It's thigh sucking shorts season. Help.

jennybearlv
jennybearlv Posts: 1,519 Member
edited November 16 in Fitness and Exercise
I've decided to stick with running for once into spring, maybe even into summer. The shorts though, it's just not working out. I was wearing tights or capris all winter, felt great. Now I'm trying to find comfortable shorts to run in.

First, I don't know what's wrong with me, but I can't run in anything with just an elastic waist band. I need a drawstring or my bottoms will end up below crack level. This is severely limiting my options.

Second, every pair of shorts I've tried end up sucked up between my thighs. Do shorts that stay down exist? I bought some short shorts and body glide, thinking no extra fabric to bunch would be more comfortable, but I'm just not mentally prepared to leave the house in those shorts.

Capris are too hot and I'm sick of pulling my shorts down the whole run. I also don't want to spend much since I keep outshrinking my clothes. Can you help me out?
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Replies

  • peleroja
    peleroja Posts: 3,979 Member
    edited March 2017
    Have you tried longer, snug shorts? When I wear them (almost never), I like the Nike Pro with the longer inseam (I think it's 5 inches?) because the 3 inch one just crawls up on me no matter what when I run.

    I have a couple running skirts that I'll wear when it's really hot out as well, and while the shorts underneath those do crawl up a bit, at least the skirt part over top hides it from everyone I pass.

    Mostly I just wear running capris regardless of the temperature, though. I'm hot anyway on a summer run, so I might as well not deal with a wedgie and have less skin out to sunburn.

    I don't know about a real solution to this honestly. My legs, while not really possessing a true ankles-touching-thigh-gap or anything, don't even rub together when I run, yet I've never found a pair of short shorts that doesn't end up looking more like underwear half a mile in and migrated to show the bottom of my butt cheeks. It's not a look I like so I have to be pretty desperately hot to even consider the longer shorts or running skirt.
  • Nicci93
    Nicci93 Posts: 397 Member
    I know your struggle :(

    I have always sucked up running in capris during the summer because being slightly too warm on a run was better than the chafing nightmares that come from shorter shorts that ride up all the time. I have been looking for some short options again though, and I think something like this might work for both of us:

    http://www.runningwarehouse.com/Mizuno_Womens_Core_Mid_Tight/descpage-MWCMT.html OR http://www.runningwarehouse.com/Nike_Womens_Pro_Hypercool_8_Short/descpage-NWPHYC8.html

    I'm not sure if $50 is spending too much for you.

    (If the link doesn't work, google Running Warehouse Womens running shorts and filter to extra long length)
  • __TMac__
    __TMac__ Posts: 1,669 Member
    In warm weather I only run in compression shorts. I prefer them long (almost to the knee) for skin-covering purposes, but as long as they're at least mid-thigh, I'm fine. No creeping. No chafing.
  • jenilla1
    jenilla1 Posts: 11,118 Member
    Nicci93 wrote: »
    I know your struggle :(

    I have always sucked up running in capris during the summer because being slightly too warm on a run was better than the chafing nightmares that come from shorter shorts that ride up all the time. I have been looking for some short options again though, and I think something like this might work for both of us:

    http://www.runningwarehouse.com/Mizuno_Womens_Core_Mid_Tight/descpage-MWCMT.html OR http://www.runningwarehouse.com/Nike_Womens_Pro_Hypercool_8_Short/descpage-NWPHYC8.html

    I'm not sure if $50 is spending too much for you.

    (If the link doesn't work, google Running Warehouse Womens running shorts and filter to extra long length)

    The shorts pictured in those links are the only type of shorts I will run in. (Doesn't need to be that brand or model, just the general style and longer inseam.) Those so-called running/track shorts I see in stores (and that we used to be forced to wear in P.E. class) always ride up and look/feel horrible to run in. I usually just wear the capris, though. If you get the cooling, moisture-wicking fabric, it's not really uncomfortable IMO.
  • MonkeyMel21
    MonkeyMel21 Posts: 2,396 Member
    I have to get tight elastic shorts that start at right under my belly button (high waisted) and go down to just above my knee. Tan lines aren't optimal but no need to adjust anything mid-run. I bought my latest pairs at Kohls.
  • dpwellman
    dpwellman Posts: 3,271 Member
    edited March 2017
    Hmm, I never thought about it, but yeah there are few "women's" running shorts that have drawstrings. The only brand I'm aware for certain that have 5 inch or longer inseam and drawstring are Roadrunner Sport's house brand (R-gear) and Adidas. Maybe Under Armor (heh) too. I think the Target house brand (I forget the name) also has those features, but I'm less than impressed with the quality compared to Nike, Asics, and New Balance.

