Running is a straightforward sport that requires little investment in training gear. However, if you have big thighs, you need proper running shorts for big thighs. This can be quite challenging because there aren’t too many options that really prevent chafing, which is a common problem for those with big thighs.
Did you know that if you wear clothes that retain sweat, or those that fit too tightly while running, you could suffer from painful skin reactions and infections? For this reason, we went ahead and listed the factors you need to consider when buying the best running shorts for big thighs. We also reviewed several options for you to choose from.
Running Shorts Comparison Chart
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Best Running Shorts for Big Thighs: Brief Reviews
1. Under Armour Women’s Fly Shorts
These running shorts are for plus-size athletes or women with bigger thighs. They have a broader covered elastic waistband that allows for a bigger yet perfect fit. They also come in various colors and prints to suit the diverse tastes of women athletes.
These shorts are made using a lightweight moisture-wicking polyester material that has mesh panels on both sides for additional ventilation. This material also has all-around reflective properties that ensure your safety when running before sunrise or after sunset. This feature is ideal when running on a hot afternoon because you will stay cool.
In case you need to carry your phone, wallet, or any other small gadget, these running shorts have two side pockets and an additional hidden pocket at the back. They are functional, high-performing, and stylish running shorts perfect for women with big thighs. The sizes range from X-small to XX-large, with four sizes in between. They retail at a wide price range depending on the size you pick.
However, some athletes have noted that the bigger size might be too expensive for them. Also, if your body is full and curved, these shorts tend to roll upwards when running. You can see an in-depth review of Under Armour Women’s Fly Shorts in this article.
Pros:
- Lightweight
- Dries fast
- Comfortable to wear
- Extremely durable
- Offers enhanced coverage
- Has reflective details
Cons:
- Fabric can melt in high heat
- May roll upward if your body is full and curved
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2. Starter Women’s Stretch Shorts
Just as the name suggests, these Starter Women’s Stretch shorts are super stretchy. They are made from a polyester fabric with an additional lining to keep you sweat-free as you train.
On the sides, there are breathable mesh panels that provide an outlet for any moisture build-up around your thighs. These features allow you to move around with ease and comfort all day long. They, however, lack other additional features like side pockets.
PROS:
- Stretchable fabric
- Very comfortable to wear
- Mesh side nets for breathability
CONS:
- Sizing is too small
- Does not come with pockets
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3. Adidas Girls’ Athletic Shorts
These Adidas Tech Tee training shorts for women have an elastic waistband that provides a good fit. They are made from polyester, which is a high moisture-wicking material that is soft and of high quality.
These shorts are very light, yet you can’t see through them. They have a cute chic front design and a slightly higher cut on the sides. You can wear them for a wide range of sports, including running, athletics, soccer, beach volleyball, or basketball.
As common with Adidas, these shorts have the trademark three free-flowing stripes on the sides, which is a great look that appeals to women. They are available in more than 15 different colors and designs to match your different upper training gear.
For an athletic girl with curves, these shorts will not constrict your movement as you move around the track. However, though these shorts have an elastic waistband, they don’t have a drawcord for a more elegant fit. Some users have also mentioned the need to buy a size smaller than your usual size to get the perfect fit.
PROS:
- Elastic closure
- Stylish
- Comfortable to wear
- Elastic waistband
- Made of 100% polyester
CON:
- No drawstring
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4. Core 10 Women’s 2-in-1 Running Shorts
Core 10 Women’s 2-in-1 Running Shorts is very affordable. Yet, despite its low price, it is comfortable to wear even for long periods. If you love sports, or you exercise frequently, this running short is a good choice.
This 2-in-1 running short actually features a lightweight compression short liner, which supports better blood flow. It also has hidden storage pockets along with an adjustable drawstring cord. The fabric also features moisture-wicking technology, together with a smooth knit waistband.
This running short boasts a stylish mesh to provide more breathability. It is also equipped with reflective accents for better visibility, especially when you are jogging or running at night.
PROS:
- Comfortable to use
- Reflective accents
- Lightweight fabric
- Moisture-wicking
- Very affordable
- Prevents chafing
CONS:
- The pocket is too small
- Rides up a bit
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5. Nike Women’s Dry Tempo Running Shorts
Nike Women’s Dry Tempo Running Shorts provides a classic fit. Combine that with its sweat-wicking technology, and you’ve got yourself an amazing pair of workout shorts. It will give you a whole new experience when you are jogging or running.
