All You Need to Know About:

Gaffs and Tucking Underwear

What are gaffs, how do they work, and which one is right for me?

Gender-affirming undergarments can be a huge benefit to those who are looking to support their trans femme identity and achieve a more female look in public. Gaffs are an example of just one of these kinds of undergarments – but what exactly are they, how do they work, and are they right for you?
Put simply, a gaff is a special type of compression underwear. The main purpose of a gaff is to help give a flatter appearance to the pelvic area, which can help some transfeminine folks feel more comfortable and confident in their day-to-day life.
Read on to find out everything there is to know about gaffs and how to use them.

Who are Gaffs for?

Gaffs are tucking underwear that can be used by anyone looking to have a smoother appearance in their pelvic area, regardless of how they choose to identify. Many transgender women, drag queens, trans femmes, and gender non-conforming people choose to use a gaff either at home or out to get that smooth look. Having access to gender-affirming gear benefits your own sense of self, and for those who experience gender dysphoria in relation to the appearance of the body, it can help ease those feelings.

Whether you’re choosing to wear one in your day-to-day life or when you're killing it on stage, gaffs can help clothing fit in a way that is more gender-affirming and comfortable. 

How do I use a Gaff?

Depending on your individual needs, gaffs can be worn a number of different ways. They can either be used by themselves as a simple smoothing compression or alongside “tucking” – which is an additional method of preventing a bulge from showing. Once you’re ready, just slip on your gaff just like a regular pair of underwear. Check to make sure everything is secure, and then you’re good to go!

Both ways are completely valid choices for whoever wants to use them, but while wearing them without opting for the tucking method can be more comfortable, tucking can help achieve the flattest look possible. 

How do I tuck?

Tucking refers to the method of positioning external genitals, either by moving the penis and scrotum between the legs and buttocks, or pushing the testes up into their inguinal canals while still arranging the penis between the legs. Either method is fine, although the sliding method is generally thought to be more comfortable.

In order to tuck safely, it's recommended to use a product specifically designed for this, such as Binding Tape or Tucking Kits. For easier removal, folks opt to use special removal oils

Step by Step:
  • Start by wrapping the head of your penis with toilet paper or cloth (this is to avoid any spillage or infection).
  • Then slide your testes between your legs and towards your buttocks.
  • Carefully hold your testes in place, and then tuck your penis along the same direction.
  • Once you’re finished, you’re ready to proceed with pulling up your gaff – making sure to keep everything nice and tight.

If you're using tape for tucking, check out some tips and tricks on how to make the application process go smoothly by watching this video!

For more information on tucking, we recommend TransHub's tucking resource page.

How do I measure for a Gaff?

When it comes to selecting the right size gaff for you, simply follow the same sizing conventions as when selecting underwear. Measure around the circumference of the waist, just above the hips. Next, check out the sizing chart on the product page for your desired gaff, and see what size category your measurement falls under. This should give you a good idea of the size that is most likely to fit you! 

You want your gaff to fit snugly and firmly, but not too tightly. Because we’re looking for compression, some people make the mistake of choosing smaller sizes in the hopes it'll work better – avoid making this mistake! Compression gaffs will fit very tightly when you first get them, and will relax over the first few wears.

Are there different types of Gaffs?

Gaffs can come in many different styles,
so finding the right one for you can be a trial and error process!

In general, the size of your package will affect how large your bulge is and therefore your options for getting your preferred feminine look. If your junk is on the smaller side, you may find all you need to achieve the look you want are simple non-tucking gaffs or panties, without the need for additional rearranging. If you have a larger area, additional support might help you get the smooth look you’re after – so look into tucking methods that work for you, and consider hipster or panty style gaffs over the less compressing thong style.

Lace Thong Gaff - urBasics

Tucking

Tucking gaffs can come in many different styles, such as thongs or the more easily controlled panties/hipster style. Both have their benefits! Some people find that the thongs make them feel more sensual and free, while others prefer the comfort that panties can give them. Since these are made to be used alongside the tucking method, they’re good for those of us who have a little additional girth. If you’re looking for a range of compression levels, try out different styles to see what works for you.

Pros
  • Gives more control
  • Smoother look
  • Snug and secure
Cons
  • Can be uncomfortable or restrictive
  • Needs time to carefully tuck and untuck
  • Can affect blood circulation if left for too long
Shop: Lace Thong Gaff →

Non-Tucking

Non-tucking gaffs are made with an additional supportive panel sewn into the front of the crotch area, made for extra tightness and contouring of the genitals while avoiding the need to tuck the testes into their inguinal canals or resort to taping. This can be an easier option or those who don’t like the feeling of tucking, while still giving them that neat and tidy pelvic look! In general, these strategically-placed panels can offer a gentler shaping support but are not as controlled as tucking gaffs or panties.

Pros
  • Can use for as long as you want to
  • Comfortable and flexible
  • Easy and quick to put on
Cons
  • Not as supportive to the area
  • Can lead to a less smooth look overall
Shop: Panty Gaff →

Any alternatives to Gaffs?

While gaffs are a great choice for achieving a day-to-day smoothness, sometimes an occasion will call for a little extra control or support – in which case, there are many other great alternatives out there!

Shapewear

Shapewear is an undergarment designed to create a smooth silhouette and help individuals of all genders contour their figures in flattering ways. A lot of people refer to this type of sculpting underwear as ‘Spanx’, which are one of the most dominant brands around – but today, there are plenty of different styles, brands and shapes available from all kinds of retailers.

Shapewear is usually made out of a blend of spandex and nylon, and can be targeted to specific parts of the body, such as hips and the stomach, or can also be geared towards more general all-body sculpting. This flexibility of choice can help individuals feel as sexy and confident as possible wearing anything from tight bodycon dresses to cute little playsuits.

Swimwear

If you’re rushed for time and want to throw something on quickly, swimwear can be a great option. Synthetic, tight material helps keep everything tucked inside, so you can grab a pair of bikini bottoms for a last minute gaff alternative.

Gender-affirming underwear can be super important for supporting your identity and letting you feel as fab and confident as possible. Now that you know all about the different types of gaffs and other gender-affirming undergarments out there, you can start investigating which one is right for you! If you're interested in gaffs and you want to get started on your journey, head on over to our product page and take a look at what we've got on offer!

Gaff FAQs

Here are some of the most frequently asked questions that people have about gaffs in everyday life. This breakdown should help you find all the answers you need!