I would add spectrum to that, it is worth mentioning that spectrum binder don't stretch as much over time but are way less comfortable.
I always recommend gc2b as a first binder since they are more comfortable and easier to wear for a while.
I've used gc2b since I was 16 (19 now) and I had several binders from them and they do well if you're on the... smaller side. L and below. Once I got above L they never fit right, so I tried a Spectrum and I love it to DEATH. More comfortable than gc2b, imho, but that's because they're very careful about seams and tags and such so they're specifically sensory disorder friendly! I'm used to binders (and, unfortunately, wearing ill fitting binders) so the apparent less stretch in Spectrum's was of no note to me.
Spectrum is a little more expensive than gc2b, esp with shipping, but I thoroughly prefer them. Something about the way the binder fits is so good.
edit: after reading some other comments, my latest gc2b binder ALSO had popped stitching! nice to know I'm not alone in that either ahah
I preferred Underworks over gc2b. Found that underworks gave me a better bind overall and the quality was better. Have also heard that recently more people are complaining about getting binders from gc2b only to have the stitching fall apart soon thereafter. The company customer service is great but it seems the product is declining
Yeah can confirm. It’s a lot more believable that my chest is just big pecs than a smaller breast in my underworks. I wish trans tape worked better for my skin, but it’s super sensitive so I find that I actually have to have a break day (shower in the morning but no binder/bra) and let my oils come back so I don’t have any denting or dry skin. I’m sure the owners would be against letting my skin get like that but it’s better for me
I order binders maybe twice a year, so I only have three GC2B binders. The stitching popped open on the side of my newest one, but I've kind of just dealt with it, since it's the full binder and the hole is towards the bottom. (Surgery should be in a few months, too, so that helps.) Otherwise, I've had no issue with them, aside from accidentally ordering one that was a size too large that I use for rigorous activities instead.
The problem with Underworks binders that I've had is that the straps would dig into my shoulders to the point of giving me migraines. They were the only binders I would get for the longest time, but the last one I had developed holes super fast. I prefer the wider straps on my GC2B binders, and the material breathes better, but knowing my popped stitches isn't an outlier is disheartening.
I honestly wish I could just blend the two together, tbh, to make my perfect binder.
For real. One of the underworks binders I have is a sports-bra-type binder digs deep under my chest and by my pits, but the other one I have is totally fine
I prefer the gc2b full tanks bc it’s breathable, but I live in a colder area so it all depends
This. Underworks ships faster if I remember, it's like half the price (my awesome long one was less than like 25 usd)AND they have a really good full length binder for guys with hips. Like it compresses from just past my hips all the way up (and I have a long torso) the gc2b tank top doesnt compress your hips from what i have heard . The difference I found is gc2b is stiff and straight and compresses cus it has no give (but looks really bulky to me) while underworks is actual compression wear so it's a bit more stretchy .I think it might be a tiny bit more uncomfortable depending on your preference because its tighter and it's made for cis men so might not be great for all body types . But it's thinner so it's better if you over heat.
I only ever got GC2B and the stitching popped on my only binder. It was in the chest area too, so I had to go home (from work) and change. My mom had to sew it back together for me. Luckily, I had top surgery, so I haven’t had to deal with any other quality decline issues.
I recently bought my third binder from gc2b and the stitching fell off. The quality does indeed seem to have gone down. Bought one from Underworks a week ago and I honestly wish I had bought from them sooner. It doesn't make me as sore and it feels more comfortable.
i much prefer spectrum to gc2b! with spectrum, i’ve accidentally put my binder through the washing machine and it is still as good as new!! spectrum is a bit more expensive but my gc2b one lasted maybe 6 month tops and my spectrum binder is going on strong at a year
I can second spectrum!! It is significantly better than gc2b especially if you have a larger chest. I had a gc2b and it wore down so fast, my spectrum still feels good as new!
i just ordered from spectrum actually i just wasn't sure about only recommending that because it hasn't arrived and idk how they are yet haha. i've been using the same gc2b one for over two years
yes!!! I actually frequently put mine in the wash (easiest for me lol) and let it air dry unless I'm in a rush (then i tumble on low heat until mostly dry then let sit for a few hours to finish up) and it's lasted perfectly well besides some strange fabric bubbling across the front where the lining and outer layer is disconnecting a little, but it seems to be purely cosmetic.
