How to Stop Chafing When Hiking
Nothing can ruin an otherwise great hike like chafing (aka “Monkey Butt”). It’s caused by constant rubbing (most often in the upper thigh/nether regions) coupled with moisture and bacteria build-up. Hikers with chafing issues are often identified by their requisite “duck walk”. While heavier hikers are more prone to chafing, it can happen to anyone at any time. To keep it from happening to you, follow the advice below.
Put simply, prevent chafing by lubricating during the day and keeping dry at night.
Pre-hike prep:
Clean area throughly before heading out. Much of chafing is due to bacteria build-up, so it’s best to start from a sterile base.
Just before hitting the ol’ dusty trail, apply BodyGlide
During hike:
Wipe area with baby wipes or alcohol swaps to keep area clean and rash-free. Remember to reapply the BodyGlide.
Post-hike or in camp:
Wash area thoroughly, dry, then apply Gold Bond Triple Medicated Powder or plain ol’ corn starch. Keeping the area dry while sleeping is absolutely essential for quick healing and chafing prevention.
Some other tips:
* Wear moisture-wicking synthetic underwear. Cotton boxers or briefs retain too much moisture and take hours to dry, so try a pair of Underarmor or spandex instead. Proper fit is essential — opt for a pair that fits tight around the thighs and scrotum (if you have one).
* Wear a kilt and ditch the underwear. You don’t have to be Scottish…there’s not much more refreshing than a cool breeze cooling the jewels during a tough slog through the woods. Disclaimer: I haven’t tried it myself, but many a AT thru hiker swears by the kilt.
* Go commando. If wearing a skirt’s not your thing, simply try a hike without underwear (only try this in summer) under your shorts or pants. As long as you follow the above-mentioned essential steps pre- and post-hike, you shouldn’t experience any rubbing down yonder.
Any chafers out there have any better ideas for prevention or treatment? Please add them in the comments section below!
2 Responses
if your stuck out on a long hikie hike, and you got the chafe, never under estimate the power of the mummy wrap with t.p. or the old t.p. in the butt crack. it works especially well if you have the chafe and are going to have to hike with it the next day, just wash the chafe and apply the mummy wrap and sleep with the it on… i have over come a 1st day chafe on day 3 of a 7day with this technique in the utah desert!
A&D ointment after a long day of chafing will almost cure what ales you over night. If you don’t have body glide, lube up with regular deodorant. it may sting but it does the trick. What you wear also makes a huge difference, Patagonia capilene active boxers look like running shorts and dry very quickly.