This pair of running shorts is also a popular choice when you are doing sports as it allows you to move freely. In addition, it offers a trimmed-up design to give you a flattering fit.
These shorts are designed with Nike’s Dri-FIT technology, which can help you to stay dry and provide more comfort when you are wearing it. The three-inch inseam can provide a better range of motion when doing your daily activities. It also has side mesh panels that would keep you cool and improve its breathability.
These shorts have an internal audio pocket that will allow you to store small items. The reflective details will improve visibility during low-light conditions, especially when you run or jog at night or early in the morning.
PROS:
- Very comfortable to wear
- Just the right length
- Breathable
- Sweat-wicking technology
- The colors are spot on
CON:
- Limited color and pattern options
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Buyer’s Guide
Running shorts can be used for many activities. You can wear it while lounging around your house or as you go about your day-to-day activities. Running shorts are very comfortable to wear, so a lot of people, especially women, wear them regularly.
You can find running shorts from various shopping centers, but do you have any idea how to choose the one that would fit your preference? They may look like traditional shorts, but you will waste a lot of money if you made a mistake.
Buying running shorts is not too difficult, but there are a few factors that you need to consider if you want to find the best one. Here are some of the things that you need to pay attention to.
1. Breathability
Most of you are probably wondering why you need to look for breathable running shorts when, in fact, it’s already short enough to bring you comfort. Running shorts are usually tight and, although they are definitely shorter than regular shorts, there are still issues with regard to breathability. So why do you need to look for a breathable running short?
- Sweat Problems
You can’t prevent sweat on your thighs. When doing any strenuous activity, sweating is a common occurrence, but you should pay attention to this. If you look for breathable shorts, you can feel cooler and more comfortable when running and prevent sweat buildup as well.
- Odor
Sweat is a breeding ground for bacteria, and this produces odor. Obviously, this is something that you want to prevent. A breathable pair of shorts can make sure that odor is kept at bay.
If you need a breathable running short, you have to look for a product with a mesh inner lining. Through this, air circulation inside the shorts would be easier. You can also look for items with mesh inserts on the sides as they also provide additional ventilation.
2. Moisture Control
Sweat can’t be prevented completely. Even if the short is breathable, your thighs will sweat after some time. During the hot summer months, you will surely experience this. With proper moisture control, you can prevent the shorts from being drenched with sweat.
One of the most important things to check is the fabric the running shorts are made of. The fabric should be water-resistant and should absorb moisture properly. You also need to look for a product with a quick-drying feature.
As you all know, wet shorts can be a hindrance when running as it becomes heavy. The best thing to do is to check the product carefully and see if it is water-resistant or if the fabric dries quickly.
3. Fabric
When looking for running shorts, this is the most important feature to check. You need to be very meticulous when it comes to the fabric, as it contains all of the features that you need from your running shorts. The durability of the running shorts is also dependent on the quality of the fabric, so you need to be very careful when buying.
The most common fabrics used for running shorts have either natural or synthetic fibers. It might be a bit difficult to make a decision if you have no idea what they are. Let’s check them out.
- Natural Fiber
For natural fibers, you are looking at running shorts made from cotton. Actually, most of these products are made from cotton as it is one of the most comfortable fabrics to wear. They can absorb water and sweat, so they are definitely a good choice for running shorts. However, this type of fiber doesn’t have a good moisture-wicking feature.
- Synthetic Fiber
Most of the current running shorts are made from synthetic fiber, and there are many reasons for it. Running shorts right now are made from polyester or a blend of polyester and spandex. Compared with natural fibers, this type of fabric provides better moisture management so that it will remove any discomfort when you are sweating a lot.
4. Liner
Do you need a liner on your running shorts? Well, they are not really a must, but it is more convenient to use shorts with a built-in liner. When wearing running shorts, you need to have innerwear as well. This is for protection and to make sure that your sweat won’t be absorbed by the running shorts.
Most of the running shorts right now already have a built-in liner, so you don’t really need to wear one. When it comes to liners, look for shorts with a soft one. This will guarantee that moisture will be controlled. They are also comfortable to wear, especially when running or doing extreme sports.
If you are dealing with inner thigh chafing, liners are definitely a must. Although you can just wear a longer pair of shorts, most women prefer using liners instead. This is because it still allows them to wear short shorts while preventing chafing.
