The 101 Guide to Tucking and Gaffing

Everything you need to know about tucking (including a step-by-step guide), gaffs, tape, safety, and more! 

I made a giant, comprehensive guide so that you don’t have to scour the internet! From my 15 years of designing, making, and getting first-hand feedback on gaffs, I want to share with you the most important things you’ll need to know on your tucking and/or gaffing journey. 

I’ll cover the basics of tucking and the different options on the market. I’ll also discuss the difference between gaffs and tape and ways to keep yourself feeling safe, healthy, and confident. 

Note: I will use anatomical terms to describe body parts, but we honor and respect any words you choose to identify yourself. The language we use to talk about our bodies is important, just as the ways we ask others to interact with and experience them. Recognizing and respecting this is a vital part of healthy, active consent.

Would you rather watch the video? 

Watch myself and Michele discuss all things tucking in Tuck with Confidence: A Virtual Workshop. Recorded as part of Point of Pride's Trans Awareness Week 2024 programming.

Tucking

What is Tucking?

Tucking is a practice for creating a smooth crotch contour by positioning genitalia out of sight. Some of the reasons why people choose to tuck include aesthetics, alleviating gender dysphoria, and navigating social spaces more safely. It’s important to know that tucking is not necessary for femininity - but rather, an option for those seeking it.

Who Is Tucking For?

Tucking is not a requirement for transfeminine identity— so only do it if it makes you feel good. Babes have bulges too, and that’s perfectly valid. Many people tuck for various reasons, including trans women, transfeminine individuals, nonbinary and gender-nonconforming people, cisgender men who perform drag, and cisgender men who experience body dysmorphia related to their bulge. 

For some, tucking helps achieve a desired aesthetic or alleviates gender dysphoria. However, it’s equally valid not to tuck at all. Some femme-of-center individuals have no interest in tucking, and that choice is just as empowering! It’s also important to note that experiencing dysphoria is not a prerequisite for tucking—do what feels right for you.

How Do I Tuck?

Tucking involves pulling the penis back, and if the individual still has testicles, these can be gently pushed back or moved into the inguinal canal. You can follow these steps for a safe and secure tuck:

Step-by-Step Guide to Tucking (With Tape Or a Gaff)

By following these steps and making adjustments based on your comfort and preferences, you can achieve a secure and smooth tuck.

Tuck the Testicles
Gently use two or three fingers to guide each testicle into its corresponding inguinal canal. This step should not be painful. If you experience discomfort, stop and try again later. For those who prefer not to tuck the testicles into the inguinal canal, they can be positioned back and to the sides. Just ensure your gaff is wide enough to prevent side spillage.

Position the Penis and Scrotum
Pull the penis and scrotum backward between your legs. This positioning can help secure the testicles if they are tucked into the inguinal canal.

Secure Everything in Place
Put on your gaff to keep everything secure. If you are using tape, carefully apply the pre-cut pieces to hold everything in place. Some people find that a combination of tape and underwear offers the best results for security and flatness.

Dimitria Sparrow walks us through her experience with tucking

It’s important to approach this process slowly and pay close attention to your body’s comfort and limits. Over time, tucking may become easier with practice, and for those on hormone therapy, the process can sometimes be aided by genital shrinkage. For additional guidance, video tutorials can be a helpful resource to ensure safe and effective techniques.

Why Do People Choose To Tuck?

Tucking can provide a sense of safety, particularly in environments where being perceived as trans might expose someone to the risk of violence or discrimination. For some, it also helps achieve a more feminized appearance, offering a smoother contour that aligns with their aesthetic preferences. While some individuals tuck daily to feel secure or improve their mental well-being, others reserve tucking for occasional use or special events.

Gaffing

What Are Gaffs?

Gaffs can be used on their own as a simple smoothing compression or combined with a tuck. To use one, simply slip it on like regular underwear, ensuring everything is secure before going about your day. They are often a quicker and easier alternative to taping. While some people opt for regular underwear, gaffs are specifically designed for tucking, offering the compression, extended wearability, and breathability necessary for a safe and comfortable experience.

Not all gaffs are suitable for use without a tuck, but flexible gaffs are designed to fit well untucked.  (all of our gaffs are flexible!) Look for options with a bit of give in the front and elasticized edges to prevent any "spillage" at the sides. Gaffs are adjustable, allowing for quick re-adjustments if discomfort arises. Flexible gaffs, in particular, prioritize relaxed comfort, making it easier to take them off for breaks. 

On the other hand, gaffs made from non-stretch materials can be challenging to fit properly and often lack breathability. For maximum comfort and safety, look for gaffs made with materials that offer good airflow, like power mesh, as they provide a secure fit while being gentle enough for extended wear.

How Do Gaffs Work?

Gaffs use technical compression fabrics and specific cuts to maximize compression to the genitalia. At Origami Customs, we’ve created patterns over 15 years that calculate the right amount of stretch, based on your unique measurements, to compress you while remaining stretchy and comfortable enough for all-day wear. We source a high-quality, soft, breathable power mesh with a tight hold that doesn’t bag out over time. It’s sturdy enough to withstand years of wear and washes easily. 

