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I refuse to wear running shorts (during long runs or races, that is).  Did that get your attention?  Thought so!  No, I don’t run naked.  I am way too self-conscious for that.  In fact, in an effort to avoid the brazen head to toe spandex look, I used to wear shorts.  Unfortunately, women’s running shorts seem to get shorter and shorter each year.  My skin is very sensitive and even with bike shorts under my shorts; I still had a few cases of chafed thighs.  So, I converted to running tights (tight running shorts) and haven’t chafed since!  If tight pants aren’t for you, don’t worry.  There are plenty of options.

Purpose:

• Cover your parts
• Prevent the dreaded thigh chafe

 Options: 

Your first choice is fit.  Do you prefer looser fitting running shorts and pants or form fitting running tights (like bike shorts)?  If you have sensitive skin or are prone to chafing, tights have worked best for me.  They stay put and protect the entire area from your inner thigh to above your knee (at a minimum).

Your next option is length.  There are offerings in everything from ankle length to those attractive (ha!) shorts that barely cover your “cheeks”.  If you’re on a budget, Capri length provides the most versatility.  They can be worn nearly year round.

Your final choice is liner style.  Here’s an insider tip:  runners go commando!  That’s right.  Don’t wear underwear with your running shorts or running tights.  If that makes you uncomfortable, choose lined shorts.  There are typically three options – no liner, 2 in 1 liner (similar to bike shorts with shorts over top), and underwear style liner.  If you are not into spandex or looking like Rafael Nadal, but want some chafing protection, don’t fret.  2 in 1 shorts are a good alternative to Capri tights for both guys and gals.  I’ve run two marathons in 2 in 1 shorts, without problems, but I have chafed in them on occasion.  Just make sure that you really slather on the anti-chafing balm.

There is one more option – a running skort (with bike shorts).  This is a much cuter option for the ladies, but I have doubts about covering 26.2 miles chafe-free in them.  Since I have never run in a running skort, I can’t speak to it.  I will give one a try soon and report back!

What to look for: 

• Sweat-wicking materials
• Coverage of thighs or any areas that chafe
• Flat seams
• Snug fit (for tights)
• Ventilation (for tights)

 The fun stuff:

• Hidden inside pockets (great for keys, ID, money, etc.)
• Side/back/holster pockets (great for energy gels, gloves, etc.)
• Waterproof or resistant pockets (nothing like paying for your sport drink with soggy money!)
• Drawstring (so you aren’t tugging up your pants for 12 miles!)
• Comfort or rubberized leg bands and waistbands (helps your tights stay put)
• Reflective (makes you more visible to drivers if you are running in the dark)

Modifications:

As I mentioned in my post on running shirts, if you need to run in colder weather, consider your temperature threshold.  If you are on a budget, capris have worked well for me in nearly every temperature with the addition of longer running socks.  It doesn’t look too cute, but it is cheaper than buying another pair of running tights.  If you have running shorts, you should consider swapping them out for running pants or ankle length running tights in cold temperatures (below 50 F for most runners).    

Tip:  put on anti-chafing balm around any ankle zippers on the pants and tights as they can chafe you!

So what have you decided to run in?  Will it be shorts or tights?  Leave us a comment and let us know what you’ll be training in and why!  Stay tuned for next week’s post about socks, which continues our series on Running gear that every marathoner needs.