As a mid size trans man with hEDS
If you are anything like me, you struggle to find a binder that A. Is comfortable B.Binds well and C.Is easy to take on and off.
Well look no further because I have tested 3 popular options and have come to you to review them.
Before we begin I must note that while I have a bigger frame and a not-flat-belly, I have a relativley small chest. I am able to comfortably wear a 36A cup or a medium size bra. I weigh 80kg and am 167cm (that's about 5'5 and 175lbs). All binders rated are racerback size medium. My rating should only be taken into account if you have similar measurements to me, as I cannot gaurentee accuraccy for large chested individuals. I would also like to note that while 2 of these binders were bought online in the EU, I will still be rating my GC2B binder bought in the US, as it was widely avalible in the EU until recently.
With that out of the way lets get into it. Content warning: I will be posting myself shirtless. You have been warned of my sexiness. /s
Baseline
These images are what we will be comparing the binding results to. I will post a both a front facing and a side facing photo, both shirtless and with my shirt. Forgive me for my poor camera work but this is an indie blog, so its *artistic*, not dodgy.
GC2B
GC2B, The king of the binders and for good reason. I bought this binder back in 2021 and wore it every day for 3 odd years through-out highschool. This binder has served me well and seen some things in the process.
Model: Nude no.4 half binder
Comfort: This binder is incredibly comfortable, the fabric is soft and the front panel doesnt scratch. Back in my 'glory days' I could wear this binder for 12+ hours without being uncomfortable. 8/10
Binding: Even after 4.5 years this binder still holds up. The fit isnt too tight and has room for breathe-ability while still keeping everything in place. 8/10
Notes: This binder is almost 5 years old now, but still holds a bind pretty well. There are rumors though that since 2021 the quality of GC2B has gone down.
Wivov
When you google 'EU chest binder' Wivov is one of the first to pop up. They pride themselves in comfort and inclusivity and have a wide range of prints and inclusive sizing. I bought this binder in early 2024 and it has been my daily binder since.
Model: Flow CB10
Comfort: Wildlly soft fabric and easy to put on and take off. The fabric is snug and has minimal bunching. 9/10
Binding: I wish I could give this binder a higher rating but this binder does not bind at all. It fits like an extra tight sports bra and leaves a visible outline even with a shirt over it. 2/10
Notes: The 'Flow' line is meant to be stretchier and more breathable, this has an effect of bind-ability.
The binder also needs to be washed often as the fabric obsorbs oders easily.
Spectrum
Well known and well established in the community, spectrum is known for its quality and its importance in the binder market, rivaling with companies like GC2B and underworks. I bought this binder a month ago and have not yet worn it for long stretches of time.
Model: Short Binder
Comfort: This binder is only mildly comfortable. While getting it on and removing it was a struggle (I subluxed my shoulder in removing it the first time!) the fabric doesnt chafe or rub up weirdly but it does curl up at the ends. 4/10
Binding: WOW this thing can bind. I put it on and was baffled at how much was gone, so much it made my stomach look a little weird. The downside is I doubt I could wear this for more than 4 hours without needing a massive break. 10/10
Notes: I have only worn this binder once, so it may be a "break it in before comfortable" situation.
Conclusion
Through my very scientific study /s I have to recommend spectrum outfitters for their outstanding binder, with a close runner up by GC2B, as they are no longer avalible worldwide. If GC2B does release a european store again this rating may change, but for now it stands. If you don't mind sacrificing a little bit of binding for comfort though and live in the US, go with GC2B!
Stay Sleepy My friends,
Spencer