There are a few different ways to measure your chest for a binder, but the most important thing is to be accurate. After all, you don’t want your binder to be too tight or too loose – both can be uncomfortable and cause issues. Here’s a quick guide on how to measure your chest for a binder.
Why it’s important to get the right fit when wearing a binder
For cisgender men and trans masculine folks, binders are an essential item in our wardrobe. Not only do they help us achieve the chest and torso shape we desire, but they also provide support and can help alleviate gender dysphoria. However, finding a binder that fits well can be a challenge, especially if you don’t have access to a tailor or if you’re ordering online.
That’s why it’s important to know how to measure your chest properly before purchasing a binder. In this article, we’ll walk you through the steps of how to measure your chest for a binder, as well as how to find the right size binder for your body.
Before you begin, it’s important to have a soft tape measure on hand. If you don’t have one, you can usually find them at hardware stores or online. Once you have your tape measure, follow these steps:
- Stand in front of a mirror and relax your shoulders.
- Wrap the tape measure around your chest at the widest part of your pecs, making sure the tape is level all the way around.
- Take a deep breath in and hold it while you note down the measurement.
- Once you have your measurement, refer to our binder size chart to find the right size for you.
If you’re between sizes or if you’re unsure of which size to choose, we recommend ordering up one size for a better fit. And remember, if you’re ever unhappy with the fit of your binder, our team is here to help!
How to take your measurements
If you don’t have a measuring tape, you can use a string or a ribbon. Just make sure that you can mark the string at the correct measurement, and then lay it flat to measure.
Chest: Measure around the fullest part of your chest, making sure the measuring tape is level with your underarms and not too tight.
Waist: Measure around the narrowest part of your waistline.
Hips: Measure around the fullest part of your hips, making sure the measuring tape is level all the way around.
What types of binders are available
There are a few different types of binders available, each with their own pros and cons.
- Standard Binders: These binders are the most common and are typically made from a mixture of spandex and lycra. They offer a good amount of support and are generally very comfortable to wear, but they can be a bit pricey.
- Sports Binders: As the name suggests, these binders are designed for people who participate in sports or other activities that require a lot of chest movement. They’re usually made from a breathable material like mesh or nylon, which helps to keep you cool and dry during strenuous activity. However, they may not provide as much support as a standard binder.
- Power Binders: Power binders are designed for people who need extra support due to large chests or other medical conditions. They’re usually made from thicker materials like neoprene or latex, which can make them quite hot and uncomfortable to wear for extended periods of time. However, they offer the best support of any type of binder.
How to choose the right binder for you
There are a few things you’ll need to know in order to choose the right binder for you.
-Your chest circumference: Measure around the fullest part of your chest, making sure the measuring tape is level all the way around and isn’t too tight or too loose. Write down this number so you can refer to it when looking at sizing charts.
-Your height and weight: Most binder manufacturers will also ask for your height and weight so they can recommend a size that will fit you well.
-The style of binder you want: There are a few different styles of binders available, and each has its own set of pros and cons. You’ll need to decide which style is right for you based on your needs and preferences.
Once you have these measurements and know which style you want, you can consult a sizing chart to find the right binder for you. If you’re still not sure, most manufacturers offer customer support that can help you choose the right size.
How to put on a binder
Binding is the process of flattening one’s chest by wearing a compression garment. It is often done by trans men, non-binary people, and drag kings.[1] There are a variety of materials and styles of binders. Binders may be purchased online from a variety of retailers, or made at home out of household materials.
There are a few things you need to know before binding:
-Your binder should be tight, but not too tight. It should be comfortable enough to wear for extended periods of time without causing pain or discomfort.
-You will need to experiment with different types and sizes of binders to find the one that works best for you.
-It is important to give your body a break from binding every few hours to allow your skin to breathe.
To put on a binder:
-Put on a sports bra or other type of compression garment. This will help prevent the binder from slipping or sliding around.
-Put your arms through the armholes of the binder and pull it up over your chest.
-Adjust the binder so that it is snug and comfortable. Be sure not to make it too tight!
How to care for your binder
Whether you’ve just bought your first binder or you’ve been wearing one for years, it’s important to take care of it. A well-cared-for binder can last for years, but a neglected binder will quickly lose its shape and elasticity, and may even fall apart.
To clean your binder, soak it in cool water with a mild detergent. Avoid hot water, as this can damage the fabric. Do not wring or twist the binder, as this can also damage it. Simply rinse it in cool water until all the soap is gone, then lay it flat to dry.
When you’re not wearing your binder, it’s best to store it in a cool, dry place out of direct sunlight. folded or rolled up. If you must store it in a hot or humid environment, make sure to put it in a breathable bag such as a cotton pillowcase.
Tips for wearing a binder
A binder is a compression garment designed to flatten the chest. It is commonly worn by transgender men and non-binary people assigned female at birth, as well as transmasculine people, regardless of their assigned sex at birth.
Binding can be a controversial topic because it can be unsafe if not done properly. Wearing a binder that is too tight can cause shortness of breath, lightheadedness, rib pain, and other serious issues.
The most important thing to keep in mind when binding is to make sure that you are wearing a binder that fits properly. This means that it should not be too tight or too loose.
To measure your chest for a binder, you will need a tape measure and someone to help you. First, stand up straight with your arms down at your sides. Have your friend wrap the tape measure around your chest at its widest point, typically just below the armpits. Make sure that the tape measure is level all the way around and take note of the measurement.
Now that you have your chest measurement, you can use it to find a binder that will fit properly. Most binders come in sizes based on chest circumference, so finding the right size should be relatively easy.
If you are unsure about what size to get or you have any other questions about binding, feel free to reach out to a doctor or another medical professional for help.
FAQs about binders
Q: What is a binder?
A: A binder is a garment meant to “flatten” the appearance of the chest. It is most commonly worn by transgender men, but can also be worn by anyone with chest dysphoria.
Q: How do I measure my chest for a binder?
A: To measure your chest for a binder, wrap a measuring tape around your chest at the widest point, usually just below the armpits. Make sure the tape is level all the way around and that you are not pulling it too tight. You can also measure your chest over a t-shirt for a more comfortable fit.
Q: What size should I get?
A: The size you get will depend on both your measurements and your personal preferences. If you want a tighter bind, you may want to size down; if you want a looser bind, you may want to size up. In general, it is better to err on the side of caution and go with a larger size, as it is easier to adjust a binder that is too big than one that is too small.
Q: How often should I replace my binder?
A: Binders should be replaced every 6-12 months, depending on how often they are worn. If you wear your binder every day, you will need to replace it more often than if you only wear it occasionally. Binders can lose their shape and elasticity over time, so it is important to replace them as needed.