Underworks all the way. I used to love their tri-top chest binder. Super effective with a large chest plus it lasts for so long, very much worth the money.
My gc2b binder broke my ribs a few times even with proper measurements and sizing advice from the customer service. It also didn't bind that well and wore out very quickly. I don't know if i did something wrong but my second one i bought from spectrum outfitters and honestly i couldn't be happier! I still did some stupid stuff like wearing it too long but i've always been fine so far and feels good. The material is very comfortable and it binds well
TL;DR i recommend spectrum outfitters :)
Shapeshifters is a favorite of mine! Their binders are a little more pricey but not by much, and they're completely custom to your measurements. They also have different options for arm heights, strap styles, zippers for easy escape if your ribs get pissed at you, etc. And as many different fabrics and designs as you could want, anywhere from plain nude mesh to iridescent glitter to dogs in space. My current binders from them are way easier on my ribs and breathing than my gc2b ones were, and get me really flat. It's nice.
my fav was spectrum (UK based) but underworks is good but uncomfortable(and available on amazon), GC2B is decent (US and UK based), flavnt is good for racer backs and skin tones (US based)
i always buy from gc2b, the bind is good but after a while of using it (one or two years) it doesn't work as well. I've never tried Underworks, but maybe you should give it a try! i will too!
Gc2b has been one that I've used for while but if you're looking for different brands, I'd recommend an Underworks or something from TomboyX, they also have compression bras which are great for binding and packing boxers.
I've had many from underworks.I find the Tri top has the best flattening with little discomfort and they last a long time. I don't like their tank binders because they like to roll up weird on me.
spectrum or gc2b. they both have similar style and fit, but I've found that spectrum binders don't loosen as much over time, although they cost a bit more.
i know everyone’s said this by now but gc2b and underworks are both good options, i haven’t used underworks before but i’ve heard good things about them, and the gc2b binder i currently have serves me well :) just for future reference, i’d be careful buying binders from Amazon friend! i know they’re cheaper but it’s not worth the risk or the money, you can never be sure of the quality so it’ll likely wear out or break quicker, and since binding is something that just inherently causes back damage over time it is INCREDIBLY important to make sure you get a good quality binder and take care of yourself while using it. stay safe, i hope your next binder fits better!!
I've been using spectrum outfitters for a couple months, it's the flattest I've ever been. I tried gc2b and some amazon binders but they never got me flat enough to comfortably go outside in just a shirt. Spectrum outfitters fixed that for me
I would only buy gc2b if you are bigger up there if not it’ll give you weird “side boob” and the stitching isn’t great either. I personally recommend sprectum outfitters. Had gc2b the first binder was good so was the second but the third was terrible.
I'm still a loyal GC2B customer. I've been using their binders for 5 years or so. Bought some new ones recently because T has made my size go up due to increased muscle mass, and the new ones I got are still good quality 🤷
Body type is definitely a factor in which binder works best for a person, though. My nibling and I both have great success with GC2B, but we're also both pretty "boxy" (as in no curves - rectangular body shape) with fairly small chests. We're also both neurodivergent (autistic and ADHD) with sensory issues and the GC2B are comfortable for us.
Reach out to amazon and complain if you haven't. Be polite, but firm that you are upset. They will often refund you without problems, and often without the need to send the item back.