    My ex also swore by running skirts.

    roadrunnersports.com/rrs/products/RRL1135/womens-rgear-inspiration-7-short/?cc=056
  • goochinator
    goochinator Posts: 383 Member
    TmacMMM wrote: »
    In warm weather I only run in compression shorts. I prefer them long (almost to the knee) for skin-covering purposes, but as long as they're at least mid-thigh, I'm fine. No creeping. No chafing.

    Yep. me too. I wear shirts long enough to cover my waist/butt area so I can kid myself into thinking I don't look so bad. I have never found a pair of shorts that ever worked for me. In my running/training groups, it was rare for women to wear anything else, regardless of size, so it's a common problem.
  • jennybearlv
    jennybearlv Posts: 1,519 Member
    Nicci93 wrote: »
    I know your struggle :(

    I have always sucked up running in capris during the summer because being slightly too warm on a run was better than the chafing nightmares that come from shorter shorts that ride up all the time. I have been looking for some short options again though, and I think something like this might work for both of us:

    http://www.runningwarehouse.com/Mizuno_Womens_Core_Mid_Tight/descpage-MWCMT.html OR http://www.runningwarehouse.com/Nike_Womens_Pro_Hypercool_8_Short/descpage-NWPHYC8.html

    I'm not sure if $50 is spending too much for you.

    (If the link doesn't work, google Running Warehouse Womens running shorts and filter to extra long length)

    Those first shorts look like a possible solution. $50 is way too much, but I'm an avid Ebay shopper, so maybe.

    It does sound like bike style shorts may be my next option to try, it's just hard to find them with a drawstring or well enough fitted waist. I like Old Navy's running capris and tights, but their longer shorts have elastic waists. I've seen bike shorts at Walmart, but they are the same style as their leggings which fall down on me. I'll have to check Target and Ebay.

    Another problem I have is still being heavy my thighs touch almost to my knees, so even the basketball style shorts I've been running in ride up. I bought some running shorts with mid length compression shorts attached that ride up as well.

    I might look into running skirts. I'm not sure whether or not I can tolerate my bare skin rubbing. There's only one way to find out. I have a cotton activewear skort I wear casually and it rides up, but doesn't bother me much because nobody can see it.

    Thanks for all the replies.
  • GottaBurnEmAll
    GottaBurnEmAll Posts: 7,722 Member
    edited March 2017
    Nicci93 wrote: »
    I know your struggle :(

    I have always sucked up running in capris during the summer because being slightly too warm on a run was better than the chafing nightmares that come from shorter shorts that ride up all the time. I have been looking for some short options again though, and I think something like this might work for both of us:

    http://www.runningwarehouse.com/Mizuno_Womens_Core_Mid_Tight/descpage-MWCMT.html OR http://www.runningwarehouse.com/Nike_Womens_Pro_Hypercool_8_Short/descpage-NWPHYC8.html

    I'm not sure if $50 is spending too much for you.

    (If the link doesn't work, google Running Warehouse Womens running shorts and filter to extra long length)

    That's pretty much what I wear. Long compression shorts, but I get mine from Old Navy. I adore them. Oh, see my avatar. I'm wearing them.
  • rugratz2015
    rugratz2015 Posts: 593 Member
    What about wearing knee/thigh length Lycra shorts under a running skirt, or any skater type skirt if you don't want every bulge/crease on show?
  • crackpotbaby
    crackpotbaby Posts: 1,297 Member
    I like the a little bit baggy running shorts with the built in undies. You can often get them with a drawstring too. I have a favourite pair of new balance ones and a similar reebok pair. Both you hardly notice at all.

  • zyxst
    zyxst Posts: 9,149 Member
    Can you fit into men's shorts? I gave up on women's shorts since I have that too small waist/too big butt ratio and I like pockets.
  • jennybearlv
    jennybearlv Posts: 1,519 Member
    rugratz2015 wrote: »
    What about wearing knee/thigh length Lycra shorts under a running skirt, or any skater type skirt if you don't want every bulge/crease on show?

