Choosing a Binder

[Hawkguy]

Hello,

I'm new here, and I need some advice on where to order my binder and which one to choose. Of course, I'm not asking you to do all the work for me, but some feedback would be helpful.

I'm a rather scrawny guy, 5"7, and a 32C. I can try and get exact chest measurements up in a bit, if it'd help.

I'm looking for a binder with decent ventilation, if possible, and perhaps something that can be adjusted. Ultimately, being able to breathe and not hurt myself are my top priorities, with good binding being right below that. I'd probably prefer something full length, not the sports bra type, and I don't want to add a ton of layers over the binder in order to conceal it.

Also, confidential packaging is quite important at this time, so if you have any experiences with companies that were very obvious, or very discrete, I'd be interested in hearing about it. As far as price goes, the cheaper the better, but I am willing to dole out up to maybe seventy, eighty bucks if really, truly necessary.

I'd appreciate any suggestions you can give me. I realize I may be a bit too picky here, and I'm willing to compromise. Thanks!

[synesthetic]

I've never used them personally, but I've heard a ton of good things about GC2B. Their packaging is supposed to be really discreet,  and they're heavily recommended.

Underworks is another place worth considering.

[Hawkguy]

I haven't heard of GC2B, so thanks for bringing them to my attention. I'll definitely look them up.

As for Underworks, they're currently on the top of my list. I definitely need to familiarize myself with their sizing. Thanks for your response!

[Greeneyedrebel]

If you live in a hot or humid place, and binding the abdomen/waist is NOT a high priority for you, I'd suggest GC2B over Underworks. Why? The material.

GC2B is made from the stuff that compression shirts are, so it breathes. It also focuses the binding on the just the chest area, so the abdomen is not restricted.

Imagine a compressions shirt that is cut into a tank top. Then a second layer of reinforced material is added in the back, bust just across the part directly behind the chest. On the front, there is a second layer of a different (stiffer, heavier) material added that goes across the chest. Both of these double layer section stop just at or below where the band of a sports bra would. The rest is just the compression shirt material.

They don't itch. You can still breathe and eat, and they don't ride up. Also, color variety.

Underworks look like some medical device, and feel itchy and stiff and I sweat my ass off even in winter. GC2B....looks like a tank top made out of compression shirt material.

I find that the GC2B is not only more comfortable but works better. 

[Hawkguy]

Hey, thanks so much for your detailed post. GC2B sounds like it's exactly what I'm looking for.
Abdomen/waist compression isn't a high priority for me, and the breathability, not riding up, and color variety all sound great. I also like how they're designed specifically for trans* individuals, unlike Underworks (unless I'm mistaken). After checking out their website, they do look quite good! I think they're the top of my list now.

That's two posts in favor GC2B, then. If anybody has more to contribute, please feel free.

[AndrewB]

I'll just throw in one last confirming vote for GC2B. Wearing one right now and they're even great for working out in, because your lungs AND skin can actually breathe with them on. Sizing is also pretty accurate, if done right. Happy hunting!

[Hawkguy]

Well, you guys are make a pretty good case. I think I'm settled on GC2B. Here's hoping I'll order mine soon.
Thanks for your contributions, everybody!