Finding the Perfect Fit for Tall Legs in Recovery Shorts

It's common for new parents, especially those on the taller side, to wonder about the fit of post-birth recovery wear. You want support without sacrificing comfort, and crucially, you don't want to feel like your shorts are riding up too high. Let's break down the fit of our Pregnancy Recovery Emama Shorts for taller bodies and address your specific concerns.

I’m 178cm and want recovery shorts not leggings. Do the Pregnancy Recovery Emama shorts run too short on taller legs? Size 12 pre‑pregnancy.

Current hips ~104cm. Want supportive but easy to wear while feeding.

Will the waist roll when I bend to lift the pram?

How Our Emama Recovery Shorts Fit on Taller Legs

The Pregnancy Recovery Emama Shorts are designed to be a mid-thigh length. For individuals around 178cm, this means they will likely sit a bit higher on the thigh than they would on someone of average height. While they won't offer the extensive thigh coverage of a legging or our Longer Shorts option, they are engineered to provide full panel support where it matters most during your recovery. The core support functionality remains the same, regardless of where the hemline ultimately rests on your leg.

Sizing Up for Support and Comfort

When considering size, especially with post-birth body changes, balancing support and comfort is key. Your pre-pregnancy size 12, with current hips around 104cm, is a good starting point.

Size 12 Recommendation: This size generally offers the best balance of gentle compression for support and ease of movement required for daily tasks and feeding. The goal is for the shorts to feel secure without being restrictive.
Managing Swelling: Post-birth, especially in the early days, swelling can fluctuate. If you find the Size 12 feels tight due to temporary swelling, don't worry. You can manage this by wearing the shorts for shorter periods throughout the day, taking them off when they feel uncomfortable, and putting them back on later. The material does offer some give, but it’s designed for supportive recovery, not all-day, unchangeable compression.

Will the Waistband Stay Put?

We understand that bending, lifting, and moving are constant when caring for a newborn. The waistband on the Pregnancy Recovery Emama Shorts is constructed with a double-layer panel. This design is specifically intended to provide a secure, stay-put fit, even when you're performing actions like bending to lift your pram or a baby.

If Movement Occurs: While the double-layer panel is effective, individual body shapes and movement intensity can sometimes cause slight shifting. If you notice the waistband moving, a simple adjustment—smoothly re-settling the panel once—is usually sufficient to keep it in place.

Considering Your Coverage Needs

If your primary concern is maximizing thigh coverage while still getting the essential recovery support, you might want to consider an alternative:

The Longer Shorts: These offer a more substantial length than the Emama Recovery Shorts. They provide the same recovery benefits but with additional fabric extending further down the thigh. This is an excellent option if you're 178cm or taller and prefer more coverage.

Key Takeaways for Tall Customers

Height Factor: Expect the Emama Recovery Shorts to be a true mid-thigh fit, potentially sitting higher on the thigh for those around 178cm.
Support: The full panel provides effective support for your postpartum recovery.
Sizing: A pre-pregnancy Size 12 with ~104cm hips is recommended for a balance of support and comfort. Be prepared for potential temporary tightness due to swelling and adjust wear time as needed.
Waistband: The double-layer design aims to prevent rolling, but minor adjustments may occasionally be needed.
Coverage Option: For greater thigh coverage, explore the Longer Shorts.

Ultimately, the best choice depends on your personal preference for length and coverage. Both the Emama Recovery Shorts and the Longer Shorts are designed with your postpartum comfort and recovery in mind.

Last updated: December 2025 • Based on real customer conversations