You’ve probably been there: You go for the best, longest run of your life and return home filled with endorphins. You eagerly jump into your post-run shower, and as soon as that steamy water hits your body… you scream. Nothing ruins a runner’s high like a bad bout of chafing, whether it’s on your underarms, inner thighs, or any number of other very personal places.
That’s why we asked a bunch of avid runners to share their top tips on how to prevent chafing while running.
How To Avoid Inner Thigh Chafing While Running
What you wear is key. Clothes that are too big will rub against your skin – and when that happens for a long period of time (particularly when mixed with sweat), you’re prone to chafing. And clothes that are too tight or too small may ride up.
In addition to wearing running clothes that fit you properly, runners recommend these sticks, sprays and creams to prevent chafing:
- The Body Glide is a tried-and-true runner favorite goes on like non-sticky, non-messy, clear deodorant, so you don’t even have to touch it with your hands.
- “The Gold Bond Friction Defense goes on silky smooth, and I don’t even limit the use to just running,” says triathlete Emily Daniels. “I use it for everyday wear, like when I’m wearing dresses to work in the summer. It lasts all day, so it definitely has no trouble on a long run.”
- Another runner favorite, Aquaphor, has a whole handful of products that combat chafing while running and blisters. “I put it in between my toes for blister prevention on long runs,” says marathoner Emily Faherty.
- TriSlide is a triathlete-specific spray lubricant designed to withstand the swim, bike, and run. “TriSlide is my favorite as a triathlete since we start off in the water, but it’s also good for runners in the summer who may be running through hosing or misting stations during races,” says Nicole Falcaro.
How To Avoid Nipple Chafing?
One of the anti-chafing products recommended by runners that also helps to prevent nipple chafing is 2Toms Sport Shield.
“This stuff is the best,” says ultramarathoner Tricia Amy. “It doesn’t sweat off, dries quickly, and prevents the dreaded cold nipples in the winter. I’ve never had any chafing since I started using this – unless I forget to put it on.”
Running coach Mary Johnson agrees: “I love the consistency, plus it doesn’t sweat away and keeps your skin smooth.”
And then there’s the KT tape hack.
“I put a piece of KT tape underneath the band of my sports bra,” says ultramarathoner Meg Navatto. “As long as it’s there, I don’t experience any chafing. Sometimes anti-chafe creams or balms just aren’t enough.”
Is Baby Powder Good For Preventing Chafing?
As baby powder absorbs moisture, it can also help to prevent chafing, but there’s also a dedicated powder product specifically for ladies. A butt powder – seriously.
“After I gained some weight, I noticed that my, uh, cheeks chafed,” says marathoner Theodora Blanchfield. “At first, I just chalked the chafing while running up to weight gain and figured that was my price to pay for too many glasses of wine.”
“Then, luckily, a fellow runner suggested Lady Anti Monkey Butt Powder, and my butt and I are here to say it works.”
Also diaper rash cream works for preventing chafing. “And definitely works when it comes to treating it,” says marathoner Kristan Dietz. “It’s super gentle and helps the chafing wound heal quickly. If it’s good enough for a baby’s booty, it’s good enough for runners!”
Can You Use Vaseline To Prevent Chafing?
The classic petroleum jelly works, as long as you don’t mind getting a little gooey. “I swear by a big jar of Vaseline with cocoa butter in it,” says runner Barbara Debler. “It smells lovely, too.”
Other athlete favorites to prevent chafing
May your runs be long and your skin chafe-free.
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Please note that the information provided in the Polar Blog articles cannot replace individual advice from health professionals. Please consult your physician before starting a new fitness program.
