Comparison: Tapes versus Binders – Which is better for flattening the chest?
Are tapes or binders better?
Do you have a large bust and want to hide it? You probably do, if you have visited this page. In that case, you will probably be faced with the dilemma of whether to go for tapes or binders . What are their advantages and disadvantages? Let's break down both devices step by step:
1. Strangulation and other discomfort
Everyone has a different body and therefore different preferences, but here tapes definitely win over binders - simply because binders work a bit like corsets and tighten the entire body with their entire surface. However, you can't apply tape to your entire chest, if only because it's not safe.
Result: 1 point for tapes.
2. Swimming
Let's face it, water play is sometimes a problem for trans* people, because not every trans* person has the courage to go to the beach with others and deal with unpleasant looks from others (or worse, reactions). If we need to hide our breasts, the best solution is to tape them, because then we can swim in peace. Do you feel better in a binder? The DYKKA binder can handle the water with ease.
Result: 1 point for tapes.
3. Shrinkage effect
To tighten a larger bust, you need to spend more material, which is where a binder has the advantage – you pull it on and see the change right away. Tapes will most likely not guarantee this effect, perhaps only if you stick them on yourself, but as we said before, you really don't want to try this option.
Result: 1 point for binders.
4. Stamina
Remember when you covered your locker with stickers at the beginning of the school year and they didn't last until Christmas break? You might think that if the tapes work like cardboard, they would stick to you like a tick, but unfortunately they can peel off. The stripper doesn't stick, but until you take it off or cut it, you'll still have it on.
Result: 1 point for binders.
5. Appearance
Tapes are inconspicuous, which can be an advantage, but… Why not wear a nice pullover in black? Or maybe beige? Or maybe you don't like another layer of clothing? There is no clear answer here – choose what you like! Do you like bold tape? We also have purple and black!
Result: 1 point for tapes, 1 point for binders.
6.
Allergy
When choosing tools, we must think about our own health and safety. Unfortunately, none of them are suitable for everyone, as using tapes (specifically so-called adhesive, i.e. sticky, materials) can cause an allergic reaction, but binders are not without risk either.
Result: 1 point for tapes, 1 point for binders.
7. Deployment
Everyone has different preferences: getting into a binder for the first time is a bit of a challenge, but tapes require more time and a certain amount of skill, including working with scissors.
Result: 1 point for tapes, 1 point for binders.
And how did the whole competition turn out? Both tapes and binders received 6 points out of 7, which is a clear tie. But as we have shown, both tools are quite different and it depends mainly on you and your body what suits you better . There is no harm in trying both tapes and binders and then making a final decision. Or alternate them! Especially in the hot summer, it is liberating to go for a light run with just tape.