Compression top vs Binder

[Lizard]

Hi, new here. I'll to an introduction when I get a chance. I'm Lizard.

I have a quick question. I am not highly concerned about passing as *everyone* in my life knows I'm female, but I am far more comfortable feeling like a guy (and they can just get used to that, now). Binding seems extreme for what I'm looking for - just to fit better in men's clothes - but sports bras with my C-D cup sizes aren't cutting it. I tried sewing the cups in a bit and that helped somewhat, but the band is hella tight and makes it worse again.

Will a compression top help me, or will that not be enough? Should I get a one-size *up* binder? I know this is an odd request.

I'm in my 40s, straight, with a couple of kids. I feel too old to be going through this now. LOL! But glad I'm old enough to tell people who don't like it, to bugger off. I've got stupid-small feet but found boys shoes that will suffice for now. Still trying to find a short haircut I like, but the girly-curls are gone. Donated! I have men's shirts, but have yet to find pants I like for a small dude with hips - I'm sure alterations will be in order... But one thing at a time, and first, feeling like I fit in the shirts.

Thanks in advance, and nice to meet you all. 

L~

[Dena]

Welcome to Susan's Place. I can't help you much on this topic but you posted in the right place and the guys will be around shortly to help you out. It's not really an odd request because you appear to fall in the non binary range. Not all male and not all female but somewhere in between. We have a section for non binary if you would like to learn more but feel free to post anywhere on the site where you feel comfortable. I think you will like the rules for non binary as anything goes. If there is anything I can help you with, let me know.

We issue to all new members the following links so you will best be able to use the web site.

Things that you should read

Site Terms of Service & Rules to Live By	Standard Terms & Definitions	Post Ranks (including when you can upload an avatar)
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[FTMax]

Compression tops are typically designed to keep things from moving around while you engage in some kind of athletic activity, and not to mask the appearance of a female chest. So it depends what you want. A smaller sized compression top may do what you need it to in terms of fitting into clothing better, but the right sized binder will make your chest disappear.

If you have the money to try both, I would. I wouldn't recommend getting a larger binder unless you plan on gaining weight or increasing the size of your upper body. They are fairly uncomfortable in general and would be worse with extra material floating around IMO.

[Lizard]

Welcome to Susan's Place. I can't help you much on this topic but you posted in the right place and the guys will be around shortly to help you out. It's not really an odd request because you appear to fall in the non binary range. Not all male and not all female but somewhere in between. We have a section for non binary if you would like to learn more but feel free to post anywhere on the site where you feel comfortable. I think you will like the rules for non binary as anything goes. If there is anything I can help you with, let me know.

We issue to all new members the following links so you will best be able to use the web site.

Things that you should read

Site Terms of Service & Rules to Live By	Standard Terms & Definitions	Post Ranks (including when you can upload an avatar)
Reputation rules	News posting & quoting guidelines	Photo, avatars, & signature images policy

Thanks, Dena! I think I've read all the links through now. When I get more time I'll peruse the site more.

L~

[Lizard]

Compression tops are typically designed to keep things from moving around while you engage in some kind of athletic activity, and not to mask the appearance of a female chest. So it depends what you want. A smaller sized compression top may do what you need it to in terms of fitting into clothing better, but the right sized binder will make your chest disappear.

If you have the money to try both, I would. I wouldn't recommend getting a larger binder unless you plan on gaining weight or increasing the size of your upper body. They are fairly uncomfortable in general and would be worse with extra material floating around IMO.

Hi FTMax,

While I am replacing much of my closet with little money (thrift stores rock!) I'm trying to save cash if I can. Otherwise I would try both.

I'm stuck between not wanting to struggle into and feel uncomfortable all day (because my rebellion from push-up bras right now is strong), but if I could find something about as comfortable as a sports bra but with a flattening shape I'd be fine. From what I've read, binders are a little intimidating to me right now as I'm new to all of this and don't want to be causing breathing problems or be uncomfortable all day.

So I'd like to be flat-er, don't need to have them disappear totally because I'm not willing to give up comfort at this point. Is there a middle ground? Do I sound totally lost yet? LOL!

L~

[Elis]

Yeah I don't think a compression vest will work. It's made for people who are flat chested already who wear it to excersise; although I've heard it can be used to flatten you more if you're wearing a sports bra. Didn't work for me though when I used to wear two sports bra.
GC2B make really good binders but you have to be careful of reading the size chart. I ordered a size bigger just in case the binder would be too tight and had to send it back for a size smaller. There binders don't crush your ribs, I wear mine for 10 hrs a day and feel absolutely fine.
For haircuts I really like the undercut with a quiff because the quiff makes my face look squarer; plus it's just a really classic handsome look
You could try Asos for pants. They sell small sizes for clothes and shoes and have a good selection.
Nice to meet you too; welcome to Susans

[FTMax]

If you're not willing to sacrifice comfort, I'd cross the binder off your list entirely. Even the most comfortable ones IMO are not entirely comfortable.

You could try the Underworks Compression Bra, it is probably the best of both worlds:
http://www.underworks.com/extreme-magicotton-sports-and-binding-bra

[Lizard]

If you're not willing to sacrifice comfort, I'd cross the binder off your list entirely. Even the most comfortable ones IMO are not entirely comfortable.

You could try the Underworks Compression Bra, it is probably the best of both worlds:
http://www.underworks.com/extreme-magicotton-sports-and-binding-bra

This is absolutely perfect! Thank you so much!   

[Lizard]

I wanted to follow up and say thank you!! I contacted the company to ask for sizing advice on a 32DD body, and they suggested a 34inch - it's even more comfortable than my sports bra and does a way better job. As soon as I can save up more pennies I"m going to get more - too bad there aren't any local companies that carry them.

I really appreciate the assistance, this is all new to me, and finding the right solution is priceless.

L~

[arice]

Yay! I'm glad you found something that worked and felt great.

Sent from my SM-G870W using Tapatalk

[FTMax]

Yay! I'm glad it worked out for you Happy we could help you find something!

[mm]

Lizard, I am glad you found something that will work for you. I expect 32DD are hard to hide.

[Lizard]

Lizard, I am glad you found something that will work for you. I expect 32DD are hard to hide.

Indeed, but I suspected as much, and that's the major reason why I'm not stressing out about passing for a guy - it's just not going to happen as I am shaped - VERY hourglass. But it does help the straight shirts fit better!

Can it be worn swimming? LOL! Oh summer, the challenges you bring... 

[FTMax]

Can it be worn swimming? LOL! Oh summer, the challenges you bring... 

If the fabric is anything like binder fabric, the tentative answer is yes. BUT regardless of where you're swimming (pool vs. ocean), you'll want to pay special attention to washing it and not letting salt/sand/chemicals hang out in the fabric for too long.

I had an older binder that I specifically designated as my swimming binder, and it worked just fine.