ultralight fabric that offers tummy control without baking you like an oven. Available in two colors, you can get them in sizes XS to L. The seamless design ensures they will disappear under your clothing with ease. $68+ at Zappos.
7. Lululemon UnderEase Super-High-Rise Shortie Underwear
Available in five cute colors in sizes XS to XXL, these shorts are made with breathable, sweat-wicking, quick-drying fabric that can help keep you cool during the hot months while also stopping chafing in its tracks. They are stretchy and have a smooth waistband that will not dig into your skin. $28 at Lululemon.
8. Joyshaper Boy Shorts
These light and airy boy shorts have a shorter inseam than many of the other options on this list, which is ideal for those of us on the petite side. They are made with silky material that is stretchy and breathable with a cotton gusset. You can opt for plain shorts or snag some with lace detailing on the legs. They are available in sizes S to 3XL. $10+ at Amazon.
9. Bandelettes Allure Anti-Chafing Lace Shorts
If you are curious about Bandelettes but are not ready to fully embrace the garter lifestyle, then try these slightly retro-chic lace shorts. They have a soft cotton liner along the inner thigh area to add a bit of extra protection against chafing, and a tiny silicone strip at the bottom of the leg so that they do not ride up. They are surprisingly sophisticated, and available in two colors in sizes S to 3XL. $29 at Amazon.
10. Jockey Skimmies Slip Shorts
Available in a few different neutral colors, these Jockey shorts are reviewer-beloved. Many noted that they are perfect for wearing under skirts and dresses during the summer season. They are sheer, lightweight, comfortable and cute. $12+ at Amazon.
11. Werena Slip Shorts
Love a hint of lace? Try these slip-inspired shorts at Amazon. They have a romantic and sweet aesthetic while remaining utterly practical. Their fabrication, a nylon and spandex blend, promises to be lightweight and durable, giving you freedom of movement. You will forget they are even there. They are available in three colors in sizes S to 3XL. $17+ at Amazon.
12. Yummie Bria Comfortably Curved Smoothing Shorts
Get all the tush-perking benefits of a pair of Yummie shorts without feeling like an encased sausage with these smoothing shorts. They have ruching in the back, a seam-free construction and a soft, comfortable fabrication that makes them a delight to wear. They are available in four colors in sizes S to 2X. $10+ at Amazon.
