underworks:men'smicrofibercompressiontan (binderreviews)

Underworks: Men's Microfiber Compression Tank

Reviewed by Julz

Comfort: 5/5
This compression tank is made by Underworks, but it isn't made for FTMs. It's just for guys to compress a little body fat. Worn as a regular shirt, it does next to nothing. But if you put it on and roll it up so the bottom is across your chest, then roll it up again so you have three layers compressing, it works pretty well. The great thing about this is that it doesn't impair your breathing much and it's really comfortable - even when you roll it up.

Effectiveness: 3/5
Even if you roll it up a few times, it won't get you very flat and it unrolls with medium activity. However, it's very cheap ($20) and it's better than nothing. This is what I started out with when I first started binding. I used it for about a year and it worked just fine. This binder, plus a good selection of button-down shirts, will allow you to pass okay (if the wind doesn't pick up and give away the bulge in your chest).
Discreetness: 3/5
It isn't really very discreet. Because you have to roll it up so many times, there are a lot of lines. If you combine this with a button-down shirt or wear a lot of layers, it doesn't usually become much of a problem. Again, not perfect- but good for $20.
Overall: 3/5
It's great for people who want to try binding but don't want to restrict their breathing too much and aren't able/willing to spend a lot of money on a better binder. They're pretty durable, cheap, and they do an okay job if you remember to layer and adjust pretty frequently. That being said, I recommend saving up if you can and getting a better binder designed specifically for FTMs. This is a hassle and it barely does the job. Obviously, the price is a major draw- but the $20 you spend on this could go toward getting a more effective binder you'll be much happier with.