When Shorts Get Shorter: Why Do Athletic Shorts Ride Up?

Every athlete, at some point, has experienced the annoyance of their shorts riding up during a workout. It’s uncomfortable, distracting, and can affect your performance. So why do athletic shorts ride up, and more importantly, what can you do about it? Let’s delve into the issue to seek answers and solutions.

Causes of Athletic Shorts Riding Up

Numerous factors contribute to the phenomenon of athletic shorts riding up. Understanding them is the first step to solving the issue.

Incorrect Sizing

This is one of the most common causes. Shorts that are too big can bunch up, and shorts that are too small can ride up due to insufficient material covering the thighs.

Body Shape

The individual body shape also affects how athletic shorts fit. People with larger thighs or a smaller waist might experience more riding up as the shorts may not sit well on their body.

Material and Design

Some materials, especially those with more stretch, tend to ride up more. Similarly, certain designs, like high-cut or shorter shorts, are also more likely to ride up.

Type of Activity

The type of workout or sport you’re participating in can also affect your shorts. High-intensity workouts or sports with lots of running or jumping might cause more riding up due to increased movement.

Image from Adobe

Tips to Prevent Athletic Shorts from Riding Up

Now that we know why athletic shorts might ride up, let’s explore some practical solutions.

Proper Sizing

Ensure that your shorts fit well. They should be snug but comfortable around your waist and thighs. Too loose or too tight can both lead to the shorts riding up.

Appropriate Material and Design

Opt for shorts made of materials less prone to riding up, like polyester or nylon blends. In terms of design, longer shorts or those with elastic or grip bands around the leg openings may stay put better.

Undergarments

Consider wearing compression shorts or athletic tights underneath your shorts. This can provide a smoother surface for your shorts to rest on, reducing friction and movement.

Adjust Your Shorts Regularly

While it’s not an ideal solution, adjusting your shorts regularly can help manage the issue. Pull them down when they start to ride up to keep them in place.

Choosing the Right Athletic Shorts

Selecting the right shorts for your workout can make a world of difference in preventing them from riding up. Here are some key considerations:

Purpose

Choose shorts designed for your specific activity. For example, running shorts often have built-in liners to prevent them from riding up.

Length

Longer shorts or those with elastic cuffs tend to ride up less. Look for shorts labeled as “long” or “extended” length.

Material

Opt for materials with less stretch and more grip, like polyester, nylon, or spandex blends.

Fit

Shorts should be snug but not tight. A drawstring waistband can help adjust the fit to your body.

Conclusion

Athletic shorts riding up is a common issue faced by many athletes. While it can be uncomfortable and annoying, understanding the causes and implementing solutions can help manage the problem. By ensuring proper fit, choosing the right material and design, wearing appropriate undergarments, and adjusting regularly, you can enjoy your workout without the distraction of constantly riding up shorts.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why do my athletic shorts keep riding up when I run?

The most common reasons for athletic shorts riding up during a run include incorrect sizing, the specific design of the shorts, the type of material they’re made from, and the intensity of your workout.

How can I prevent my shorts from riding up?

Preventing shorts from riding up can be achieved by ensuring a proper fit, choosing the right material and design, wearing appropriate undergarments, and regularly adjusting your shorts during your workout.

What type of shorts are best to prevent riding up?

Longer shorts with elastic or grip bands around the leg openings tend to ride up less. Also, shorts made from less stretchy materials like polyester or nylon blends are a good choice.

Can wearing compression shorts under my athletic shorts prevent them from riding up?

Yes, wearing compression shorts or athletic tights under your athletic shorts can provide a smoother surface for your shorts to rest on, reducing friction and movement, and thus helping to prevent them from riding up.

Are some activities more likely to cause shorts to ride up?

Yes, high-intensity workouts or sports with lots of running or jumping might cause more riding up due to the increased movement. For such activities, consider athletic shorts designed specifically for that purpose.