Tucking
What is tucking?
Tucking is a method used to tuck external genitals (penis and testicles) to create a flat aesthetic. Some trans and gender diverse folk choose to tuck to alleviate gender dysphoria, affirm their gender and feel more comfortable in their body.
Whether to tuck or not is an entirely personal decision - some people choose to tuck every day, only on special occasions or not at all - all are valid!
There are different methods of tucking. Some people use specially designed tucking underwear also known as gaffs, some people use special body tape, while others go DIY with stockings or tight underwear, and some people use a combination of some or all of these.
Tucking underwear and gaffs
Tucking underwear, or gaffs, are underwear that is designed to compress external genitals, and keep them flattened and in place. Tucking underwear tends to have a stiff material front panel which helps keep everything securely in place.
At Sock Drawer Heroes, we stock a growing range of the best tucking underwear brands including trans women owned Carmen Liu Lingerie, Urbody and Origami Customs, as well as LeoLines and Tuck Buddies.
We stock simple cotton flattening briefs suitable for everyday wear by LeoLines and Tuck Buddies, both of which come in kids and adult sizing. We also offer a range of thong style compression underwear by Carmen Liu Lingerie and Urbody - both trans woman owned companies that we love. Our range of Origami Customs gaffs are available in different styles including a boyshort gaff, a hipster gaff and a thong gaff.
Using tape to tuck
Some people choose to use body tape instead or in addition to wearing tucking underwear. If you decide to use tape, make sure to use a fabric medical / kinesio tape that is breathable and has a bit of stretch to it. Never use gaffer tape, duct tape or any other kind of tape. We sell SDH Mixtape that is suitable for tucking. SDH Mixtape is available in black, several skin tones, and colours. It is available in 3 inch, 4 inch and 5 inch widths. The 3 inch width is most popular for tucking. You can read more about tape in our Mixtape Taping Guide.
How to tuck
Please note, we use the terms 'penis', 'scrotum' and 'testicles' to refer to particular body parts when specifically describing the tucking method.
1. Gather your tucking supplies. This may be a pair of tucking underwear / gaff, tape or both. If using tucking underwear, put these on and pull them up to your knees. If using tape, we recommend shaving the area first (you'll thank us when removing the tape!) It's also a good idea to pre-cut the strips of tape to the desired length before you begin.
2. Use two or three fingers to tuck each testicle up into each corresponding inguinal canal. This should not be painful. If you feel pain, stop and try again later. Some people choose not to tuck the testicles up into the inguinal canal. If you prefer, you can position the testicles back and to the sides. If using this method, choose gaff with a wide enough gusset to make sure there is no side spillage, such as Tuck Buddies.
3. Next, pull the penis and scrotum backwards between the legs. This should help keep the testicles tucked up in the inguinal canal if using this method.
4. If using tucking underwear, pull your underwear up to keep everything in place. Underwear designed specifically for tucking can better provide flatness as they tend have a stiff front panel to keep everything secure. If using tape, place your pre-cut strips of tape against the genitals, placing an inch of the tape against your body unstretched first, then stretched towards your bum. Some people use a combination of both tape and underwear for extra security.
Bear in mind that you'll have to untuck every time to pee, which can be trickier if using tape as you'll need to carefully remove the tape and reapply each time, so investing some good tucking underwear can be really worth it!
If using tape, be sure to use coconut oil, or other oil, to help remove the tape safely. The oil will break down the adhesive so you can remove the tape more easily. You can read more about application and removal of tape in our Mixtape Taping Guide.
Safety
Tucking may be a bit uncomfortable, but it shouldn't be painful. If you feel any pain or discomfort, stop tucking and give yourself a break. Try tucking in comfort at home, where you can easily untuck if needed, until you get used to it.