Strap-ons. A combination of wearable harness and dildo or dong that remains a complete mystery to some, and the go-to sexual accessory for others. For many folks may have some preconceived notions about who might use a strap-on, or why, they might be surprised. Strap-on use is quite popular across all sexes and orientations, and this popularity only seems to grow. Not only do we see this in our own store, but the growing volume of web sites, product variety, retail floor space, how-to's, and adult film focused on strap-on usage is a strong indicator of just how much. So strap in, strap on, and read on about the uses of this increasingly popular sex toy.
Who uses them?
Lesbian couples - A strap on is a great toy for female couples looking to add penetration to their sexual repertoire. No matter the sexual orientation of its owner, many a vagina still enjoys penetration. A strap on not only provides internal (vaginal or anal) stimulation to the receiver, but the wearer experiences being in control and giving of pleasure to their partner. For some it also adds a sense of excitement to gender role switch, power play, or fit into sexual roles of the "top" (wearer) and "bottom" (receiver).
Straight women - Increasing in popularity is straight women wearing a strap on to use on their male partners, commonly known as "pegging". It may surprise some but we estimate we sell strap ons more frequently to straight couples than not. Couples who enjoy gender role reversal, or female domination, often find a strap on a fantastic toy. Women can find that wearing the male equivalent of sexual virility gives them a sense of power unlike any other. Also, many straight men have discovered that anal and prostate stimulation are great sources of pleasure after pushing aside the false belief that anal pleasure makes them "gay".
Straight or gay men - Wait, men already have penises, right? Why would they need a strap on for? This is a question we overhear countless times when shoppers pass the strap on section and see those featured on men. There are three reasons why. First, to add inches or girth. For guys wanting to grant their partner a bigger penis a strap on gives them the ability to be whichever size they and their partner want. Second, for erection issues. When for whatever reason a man is having difficulty gaining or keeping an erection, a strap on never quits. Lastly, to double penetrate. A strap on gives a straight man another penis, so to speak, to provide anal and vaginal pleasure simultaneously.
What kinds are there?
There are a variety of styles. The differences fall in either the harness itself or the inserts (dildos/dongs/plugs).
The harnesses can differ in materials used, how they fasten and tighten, and in number of straps. Materials used vary from nylon, plastics, neoprene, and leather. Neoprene and nylon clean easier and breath, while leather has a distinct look and feel and is quite strong. Most harnesses on the market fasten their dong on by a ring that holds the flared based against the wearers body once the harness is tightened. One manufacturer uses a plug system that inserts into a specifically made dong to hold it on the harness. Both designs allow the user to change attachments.
Strap count indicates weather a harness is a "single" or "double" strap harness, meaning how many straps run between the legs of the wearer. A single strap harness looks a lot like a pair of underwear and has a single crotch strap running from front to back. A double strap harness has two straps running from the front, down around each thigh and back up to the waist strap. This difference is fairly important as double strap harnesses allow access to the genitals and anus, as well as giving male wearers a more comfortable way to tuck their non-erect penis.
The attachments are as numerous as there are standard dildos, a size, color, and shape for every taste. For ring harnesses a dildo/dong must have a flared base, suction cup, or "balls" to secure itself behind the ring. No need to worry, these design styles are very common. Choosing which one is entirely up to the user at this point. Look to just get started pegging? A shorter, slender dong might be a good choice. Love the look and feel of an honest to gosh erect penis? The realistic shaped and colored dildo with balls would be a great call. Looking for some vibrating fun or stimulation? Add a vibrating dong, or properly placed small vibe in the harness and
the wearer (and possibly receiver) will receive some added stimulation.
Lastly, there are harness and attachment options for specific wants and kinks. Look hard enough and you can have nearly everything in a strap on. There are double ended dongs that simultaneously penetrate the wearer and receiver, and versions that have both a dong and plug (for anal or vaginal). There are double penetrating versions that allow penetration of both the vagina and anus of a female receiver. There are harnesses designed specifically for men that have hollow dongs to fit their penis in, and harnesses that have design elements to accommodate a penis and an attachment. There are thigh harnesses, foot harnesses, and head harnesses. The list goes on and on!
The world of strap ons is diverse, and there is something for everyone. Throw out any preconceived notions you might of had and you may find a strap on an important (and hot) part of your bedroom adventures!!
Thinking of strapping on? Hopefully this introduction helps and, as always, don't hesitate to ask us more questions about what to select for your strap on desires.
