If you’re a woman with thick thighs, finding clothes that fit and look good can be tricky. Often shopping for shorts is an extra challenge due to the limited options out there that cater specifically to pear shaped bodies and curvier figures. With summer in full swing, now is the perfect time to stock up on some stylish, comfortable shorts that flatter your figure while allowing you to stay cool throughout the hotter months.
For most women, the best shorts for thick thighs is a pair of classic cutoff denim shorts: MODARANI Women’s Cut-Off Denim Shorts. See our tip to avoid chafing and free those thighs for summer!
Since we know everyone’s style varies, and different occasions call for different types of shorts, we have also identified several other great options. Don’t worry about searching endlessly through racks of clothing before finally giving up in frustration. Read on for our top picks when it comes to shorts for women with thick thighs!
A Quick Comparison of Our Favorites
| IMAGE | PRODUCT | |
|---|---|---|
Editor's Choice  |
| View On Amazon →Read Our Review |
 |
| View On Amazon →Read Our Review |
Runner-Up  |
| View On Amazon →Read Our Review |
 |
| View On Amazon →Read Our Review |
 |
| View On Amazon →Read Our Review |
What Styles of Shorts Flatter Thick Thighs?
When it comes to thick legs and shorts, certain styles work better than others. Of course – as with anything else – you can freely choose to wear any style of shorts you want. These are just some recommendations of styles that can flatter your thick thighs more.
Our favorite type of short for thick thighs is short shorts. If you’re comfortable enough to wear them, they are very freeing. This is a great option for shorter ladies.
TIP TO AVOID CHAFING: Rub some deodorant between your thighs and you won’t have burning thighs by the end of the day.
Generally, shorts that are baggy and have an especially spacey room for your thighs are the most comfortable. As the leg openings have a big space on them, your thighs will not have to feel and look constricted in them, and chafing will be less of an issue (with the right material). However, it’s not always the case that baggy shorts are flattering.
You truly don’t have to feel limited by your body shape when it comes to finding the perfect shorts for thick thighs. Whether you’re looking for something sporty, stylish, or casual, there are plenty of other options that can flatter your figure and make you feel confident.
High-waisted and A-line shorts are also a popular choice. Because high-waisted shorts hug tightly to your upper waist, they bring people’s eyes and attention to that part of your body – while also taking eyes off your thighs. And because they hang tightly on the waist, it can also have a slimming effect on your thighs. These are often found in a skort version, which can be very flattering.
Another style of shorts that have returned to the style arena are bermuda shorts. Thanks to its longer and extra coverage, these shorts can easily cover up and offer enough coverage for you and your thighs, for days that you’d want extra coverage. These are only recommended for tall people because the proportions need to be just right.
Now that we’ve covered general styles of shorts that will flatter you, I hope you’re ready to find your new favorite shorts!
The Best Shorts for Thick Thighs
1. MODARANI Women’s Cut-Off Denim Shorts – Our Pick!
Our number one pick for the best shorts for thick thighs is the MODARANI Women’s Cut-Off Denim Shorts! An ideal daily casual jean shorts, you can pair this one with any top, whether you choose to dress down or dress up. This one is also designed to be high-waisted and high-rise jeans, a popular choice for those with thick thighs as we have mentioned early on in the article. As many users have shared, you can trust this one to flatter thick thighs and experience way less riding up occasions whenever you are out and about.
Currently available in a whopping 45 color variations with sizing options going from small, medium, large, x-large, and 2x-large, you can rest assured that you are able to find one that fits not on your body but also fits any occasion. This makes use of the traditional button and zip fly closure. It’s also been designed with the classic 5 pockets that is for sure functional for anything you want to keep close to you. Design options also include frayed hem design or a rolled hemline. I don’t know about you but I’m getting one of each of these denim shorts!
This MODARANI denim shorts boast of a very soft and stretchy denim fabric for a very comfortable and lightweight wear even during the hot months of summer. Many users have lauded this denim shorts option because the material is very stretchy and soft while being able to fit those with bigger and thicker thigh areas. The leg openings have been designed to perfectly and comfortably fit thicker thighs. This fit of this pair also doesn’t ride up, something someone with thick thighs might know too well.
These denim shorts offer enough coverage while still being comfortable on very hot days. The stretchy fabric this one comes with is sure to fit great on those with thick thighs and people with a little bit of shape on their rear area. Many have shared that this really flatters the stomach and butt area. The fabric offers enough stretch that it ensures that it will hug you in all the right places but still give your thighs enough room to breathe. This makes use of a sturdy material that is sure to last you for quite some time.
Many users have shared in their reviews of this pair of shorts that this is a cheap price for a quality pair. If you’re someone who has had continuous trouble in finding the perfect shorts because you are blessed with both a small waist and thick thighs, you might want to check this one out as well. You can freely get your true waist size and not have to worry whether or not you think it will fit your thighs because this one just offers so much room for your thighs to breathe and move around!
