The 10 Best Mens Shapewear & Body Shaper Pieces

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It doesn’t take a genius to understand why guys might want to find the best men’s shapewear. 

There’s more pressure on men’s bodies today than ever before, especially after 20 years of superhero movies dominating the box office, each with a thirsty shirtless scene more gratuitous than the last. 

Nowadays it feels like nearly every male icon is completely jacked, has zero percent body fat, and has rock hard pecs where the rest of us have man boobs.

Hell, even Jim Halpert got jacked!

Jim Halpert jacked
In a world where even Jim F@¢&ing Halpert is jacked now, no wonder guys want a little help looking svelte

How are average guys supposed to compete, when the quintessential regular-guy-who-got-the-girl now has an eight pack and biceps that could crack a walnut?

For those of us who don’t have movie studios financing our fitness regimens and weight loss goals, one answer is men’s shapewear.

While it might not give you a six pack or a six-picture deal with Marvel, the best pieces of shapewear for men can help your physique look a little more fit, without forcing you to stoop as low as making a Michael Bay movie.

(Take that, Halpert. Boom—roasted.)

To help you find the right shapewear to suit the size and shape of your body, in this post I’ll round up 15 of the best men’s shapewear pieces that will help you achieve a svelte, sharp and slimmer appearance.


Our Top Picks ↓

You can read (a lot) more about each piece’s features and details below, but here’s a quick summary of our top choices for the best men shapewear:


Who Wrote This Article

Irreverent Gent Founder and Editor-in-Chief Dave Bowden has been a service journalist for more than a decade, and his fashion advice and shopping recommendations have been featured in The Wall Street Journal, New York Magazine, and Men’s Health, among many others.

How We Created This List

Features
& Design

Fabric & Construction

User
Reviews

To find the best men’s body shapers on the market, we took a close look at each product’s features, design, materials and construction.

We then did a deep dive into user reviews and online ratings to find out what other guys had to say, and correlated our findings into three separate lists:

  • The Best Men’s Shapewear for the Upper Body 
  • The Best Men’s Girdles for Your Core 
  • The Best Men’s Compression Shorts & Lower Body Shapewear 

To learn more about how we rate and review products, check out our product review and round up policy here.


Shapewear for Men? You Bet Your (Nicely Compressed) A$$:

Breaking Down the Best Mens Shapewear Pieces


The Best Men’s Shapewear for the Upper Body 

Best Spanx for Men ↓

Spanx for Men Zoned Performance Compression Crew Neck

Spanx compression t-shirt
Features:
  • 4.3 Stars
    • 372 Ratings 
  • Fabric Type: 100% Spandex
Why We Like It: 

Spanx is best known as one of the most popular lines of womens shapewear, and some guys are admittedly a little hesitant about the idea of male Spanx. 

But their crew neck men’s compression t-shirt might be the most comfortable slimming shirt that we’ve found.  

This “zoned” compression undershirt is one of the few that we’ve found to be made entirely from Spandex, which makes it a little more effective than other compression tops at tamping down your love handles. 

In this case, “zoned” refers to the various compression zones, meaning that different levels of compression are applied to different body areas, so your abs, torso and chest are all treated differently. 

The under arms and back consist of what Spanx calls their “Breatheasy” zones, meaning they wick moisture and allow for maximum mobility. 

Why Some Might Not: 

While some reviewers seem to appreciate the collar on this one (see the reviewer quoted below), a crew neck compression undershirt won’t work for everyone. 

I’m specifically thinking about guys who often wear a button-up shirt and no tie (a fundamental business casual look). 

As most menswear aficionados – myself very much included – will tell you, wearing a visible crew neck undershirt underneath your open collar is a major mistake.  

In that scenario, the best compression shirts are probably tank tops, which dip low enough that they can’t be seen underneath your collar.  

Alternatively, there’s also a v-neck version of the Spanx Zoned Performance Compression shirt that will be easier to hide under an open shirt. 

What Reviewers Say:

What I like best about this compression shirt is that the crew neck collar looks very similar to a standard t-shirt; Nobody will know that you are wearing a compression shirt! 

D.Bag-O 

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Best Gynecomastia Compression Shirt ↓

Qore Logiq Gynecomastia Compression Shirts for Men

Qore Logiq compression tank top
Features:
  • 4.4 Stars
    • 1,786 Ratings 
  • Fabric Type: 93% Nylon 7% Elastane
Why We Like It: 

This tank-top style shirt from Qore Logiq is specifically designed to reduce the appearance of gynecomastia, making it a better option than the mens Spanx shapewear above if your main concern is flattening man boobs.   

It’s one of the best sellers in Amazon’s men’s shapewear section, in no small part because it acts as a sort of “man bra” that provides extra firm compression in the chest, while simultaneously helping to suppress a protruding tummy. 

Why Some Might Not: 

Since this type of shapewear is specifically designed for guys with man boobs, some reviewers have pointed out that it’s not as good as a dedicated tummy shaper at keeping your gut in check. 

What Reviewers Say:

This product does as it states. When u wear it you feel the compression in your upper body and it does flatten down those ” man boobs”. Im very happy with the product. If I had to complain about anything it would be that the bottom doesn’t compress as much to push down the belly..but that’s just nit picking. I’m happy with my purchase. 