5. Storage
Have you ever considered storage when looking for running shorts? In the past, it may not really be an important factor, but today, having pockets is definitely one of the things that runners look for. Here are the reasons why:
- Music
When running or jogging, it gets really boring. It’s great if you are enjoying the scenery, but if you are doing it in the city, the sounds of cars and trucks can ruin your concentration.
Music became a part of working out for many people, and if you have proper storage in your shorts, you can put your music player in there. Listening to music while running can also help you to concentrate more on your workout.
- Money
It is always wise to have some cash with you, even when you’re just running around the neighborhood. If your running shorts don’t have pockets, then bringing money with you as you run is a challenge.
- Other valuable items
Other valuable things you might want to take with you during your runs are your house or car keys, your phone, credit card, and ID card.
6. Style, Length, and Color
More often than not, when buying clothes online, we choose one because of how it looks on the model. However, what we sometimes fail to realize is that because each of us has a unique body shape, there will be times that the clothes we buy won’t fit us the way we want to. In line with this, you have to understand your body shape as well as know your precise measurements.
Color is also a very important consideration when buying running shorts. Although it is not really a defining factor, most people would spend a lot of time looking for running shorts to find the color that they want. There are instances where runners decide based on the color of the shorts.
Style may not be too important for some people, but everyone wants to be trendy. A lot of people will see you while you are running or jogging, so choosing a stylish pair of running shorts you’re comfortable with is definitely a good decision.
Let’s check out some of the different styles of running shorts.
- Short
Some women prefer short shorts to showcase their well-toned legs. After all, you’re not doing all that running for nothing. Also, wearing them when running can provide a wide range of benefits to you.
As you all know, short shorts are the best choice when it comes to breathability. This type of running shorts can provide better airflow and ventilation and would help prevent sweat buildup. They also fit closer to your thighs, so they won’t restrict your movements. It gives women more freedom to move.
- Longer Shorts
If you are not comfortable with wearing something too short, longer shorts can be a great option. They are significantly longer than short shorts, but they are still above the knee.
Longer running shorts also provide ventilation, but they are not usually fitted on your thighs. They have a looser fit compared with short shorts.
- Compression Shorts
This type of running shorts is also a popular choice for runners as it provides protection to the muscles. If you jog or run regularly, you need to protect your muscles, and this particular style of running shorts gives you the right amount of protection through compression.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. How do I know I have chosen the right running shorts for me?
The running shorts you choose should have a perfect fit. Your movement should not be constrained, and your legs should have enough space on the sides for better air circulation. The best running shorts for big thighs do not cause chafing.
2. What causes thigh chafing and can these shorts eliminate it?
Inner thigh chafing occurs when you sweat a lot, and your thighs rub against one another as you run. This results in a painful rash between your legs. The best shorts for running prevent chafing because they absorb sweat effectively, keeping you moisture-free.
3. Do these shorts make noise or cling to your body when you run?
The texture of the fabric used mainly brings about the noisy thigh syndrome. Wear shorts made from nylon, polyester, or spandex materials to avoid such issues.
However, arid conditions make the fabric become static and, therefore, tend to cling on your skin. To prevent this, ensure you wear a moisturizer before going to the track.
4. What to wear to prevent chafing while running?
Inner thigh chafing is something very common when running or jogging. However, you cannot simply allow it to continue and just bear with it. Chafing can cause red skin, and it is very painful for runners and women with big thighs.
To prevent this from happening, the best thing to wear would be longer shorts. Although chafing happens to most runners, not all of them experience this kind of thing. If you suddenly experienced chaffing, you can switch to longer shorts.
You can also wear compression shorts under regular running shorts. Basically, the compression shorts can provide additional length to prevent your inner thigh from chafing. If you don’t want to wear liners, and you still prefer short shorts over longer shorts, you can just apply lubricant or talcum powder to reduce the friction on your inner thighs.
4. Do you wear compression shorts under running shorts?
Whether you wear compression shorts or not is always dependent on your preference. You can decide to wear one, or you can just wear your running shorts. There is nothing wrong with that, but there are a few benefits to wearing compression shorts.
Wearing compression shorts can actually increase the circulation of blood and decrease the oscillation of muscles. This means that if you do wear them, you will have more efficient movements, and you can do it with less energy exertion. Also, compression shorts are used to prevent inner thigh chafing.
Again, at the end of the day, it will still depend on your choice. If you are not comfortable with wearing compression shorts, then you don’t need to wear one.
In Conclusion
Getting the right running shorts for big thighs doesn’t have to be a tedious affair. Even though we all have different preferences, the running shorts we reviewed will make your running experience much more comfortable.