    I don't mind showing off my shape. I'm just weird about too much skin showing. I don't even mind that I have cellulite. It just feels like I'm running down the street naked when my shorts are too short.
  • crackpotbaby
    crackpotbaby Posts: 1,297 Member
    fa7msdn2oyoy.jpg

    Actually ... these under armour (oh hi mfp!) ones are pretty good. Loose, drawstring, not crazy short ... but they are quite old so I'm not sure if they make them still?
  • jennybearlv
    jennybearlv Posts: 1,519 Member
    lizery wrote: »
    fa7msdn2oyoy.jpg

    Actually ... these under armour (oh hi mfp!) ones are pretty good. Loose, drawstring, not crazy short ... but they are quite old so I'm not sure if they make them still?

    Those shorts would go straight up my crotch before reaching the sidewalk. Cute though.
  • crackpotbaby
    crackpotbaby Posts: 1,297 Member
    edited March 2017
    jennybearlv wrote: »
    lizery wrote: »
    fa7msdn2oyoy.jpg

    Actually ... these under armour (oh hi mfp!) ones are pretty good. Loose, drawstring, not crazy short ... but they are quite old so I'm not sure if they make them still?

    Those shorts would go straight up my crotch before reaching the sidewalk. Cute though.

    Lol.I find that with the mid thigh bike style ones. Roll up with every step. I hope you find something that suits.

  • middlehaitch
    middlehaitch Posts: 8,486 Member
    Have you thought about getting more of your favourite capris with the drawstring and getting them shortened to the length you want?

    I am short so have to get even regular capris shortened otherwise they are leggings.

    Cheers, h.
  • jennybearlv
    jennybearlv Posts: 1,519 Member
    edited March 2017
    middlehaitch wrote: »
    Have you thought about getting more of your favourite capris with the drawstring and getting them shortened to the length you want?

    I am short so have to get even regular capris shortened otherwise they are leggings.

    Cheers, h.

    OMG. I have a sewing machine. Why didn't I think of that? As lazy as I am about sewing it could be less time consuming than looking for shorts I like.

    ETA: I'm also short, so nearly ankle length capris may be why I think they are so dang hot too.
  • hablondi
    hablondi Posts: 127 Member
    Check out "sparkle skirts" (they are not sparkly). I bought one at the Tink Half Marathon last year and it is my absolute favorite thing to run in. Cute. No thigh chaff. Lots of pockets. Absolutely perfect.
  • jennybearlv
    jennybearlv Posts: 1,519 Member
    hablondi wrote: »
    Check out "sparkle skirts" (they are not sparkly). I bought one at the Tink Half Marathon last year and it is my absolute favorite thing to run in. Cute. No thigh chaff. Lots of pockets. Absolutely perfect.

    Those look awesome, but they are expensive! They sell for $50 on Ebay, which may just be testimony to how great they are. I have to add them to my goal weight shopping list.
  • hablondi
    hablondi Posts: 127 Member
    jennybearlv wrote: »
    hablondi wrote: »
    Check out "sparkle skirts" (they are not sparkly). I bought one at the Tink Half Marathon last year and it is my absolute favorite thing to run in. Cute. No thigh chaff. Lots of pockets. Absolutely perfect.

    Those look awesome, but they are expensive! They sell for $50 on Ebay, which may just be testimony to how great they are. I have to add them to my goal weight shopping list.

    Yes, hence the reason why I only own one. Definitely worth the money, though! There is a Facebook group where people buy/sell/trade them as well. You could buy one now and easily sell it when it gets too big.
  • jennybearlv
    jennybearlv Posts: 1,519 Member
    hablondi wrote: »
    jennybearlv wrote: »
    hablondi wrote: »
    Check out "sparkle skirts" (they are not sparkly). I bought one at the Tink Half Marathon last year and it is my absolute favorite thing to run in. Cute. No thigh chaff. Lots of pockets. Absolutely perfect.

    Those look awesome, but they are expensive! They sell for $50 on Ebay, which may just be testimony to how great they are. I have to add them to my goal weight shopping list.

    Yes, hence the reason why I only own one. Definitely worth the money, though! There is a Facebook group where people buy/sell/trade them as well. You could buy one now and easily sell it when it gets too big.

    I was thinking that after I posted. $50 resale for a $70 skirt is not bad depreciation.
  • genpopadopolous
    genpopadopolous Posts: 411 Member
    GottaBurnEmAll wrote: »
    Nicci93 wrote: »
    I know your struggle :(

    I have always sucked up running in capris during the summer because being slightly too warm on a run was better than the chafing nightmares that come from shorter shorts that ride up all the time. I have been looking for some short options again though, and I think something like this might work for both of us:

    http://www.runningwarehouse.com/Mizuno_Womens_Core_Mid_Tight/descpage-MWCMT.html OR http://www.runningwarehouse.com/Nike_Womens_Pro_Hypercool_8_Short/descpage-NWPHYC8.html

    I'm not sure if $50 is spending too much for you.

