How To Keep Shorts From Riding Up: Effective Tips For Runners

Have you ever wondered why do shorts ride up between the legs? Find out the reasons behind this annoyance and learn practical solutions to ensure your shorts stay in place during any physical activity.

4 Reasons Why Do My Shorts Ride Up When I Run

As a runner, you may have asked yourself, “Why do my shorts ride up when I run?” This can be both annoying and distracting. Running enthusiasts frequently experience this phenomenon, which can happen for a variety of reasons. Let’s look at a few of the reasons why your shorts could ride up as you run.

1. Improper Fit

Shorts that are too short or too tight are more likely to ride up when you run. Why do shorts ride up between the legs?

Well, it’s primarily because shorter shorts, which typically have a smaller inseam, provide less coverage and have less fabric to stay in place. In addition, if the shorts have a loose elastic waistband, this can contribute to upward movement, as there is not enough tension to keep them securely in position.

To avoid this issue, it is important to choose shorts with an appropriate length and fit that allows for freedom of movement without being too restrictive or overly loose.

2. Friction And Moisture

Why do shorts ride up in the middle, you might wonder? When you run, your body generates heat and perspiration, which can make the fabric of your shorts stick to your thighs.

This increased friction, combined with moisture, can lead to the phenomenon of shorts riding up in the middle. Certain fabrics, such as polyester and nylon, tend to stick to the skin when wet, making them more prone to ride-up issues.

To address this problem, it is advisable to opt for shorts made from moisture-wicking materials. These fabrics are specifically designed to draw sweat away from your skin, ensuring you stay drier and reducing the chances of the fabric clinging to your thighs.

3. Poor Waistband Placement

The placement of the waistband on your shorts can affect whether they ride up or stay in place while you run. If the waistband is too low or rests on the widest part of your hips, it may not provide sufficient support, leading to the shorts sliding upward as you move.

Similarly, if the waistband is too loose or lacks a proper drawstring, it can contribute to the riding-up issue. To address this, opt for shorts with a waistband that sits comfortably on your natural waist and has an adjustable feature like a drawstring. This will help ensure that your shorts stay in place whether you’re running or simply walking (because shorts ride up when walking, too!).

4. Body Shape And Muscle Movement

When it comes to understanding why do shorts ride up between the legs, it’s important to consider various factors, including the shape of your body and the movement of your leg muscles.

Muscular thighs or well-defined leg muscles can contribute to the fabric bunching up and riding up more easily, amplifying this phenomenon. Moreover, the repetitive motion of running, particularly with a longer stride, can further accentuate the upward movement of the shorts.

How To Prevent Shorts From Riding Up: 4 Useful Tips

Shorts are a versatile and comfortable clothing option, especially during hot summer months. However, many people struggle with the issue of shorts riding up, which can be quite frustrating and potentially impact both comfort and confidence.

If you find yourself in this situation, you might be wondering how to keep shorts from riding up. The good news is that there are some tips available to address this concern and ensure a more enjoyable experience with your shorts.

1. Choose The Right Size And Fit

Want to know how to stop shorts from riding up? Ill-fitting shorts are more likely to bunch up and cause discomfort when you move. To ensure you choose the correct size, measure your waist and hips accurately and refer to the size chart provided by the brand or retailer.

Additionally, it’s important to pay attention to the style and cut of the shorts. Different styles, such as high-waisted, mid-rise, or low-rise, may fit differently on your body. Experiment with various styles to find the one that suits you best and minimizes the risk of riding up.

2. Look For Longer Lengths

When it comes to learning how to prevent shorts from riding up, one useful tip is to opt for shorts with longer inseams. Choosing styles such as Bermuda shorts or mid-thigh shorts, which feature longer lengths, can provide greater coverage for your legs and reduce the chances of them bunching up or riding up when you’re in motion or seated.

These particular designs strike a perfect balance between comfort and freedom of movement, effectively minimizing the risk of the shorts riding up. Another strategy you can employ is experimenting with different fabrics that have a slightly heavier weight.

3. Consider The Fabric

The choice of fabric is important in preventing shorts from riding up. Lightweight and silky materials such as satin or silk, which have a smooth texture, can be more prone to riding up when you’re on the move.

However, if you’re wondering how to stop shorts from riding up, you can opt for fabrics that have more grip and texture, like cotton, denim, or twill. These materials have a slightly rougher feel against your skin, creating more friction and ultimately helping the shorts stay in place.

By consciously selecting fabrics with better grip, you can effectively reduce the occurrence of shorts riding up and ensure a more comfortable wearing experience.

4. Use A Gripping Product

If you’re still having trouble with shorts riding up, you can try using a gripping product like hairspray to keep shorts from riding up. Other products, such as fabric tapes, adhesive sprays, or anti-slip gels, also create friction between the fabric of the shorts and your skin, preventing them from sliding or bunching up.

To use these products, apply them to the inner hemline of the shorts or along the areas that tend to ride up the most. It’s important to carefully follow the instructions provided with the product and test it on a small, inconspicuous area of the shorts to ensure compatibility with the fabric.

4 Criteria How To Choose Running Shorts That Won’t Ride Up

Finding the right pair of running shorts can greatly enhance your comfort and performance during your runs. One common issue that many runners face is shorts that ride up, causing discomfort and distraction. Fortunately, there are some tricks you can follow to choose running shorts that won’t ride up.

1. Gusseted Crotch

In your pursuit of how to prevent shorts from riding up, a gusseted crotch is an important feature to consider. It refers to an additional panel of fabric that is strategically placed in the crotch area of the shorts.

