Bamboo Underpants – Prevent Chafing on Your Thighs in the Summer
Short answer: Chafing on the inside of the thigh happens when skin rubs against skin and the skin is damp at the same time. A pair of under shorts removes it by putting a smooth layer in between. The length matters most: it has to reach further down than the place that chafes.
Why it happens
It is not weight that decides whether it chafes, but the combination of friction and moisture. Dry skin against dry skin can hold out for a long time, but as soon as sweat is added the skin softens and the surface turns rough, and then it happens fast. That is why it mostly occurs on warm days and long walks, and why it gets worse over the course of the day rather than starting straight away.
What under shorts do
Under shorts put a smooth layer between the two skin surfaces, so the friction disappears. In bamboo viscose they do more than that: the fibre takes the moisture off the skin and releases it into the air again, so the area stays drier, and that is the other half of the cause. Synthetic under shorts only solve the friction and can turn clammy, which moves the problem rather than solving it. See under shorts.
The length matters most
If the shorts do not reach further down than the place that chafes, the edge simply moves the problem a couple of centimetres. Feel for where it is sore, and choose a length that ends clearly below that point. The edge should also lie flat and not pull, because a tight edge creates a new place to rub. Styles with laser cut edges are the most invisible under a thin dress and the most comfortable on a long day.
Under a dress and on their own
Under shorts can be worn on their own or over ordinary briefs, and both work. Under a dress they are often enough by themselves, and then there is only one layer. See bamboo briefs if they are to be worn over something, and bamboo underwear for women for the rest. If the leg should be covered further down, a pair of short shorts does the same and can be worn as an outer layer. See bamboo shorts for women.
For training and for everyday
In training it is the same problem, only faster: more movement and more sweat in less time. There a close fitting style works best, because it cannot shift. A pair of leggings does the same if the weather allows. See bamboo leggings for women. Wash at thirty degrees without softener, which closes off the moisture transport. The rest sits under bamboo for women.
Frequently asked questions
What length should under shorts be
Further down than the place that chafes. If the edge stops right at the sore spot, it moves the problem rather than removing it.
Can under shorts be worn on their own
Yes, under a dress they are often enough by themselves. They can also be worn over ordinary briefs if you prefer.
Why does it chafe more on warm days
Because sweat softens the skin and makes the surface rough. Friction alone is rarely enough, it is the combination with moisture.
You can find the full range at Bamboo-Clothing.com.