    (If the link doesn't work, google Running Warehouse Womens running shorts and filter to extra long length)

    That's pretty much what I wear. Long compression shorts, but I get mine from Old Navy. I adore them. Oh, see my avatar. I'm wearing them.

    These.

    But really, there isn't much difference in these and my capris. Just my knees. Capris are easier to find, so I usually just run in those.
  • tulips_and_tea
    tulips_and_tea Posts: 5,744 Member
    lizery wrote: »
    fa7msdn2oyoy.jpg

    Actually ... these under armour (oh hi mfp!) ones are pretty good. Loose, drawstring, not crazy short ... but they are quite old so I'm not sure if they make them still?

    I just bought these exact shorts at Kohl's last month. I only wear them around the house, though, because they don't have the sewn-in undies.
  • BruinsGal_91
    BruinsGal_91 Posts: 1,400 Member
    I wear the New Balance 2-in-1 shorts. Definitely no chafing or riding up.

    http://www.clevertraining.com/new-balance-women-s-impact-5-2-in-1-short

  • acampbe2umd
    acampbe2umd Posts: 145 Member
    I prefer shorts, but when sometimes, I wear the Athleta be Free knickers. They're compression knee with drawstring, stretch pockets and really breathable. They are over your stated budget, but I only buy them on clearance from athleta or search ebay.
    http://athleta.gap.com/browse/product.do?pid=163477012&cvosrc=cse.Google.PLA&cvo_crid=184459350233&Matchtype=&campaigntype=&CAWELAID=120299870000023142&CAGPSPN=pla&CAAGID=38662704857&CATCI=pla-66682974471&cvosrc=cse.google.pla_brand&cvo_campaign=770151977&cvo_adgroup=38662704857&cvo_crid=184459350233&Matchtype=&tid=atpl000001&kwid=1&ap=7&gclid=CjwKEAjwqZ7GBRC1srKSv9TV_iwSJADKTjaDueW4DXVY7vscvrybOkGS2TVrQqQJeBLEnxvGWyzMNhoCQq7w_wcB&gclsrc=aw.ds
  • misskris78
    misskris78 Posts: 136 Member
    Running shorts are the worst. It seems like the marketing folks don't realize there are runners over the age of 22. They also don't realize that we don't all look great with our butt cheeks hanging out. Anyway, I've accepted the fact that I need to size up - a lot - when it comes to running shorts. I wear between a 4 and a 6 US, and I usually buy a women's Large short. It's a complete blow to the ego, but they don't ride up. I also like the ones with the built in liner. I have a lot of outlets near my house, so I can always find something. UA, Reebok and Asics are go to brands.
  • brittyn3
    brittyn3 Posts: 481 Member
    I've never found a pair of shorts that don't ride up. No matter how good of shape I'm in, my thighs still touch a little. I found spandex eventually stop, but you're showing a bit of skin at that point. I rock my leggings all year round - when I'm not feeling especially in the mood to show my butt. :)

    I also don't like a lot of the normal running shorts because they are too saggy in the butt. I have a large rump, so it makes no sense to me.

    A long story short OP - Nike makes leggings that go just over your knees and are pretty thin. As long as you aren't doing squats - they are perfect for running!!
  • LadyLilion
    LadyLilion Posts: 276 Member
    Totally not a runner and me in shorts is not something anyone wants to see...BUT...if you can't deal with an elastic waist take them to a seamstress and have a drawstring put in. You can add a drawstring to anything
    VERY easily. If you don't want to spend the money on a seamstress, I'm sure that's something you could do yourself if you are even the tiniest bit handy.
  • fitmom4lifemfp
    fitmom4lifemfp Posts: 1,572 Member
    edited March 2017
    jennybearlv wrote: »

    Those shorts would go straight up my crotch before reaching the sidewalk. Cute though.

    LOL I was going to say the same thing. Definitely makes a huge difference when the thighs are touching as to what shorts will work.

    I prefer longer compression-style shorts. No drawstring - they stay up fine (I mean some of those things will cut off your circulation they are so tight!) but I cannot stand them tight. I always have to buy a size or two larger. I don't like most of them - they make me feel like I have been stuffed into a sausage casing and that drives me nuts.

    These are the best I have ever found. Longer length, and very comfortable waistband (and definitely will not fall down!)
    https://www.amazon.com/Champion-Womens-Absolute-Workout-Bermuda/dp/B00AHTPCUM
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