Binder Review: Underworks vs. GC2B

I've been using a binder regularly for four-ish years now, so I've experienced some different binders in all this time. My first binder was a tank-style Underworks binder from InABind (RIP), which worked well while I saved money up for a new binder. Now I own a 3-year-old Underworks tri-top, a year-old GC2B half binder, and two brand new Underworks tri-tops. So I'll lay out the differences between GC2B and Underworks (plus a sports bra to show my original chest size), including comparison photos.

Ultimate Chest Binder Tank - Underworks (Not Pictured)

This was a pretty great first binder. I received the large in a black. Wearing this every day... whew. It compressed my stomach in a strange way, rolled up a *lot*, and the black was just too damn hot! However, I didn't feel the binder was too tight, I could breathe well. All in all, not bad for a first binder. From this experience I learned I really hate tank-style binders, just as a preference. I couldn't get any pictures of this, as once I got a new binder I donated it to a friend (which InABind asks you do).

Half Binder - GC2B

I gotta say, buying a binder from a company made for trans folk feels really good. I bought a large in black, and it fits me well(same measurements as above). This is the most comfortable binder I've ever had! It's lined with cotton, and it feels a lot stretchier than Underworks binders. However this comes at a cost. It doesn't get me nearly as flat as Underworks does, and it gives me a "uniboob" look. I've heard lots of complaints from dudes with bigger chests that GC2B binders just don't work as well for us. If you have a smaller chest, this could be a great option for you. And even for guys my size, I appreciate having a comfortable binder I can wear for those high-pain days. The binder covers the sides of my chest more than Underworks, and this binder doesn't roll up as bad as the tri-top since it is shorter, but it does "move" with the chest more... I feel like I jiggle so much in this binder. Even so, I'm glad I have the option of a GC2B! 

Tri-Top Chest Binder - Underworks

This one is my baby. That's how much I adore this binder! I ordered the large in tan three years ago in 2016. It's held up decently, but the shoulder tore so I replaced it with two new ones of the same size and color. My measurements are 43 inch chest, 34 inch below breast tissue, 20 inch shoulder width, 200 lbs. According to Underwork's size guide, I needed a large. And it fits perfectly! This binder gets me really flat for my chest size. A tri-top is so much more comfortable in the heat, and the tan color makes it so even under a white tee shirt nobody notices it. Unfortunately, this binder gives me a bit of side-boob.. but this doesn't cause too much issue, readjusting is simple. I've noticed that because I have such narrow shoulders, the collar of the binder creates an odd shape under tighter shirts. However if you pull the shoulder straps further apart this effect is minimized. I'm really pleased with this binder!