This was such a pleasure to read! One of the reasons I have avoided buying running shorts lately is because I could never find shorts that would fit properly in my thigh area and I’ve always had to opt for leggings or Yoga pants! It’s nice to know that when I’m working out and it’s really hot and humid that I can now find fitness gear that fits properly for my body.
Hi, Beauty In A Maze and thank you.
Thank you for this kind words. Good, you had a benefit of the post.
If I can help you with anything else, or if you have any questions, don´t hesitate to contact me.
I love the Adidas Girls’ Athletic Shorts showcased on your article. I clicked through to check it out and the price says $9.99-$74.21?
I admit I’m not familiar with ordering from Amazon so maybe I’m misunderstanding something. But what is the exact price for these shorts please? I’m hoping it’s $9,99! hehe
Totally correct about the chaffing problem. I’m glad you’re giving me some practical options to look at.
Thank you!
Hi, Cath Anon and thank you.
Yes, it is excellent, and you can choose between 9 to get your style.
About the price. You click on the image you are thinking about and then choose the size. After it, the correct price come in the right side.
There are so many, and when things like that happen, you need to go to this two steps. After it, you get the prices.
If I can help you with anything else, or if you have any questions, don´t hesitate to contact me.
I’ve been looking for a gift to get someone that is always compliant about sportswear not fitting properly. She recently got back into going to the gym but only has one set of workout clothes. I thought I’d get her another outfit, primarily for running and class wear. She is always complaining about her thighs. After reading this, I can see that there are definitely options for her exact body type and I know she will like the Under Armour black shorts. She likes the simple look and I think the Adidas shorts would never get worn if I bought them due to their colorfulness.
Hi, Eric and thank you.
Thank you for your kind words.
Great to hear about your benefits of the article.
If I can help you with anything else, or if you have any questions, don´t hesitate to contact me.
Wow, I’m glad I came across this article. My wife has been complaining of not getting short that fits her thigh in the store. She’s an athlete and she will be having a race and this will be one of the best gift she will love . I will check through those listed and I will see the one that will suite her best and make a purchase. Thanks for sharing this information.
Hi, Lok Which and thank you.
Thank you for your kind words.
Great to hear about your benefits of the article.
If I can help you with anything else, or if you have any questions, don´t hesitate to contact me.
There are many running short in the market that when I look at them, they are not what I can call a running due to the fact that they are more of fashion short wear than a running short. When looking for running short what I always look out for is how comfortable it can be when running and all the running shorts in this article has it. Out of all the short in this article, I like Under Armour Women’s Fly Shorts, and I will recommend it for my girlfriend
Hi, Ajibola40and thank you.
Thank you for your kind words.
Yes, I agree that sometimes the running benefits forget sometimes when that fashion factor comes in, even so in most cases this factor works very well together.
If I can help you with anything else, or if you have any questions, don´t hesitate to contact me.
I love the Adidas girls Athletic shorts, they are practical and beautiful.
I completely blown away with the design, the design is nothing I have seen before. It is carefree and colourful.
I also like the lightness of the material. Because the lighter the material, the more airflow is afforded. Therefore sweat will not build up on the thighs.
So, I think that the Adidas girls athletic shorts is the best bet for me.
Hi, Peace and thank you.
The Adidas shorts are great! Like you say the design is great.
Adidas is one of the brands which you know that there is much quality in their products. It has been one of my favorites for decades.
If I can help you with anything else, or if you have any questions, don´t hesitate to contact me.
Nice article on the sport! It is actually a helpful review on Running Shorts For Big Thighs. Great tips for women who like running exercise. My junior sister is part of those women that like running as an exercise. This article is timely as she is just deciding on buying some running shorts add to her shorts wardrobe. She may ask me to come with her for selection. I really appreciate this review on the listed three short, they are unique and, but my sister is chubby, I do like to recommend the Under Armour Women’s Fly Shorts to her, but hope the XX- large won’t tend to roll up while running?
Hi, Topazdude and thank you.
Thank you for your kind words.
This Under Armour shirts is great. But one of the very few cons is that it tends these shorts tend to roll upwards when running as you mention.
But even so, I believe the pros are much more.
If I can help you with anything else, or if you have any questions, don´t hesitate to contact me.
I don’t have a good experience of running. But I know that it requires great stamina for the long race. A comfortable outfit is very necessary for such type of physical activities. From the three product you have reviewed, Under Armour Women’s Fly Shorts and Starter Women’s Stretch Shorts seems more fashionable with comfort. Can I share your post on FB with my friends?