This favorite of ours also comes with a small side slit that reinforces an even more spacier room for your thighs. While boasting of a spacey room for your thighs, those with slimmer thighs should proceed with caution as this can be too big for your thighs. This is truly made for those with bigger and thicker thighs!
Pros:
- Casual jean shorts that can be dressed up or dressed down
- Flattering shorts on thick thighs without riding up
- Provides great fit for those with a small waist and thick thighs
- Available in 45 color variations and small to 2x-large sizing options
- Soft and stretchy denim fabric
- Comfortable and lightweight for all-day wear
- Offers amazing stretch to fit thick thighs, bottoms, and stomach comfortably
- Has a apacey leg room and a slightly slit side for even more room
- Cheap price for quality apri of shorts made with quality materials
- Comes with so much leg room and is soft and comfortable
- Has just enough length – neither too long nor too short
- Truly made for those with thick thighs
Cons:
- Leg room can be too big for those with slimmer thighs
2. BALEAF Women’s Long Running Shorts – Best Activewear!
The next item on our list of the best shorts for thick thighs and our pick for the best activewear is the BALEAF Women’s Long Running Shorts! If what you’re looking to add in your wardrobe are activewear thick thighs shorts, make sure you read on about this one. A 7 inches loose fit shorts, you can rest assured that this one fits wonderfully on your thick thighs while still allowing room to breathe and free movement through any activities you engage in as you live your active and healthy lifestyle.
Equipped with a 4-way stretch waistband, this promises the perfect fit with maximum comfort without body rubbing and chafing. If you’ve constantly experienced issues with activewear shorts riding up as you go about your exercise routine or for a run, you can rest assured that this one will not do that. The lightweight and flowy fabric of this has been designed with hugs your thighs snug and tightly while working to stay in place. These loose fit shorts provide enough room for your thighs and for you to comfortably move around.
For added convenience as you do your exercise routine or go for a run, this comes with 4 pockets including 1 back zipper pocket, 1 hidden pocket, and 2 side pockets. Many users have shared that these pockets are big enough to fit big phones. These BALEAF activewear shorts also come designed with built-in mesh briefs for a supportive and breathable fit. The built-in lining also allows users to wear this for their daily needs while also being more discreet. Many have shared that this is great for sports, water activities, and even for just lounging around.
This pair of running shorts for thick thighs has a length that is perfectly in-between short shorts and bermuda shorts. If you’re someone who’s also tall with long legs and have had trouble finding shorts with enough length and coverage, make sure you consider this one for that as well. The length this comes with is sure to provide extra coverage for your thighs so you can move freely during your exercise routine. This is currently available in 7 color variations while sizing options vary from x-small to 3x-large for the ultimate inclusivity.
The 3 inch thick waistband of this BALEAF shorts offers tummy control and works to smooth everything out so you don’t end up with a muffin top due to the squeezing elastic top. The waistband is sure to be comfortable on skin all day without leaving you in pain or discomfort. The fabric is also fast-drying, a reason why this is a favorite among many for water sports and activities.
The only drawback a few users have to share regarding this top on our list is that the built-in inner lining may show on lighter color options. It may sometimes leave a panty line along the back area as well. The lining also isn’t preferred by anyone as a couple have shared that it might sometimes feel like you’re wearing a diaper. Many have solved this issue by cutting out the inner lining completely from the shorts.
Pros:
- Ideal loose fit activewear shorts for thick thighs
- Fits well on thick thighs while offering room for free movement
- Lightweight and flowy fabric stays in place and doesn’t ride up
- 4-way stretch waistband fits with maximum comfort
- Waistband has tummy control to smooth everything out and doesn’t cause muffin top
- Comes with 4 pockets
- Built-in mesh briefs for support and breathable fit
- Allows users to be more discreet
- Perfect length between short shorts and bermuda shorts
- Ideal for someone with long legs and would want extra and enough coverage
- Available in 7 colors while sizing options include x-small to 3x-large
- Fast-drying fabric – ideal for water activities
Cons:
- Inner lining is not preferred by everyone
- Inner lining may show through lighter color options
3. Signature by Levi Strauss & Co. Gold Label Women’s Mid-Rise Bermuda Shorts – Best for Extra Coverage!
Our next favorite shorts for thick thighs and our choice for the best extra coverage is the Signature by Levi Strauss & Co. Gold Label Women’s Mid-Rise Bermuda Shorts! Designed as bermuda shorts, this length is longer than normal shorts while still being short enough for use during the hot months of summer. Thanks to its extra length and coverage on thighs, you can most definitely say goodbye to shorts riding up your thighs and having to constantly adjust and pull them down throughout the day!
