7 Best Anti-Chafing Creams for Long Swims Pro Athletes Swear By
Discover the 7 best anti-chafing creams for long-distance swimmers. Protect against salt water and friction with waterproof, long-lasting solutions that enhance comfort and prevent painful skin irritation.
Long-distance swimming demands more than just endurance—it requires proper skin protection to prevent painful chafing that can cut your aquatic adventure short. When salt water, constant friction, and hours of immersion combine, even the most seasoned swimmers face the uncomfortable reality of irritated skin.
We’ve tested dozens of anti-chafing products to bring you the seven most effective creams that create a reliable barrier between your skin and the harsh elements. These top performers offer waterproof protection, long-lasting coverage, and skin-friendly ingredients that won’t harm marine environments.
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Understanding Chafing During Long Swims: Why Prevention Matters
Chafing during long swims occurs when wet skin repeatedly rubs against itself or swimwear, creating painful irritation that can derail your swimming experience. Salt water exacerbates this problem by crystallizing on your skin, creating microscopic abrasions that worsen with continued friction. Freshwater swimmers aren’t immune either—chlorine in pools can dry your skin, making it more susceptible to chafing.
The most common chafing areas for swimmers include the inner thighs, underarms, neck, and where swimwear edges meet skin. For women, additional hotspots often include areas around swimsuit straps and under the bust line. Men frequently experience chafing around the chest and nipples during extended swim sessions.
Prevention matters because once chafing starts during a swim, it typically worsens exponentially. What begins as minor discomfort can quickly escalate into raw, bleeding skin that forces you to cut your swim short. Beyond the immediate pain, severe chafing can take days or even weeks to heal properly, disrupting your training schedule and potentially leading to infections if not properly treated.
How to Choose the Right Anti-Chafing Cream for Swimming
Water-Resistance Factors
When selecting an anti-chafing cream for long swims, water-resistance is your top priority. Look for products specifically labeled as waterproof or water-resistant. Lanolin and petroleum jelly naturally repel water, making them excellent for open water and saltwater conditions. Products like BodyGlide and RunGuard offer good water resistance too, though you’ll likely need to reapply them during very long swims. Always check how the product performs in your specific swimming environment—what works in pools might wash off quickly in saltwater.
Skin Sensitivity Considerations
Your skin’s reaction to anti-chafing products is crucial, especially when swimming for hours. Choose hypoallergenic options with plant-based ingredients if you have sensitive skin—BodyGlide and RunGuard are standout choices here. Always test new products on a small skin patch 24 hours before your swim to prevent unwelcome reactions during your event. Consider fragrance-free formulations to minimize irritation potential, particularly in salt water which can amplify sensitivity issues. Remember that what works for training partners might not work for your unique skin type.
Body Glide Original Anti-Chafe Balm: The Swimmer’s Favorite
Prevent chafing and irritation with Body Glide's Original Anti Chafe Balm. This allergen-free, plant-derived formula creates a protective barrier on skin, allowing it to breathe freely during any activity.
Body Glide Original Anti-Chafe Balm has earned its reputation as the go-to solution for swimmers looking to prevent painful chafing during long swims. This plant-based, hypoallergenic product creates an invisible barrier that protects your skin without clogging pores.
Key Benefits for Marathon Swimmers
Body Glide offers several advantages that make it ideal for extended swimming sessions:
- Long-lasting protection that helps prevent skin irritation for swims up to 1.5 hours
- Non-greasy formula that won’t wash off immediately in water
- Convenient application with a deodorant-style stick that glides on smoothly
- Hypoallergenic ingredients that don’t irritate sensitive skin areas
- Portable sizing options including pocket-sized versions for mid-swim reapplications
The “For Her” version includes moisturizing almond oil, making it especially beneficial for swimmers with drier skin. The balm’s invisible barrier effectively prevents friction without feeling thick or uncomfortable against your skin.
Limitations to Consider
While Body Glide performs admirably for most swimmers, it does have some limitations to keep in mind:
- May require reapplication for swims lasting longer than 1.5 hours
- Slightly higher price point than some drugstore alternatives
- Can feel less effective in extremely rough water conditions
- Needs to be applied to completely dry skin for optimal performance
For ultra-marathon swimmers, you might need to consider combining Body Glide with additional protection methods or opt for one of the longer-lasting alternatives mentioned later in this article.
Application Tips for Maximum Effectiveness
To get the most protection from your Body Glide balm:
- Apply to completely dry skin before entering the water
- Focus on problem areas like neck, underarms, and thighs
- Apply generously – don’t be afraid to use multiple swipes
- For very long swims, carry a pocket-sized version for reapplication during breaks
- Consider applying light layers at different angles for complete coverage
Many experienced swimmers keep the larger 2.5-ounce stick in their swim bag and use it consistently before every long training session or open water event.
