Binders & Compression Vests
Introduction
We work hard to try to provide a range of products and services that help all sorts of people find ways to express and experience their genders. As part of this mandate, we carry a line of compression vests (binders) to assist people in embodying and affirming gender.
What is a Binder?
Binders are garments designed to compress the chest. People bind for many reasons: chest binding can be part of transition, gender play, gender expression, or as part of post surgical recovery. Cisgender men often wear binders for gynecomastia. Regardless of why you’re looking for a binder (or chest compression vest), there are many options out there and some simple guidelines to follow.
Health & Safety
Binding too tightly for too long can cause muscle compression and possibly limit lung capacity (with long-term use). Bind as little as you can, and try to find a binder that gives you adequate compression with room to breathe. It is generally not recommended to wear a binder for more than 10 hours at a time. Avoid binding during sleep, and only use the specific binder recommended by your surgeon if binding is part of your surgery aftercare.
There has been limited research on the health impacts of binding and chest compression, but studies do suggest that some wearers can experience back pain, chest pain, shortness of breath, and “bad posture”. Wearing a binder for a shorter duration and choosing a binder in a larger size or with less compression seems to help with these issues for most people.
How to Choose a Binder
We know that finding a binder or compression vest that works for you can be a challenging and confusing process.
Here are some general tips for choosing a binder that fits well, is comfortable, provides compression, and allows you to breathe easily!
Sizing
We include compression level and sizing information for each style and brand of binder we stock in our product description online. Most manufacturers recommend measuring the widest part of the chest with your arms down to get an accurate measurement.
If you’re unsure about selecting a size of binder, feel free to order more than one size to see how they fit. We accept returns on all binders in “new” condition for refund, this means unwashed, unworn, and without damage. Do ensure you’re not wearing deodorant or makeup when you try on your new binder, and only try the binder on for a few minutes. Stained binders cannot be returned to us.
Style
We find that people’s binder style preferences vary depending on body shape. Binders come in two main “styles”: full-length and half-length.
Full-length binders cover the chest and abdomen and are usually tucked into pants or underwear. These binders compress the chest and stomach and offer a significant degree of compression. Some people find that full-body compression can put pressure on the stomach and cause indigestion.
Half-length binders only compress the chest and usually sit above the waist. Some people find that half-length binders from Underworks are a little too long and can roll up. The Underworks Concealer binder is actually sewn into a cotton tank top to prevent it from moving around. If you find that a half-length binder is too loose in the center, try moving the shoulder straps farther apart.
How to Put a Binder On
Binders can be a snug fit and putting them on can be a bit of a learning curve! Some people put their binders on like they would put on a t-shirt - one arm at a time, over the head. Others may find it easier with a side-to side approach - one arm in, pull over the head, then the second arm in.
If you’re not happy with the shape your binder is providing, try moving your chest into the armpits and using the binder to keep everything in place. Some people use the chest they have to create a more “masculine” chest shape and use the binder to hold that shape.
Care and Cleaning
Binders should always be hand-washed or machine washed in cold water as hot water will cause the binder to wear out prematurely. If your binder is stretching out over time, you can put it in the dryer occasionally to tighten the spandex.