It’s a topic that doesn’t get much attention… and yet, every woman who runs has experienced it: chafing during or after a run. Whether it’s on the thighs, in the crotch, under the sports bra, or between the arms, chafing is one of the main obstacles to comfort—and therefore to consistency and enjoyment in running.
Good news: you can actually avoid them, as long as you understand where they come from and take the necessary precautions.
🔎 Why do skin irritations occur when running?
Irritation is caused by repeated friction, often exacerbated by:
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sweating,
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misplaced seams,
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non-breathable materials,
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or ill-fitting clothing.
In women, they mainly appear:
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on the inner thighs,
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in the crotch (especially if the shorts have a center seam),
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under the bra or in the armpits.
They are particularly common in the summer, on long-distance runs, or on trail runs or routes with significant elevation changes.
👟 Tips for preventing chafing while running
1. Choose shorts or cycling shorts that fit your body
The fit is key. Shorts that ride up, are too tight, or are too loose will inevitably cause chafing.
👉 Choose running shorts:
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seamless at the crotch,
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with a snug fit but no compression,
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and a soft, breathable, quick-drying fabric.
At Wilma, we designed the Nina shorts for exactly that purpose.
2. Focus on technical subjects
Avoid cotton, which traps sweat. Opt for fabrics such as:
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interlock or breathable mesh,
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lightweight and breathable,
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that dry quickly to minimize overheating.
Good equipment doesn't replace your effort, but it supports it.
3. Minimize friction from the start
Before a long run or a workout in hot weather, remember to:
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apply an anti-chafing balm to sensitive areas (thighs, armpits),
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Make sure your gear is properly adjusted without being too tight.
4. Listen to your body and plan ahead
If you know that after 10 km, you still get chafing in a specific spot, that’s not normal.
You can probably fix this with better gear, and it’ll make your run more comfortable… and more enjoyable.
💡 Why comfort isn't a luxury when you're running
We still hear all too often that running is bound to be uncomfortable. That it chafes, that it burns, that it’s normal.
At Wilma, we believe the opposite:
👉 Comfort is essential for performance.
👉 And above all, it’s non-negotiable for women in sports.
Because when the pain goes away, you can go further.
Because when your shorts aren’t reminding you that you’re running, you can focus on your breathing, your rhythm, your drive, and your enjoyment.
🎽 What we did with Nina, our running shorts
We designed Nina as a tool for freedom.
Shorts designed for running, trail running, and long outings.
Featuring:
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a friction-resistant interlock fabric,
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a seamless construction at the crotch,
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a cut that flatters every body type,
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3 built-in pockets,
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and excellent abrasion resistance, even on rough terrain.
So you'll never have to worry about your shorts again while you're running.
✅ In summary: 5 simple tips to prevent chafing while running
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Choose a pair of shorts without a center seam that fit well
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Opt for breathable, high-performance fabrics
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Apply an anti-chafing balm before long rides
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Choose clothing that stays in place, even when you're on the move
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Listen to your body and invest in gear designed just for you
Do you want to run freely, without getting burned or having to compromise?
Discover [the Nina shorts], designed to move with your body and your pace— no matter the distance.