This design allows for increased mobility and flexibility during physical activity, reducing the chances of the shorts bunching up and riding up between your thighs. By incorporating a gusseted crotch, shorts can better conform to your body movements, providing a more comfortable and secure fit.

This feature helps to minimize friction and chafing, allowing you to focus on your run without the distraction of constantly adjusting your shorts.

2. Check For Inner Liners

When selecting running shorts, it’s essential to pay attention to whether they have built-in briefs or compression liners, as these features play a crucial role in ensuring that the shorts stay comfortable and in place throughout your run. Inner liners, such as those found in running shorts that don’t ride up, serve multiple purposes.

Firstly, they provide additional support to your sensitive areas, keeping everything comfortably secure during your workout. Additionally, the snug fit of the inner liner helps minimize friction between your thighs, reducing the risk of chafing and irritation.

These liners also act as a barrier between your skin and the outer fabric of the shorts, preventing the fabric from sticking to your skin and causing discomfort.

Our Recommendation

Nobull Men’s Lightweight Knit Short

• Material: 94% nylon, 6% lycra
• Inseam: 7’’
• Sizes: S, M, L, XL, XXL, XXXL
• Color Palette: Black, white heather, olive heather, navy heather
• Pockets: Side seam zippered pockets

CHECK LATEST PRICE

If you’re on the hunt for a pair of versatile, high-performance shorts, these will be a good choice. They’re designed for an active guy who wants comfort, style, and functionality all wrapped into one. 

The shorts are made of lightweight, breathable knit fabric that feels great against the skin. The fabric is stretchy and provides a full range of motion whether you’re lifting, running, or doing any other high-intensity workout. The moisture-wicking properties keep you dry because any sweat evaporates quickly.

The length is good – 7 inches is not too short, but not too long. The elastic waistband with an adjustable drawstring gives a snug fir and makes the shorts stay in place. Plus, the side pockets are actually functional and they can hold your phone, keys, or whatever else you need without falling out mid-squat. 

Durability is another one of their qualities. Despite the fact that they’re lightweight, the fabric is tough and seems like it will hold up well over time. But no shorts are perfect, and that goes for these as well. 

One minor grip is the length of the drawstring. It can be a bit too long for some people’s taste, and you might find yourself tucking it in to avoid it flapping around. Also, these are on the pricier side, so if you’re looking for something affordable, these are not it

3. Look For A Secure Waistband

Look for shorts that have a wide and stretchy waistband with a string you can adjust. The wide waistband helps spread the pressure evenly so the shorts fit comfortably and securely around your waist.

It also reduces the chances of the shorts slipping or bunching up while you’re running. If the waistband is elastic, it can stretch and move with your body, keeping the shorts in place without feeling tight.

Additionally, when there’s a string, you can tighten or loosen it to customize the waistband according to your preference and body shape. This is especially useful if you have a narrower or wider waist because it allows you to make the shorts fit perfectly for you.

4. Try Before You Buy

When it comes to choosing running shorts that don’t ride up, it’s crucial to try them on before making a purchase. This allows you to assess the fit, comfort, and overall performance of the shorts. When trying them on, don’t just stand still; move around, squat, and perform a few running motions to simulate the actions you’ll be doing during your workouts.

By doing so, you can gauge how the shorts feel and how well they hold up during dynamic movements. Pay close attention to any signs of riding up or discomfort, as these are indicators that the shorts may not be suitable for your needs.

FAQ

How Do You Keep Spandex Shorts From Rolling Up?

To prevent spandex shorts from rolling up, you can try a few techniques. First, make sure you have the right size and fit. Second, consider wearing a longer pair of shorts over the spandex to provide extra friction and stability.

Additionally, applying hairspray or using double-sided fashion tape on the inner hem can help keep the shorts in place. Finally, choosing spandex shorts with a silicone grip on the hem can provide a better grip and minimize rolling.

Why Do My Shorts Ride Up Between My Legs?

Shorts riding up between the legs can be caused by various factors. One common reason is the fabric type and fit. Opt for shorts made of materials with stretch or that feature a looser fit to reduce friction.

Additionally, the length of the shorts can play a role. Longer shorts tend to ride up less. Another tip is to try using anti-chafing products or wearing fitted undergarments to create a smoother surface that prevents the fabric from bunching up.

Conclusion

In conclusion, knowing how to keep shorts from riding up is essential for a comfortable and hassle-free running experience. By choosing the right size, opting for longer inseams, using anti-slip products like silicone grippers, and wearing fitted undergarments, you can prevent shorts from constantly riding up. Don’t let discomfort get in the way of your activities. Follow these tips and enjoy your day without constantly adjusting your shorts.

References:

1. Running and aerobic exercises // NHS: https://www.nhs.uk/live-well/exercise/running-and-aerobic-exercises/
2. Walking for health // NHS: https://www.nhs.uk/live-well/exercise/running-and-aerobic-exercises/walking-for-health/
3. The best exercises for your warm-up // Harvard Medical Schoo: https://www.health.harvard.edu/exercise-and-fitness/the-best-exercises-for-your-warm-up
4. Exercise clothing and shoes // MedlinePlus: https://medlineplus.gov/ency/patientinstructions/000817.htm
5. A Heart-Smart Approach to Marathons and Vigorous Exercise // Johns Hopkins Medicine: https://www.hopkinsmedicine.org/health/wellness-and-prevention/a-heart-smart-approach-to-marathons-and-vigorous-exercise
6. Photos are made by Torokhtiy Media Team