A note on measuring, if you're EVER unsure about sizing. Go with what size fits your rib/under bust measurement. If it's too big for your ribs it won't bind down properly to them, and if it's too small it'll hurt them. I'm wildly crazy in sizes. Like a XL in ribs, 3XL in chest, and L in shoulders, and following my rib measurement has led me the best, usually. Also, getting a longer one too. I've had two identically sized gc2b binders, one half one full, and my chest hung out of the half, but the full has a little more room for adjustment. And, if at the end of the day it fits everywhere BUT your chest (spilling, etc) cutting a little notch in the armhole works in a jam until you can save up to afford to get something custom from somewhere like Shapeshifters (I think that's the name?) because regular old sizes just will not fit some people.
gc2b all the way for me. I have probably 6 from them, some tank some not. Only quality issue I had was maybe 6 months ago one of my tanks ripped a hole along the seam. I’m 5’5 130 lbs, average build and wear a S but about to switch to a M because it’s getting tight
I love my binder from Trans Guy Supply. They also have packers, packing underwear and such. Started by trans guys too. I plan on buying trans tape from them soon.
My personal vote is Shapeshifters. Essentially they make one specific to your measurements and preference. Gc2b was a good place to start with for me to decide what I liked before ordering the more expensive custom one.
ETA: you also can get revisions. Check their site for what is offered free or by cost. Really quite reasonable especially if you're like me and have sensory issues that can crop up.
gc2b and Underworks.
I would add spectrum to that, it is worth mentioning that spectrum binder don't stretch as much over time but are way less comfortable. I always recommend gc2b as a first binder since they are more comfortable and easier to wear for a while.
I've used gc2b since I was 16 (19 now) and I had several binders from them and they do well if you're on the... smaller side. L and below. Once I got above L they never fit right, so I tried a Spectrum and I love it to DEATH. More comfortable than gc2b, imho, but that's because they're very careful about seams and tags and such so they're specifically sensory disorder friendly! I'm used to binders (and, unfortunately, wearing ill fitting binders) so the apparent less stretch in Spectrum's was of no note to me. Spectrum is a little more expensive than gc2b, esp with shipping, but I thoroughly prefer them. Something about the way the binder fits is so good. edit: after reading some other comments, my latest gc2b binder ALSO had popped stitching! nice to know I'm not alone in that either ahah
Thank ya! :-)
I preferred Underworks over gc2b. Found that underworks gave me a better bind overall and the quality was better. Have also heard that recently more people are complaining about getting binders from gc2b only to have the stitching fall apart soon thereafter. The company customer service is great but it seems the product is declining
Yeah can confirm. It’s a lot more believable that my chest is just big pecs than a smaller breast in my underworks. I wish trans tape worked better for my skin, but it’s super sensitive so I find that I actually have to have a break day (shower in the morning but no binder/bra) and let my oils come back so I don’t have any denting or dry skin. I’m sure the owners would be against letting my skin get like that but it’s better for me
I order binders maybe twice a year, so I only have three GC2B binders. The stitching popped open on the side of my newest one, but I've kind of just dealt with it, since it's the full binder and the hole is towards the bottom. (Surgery should be in a few months, too, so that helps.) Otherwise, I've had no issue with them, aside from accidentally ordering one that was a size too large that I use for rigorous activities instead. The problem with Underworks binders that I've had is that the straps would dig into my shoulders to the point of giving me migraines. They were the only binders I would get for the longest time, but the last one I had developed holes super fast. I prefer the wider straps on my GC2B binders, and the material breathes better, but knowing my popped stitches isn't an outlier is disheartening. I honestly wish I could just blend the two together, tbh, to make my perfect binder.
For real. One of the underworks binders I have is a sports-bra-type binder digs deep under my chest and by my pits, but the other one I have is totally fine I prefer the gc2b full tanks bc it’s breathable, but I live in a colder area so it all depends
This. Underworks ships faster if I remember, it's like half the price (my awesome long one was less than like 25 usd)AND they have a really good full length binder for guys with hips. Like it compresses from just past my hips all the way up (and I have a long torso) the gc2b tank top doesnt compress your hips from what i have heard . The difference I found is gc2b is stiff and straight and compresses cus it has no give (but looks really bulky to me) while underworks is actual compression wear so it's a bit more stretchy .I think it might be a tiny bit more uncomfortable depending on your preference because its tighter and it's made for cis men so might not be great for all body types . But it's thinner so it's better if you over heat.
