There’s nothing more frustrating than pulling down your shorts every few steps because they keep riding up. Whether you're walking, running errands, or simply trying to enjoy a summer day, shorts that constantly creep up can ruin your confidence and comfort. But don’t worry—there are solutions! If you’ve been wondering how to keep your shorts from riding up, you’re in the right place.
Why Do Shorts Ride Up?
Before diving into solutions, let’s first understand why shorts ride up in the first place. Here are some common reasons:
- Improper Fit: If your shorts are too tight, they might lack enough fabric to stay in place and end up creeping up. On the other hand, if they’re too loose, they may bunch up and shift as you move.
- Fabric Choice: Some materials, especially those without stretch or grip, can slide up easily.
- Short Inseam: Shorts that are too short don’t have enough length to anchor themselves in place.
- Body Shape & Movement: Your thighs naturally rub together when you walk, and depending on your body shape, this friction can cause shorts to ride up.
Now, let’s explore some practical solutions to keep your shorts in place.
1. Wear the Right Size
One of the most important factors in preventing your shorts from riding up is ensuring they fit correctly.
✔ Avoid Too-Tight Shorts: If your shorts are too snug, they’ll naturally want to ride up because there isn’t enough fabric to accommodate movement. Check the waistband and leg openings—if they dig into your skin, they’re likely too small.
✔ Avoid Too-Loose Shorts: On the flip side, if your shorts are too loose, they may bunch up and shift, leading to discomfort and unwanted adjustments.
Tip: Look for brands that focus on fit and comfort, particularly for curvier body types. Our Original Shortlette®️ Anti-Chafe Shorts are designed specifically to provide a comfortable fit without squeezing or riding up.
2. Choose the Right Length
Shorts that are too short are more prone to riding up because they lack enough length to stay in place.
✔ Opt for a Longer Inseam: A longer inseam provides better coverage and anchoring. A good rule of thumb is to go for an inseam of at least 5 inches to prevent creeping up.
✔ Try Anti-Chafe Shorts: If you struggle with shorts riding up and thigh chafing, anti-chafe shorts are a game-changer. Our Lace-Trim Shortlette®️ offers a stylish and practical way to keep your shorts in place while eliminating thigh rub.
3. Pay Attention to Fabric Choice
The type of material your shorts are made from plays a big role in whether they ride up.
✔ Look for Stretchy, Yet Structured Fabrics: Shorts with a bit of spandex, elastane, or lycra offer flexibility without excessive movement.
✔ Avoid Slippery Fabrics: Silk and lightweight nylon tend to slide up easily. Instead, opt for cotton blends or performance fabrics that have grip.
✔ Try Textured Fabrics: Materials with ribbing or compression hold shape better and resist shifting. Our Cotton-Blend Shortlette®️ provides the perfect balance of stretch and softness to stay in place all day.
4. Choose Shorts Designed Not to Ride Up
✔ Bike Shorts & Anti-Chafe Shorts: These are designed to stay put and are a great option if you want a sleek, fitted style.
5. Walk-Test Your Shorts Before Buying
When shopping for shorts, don’t just stand in the dressing room mirror—move around!
✔ Do a Walking Test: Walk around, squat, and move your legs. If you notice the shorts creeping up right away, they’ll likely do the same in daily wear.
✔ Check the Thigh Fit: Make sure the leg openings aren’t too tight or too loose. A good fit should be snug without pinching.
6. Use Fashion Tape or Adhesive Solutions
For a quick fix, you can use fashion tape or body adhesive to help shorts stay in place.
✔ Apply to Inner Thighs or Leg Openings: Double-sided fashion tape can help temporarily hold fabric where you want it.
✔ Try Roll-On Adhesives: Some athletes use skin-friendly adhesives to keep clothing from shifting.
7. Stick to Styles That Work for You
If you’ve tried multiple solutions and still struggle with shorts riding up, it might be time to switch to styles that naturally stay in place.
✔ A-Line or Relaxed Fit Shorts: If tight-fitting shorts always ride up, consider looser styles that give your thighs room to move.
✔ Culottes or Skorts: These provide a stylish and practical alternative to traditional shorts.
✔ Anti-Chafe Undershorts: Layering a pair of lightweight, anti-chafe shorts under looser shorts can keep everything in place and prevent ride-up. Check out our Longer-Length Shortlette®️ for extra thigh coverage and maximum comfort.
Final Thoughts
Shorts riding up is an annoying but solvable problem! By choosing the right size, length, and fabric, and opting for designs with grippers or structured fits, you can keep your shorts in place and stay comfortable all day long.
If you’re looking for a stylish and practical solution, The Original Shortlette®️ can be a game-changer. Designed for real women with real bodies, they offer comfort, coverage, and confidence—so you never have to worry about adjusting your shorts again.
Got any favorite tips for keeping your shorts in place? Share them in the comments below!
Shop Our Best Anti-Chafe Shorts:
🛍 The Original Shortlette®️ – Lightweight and breathable for all-day comfort
🛍 Lace-Trim Shortlette®️ – Feminine and functional with a stylish lace detail
🛍 Cotton-Blend Shortlette®️ – Soft, stretchy, and perfect for everyday wear
🛍 Slip-Shortlette®️ – Seamless and smooth under dresses and skirts
🛍 Longer-Length Shortlette®️ – Extra coverage for added comfort