What are the Different styles of gaffs, and  Which One Is Right For Me?

(See our Choosing a Gaff page) While there are many styles of gaffs, here are the pros and cons of some of the main styles that are available on the market: 

Full Coverage Gaff

This style is great if you're new to using a gaff or tucking in general. We typically recommend that younger individuals start with a hipster or full-coverage style. The gusset is wider and more accommodating, particularly toward the back where the penis is tucked, making it more beginner-friendly.

Thong Gaff

With a thong style, you don’t have to worry about panty lines!  You can also pull the sides up for more vertical compression, offering a stronger and more adjustable tuck. The V-shape of the thong sides can also be euphoric for some, as it accentuates the roundness of the hips.

High Waist Gaff (Shapewear)

Designed to create a smooth, sculpted silhouette, this shapewear style of gaff helps anyone feel fantastic in their clothes, regardless of gender. While the term "Spanx" is often used to refer to all shapewear due to the brand's popularity, there are now countless options available in various styles, shapes, and brands. 

Typically made from a comfortable blend of spandex and nylon, shapewear can target specific areas, like the hips or stomach, or offer full-body contouring. It's perfect under dresses or high-waisted pants and skirts, as the soft waistband sits comfortably at the natural waist, rather than on the hips. (We offer high waist in the Hipster, Thong, and Cheeky)

Swim Gaffs

Some people use tight swim bottoms as an alternative to a gaff, as the stretchy materials provide some compression. In a pinch, many swim styles can offer the support you need. All of our swimwear includes a built-in compression liner for moderate compression. For extra strong compression, you can also wear a gaff underneath, as all our gaffs are swim-safe!

How Important Is Getting The Right Fit Gaff?

One of the most crucial aspects of safe tucking is ensuring you have a properly fitting gaff. A gaff that is too small can lead to health issues and long-term damage, while one that is too large will not provide adequate compression. Since most bodies don’t conform to standard sizing charts due to variations in waist, hips, and butt ratios, finding the right fit can be challenging. 

Opting for a custom-fit gaff is the best solution, as it ensures a perfect fit tailored to your body, allowing for both comfort and longevity. Additionally, high-quality materials that resist stretching over time can significantly extend the lifespan of your garment. To achieve the best fit, you can follow our custom sizing guide and take your own measurements.

How Do I Measure For A Gaff? 

You can take your measurements using our follow-along sizing guide here, and then we will be happy to custom-make your gaffs for you! You can also use our sizing information to compare with the size chart of any other gaff brand. 

You can also use our unique system to select your gusset size- that’s the piece of fabric that goes in between your legs. It’s hard to find the perfect fit for such an intimate garment, so we made finding that perfect fit even easier! All our gaffs come in Wide (the standard) and Roomy (a bit extra). All of our non-tucking undies also come in a Narrow (slim) fit. 

How Do I Take Care Of My Gaff? 

You can see our in-depth guide to washing your gaffs here. The TLDR is wash cold, hang to dry!

What Are The Different Ways To Tuck?

Tape vs. Gaffing 

Taping is another option that offers a different experience than a gaff for a smooth tuck. It offers a very “tight” tuck without the need for garments with the taping method, however, one of the main drawbacks is that you cannot pee unless you undo and redo the tape every time you have to go. 

The “X marks the spot” method is a popular technique for tucking with tape. Alternatively, you can purchase a kit like Unclockable, which includes tape, a how-to guide, and safety pads for a convenient tucking solution. For the best results, tape works most effectively on a shaven area, so it may not be the ideal option if you prefer not to shave. 

While tape provides a secure and discreet tuck that won’t show under most outfits, it’s not suited for long periods since it typically doesn’t hold up well after one or two bathroom breaks. However, it can be an excellent choice for shorter events like performances or swimming, where a smooth and tight tuck is essential. 

Violet Stanza walks us through her tape tuck method

What Are Some Things To Consider While Tucking and Gaffing?

Listen To Your Body

Tucking should never be painful, though some initial discomfort may be normal as you get accustomed to the process. Start by tucking for short periods and gradually increase the duration as your tolerance builds. To minimize risks like skin irritation, infections, or jock itch, take regular breaks, ensure proper airflow, and consider using antifungal powders.

Be alert to warning signs that require medical attention, such as persistent discomfort, pain, blood, or signs of infection. Shaving or trimming pubic hair can also help reduce irritation. If using tape, opt for sports or medical tape designed for the skin, and always go to the bathroom beforehand. Please remember to stay hydrated, but be mindful of fluid intake if taping restricts bathroom access. Avoid staying taped for extended periods to prevent urinary tract infections and discomfort.

Tucking may raise the temperature of the testes, which some studies suggest could impact fertility. In one case study, discontinuing tucking allowed for the return of sperm production. If you have concerns about fertility or the safety of tucking, consult your doctor for guidance.

How Long Can I Safely Wear A Gaff?