Regards,
Ranao.
Hi, Rgpratap and thank you.
Thank you for your kind words.
Of course, you are more than welcome to share the post.
If I can help you with anything else, or if you have any questions, don´t hesitate to contact me.
Thank you very much sport send for putting this up, and I am very happy that I was able to read this post on the best running shorts for us with big thighs. I do agree that sweating in tight clothes can cause some sought of a skin infection, and this is why while running, something free is needed. I like the Adidas girls short, and that is exactly what I’ll be looking for. Again, thank you so much for the information. Cheers!
Hello Henderson, and thank you.
Thank you for your kind words.
Great to hear about your benefit of the article too.
Don´t hesitate to contact me if I can help you with anything else, or if you have any questions.
It is a great overview of the best tips for getting the perfect running shorts for big thighs, and this is very great to read. I have added weight over the year due to limited time for training and exercises, and that is the reason I want to get some running kits for myself back to get back to my normal daily routine of running. Hence, I like the suggestions made available here to accompany the buyer’s guide. I like the Nike Women’s Dry Tempo Running Shorts
Hello Shelley, and thank you.
Thank you for your kind words.
Great to hear about your benefit of the article too.
Don´t hesitate to contact me if I can help you with anything else, or if you have any questions.
Some really nice suggestions you have here though. So many people like myself have stayed away from exercising because we Maximo d equipment needed to do that exercise personally for me I stopped going to the gym because I don’t really have a good shot to wear to the gym. Considering my thigh, I have been staying at home, and I have been gaining weight. Going by the suggestion you have given I love to buy why the Adidas girls shot. Thanks for sharing
Hello Chloe, and thank you.
Thank you for your kind words.
Great to hear about your benefit of the article too.
Don´t hesitate to contact me if I can help you with anything else, or if you have any questions.
Thank you for this review. I am quite curvy and have thighs that rub together, so I tend to stick to trousers more than skirts or dresses. It can be so annoying when I exercise, and I have to deal with all this rubbing and chafing. From this article, I see that I don’t have to put up with this discomfort because there are solutions. I love that Under Armour, and I am going to get me a few. Thank you
Hello, JJ, and thank you.
Thank you for your kind words.
Great to hear about your benefit of the article too.
Yes, many have this problem, and we want to add more solutions and ideas for this group. It is always good to have a choice.
Don´t hesitate to contact me if I can help you with anything else or if you have any questions.
Hi!
Thank you for your post. I honestly never wear shorts when I am working out for the simple reason that I don’t like when my thigh (which are large) gets irritated after a few minutes of running, for example. Also, whenever I enter a sports store, most of the shorts don’t fit my large thighs. After reading your article and thanks to you, I may have finally found the perfect outfit to work out now. I am currently staying in Thailand, and honestly, wearing leggings to run sometimes is very uncomfortable, so that I may opt for those shorts now.
Hello, Lauranne, and thank you.
Thank you for your kind words.
Great to hear about your benefit of the article too.
Yes, many people have this problem, and we know about it very well. So we have decided to add selection for people who are in the trouble of finding comfortable and good outfits. You can see the newest post about it herehere:
Don´t hesitate to contact me if I can help you with anything else or if you have any questions.
Hey, a nice article you have there. Itis exactly what my friend needs during our morning workout, but questions that seek answers to me is, what is the price for Nike women dry tempo running short, how many short can be found in a pack, can home delivery be made on purchase product online?
Hello, Edahnewton1, and thank you.
Thank you for your kind words.
Great to hear about your benefit of the article too.
To answer your questions. There is one short in a packet. But at the price and delivery, things sometimes change, so you should click on the box or/and image of the short to see it 100%.
Don´t hesitate to contact me if I can help you with anything else or if you have any questions.
Hello there. Thank you so much for this very detailed and informative review of running shorts for big thighs. I must say this is exactly what I am looking for; my girlfriend often complains of the shorts she uses for running because of her big thighs, and this often brings her some reactions in her thighs and pain also. Also, I like the fact that these shorts reviewed above have a variety of colors that one can choose from and also classy. I’m sharing this site with her so she can have a look and make the order.
Thank you so much for sharing this.
Hello, Jomata, and thank you.
Thank you for your kind words.
Great to hear about your benefit of the article too.
Don´t hesitate to contact me if I can help you with anything else or if you have any questions.