How do you handle thigh chafing?

Icy_Fox

This question is aimed mainly at all of you runners. Being a beginner in running, I started out in winter when it was cold outside and the sweating wasn't as bad. With the summer months approaching, I have started to sweat way more, especially between my thighs. This causes them to rub together, resulting in chafing (at least that is what it's called on the internet). Many sites suggest anti-chafing gels, but they are quite expensive and I'd love an alternative. What do you guys do about it?

MikePTY

I was considering asking the same question. I get really bad chafing, even from walking. I went on a great walk yesterday, but now I am paying for it dearly. I would love to hear any answers anyone might have to this, as I really enjoy walking and hiking but this makes it difficult.

Cassandraw3

I primarily run in leggings/tights that cover my thighs when running for this reason. However, I have used baby powder when wearing skirts in the summer to help this. I have also heard of people using deodorant as well.

eromligyppah

I use body glide or sport shield before I run and they both work well. I like the sport shield better though. The sport shield I have had the same roll on bottle for a year. It might be a little pricey but it lasts for quite a while and it's definitely worth it.

etolv

You could try using a generic powdered deodorant stick as an alternative to body glide. I like to run in these "bike shorts." They fit like leggings, but are shorts and hit about 4-6 inches inches above my knee. They prevent any inner thigh rubbing. Highly recommended. https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00CY7RU9G/ref=ppx_od_dt_b_asin_title_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1

DancingMoosie

I would just wear bike shorts to run. Get whatever length is good to cover the chafing area.

mkculs13

I agree with the advice re: bike shorts. I believe mine have a 14 inch inseam--perfect for me. Mine also have a pocket for my phone in the waist area (not like a typical pocket) and it works really well. I ordered mine online from Champion (through Target, maybe?) and got them for $5 each--a great sale and not the usual price. In black, only. But look around and see what you can find.

Djproulx

Aquaphor or Body Glide. Walmart has a generic equivalent of Aquaphor. This is my go to solution for cycling and running.

juliamc183

Can only agree with those who have suggested bike shorts - instant fix for me.

sammidelvecchio

I also wear bike shorts. I got mine from Old Navy. For everyday though, like if I am just walking all day for non-workout purposes or wear a dress etc. I just use my everyday deodorant.

JB1775

You can buy a product called body glide. It's specifically for this. It looks and is applied like a stick of deodorant wherever you need it.

kteej

Better arch support

solieco1

Buy this: https://www.amazon.com/Body-Glide-Original-Anti-Chafe-Balm/dp/B07CYQDDHC

We use it in triathlon to help getting on wetsuits but fab for this use too! There's also a spray called Trislide. I like body glide though - they even have small ones you can carry with you.

spiriteagle99

I use Runguard, which is similar to Body Glide. Vaseline can also work, but is messier. I don't normally have issues any more, but I'll use it when I'm racing, just in case.

Theoldguy1

Under Armor Boxer Jocks or similar tight moisture wicking material with longer legs.

firef1y72

defo bodyglide, I have a lot of loose skin from weight loss and if it wasnt for bodyglide I'd just be a mass of chafing

Vladimirnapkin

I prefer 2Toms Sport Shield. Body Glide has an odd scent. Either work better than vasoline or aquafor.

mbaker566

body glide or deodorant

cyndit1

another vote for Body Glide.

Icy_Fox

I tried deodorant (the roll-on type) today for a short run and although it wasn't that hot, it seemed to do the job fine. My thighs weren't sweating, but I did feel slight friction from the deodorant layer itself...

TanyaHooton

Coconut oil. Slather it on the areas most likely to rub.

My daughter's in track and field and she wears bike shorts. No problems yet.

asliceofjackie

I'm not a runner, but when I get chafing from just walking, I have used transparant, very thin pantyhose and wearing them under my regular trousers.

kellycz

Body Glide is a life saver.

nikkit321

Another vote for bike shorts. I also have some running shorts that have an inner layer (like bike shorts) and a looser outer layer.

autumnblade75

kteej wrote: »

Better arch support

Wut? How?

ExistingFish

I don't run, but I wear bike shorts under dress/skirts for chafing. And modesty, because I chase after small kids a lot, and nothing like flashing your lacing undies....Anyway, bike shorts.

Keto_Vampire

Very sparing amounts of white petrolatum/aquaphor or cocoa butter after bathing; petroleum/vaseline is also practical
Paper taper is another useful hack for friction burns (more practical for feet, heel areas)

avlucia

I'm not a runner but I love my dresses and skirts and gold Bond friction defense is my holy Grail, it's held up to sweaty, day long trips of endless walking.

https://www.google.com/search?q=gold+bond+friction+defense&oq=hold+Bond+friction&aqs=chrome.1.69i57j0l3.3897j0j4&client=ms-android-huawei&sourceid=chrome-mobile&ie=UTF-8

7lenny7

I don't like Body Glide at all. It just doesn't work for me and is hard to apply around my toes and in the nether regions.

I much prefer Vaniply. This stuff is awesome! I've used it up a 44 mile run with great success.

buckykatt1

I used to use Body Glide until I discovered Sparkle Skirts. Built in shorts, cute patterns and styles and many pockets! No rubbing and I can carry my phone, pepper spray, keys, and time to without noticing them at all while I'm running.

lorrpb

Bike shorts are made with a heavy chamois which most people find very uncomfortable for running.
Try A&D ointment. It's much less expensive than body glide. In the baby section.