1. What Is a Strap-On?
Strap-ons are versatile toys designed for shared pleasure. They typically consist of two main components: a strap-on dildo and a strap-on harness. In many cases, you can purchase both pieces together as a convenient strap-on set.
Let's explore more types of strap-ons available to cater to various preferences:
Strapless Strap-Ons: These innovative toys ditch the harness in favor of a standalone dildo with a vaginal plug. Perfect for double penetration, these strapless wonders can be enjoyed between two vulva owners or as a pegging device.
Hollow Strap-Ons: Originally designed to help men with erectile dysfunction, these hollow strap-ons allow penis owners to insert their members for extended sessions or added girth.
Vibrating Strap-Ons: Marrying the appeal of vibrators and dildos, these strap-ons come equipped with a remote control that operates a small motor in the dildo shaft.
2. How to Choose the Right Strap-On?
Selecting the perfect strap-on is a deeply personal choice and should align with you and your partner's preferences. With a myriad of options available, consider the following factors:
Style
Underwear Harnesses: These typically come in brief and boxer-brief styles and fit like regular underwear. Most underwear harnesses are not adjustable, with a few exceptions. It's crucial to ensure a snug fit for comfort and stability. If you're unsure about sizing, don't hesitate to ask for assistance.
Body Harnesses: Body harnesses can be worn around various body parts, such as the hand, thigh, chest, or elsewhere. They come in a range of materials and styles. Thigh harnesses, for instance, can add an exciting dimension to your play. They are particularly useful for individuals with lower back pain or hip discomfort.
Strapless Strap-Ons: If you're looking for a harness-free experience, consider strapless strap-ons. These innovative toys offer simultaneous pleasure without the need for a harness. Whether you're a beginner or a seasoned pro, strapless strap-ons can add a whole new dimension to your intimate moments.
Choosing the right harness style is about your comfort, your partner's desires, and the type of play you're interested in. Whether you prefer the snug fit of an underwear harness, the versatility of a body harness, or the freedom of strapless strap-ons, there's a strap-on style to match your preferences.
Size
When measuring for a strap-on harness, it's crucial to ensure a proper fit for comfort and stability. To do this, you'll need to measure both your waist and upper thighs, as these are the areas where the harness will sit. Here's how to measure for a harness:
- Waist Measurement: Start by wrapping a measuring tape around your waist, just above your hips. Note the measurement in inches or centimeters. This measurement will determine the waistband size for your strap-on harness.
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Thigh Measurement: Next, measure your upper thighs, which is where the leg straps of the harness will rest. Wrap the measuring tape around the upper thigh area, right below your buttocks. Record this measurement as well.
Having these two measurements, one for the waist and one for the upper thighs, allows you to confidently select a strap-on harness that fits snugly and comfortably. A well-fitted harness ensures stability during use, making your intimate experiences more enjoyable and worry-free.
When measuring for a hollow strap-on, the key dimension to consider is the diameter of your erect penis. It's important to note that in this case, the length of your penis is not a relevant factor. The canal in a hollow strap-on typically ranges from 1.25 to 2 inches in diameter. To measure:
- Diameter Measurement: To find the right fit for your hollow strap-on, use a measuring tape or a piece of string to measure the circumference of your erect penis. The measurement should be taken at the widest part, usually the girth of the penis. Once you have this measurement, you'll be better equipped to choose a hollow strap-on that comfortably accommodates your penis.
Material
When it comes to strap-ons, the harness component is typically crafted from materials like leather, nylon, cotton, or soft plastics. All of these materials are considered body-safe, ensuring your comfort and safety during play. Leather, in particular, is favored by many couples for its soft texture that minimizes skin chafing. However, if you and your partner are vegan or prefer alternative materials, the other options offer great alternatives.
When it comes to choosing dildos, the material is a critical consideration. Some materials are safe and offer maximum pleasure, while others should be avoided. Silicone is a highly popular material for dildos due to its flexibility and realism. While it might be slightly pricier than some alternatives, the investment is well worth it, as it provides both safety and enhanced pleasure.
If your budget allows, opt for 100% silicone dildos. These dildos are exceptionally soft and have the most flexible texture among all dildo types, ensuring a comfortable and realistic experience. Choosing the right material for your strap-on and dildo is an essential step in ensuring your pleasure and safety during intimate moments.
3. How to Use a Strap-On?
The process of preparing and using a strap-on can vary, depending on the type of strap-on in use. For instance, classic harness strap-ons may require several minutes of preparation to ensure a secure fit, while strapless strap-ons offer quicker setup.
In the case of classic harness strap-ons, one critical element is the O-ring. This small, often rubber, silicone, metal, or stainless steel ring is responsible for keeping your chosen toy securely in place. O-rings are available in various sizes, and some harnesses even offer the option to change and customize the O-ring for added versatility. It's crucial to ensure that the O-ring's diameter matches the base of your chosen toy. To work effectively, the dildo must have a flared base sturdy enough to be held securely in place by a well-fitting O-ring. The size of the dildo's base dictates the O-ring size needed for the harness. A proper fit guarantees that the dildo remains securely in place during all types of activities. If you opt for a strap-on set, these considerations are often streamlined for your convenience.
4. How to clean your strap-on
The cleaning method for your strap-on depends on the material it's made from. If your dildo is crafted from silicone, glass, or stainless steel and lacks an internal vibrating component, you can either place it in the dishwasher or hand-clean it using a specialized sex toy cleaner.
For dildos with internal vibrators, a simple wipe-down with warm water or a sex toy cleaner is effective.
Cleaning your harness is determined by its material. Nylon and cotton harnesses can be machine-washed, while vinyl and soft plastics can be easily cleaned with a simple soap and water wipe-down.
At Thorn & Feather, we take pride in offering a wide range of top-quality straps designed for the queer community. We prioritize using the finest materials for all our sex toys to ensure both your maximum pleasure and safety.
Explore our extensive selection of strapons, harnesses, and strapless dildos to find the perfect addition to your sex toy collection. Whether you're a newcomer to strapons or a seasoned queer penetration enthusiast, we have everything you need to elevate your intimate experiences to new heights.