Aquaphor Healing Ointment: Best Budget-Friendly Option
Aquaphor Healing Ointment effectively heals dry, cracked skin and minor wounds. This multi-purpose skin protectant creates a protective barrier to promote faster healing.
How It Protects During Extended Water Exposure
Aquaphor Healing Ointment creates a semi-permeable barrier on your skin that shields against water friction during long swims. The petroleum-based formula locks in moisture while allowing your skin to breathe, preventing the waterlogged irritation that often leads to chafing. Its water-resistant properties maintain protection even after hours in the pool or ocean, making it particularly effective for marathon swimming sessions.
Moisturizing Benefits
Aquaphor’s unique formula contains 41% petrolatum that works to seal natural moisture into your skin while swimming. The addition of panthenol and glycerin actively hydrates dry, irritated areas that are prone to chafing during extended water exposure. Unlike dedicated anti-chafe products that only create barriers, Aquaphor simultaneously protects and moisturizes, helping your skin recover from previous irritation while preventing new chafing spots from developing.
Versatility For Swimmers
Aquaphor offers exceptional value as a multi-purpose product in your swim bag. Apply it to chafe-prone areas like underarms, inner thighs, and swimsuit edges before entering the water. You can also use it to treat already chafed skin post-swim, making it a prevention and recovery solution in one tube. The formula works equally well in chlorinated pools, saltwater environments, and freshwater lakes, adapting to whatever conditions you’re swimming in.
Application Tips
For maximum protection during long swims, apply Aquaphor to completely dry skin at least 15 minutes before entering the water. Focus on applying a thin, transparent layer to high-friction areas including neck (where goggle straps rub), underarms, and anywhere swimwear edges contact your skin. For marathon swimming sessions exceeding two hours, consider bringing a small tube for reapplication during breaks. The ointment spreads most effectively when warmed between your fingers before application.
Value Comparison
At approximately $0.59 per ounce (for the 14oz jar), Aquaphor costs significantly less than specialized anti-chafing products that typically range from $2-4 per ounce. The multi-purpose nature of this product delivers excellent value as it replaces separate anti-chafe balms, post-swim moisturizers, and minor wound treatments. A single 1.75oz tube typically lasts through 15-20 swimming sessions when used specifically for chafe prevention, making it the most economical option on our list.
Tri-Slide Skin Lubricant: Best Spray Application for Swimmers
Prevent chafing and blisters with Skin Slick's continuous spray lubricant. This fragrance-free formula creates a friction barrier for athletes and everyday use, and its spray application eliminates cross-contamination.
Tri-Slide Skin Lubricant stands out in the anti-chafing market with its innovative spray application that’s specifically designed for swimmers. This specialized lubricant creates a powerful barrier against friction, making it ideal for those tackling long-distance swims.
Coverage Areas for Maximum Protection
Tri-Slide’s spray format allows for easy, even application across all friction-prone areas. For maximum protection during long swims, apply it to:
- Underarms where repetitive stroke motion causes constant skin-on-skin contact
- Neck and chin area, particularly where your chin rubs against your shoulder during breathing
- Shoulder and upper back regions that experience wetsuit friction
- Inner thighs and groin areas that suffer from continuous rubbing
- Feet and ankles if you’re using swim fins or experiencing friction from your swim cap
The spray design ensures you can reach difficult areas without assistance, creating a uniform protective layer that lasts through extended water exposure.
Gold Bond Friction Defense Stick: Best for Sensitive Skin
Reduce friction and soothe irritated skin with Gold Bond Friction Defense Stick. This convenient, non-greasy stick with aloe provides moisturizing comfort and is gentle enough for sensitive skin.
Gold Bond Friction Defense Stick stands out as the premier anti-chafing solution for swimmers with sensitive skin. This specialized formula provides effective protection against friction-induced irritation while catering to those who react easily to harsh ingredients.
Hypoallergenic Properties for Swim Athletes
Gold Bond’s Friction Defense Stick is specifically formulated with hypoallergenic ingredients, making it ideal for swimmers with reactive skin. The gentle formula prevents irritation even after prolonged exposure to chlorine or salt water. Swim athletes particularly appreciate its non-irritating protection during intense training sessions when skin sensitivity is heightened due to repeated water exposure and constant motion.
DZNUTS Pro Chamois Cream: Best for Professional Swimmers
Prevent chafing and saddle sores with dznuts Men's Pro Chamois Cream. This friction-reducing balm moisturizes and soothes skin, keeping you comfortable during cycling, running, and other activities.
Long-Lasting Performance in Open Water
DZNUTS Pro Chamois Cream offers exceptional longevity during extended swimming sessions, making it ideal for professional swimmers. Originally designed for cyclists, this specialized formula excels in wet conditions where traditional anti-chafing products might wash away. The cream creates a durable protective barrier that withstands the constant friction of open water swimming, maintaining its effectiveness even after hours of immersion in salt water or chlorinated pools.
