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How to prevent chafing on the trail

chafing

Q. My troop just went on a weekend camp-out. After we climbed this big hill, I started chafing in my groin area. It itched so bad, it was really uncomfortable. My friends were making fun of me because I was adjusting my underwear all weekend. How do I prevent chafing?
— Chafed Chad, Belleville, Kan.

A. Ahhh, crotch rot! Don’t worry, Chad, you’re not alone. Even if your buddies don’t admit it, every guy has (or will have) problems with this. Chafing is often caused by poorly fitting clothes and/or sweating. So, wear a good pair of underwear that wicks sweat away from your body. Some guys prefer tight-fitting boxers that cover the inner thighs so there’s no skin-to-skin rubbing. High-quality underwear might seem expensive, but if you avoid chafing, it’s worth it.

Once on the trail, make sure to keep your body dry. Bring some baby powder with you. Just dump a handful into your palm then stick your hand in your pants and coat it all. Don’t skimp on the stuff. This powder will keep you dry and should soothe any chafing hot spots.


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10 Comments on How to prevent chafing on the trail

  1. We use Gold Bond Friction Defense. And we also always keep plenty of baby powder with us on summer outings!

  2. there is one product that works after trying them all.its gold bond anti friction defense stick..just google that in amazon,buy some and you will never use powders and cremes again.

  3. Smokyowl46 // June 2, 2016 at 10:37 am // Reply

    Zeabsorb is a combination antifungal and a fine powder which I have found works better than Gold Bond powder. The,fine powder coats,evenly and generally doesn’t clump. With the reduction of clumpiness it lasts longer – so less applications. This was recommended to me by my dermatologist.

  4. My runner friends all swear by Bodyglide for chafing.

  5. Lakotabuck // June 2, 2016 at 4:47 am // Reply

    I have been a runner for many years and used to battle this problem all of the time. I apply a coating of stick deodorant to the problem area before a run or hike and it prevents any issues.

  6. No creams or lotions. Just powder. Gold Bond or baby powder. Reapply as needed.

  7. Scouterbill // June 1, 2016 at 10:07 pm // Reply

    Compression or biker’s shorts are the answer for me. Wearing them allows the fabric to absorb the friction instead of skin. That and the good ol’ Monkey Butt Powder

  8. Oh ok, my friends are picking on me for adjusting my underwear so stuffing my hand down my pants and rubbing all over will really help. BTW try some New-Skin anti-chafing spray all three of my Eagle scouts say it is fantastic!

  9. Mr Jeepin-Paul // June 1, 2016 at 8:34 pm // Reply

    Body Glide works great… 100 miles in Philmont last year without a problem.

  10. grateful dave // June 1, 2016 at 8:15 pm // Reply

    Corn starch. Works s well or better than talc without the baby diaper smell.

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