The safest amount of time to gaff is the minimum amount before you can safely be in more relaxed clothing. Commonly, we suggest around 4-8 hours is the best length of time to wear your gaff. While no medical danger arises from a full day of wear, try to take it off when you get home after a full day, and never sleep in your gaff. If you’re experiencing any discomfort, try to limit to a shorter wear time, and take breaks when you’re in a safe environment to do so. 

First-Hand Experience 

Now we’ll offer some personal experiences and advice about tucking from Michele Castro, who co-presented on this topic in our webinar with Point of Pride!

About Michele

Michele Castro was born and raised in Southern California. She graduated with a bachelor's in Women's and Gender Studies with a minor in Sociology from the California State University in Long Beach. She now resides in Philadelphia, where she works as the Minister for Community Life at Trinity Memorial Church. She is passionate about feminism and trans rights and hopes to help other trans people in their journey of transition. 

Michele’s Story

"Hi everyone! My name is Michele Castro and my pronouns are she/her. I currently live in Philadelphia but I was born and raised in Southern California. I currently work at Trinity Memorial Church, a progressive and affirming Episcopal Church, where I work in community engagement.

Everyday Tucking: In my experience, it is extremely important to take into account what our body is telling us when we are tucking. While tucking can be uncomfortable, it should never be downright painful, and if it is then that is a sign that something is not right. While the discomfort that people feel is different from person to person, I can best describe it as when you wear pants that are way too tight and there is little room for movement in the groin area. Yeah, it's uncomfortable, but I’m not doubled over in pain or anything. 

Now every trans person tucks at different times and for different lengths of time. I personally tuck every day and will wear it for the majority of the day. That being said, my way of tucking is going to be different based on the length of time. 

For my everyday tucking, I wear a gaff or compression underwear. If you buy a good quality gaff it is SUPER comfortable. TomboyX or Origami Customs are amazingly comfortable and give me a great flat tuck. My gaff though is not too comfortable, now part of that is because it is a thong and honestly I realized after buying this that I don’t like thongs so you know there you go! 

Now I also want to say that despite a common belief; just because a gaff is uncomfortable does not mean that it is necessarily “better” in giving you a flat tuck. The ones that I mentioned that are really comfortable give me an amazing tuck. Whereas the uncomfortable one honestly gives me a pretty subpar tuck. 

I also want to emphasize how important it is to measure ourselves properly before buying a gaff. I made the mistake when I bought my first gaff by buying the wrong size as I was still assuming that my waist was small. However, I forgot to factor in how long I had been on hormones and how my waist and butt had begun to fill out a lot more, an extremely tight and size-too-small gaff literally just leads to chaffing and extreme discomfort. So take it from me and don’t make the same mistake that I did.

Tucking for intensive activity such as swimming: Now when it comes to activities such as going to the beach or swimming, thankfully there are still resources that can allow tucking to still happen. 

Now I personally have not used swimming gaffs but I have heard good reviews on them. A product that I do have a ton of experience with is using waterproof tucking tape. I use the previously mentioned product Unclockable, now what is great about this product is that not only is the adhesive skin safe and waterproof of course, but also allows the wearer to peel off and reapply about two times. 

Now while it can be reapplied, I also want to say that in experience it does lose the best amount of stickiness after the second reapplication. This is why I highly recommend using tucking tape for activities like swimming where you can get a really good flat and tight tuck and there is little chance of the tuck falling out of place. Then when you are done swimming you can pretty easily pull it off. As mentioned before, shaving in the groin area is highly recommended. However! At least with the Unclockable product, there is no need to shave completely bare, whenever I have worn one I have just made sure to trim the hair down so that it is really short."

Thank you to Michele  and all the other fantastic people out there who are sharing their experience of tucking and gaffing so that it becomes safer and more normalized to talk openly about. 

Remember, you don't owe anyone tucking in order to be "more feminine"! But if you choose tucking, gaffing or tape as part of your journey to feel good in your body and be seen the way you want to- we hope you do so with a lot of gentleness and grace towards yourself. 

Happy tucking!

More Resources: 

The “X” taping method

Tucking guide from Fenway Health

Transtape

Unlockable Tuck Kit

Michele’s Instagram: @michele.alexandra7

Point of Pride Free Gaff Program

Studies On The Health Effects Of Tucking:

Mannat Malik, Erin E. Cooney, Jean-Michel Brevelle, and Tonia Poteat. Tucking Practices and Attributed Health Effects in Transfeminine  Individuals. Transgender Health. Ahead of print http://doi.org/10.1089/ trgh.2022.0064 

Poteat, T., Malik, M., & Cooney, E. (2018). 2148 Understanding the health effects of binding and tucking for gender affirmation. Journal of Clinical and Translational Science, 2(S1), 76-76. doi:10.1017/cts.2018.268 

Iris de Nie, Joyce Asseler, Andreas Meißner, Ilona A.C. Voorn-de Warem, E. Hanna Kostelijk, Martin den Heijer, Judith Huirne, Norah M. van Mello,  A cohort study on factors impairing semen quality in transgender women, American Journal of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Volume 226, Issue 3, 2022, https://doi.org/10.1016/j.ajog.2021.10.020.