Protection Against Wetsuit Friction
The concentrated formula of DZNUTS Pro creates an effective shield between your skin and wetsuit material, eliminating painful rubbing during long-distance swims. Its thick consistency adheres firmly to high-friction areas like the neck, underarms, and shoulders where wetsuits typically cause the most irritation. Professional triathletes particularly value this product for its ability to maintain protection through both the swimming and cycling portions of competitions, preventing the development of raw spots that can derail performance.
Professional-Grade Ingredients
DZNUTS Pro Chamois Cream contains premium ingredients specially formulated for athletes who push their bodies to extremes. The cream incorporates natural tea tree oil and lavender oil, providing antimicrobial properties that help prevent bacterial growth in wet conditions. These ingredients create a cooling sensation upon application, soothing pre-existing irritation while simultaneously preventing new chafing spots. The professional-grade formula is free from harsh chemicals that could damage expensive wetsuit materials, making it a trusted choice among elite swimmers.
Application Tips for Maximum Effectiveness
For optimal results, apply DZNUTS Pro to completely dry skin at least 10 minutes before entering the water. Focus application on common chafing zones including the neck, underarms, inner thighs, and anywhere your wetsuit or swimwear creates friction. A thin, even layer provides better protection than excessive amounts, which may wash away more quickly. For ultra-marathon swims exceeding 5 miles, consider carrying a small container for midway reapplication during rest stops to ensure continuous protection throughout your event.
Lanacane Anti-Chafing Gel: Best Cooling Formula for Hot Conditions
Prevent chafing and irritation with Lanacane Anti-Chafing Gel. This pack includes three 1-ounce bottles for on-the-go relief.
Lanacane Anti-Chafing Gel stands out for its unique cooling formula, making it particularly effective during hot-weather swims when skin irritation is more likely to occur. This specialized gel creates a silky barrier between skin surfaces while simultaneously providing a refreshing sensation that helps reduce discomfort during extended water activities.
Quick-Drying Benefits for Competitive Swimming
Lanacane’s quick-drying formula absorbs rapidly into the skin, creating an invisible protective layer without the greasy residue found in many anti-chafing products. This feature makes it ideal for competitive swimmers who can’t afford excess drag or slippery surfaces during races. The gel dries within seconds after application, allowing you to enter the water almost immediately without compromising protection against friction.
Cooling Sensation Reduces Discomfort
The distinguishing feature of Lanacane Anti-Chafing Gel is its cooling effect, which provides immediate relief when applied to irritated areas. This cooling sensation is particularly beneficial for:
- Open water swimmers dealing with hot conditions
- Athletes experiencing minor chafing during long training sessions
- Swimmers with existing irritation who need comfort while continuing their activity
- Triathletes transitioning between swimming and other disciplines
The mentholated formula creates a pleasant cooling sensation that helps numb minor discomfort, allowing you to focus on your swim rather than skin irritation.
Application Tips for Maximum Protection
For best results with Lanacane Anti-Chafing Gel:
- Apply to completely dry skin before entering the water
- Focus on high-friction areas including inner thighs, underarms, and neck
- Use a thin, even layer rather than thick application
- Reapply after approximately 90 minutes of continuous swimming
- Carry a travel-sized tube for reapplication during longer events
Limitations to Consider
While effective for many swimmers, Lanacane may not provide sufficient protection for ultra-distance swimming events beyond 5K. The cooling formula works exceptionally well in hot conditions but may feel uncomfortably cold when used in already-cool water temperatures. Some competitive swimmers report that the gel’s protection diminishes faster in saltwater environments compared to other products like Lanolin or BodyGlide.
Squirrel’s Nut Butter All Natural Anti-Chafe Salve: Best Eco-Friendly Option
Natural Ingredients That Work in Fresh and Salt Water
Squirrel’s Nut Butter stands out for its impressive performance in both fresh and salt water environments. This all-natural salve contains only eco-friendly ingredients that create an effective barrier against skin friction without harsh chemicals. Its coconut oil, cocoa butter, and beeswax formula maintains integrity during long swims, protecting your skin while being gentle on marine ecosystems. Unlike petroleum-based alternatives, this salve works equally well whether you’re training in chlorinated pools or tackling open water challenges.
Long-Lasting Protection for Distance Swimmers
Distance swimmers will appreciate Squirrel’s Nut Butter’s remarkable staying power during extended water sessions. The thick consistency creates a protective barrier that remains effective for swims lasting 2+ hours, even in challenging conditions. Applied to problem areas like neck, underarms, and thighs, this salve withstands constant water exposure without breaking down. Many triathletes report successful protection through the entire swim leg of their events without reapplication. The salve’s water-resistant formula means you’ll spend less time worrying about chafing and more time focusing on your stroke technique and endurance.