Vance Vinson

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Best Mens Slimming Undershirt ↓

Kocles Men’s Compression Shirt Undershirt

Kocles Compression undershirt
Features:
  • 4.1 Stars
    • 5,653 Ratings 
  • Fabric Type: 80% Nylon, 20% Spandex
Why We Like It: 

The first of two shirts from Kocles to make our list, this compression undershirt features 12 structured panels that help prop up your lower back and correct posture, while also disguising beer belly, back fat and love handles. 

Overall we prefer the 100% Spandex compression of the Spanx crew neck above, but what’s nice about this one is that it has a nice wide collar – as opposed to Spanx’s fairly tight round neck – making it easier to hide under a collared shirt or another outer layer. 

Why Some Might Not: 

Somewhat annoyingly, this one doesn’t conform to standard US sizing, which makes it a little tricky to get the right size. 

Their size chart breaks down each of the different sizes, but they all run quite small compared to North American standards, so make sure to double check to make sure you order the correct size. 

What Reviewers Say:

I had my doubts, but these shirts are amazing. I’m a 2xl everyday of the week. I ordered 3xl for this and it works awesome. Good compression across my belly and moobs. Also good on my back and shoulders. It’s tight but not uncomfortable. Improves my lines, but most importantly improves my confidence. 

Benjamin

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Best Mens Compression Tank Top ↓

Esteem Apparel New Mens Compression Shirt 

Esteem compression tank top
Features:
  • 4.3 Stars
    • 2,230 Ratings 
  • Fabric Type: 90% Nylon, 10% Spandex
Why We Like It: 

A lot of guys like tanks more than crew neck or v-neck compression shirts because they allow more body heat to escape. 

As a result, they provide a more comfortable feel that makes it easier to get through the whole day without breaking out into a sweat, especially if you’re engaging in physical activity.  

And as mentioned, from a style perspective they’re easier to sneak under a shirt or sweater without being seen. 

This one from Esteem Apparel is a good quality option that’s earned a lot of strong reviews on Amazon thanks to a chest-binding vest that helps combat gynecomastia and mesh around the shoulders that make the shirt more breathable. 

Why Some Might Not: 

Some users who are “skinny fat” – i.e. they have a slim build, but a beer belly or protruding gut – complain that the shirt is too tight around their stomachs. 

If you fall into that category, you might have a better time with the all-spandex Spanx crew neck above, which is probably more appropriate for your body type. 

What Reviewers Say:

It fits as described. It helps strengthen my posture as well suppress gynecomastia appearance. My outer clothes fit and feel better to wear. The material used is high quality. But I do prefer the T shirt version simply because it’s so much easier to put on but has the same effect. 

Freddie

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Best Long Sleeve Men’s Shapewear Shirt ↓

Kocles Long Sleeves Gynecomastia Compression Shirt for Men

Kocles long sleever compression shirt
Features:
  • 4.5 Stars
    • 18 Ratings 
  • Fabric Type: 80% Nylon, 20% Spandex
Why We Like It: 

This is essentially the long-sleeved version of the Kocles shirt listed above, so it boasts a lot of the same advantages. 

In addition to helping you keep things tight and present your best self to the world, it’s also designed to help improve blood circulation and posture while reducing muscle oscillation

Why Some Might Not: 

Overall the reviews for this one are quite positive, but some suggest that the sizing runs large, and the sleeves can be a bit long. 

What Reviewers Say:

I like this compression shirt. It does it’s job and provides slimming to the chest without feeling like you’re being suffocated. The Nylon and Spandex material is both durable and stretchy, and doesn’t get stretched out by your day to day wear.  

Garret

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The Best Men’s Girdles for Your Core 

Overall Best Mens Girdle ↓

Leo Tummy Control Body Shaper for Men 

Leo tummy shaper girdle
Features:
  • 4.3 Stars
    • 144 Ratings 
  • Fabric Type: 83% Polyamide, 17% Elastane
Why We Like It: 

Leo’s men’s girdle is a waist cincher that’s designed to provide moderate compression in the upper, middle and lower parts of your abdomen and waist, while also providing excellent back support.

It comes with a double layer of Leo’s “DuraFit” material, which is designed to be soft and light, so it’ll be comfortable under your clothes.

The Amazon reviews suggest you may want to size down on this one. Here’s one that was fairly typical of the reviews I read:

Why Some Might Not: 

The Amazon reviews suggest the sizing is a little wonky on this one as well, and you may want to size down on this one. The review below is fairly typical of the reviews I read: 

What Reviewers Say:

They fit great. I needed one for a wedding to tuck in my extra pounds and this worked so well… More importantly though, they’re great for ALL men to wear when working out. They help shed excess water weight, plus they provide support under your work out clothes, particularly when doing cardio.

Rory A. Ryan

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Molutan Men’s Shapewear Tummy Control Shorts

Molutan tummy shaper
Features:
  • 4.5 Stars
    • 38 Ratings 
  • Fabric Type: 88% Nylon, 12% Spandex
Why We Like It: 

Made mostly from nylon (with just a bit of spandex thrown in for stretch), these waist trainers from Molutan do a good job of providing compression through your midsection, where a lot of guys have trouble with with fat burning.  