Designed with Simply Stretch denim, this boasts of maximum stretchability that works to snug fit and maintain its shape throughout the day.The fabric used for this is lightweight and ultra-comfortable for an all-day wear. This provides a nice stretch that fits thick thighs well. This doesn’t dig into the stomach or creates a muffin top. The stretch the fabric offers also helps hide excess fat on your stomach area and doesn’t let your bottoms or thighs appear saggy or droopy.
These bermuda shorts are sure to be flattering on anyone with slim or thick thighs. This offers enough coverage and length for anyone who would prefer to stay away from short shorts. This has also been designed to fit all the way down without flared hems. If this is something that you would prefer, make sure you check this one out. Many have praised this pair of bermuda shorts as this is very figure-flattering on anyone. This isn’t baggy or shapeless and instead enhances your curves to make them appear more attractive.
Currently available in 4 color variations and standard and plus sizing options, you can rest assured that you will be able to find one that is right for your needs and your size. This has been designed with the traditional button and zipper closure to provide you with the perfect and most snug fit. According to some users, the super elastic and stretchy material is more of a jeggings material than jeans and is very lightweight and comfortable to wear. The amazing stretch this has to offer is definitely made for women with curves!
If you haven’t owned a pair of bermuda shorts yet and are still on the fence on whether or not this will flatter you, no need to worry because this will only enhance your thighs for sexier curves! This is sure to look classy and expensive on you, whether you dress up or dress down for any occasion. The only thing to keep in mind with this favorite of ours is because it has a very stretchy material, some may find that this can stretch out too much. You may also want to be careful in washing these as it can really stretch out until they are loose if not done properly.
Pros:
- Ideal for extra coverage on thick thighs
- Longer length than short shorts but short enough for warm months
- No riding up on thighs and no need to pull them back down
- Very stretchable fabric and maintains shape all day
- Enough stretch for thick thighs and stomach
- Doesn’t cause muffin tops
- Helps conceal excess fat on stomach and tightens thighs and bottoms
- Flattering on both slim and thick thighs
- Fitted all the way down – figure-flattering and not baggy or shapeless
- Available in 4 colors and standard and plus size sizing options
- Lightweight and comfortable for all-day wear
- Stretchability is made for women with curves
- Looks classy and expensive
Cons:
- May stretch out until it becomes loose after multiple uses and washes
- Can be too stretchy for some
4. Plaid&Plain Women’s High-Waisted Denim Shorts
The Women’s High-Waisted Denim Shorts from brand Plaid&Plain is the next item to have made it into our list of the best shorts for thick thighs! Another popular choice among those with thick thighs, this is a high-waisted a-line jean shorts for a flattering look all over. This is a loose fit pair of shorts that offers enough room to fit your thighs. This is slim-fitting but isn’t skin-tight at all around your thighs and butt area to allow them room to breathe and for comfortable free movement.
This offers a considerable good length for you to feel comfortable wearing them while still feeling cute as you are out and about. Your thighs are sure to be getting enough room for it not to ride up, even as you sit down throughout the day. This provides a great fit and is high-waisted enough to bring focus and attention up to your waist and away from your thighs. Even if you have thicker thighs, you can expect to get a slimming effect from this one as it still fits loose around your thighs.
Many buyers have shared that this is made with quality denim that is thick and comfortable. The fabric is sure to feel good against skin, a great factor especially considering the price this is listed in. This has been well-made and offers the perfect length. And if you’re anything like me, pockets are important for you in any piece of garment. If the same applies to you, good news for you because the pockets of these shorts are spacey and roomy enough that you can fit anything you want close by and even your entire hand!
This Plaid&Plain high-waisted shorts come with button and zip up closure along with an elastic waistband to ensure the perfect fit for you. This one comes with a belt as well, for added style and if you feel like the fit is too loose on you. This is currently available in 6 color variations with sizing options from x-small to x-large.
The only downside a couple users have to share regarding this high-waisted shorts is that even though it fits loose, the fabric offers very little stretch. If you’re on the fence on what size to get to fit your thighs, many have suggested that you get a size up. If you’re worried about the waist not fitting you, don’t fret because it’s been designed with an elastic band and comes with a free belt for a more custom fit.
Pros:
- High-waisted, aline shorts for thick thighs
- Offers a loose fit for enough room for thighs
- Slim-fitting but not skin-tight around thighs and butt area
- Good length doesn’t ride up even when sitting down
- Loose fit gives thighs a slimming effect
- Quality denim and fabric is thick and comfortable
- Spacey pockets can fit hands and other things
- Button and zip up closure and elastic waistband ensures the perfect snug fit
- Comes with belt for added custom fit and style
- Available in 6 colors while sizes vary from x-small to x-large
Cons:
- Fabric offers little stretch – may want to size up for thick thighs
5. Levi’s Women’s Mid Length Shorts
Our last favorite shorts for thick thighs are the Women’s Mid Length Shorts from clothing brand Levi’s! A mid-rise pair of shorts that sit right on the waist area, this perfectly fits waist and thick thighs. The fit of these shorts are not too fit and makes sure that your waist and thighs are never squeezed with just enough room to breathe and comfortably move around as you go about your day. This offers a great amount of stretchability so they can easily fit and slip through your waist and thighs without ever suffocating you underneath.