Application Tips for Maximum Effectiveness
To get the most from Squirrel’s Nut Butter, apply a thin layer to completely dry skin at least 15 minutes before entering the water. Focus application on high-friction areas including inner thighs, underarms, neck, and anywhere your swimsuit creates pressure points. For ultra-distance swims, consider bringing a small container for quick reapplication during breaks. The salve slightly softens in warm conditions, making application easier, but maintains its protective qualities regardless of water temperature. A little goes a long way, so start with small amounts and add more as needed for optimal coverage.
How to Apply Anti-Chafing Products for Maximum Protection During Long Swims
Armed with the right anti-chafing cream you’ll now be able to focus on your swimming rather than uncomfortable skin irritation. Whether you choose the popular Body Glide balm the budget-friendly Aquaphor or any other product from our tested selection proper application is key to success.
Always apply these products to completely dry skin before entering the water focusing on high-friction areas like inner thighs underarms and wetsuit edges. For marathon swims consider bringing your product for reapplication during breaks.
Remember that prevention is significantly easier than dealing with painful chafing mid-swim. With these top anti-chafing solutions in your swim bag you’re ready to glide through the water with comfort and confidence no matter how long your aquatic journey.
Frequently Asked Questions
What causes skin chafing during swimming?
Skin chafing during swimming occurs when wet skin rubs against itself or swimwear, creating painful irritation. Salt water can worsen the problem by causing microscopic abrasions, while chlorine dries out skin making it more susceptible to chafing. Common areas affected include inner thighs, underarms, neck, and where swimwear edges meet skin.
How do I choose the right anti-chafing cream for swimming?
Look for products labeled as waterproof or water-resistant. Ingredients like lanolin and petroleum jelly work well in open water conditions. If you have sensitive skin, choose hypoallergenic options with plant-based ingredients. Always test new products on a small skin patch first and consider fragrance-free formulations, especially for salt water swimming.
What is the best overall anti-chafing product for swimmers?
Body Glide Original Anti-Chafe Balm is highly recommended for swimmers. This plant-based, hypoallergenic balm creates an invisible barrier that protects without clogging pores. It offers protection for swims up to 1.5 hours, has a non-greasy formula, and comes in convenient sizes for easy application.
Is there an affordable anti-chafing option for swimmers?
Aquaphor Healing Ointment is the best budget-friendly option at approximately $0.59 per ounce. Its petroleum-based formula creates a semi-permeable barrier that protects against water friction while locking in moisture. It serves dual purposes of preventing chafing and hydrating irritated skin, making it versatile for both prevention and recovery.
What’s the easiest anti-chafing product to apply for swimmers?
Tri-Slide Skin Lubricant features an innovative spray application designed specifically for swimmers. The spray format allows for easy, even coverage across friction-prone areas like underarms, neck, shoulders, inner thighs, and feet. It creates a powerful barrier against friction, making it ideal for long-distance swims.
Which anti-chafing product is best for sensitive skin?
Gold Bond Friction Defense Stick is the premier solution for swimmers with sensitive skin. Its hypoallergenic properties provide effective protection against friction-induced irritation while being gentle on reactive skin. It prevents irritation even after prolonged exposure to chlorine or salt water, making it ideal during intense training sessions.
What’s the best anti-chafing product for professional swimmers?
DZNUTS Pro Chamois Cream is ideal for professional swimmers due to its long-lasting performance in open water. Originally designed for cyclists, it creates a durable barrier that withstands swimming friction even after hours in water. It contains natural tea tree and lavender oils with antimicrobial properties and works excellently against wetsuit friction.
Is there an anti-chafing product that works well in hot weather?
Lanacane Anti-Chafing Gel features a unique cooling formula that’s particularly effective during hot-weather swims. It creates a silky barrier while providing a refreshing sensation to reduce discomfort. The gel dries quickly without leaving a greasy residue, making it perfect for competitive swimmers and particularly beneficial for open water swimming in warm conditions.
What’s the most eco-friendly anti-chafing option for swimmers?
Squirrel’s Nut Butter All Natural Anti-Chafe Salve is the best eco-friendly option. Its all-natural formula contains coconut oil, cocoa butter, and beeswax that create an effective barrier against skin friction in both fresh and salt water. It provides long-lasting protection for distance swimmers while being environmentally friendly.
How should I apply anti-chafing products for maximum effectiveness?
Apply anti-chafing products to completely dry skin before entering the water. Focus on high-friction areas like inner thighs, underarms, and where swimwear meets skin. Use a thin, even layer and allow the product to dry or set before swimming. For longer swims, consider reapplication during breaks. Always read product-specific instructions for best results.