This one also boasts steel bones, which are placed vertically at the top of the waist to provide extra stability and hold. 

Some core compression garments tend to roll down if you wear them for a long time, but the steel bones help keep this one wrapped snugly around your waist, making it a good choice if you want to log some long hours, like a full day at work.  

Why Some Might Not: 

Molutan advertises the fact that this one has a “3D pouch,” which kind of implies that it’s similar to a proper pair of pouch boxer briefs, but at least one reviewer implied that things can get kind of tight and a little bit sweaty down below. 

What Reviewers Say:

This shapewear gives good control and support to hold in all those fat rolls and gives you greater confidence when wearing but at the end of the day, I can’t wait to get out of it and breathe lol. 

Bruce

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Ouruikia Men’s Tummy Control Shapewear High Waist 

Ouruikia tummy control shapewear
Features:
  • 4 Stars
    • 29 Ratings 
  • Fabric Type: 88% Nylon, 12% spandex
Why We Like It: 

This is another good belly buster that uses the same nylon-to-spandex ratio as the Molutan model above, which will give you a great silhouette through the middle.  

In addition to the soft fabric blend, this one also has a little extra padding in the butt, which will give you a bit of shape below the belt. 

Why Some Might Not: 

This one doesn’t have the same steel bones as the Molutan one above, so it might be a little more prone to rolling. 

What Reviewers Say:

For me there seems to be more stretch than control. Obviously it is nylon and spandex so it will definitely be stretchy. The difference wearing it makes is too slight to justify the level of comfort not provided.

Gary

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The Best Men’s Compression Shorts & Lower Body Shapewear

Best Mens Compression Shorts ↓

Hanes Sport Men’s Compression Shorts

Hanes compression shorts
Features:
  • 4.3 Stars
    • 7,326 Ratings 
  • Fabric Type: 84% Polyester, 16% Spandex
Why We Like It: 

These compression shorts from Hanes provide medium compression, which is less than you’d expect from a full compression bodysuit, but a lot more comfortable. 

They’re a great option if you want something that’s a little more compressive and form-fitting than regular underwear, but don’t want to feel self-conscious should you find yourself in the fortunate position of stripping down to your skivvies with a partner. 

Why Some Might Not: 

Multiple reviewers pointed out that the waistband doesn’t have high elasticity, which is something that guys with spare tires or a particularly protruding belly will want to take into consideration. 

What Reviewers Say:

Needed some compression shorts. These fit the bill nicely. Great price and the product “feels” of decent production for that. The fit is to size; however, the waistband doesn’t seem to like stretching as much. Most importantly there is frontal room for the goods. Nothing negative so far other than a questionable waistband that might not hold up in the long term. For now it does what I need 

Freeze the Prophet

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Best Butt Enhancing Shorts for Men ↓

Broddle Mens Package and Butt Padded Underwear

Broddle padded underwear
Features:
  • 4.1 Stars
    • 1,537 Ratings 
  • Fabric Type: 92% cotton and 8% spandex
Why We Like It: 

Consistent leg workouts and a good diet both play a huge role in getting a nicely shaped posterior.

But your butt’s not going to magically harden after your first time doing a deadlift, and this padded underwear from Broddle can help you fill out your jeans while you wait for your fitness results to materialize. 

It’s padded in both the back and the front to hide loose skin and fat, and give the appearance of a little extra size in two places where most guys wouldn’t mind being a bit bigger. 

Why Some Might Not: 

Some guys feel funny about wearing artificial pads, and understandably so. I definitely wouldn’t recommend wearing these on a date if you think you might get lucky and expect that you’ll need to strip down to your underwear at the end of the night. 

What Reviewers Say:

Overall this padded underwear is quite comfortable, but they do run a bit small, so order a size larger than your normal size. The crotch pad isn’t necessary IMO, but the butt pads could be a tad thicker and a little larger so that they cover more of your butt. These are, however, more comfortable than other brands being sold on Amazon. 

Ralph P.

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More Resources ↓
More Advice on Athletic Apparel from Irreverent Gent:
More Men’s Fitness & Health Advice:
More Men’s Fashion & Grooming Advice:
Banner Photo: Esteem Apparel
Banner Illustration: Irreverent Gent

About Dave Bowden

Dave Bowden

Founder, Irreverent Gent
Author, Man in Command and Stop Doubting, Start Dating
Writer, Really Wordy Author Bios

Dave Bowden is a style blogger, menswear expert and best-selling author (in Canada—but still!) whose advice on how to look good and live well has been featured in New York Magazine, The Wall Street Journal, Men's Health and more.

When not obsessing over style and self-improvement, he can usually be found spending time with his wonderful wife and two amazing sons, indulging in a hoppy craft beer, or sobbing over the woeful state of Toronto's sports teams.

Check out Dave's Style Story to find out how a chance encounter with his friend's step-dad taught him the value of looking good and living well (don't worry—it's less creepy than it sounds!), or email him at [email protected] if you want to get in touch.

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