Designed with the brand’s sculpt fabrication, this boasts of a delicate blend of ultra-soft and powerful stretch fibers – you really are getting the best of both worlds! The denim fabric of this one is also very comfortable, not just appropriate for casual day outs but also for lazy lounging around the house or with friends. It has a nice and thick fabric that is sure to be comfortable and soft for an easy all-day wear. You can also rest your mind that no panty lines will be visible whenever you decide to go out with this one.
These Levi’s denim shorts are mid-length and therefore offer more length than your regular short shorts. These are not what one would consider booty shorts but are still fitted and flattering on just about anyone. This wears not too tight and is very accommodating on those with thick thighs and promises a no ride-up performance. This is currently available in 15 color options while sizes vary from standard to plus size options – talk about inclusivity! The folded cuffs at the hemline of the shorts are also stitched so they don’t roll down and become an issue.
Though equipped with real pockets on the front and back of the shorts, some users have shared that the pockets can be too small for it to be functional. It can fit some smaller items but don’t expect bigger phones to fit in them.
Pros:
- Mid-rise shorts for thick thighs
- Fits waist and thick thighs well
- Thighs and waist are not squeezed and have enough room to move and breathe
- Soft and stretchable fabric
- Comfortable and soft for an all-day wear
- Thick material will not show any panty lines through
- Offers more length than regular shorts
- Still wears fitted and is flattering
- Not too tight fit and accommodating for thick thighs
- Doesn’t ride up on thick thighs throughout the day
- Available in 15 colors and in standard and plus sizes
- Rolled up cuffs are stitched and stay in place
Cons:
- Pockets can be too small for some
How to Choose the Best Shorts for Thick Thighs
With so many shorts out right now available for us to buy with just a single click, it’s important that us thick-thighed girls know exactly what to consider to make sure we are getting the best ones that can actually flatter us.
Style
When it comes to shorts for thick thighs, there are certain styles and types that can work better and flatter you more than other styles of shorts. If you want to achieve more confidence while wearing shorts, you can opt for baggy, high-waisted, a-line, or bermuda shorts. Many would agree that these styles flatter and suit thick thighs well while some also help shape and tighten your thighs for sexier curves.
Of course, as with anything else in life, you are free to choose and wear any style of shorts you want. What we’ve said here are merely suggestions we think will look fabulous on those with thick thighs. If you want to find out more about these flattering styles, we’ve discussed it at great lengths earlier on in this article.
Shorts also have varying rise – low-rise, mid-rise, and high-rise. A short’s rise determines where it sits on your body. This is the distance from the middle of the crotch seam to the top of the waistband. You might also want to consider this when buying your new go-to shorts.
Size and length
As with any other piece of clothing you buy, size and length matters. Make sure the shorts you’re considering to get are available in your size. You would want to make sure that you are getting the right size according to the sizing chart provided by the brand, but also consider taking into account other people’s reviews, especially those with thick thighs as well.
Length of shorts also matter. There are booty shorts or short shorts, mid-length shorts, and long ones like bermuda shorts. Consider the length you’re willing and comfortable in wearing. Shorts with a longer than normal length are great for anyone looking for more coverage for their thighs.
Enough room in leg holes
When you have thick thighs, you would want to make sure that you get your hands on shorts that are equipped with enough room and space on the leg holes to comfortably fit your thighs without squeezing them. You don’t want your thighs to be squeezed in between, especially when you are sitting down. To prevent this, make sure you get a pair of shorts that offer enough room and breathability for your thighs to fit and be able to move freely.
Conclusion
Bigger thighs are a gift – let’s remember that! There’s nothing wrong with them, but let’s be honest, not all shorts are flattering on them. There are shorts that suit them more than others.
Our number one pick for the best shorts for thick thighs is the MODARANI Women’s Cut-Off Denim Shorts thanks to their fabric that is so comfortable and stretchy that it provides thick thighs, bottoms, and waist the perfect fit! These shorts come with so much leg room your thick thighs can comfortably sit and move around all day.
Our pick for the best activewear shorts for thick thighs is the BALEAF Women’s Long Running Shorts! Whether you have an exercise routine or are just going out for a run, these loose fit shorts are sure to fit your thighs well without riding up no matter how active you are.
Hopefully now you will branch out, try something new, and find your perfect pair of shorts!