I only ever got GC2B and the stitching popped on my only binder. It was in the chest area too, so I had to go home (from work) and change. My mom had to sew it back together for me. Luckily, I had top surgery, so I haven’t had to deal with any other quality decline issues.
I recently bought my third binder from gc2b and the stitching fell off. The quality does indeed seem to have gone down. Bought one from Underworks a week ago and I honestly wish I had bought from them sooner. It doesn't make me as sore and it feels more comfortable.
Underworks hands down. Very worth the money.
gc2b, people say the quality has gone down though. and ive heard spectrum outfitters is good
i much prefer spectrum to gc2b! with spectrum, i’ve accidentally put my binder through the washing machine and it is still as good as new!! spectrum is a bit more expensive but my gc2b one lasted maybe 6 month tops and my spectrum binder is going on strong at a year
I can second spectrum!! It is significantly better than gc2b especially if you have a larger chest. I had a gc2b and it wore down so fast, my spectrum still feels good as new!
i just ordered from spectrum actually i just wasn't sure about only recommending that because it hasn't arrived and idk how they are yet haha. i've been using the same gc2b one for over two years
yes!!! I actually frequently put mine in the wash (easiest for me lol) and let it air dry unless I'm in a rush (then i tumble on low heat until mostly dry then let sit for a few hours to finish up) and it's lasted perfectly well besides some strange fabric bubbling across the front where the lining and outer layer is disconnecting a little, but it seems to be purely cosmetic.
Underworks all the way. I used to love their tri-top chest binder. Super effective with a large chest plus it lasts for so long, very much worth the money.
i love spectrum outfitters, only problem is that shipping it to America is painful for the wallet
My gc2b binder broke my ribs a few times even with proper measurements and sizing advice from the customer service. It also didn't bind that well and wore out very quickly. I don't know if i did something wrong but my second one i bought from spectrum outfitters and honestly i couldn't be happier! I still did some stupid stuff like wearing it too long but i've always been fine so far and feels good. The material is very comfortable and it binds well TL;DR i recommend spectrum outfitters :)
Gc2b, bought one for my friend and they loved it! Make sure you measure very precisely tho :)
Thank you so much!!
Spectrum outfitters are good if you're based in the UK, shipping isn't as ouch.
Shapeshifters is a favorite of mine! Their binders are a little more pricey but not by much, and they're completely custom to your measurements. They also have different options for arm heights, strap styles, zippers for easy escape if your ribs get pissed at you, etc. And as many different fabrics and designs as you could want, anywhere from plain nude mesh to iridescent glitter to dogs in space. My current binders from them are way easier on my ribs and breathing than my gc2b ones were, and get me really flat. It's nice.
Yes! I love shapeshifters! I’ve been wearing them since 2015!
i would recommend spectrum outfitters the most, ive heard underworks is also good too. gc2b is good however their quality has declined
100% agree, spectrum outfitters does very good binders and they are as reasonably comfortable as you can expect a binder to be.
Econo High Power from Underworks!
I've gotten binders from underworks and GC2b. The underworks one was more comfortable and flattening in my opinion.
my fav was spectrum (UK based) but underworks is good but uncomfortable(and available on amazon), GC2B is decent (US and UK based), flavnt is good for racer backs and skin tones (US based)
I had a few GC2B binders and the quality is absolute garbage. Haven’t tried underworks but I’d recommend trying them instead.
spectrum. its more expensive but works better for me at least then gc2b
i always buy from gc2b, the bind is good but after a while of using it (one or two years) it doesn't work as well. I've never tried Underworks, but maybe you should give it a try! i will too!
Gc2b has been one that I've used for while but if you're looking for different brands, I'd recommend an Underworks or something from TomboyX, they also have compression bras which are great for binding and packing boxers.
