Guide · Comfort
How To Stop Chafing On The Bike
Most chafing on the bike comes from three things: sweat, fabric bunching and seams rubbing the inner thigh. Fix those and most of it goes away.
Where Riders Chafe
- Inner thigh - against the seat and where you grip with your knees.
- Behind the knee - where brace straps and pant seams sit.
- Waistband - when underwear rolls down or pants sit on it.
Five Ways To Stop It
- Swap cotton for performance fabric. Moisture-wicking fabric stays drier, and dry fabric slides instead of dragging.
- Choose a long leg. Long-leg boxer briefs cover the inner thigh, so the seat rubs fabric, not skin.
- Get the size right. Too loose and it bunches; too tight and the waistband digs. Check the waist measurement on the size chart.
- Mind your seams. Flat, shaped seams that sit away from the inner thigh make the biggest difference over a long day.
- Start dry, stay dry. Put on a fresh pair before riding, and change between long sessions in hot weather. An anti-chafe balm on problem spots helps on very hot days.
If You're Already Sore
Clean and dry the area, let it breathe overnight, and give skin a day to recover before the next long ride. If it's broken or not healing, see a pharmacist.
Quick Answers
Why do I chafe on my inner thighs when riding?
Sweat plus friction against the seat and your gripping knees. Moisture-wicking, long-leg underwear that stays put stops most of it.
Does anti-chafe balm help?
Yes, on very hot days or long rides, as an extra layer of protection. It works best with underwear that already stays dry and in place.
Nested makes long-leg performance boxer briefs, raced at MXGP level. Shop motocross underwear or see the full range.