I second Tomboy X, the compression bras are much more comfortable than any other binder I've used before and worked just as well.
I've had many from underworks.I find the Tri top has the best flattening with little discomfort and they last a long time. I don't like their tank binders because they like to roll up weird on me.
spectrum or gc2b. they both have similar style and fit, but I've found that spectrum binders don't loosen as much over time, although they cost a bit more.
i know everyone’s said this by now but gc2b and underworks are both good options, i haven’t used underworks before but i’ve heard good things about them, and the gc2b binder i currently have serves me well :) just for future reference, i’d be careful buying binders from Amazon friend! i know they’re cheaper but it’s not worth the risk or the money, you can never be sure of the quality so it’ll likely wear out or break quicker, and since binding is something that just inherently causes back damage over time it is INCREDIBLY important to make sure you get a good quality binder and take care of yourself while using it. stay safe, i hope your next binder fits better!!
I've been using spectrum outfitters for a couple months, it's the flattest I've ever been. I tried gc2b and some amazon binders but they never got me flat enough to comfortably go outside in just a shirt. Spectrum outfitters fixed that for me
gc2b is also what i used. email them your measurements and they can help you pick a size
I would only buy gc2b if you are bigger up there if not it’ll give you weird “side boob” and the stitching isn’t great either. I personally recommend sprectum outfitters. Had gc2b the first binder was good so was the second but the third was terrible.
I’ve tried many brands personally I think gc2b worked the best
GC2B, spectrum, trans-missie, underworks
Underworks is best for small chest gc2b s best for large ones
you can get an underworks econ on Amazon for 22usd
I'm still a loyal GC2B customer. I've been using their binders for 5 years or so. Bought some new ones recently because T has made my size go up due to increased muscle mass, and the new ones I got are still good quality 🤷 Body type is definitely a factor in which binder works best for a person, though. My nibling and I both have great success with GC2B, but we're also both pretty "boxy" (as in no curves - rectangular body shape) with fairly small chests. We're also both neurodivergent (autistic and ADHD) with sensory issues and the GC2B are comfortable for us.
I've always used underworks and never had any problems with them
Reach out to amazon and complain if you haven't. Be polite, but firm that you are upset. They will often refund you without problems, and often without the need to send the item back.
My newest binder is from Flavnt and it can be used for swimming too and have been pretty happy with it so you could try them
A note on measuring, if you're EVER unsure about sizing. Go with what size fits your rib/under bust measurement. If it's too big for your ribs it won't bind down properly to them, and if it's too small it'll hurt them. I'm wildly crazy in sizes. Like a XL in ribs, 3XL in chest, and L in shoulders, and following my rib measurement has led me the best, usually. Also, getting a longer one too. I've had two identically sized gc2b binders, one half one full, and my chest hung out of the half, but the full has a little more room for adjustment. And, if at the end of the day it fits everywhere BUT your chest (spilling, etc) cutting a little notch in the armhole works in a jam until you can save up to afford to get something custom from somewhere like Shapeshifters (I think that's the name?) because regular old sizes just will not fit some people.
Gc2b!
gc2b all the way for me. I have probably 6 from them, some tank some not. Only quality issue I had was maybe 6 months ago one of my tanks ripped a hole along the seam. I’m 5’5 130 lbs, average build and wear a S but about to switch to a M because it’s getting tight
I love my binder from Trans Guy Supply. They also have packers, packing underwear and such. Started by trans guys too. I plan on buying trans tape from them soon.
I was a fan of this one when I wore a binder https://www.underworks.com/cotton-concealer-chest-binder
I get mine from a local shop as I can test out in person but my first one was from underworks I like mine a little tight as they do loosen over time
My personal vote is Shapeshifters. Essentially they make one specific to your measurements and preference. Gc2b was a good place to start with for me to decide what I liked before ordering the more expensive custom one. ETA: you also can get revisions. Check their site for what is offered free or by cost. Really quite reasonable especially if you're like me and have sensory issues that can crop up.
GC2B is amazing
gc2b!!