What You Might Not Know About Strap-Ons

What You Might Not Know About Strap-Ons

What You Might Not Know About Strap-Ons: A Comprehensive Guide for Men and Women

Exploring new dimensions of intimacy can be exciting, empowering, and deeply fulfilling. Among the many tools available to enhance sexual experience, strap-ons have gained popularity for their versatility and ability to facilitate diverse forms of pleasure. Whether you're a beginner or an experienced user, understanding the nuances of strap-ons—including different types, safety tips, and usage techniques—can significantly improve your experience. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll delve into everything you need to know about strap-ons, including different types like hollow strap-ons, vibrating, rechargeable, thrusting, big, and giant models, and how to use them safely for men and women.

What Is a Strap-On? An Introduction

A strap-on is a device that allows a person to penetrate their partner using a dildo or similar attachment secured with a harness worn around the hips or waist. Strap-ons are popular among all genders and sexual orientations, offering a way to explore dominance and submission, enhance intimacy, or simply try new sensations. They can be used for vaginal, anal, or oral penetration depending on the toy and the user’s comfort level.

The Different Types of Strap-Ons

There is a wide variety of strap-ons designed to cater to different preferences, experience levels, and comfort zones. Understanding the distinctions between these types can help you select the right one for your needs.

1. Beginner Strap-On

A beginner strap-on is designed for those new to using strap-ons. These typically feature smaller sizes, softer materials, and straightforward harness systems that are easy to put on and adjust. They prioritise comfort and ease of use, making them ideal for exploring without feeling overwhelmed.

Features:

  • Smaller, more manageable dildo sizes
  • Soft, body-safe materials like silicone
  • Simple harness designs with adjustable straps
  • Often includes beginner-friendly features like adjustable harnesses and lightweight construction

Why choose a beginner strap-on?
If you're just starting out, a beginner model offers a comfortable introduction to strap-on play without feeling intimidating or cumbersome.

2. Hollow Strap-On

A hollow strap-on features an internal cavity that allows one partner to wear their partner's penis or a compatible dildo inside the hollow cavity. This type of strap-on is excellent for couples where one partner wants to maintain the feeling of penetration while being able to wear the device comfortably.

Features:

  • Hollow interior for accommodating a partner's penis or compatible insert
  • Suitable for couples seeking a more realistic or connected experience
  • Often made from flexible, body-safe materials

Use cases:
Hollow strap-ons are popular in pegging or partner-play scenarios, allowing the wearer to experience a sense of intimacy and shared sensation.

3. Vibrating Strap-On

A vibrating strap-on incorporates vibrators into the dildo or the harness itself, adding an extra layer of stimulation. These models can be controlled via remote or app, offering customisable vibrations for both partners.

Features:

  • Built-in vibrators with multiple settings
  • Remote or app-controlled for ease of use
  • Usually rechargeable for convenience

Advantages:
Vibrating strap-ons can stimulate erogenous zones directly, enhancing pleasure and making the experience more intense for both partners.

4. Rechargeable Strap-On

A rechargeable strap-on is powered by a built-in battery that can be recharged via USB or other means. These models eliminate the need for batteries, providing a more eco-friendly and cost-effective option.

Features:

  • Long-lasting rechargeable batteries
  • Often paired with vibrating or thrusting functions
  • Usually come with charging docks or cables

Benefits:
Rechargeable models ensure consistent power, so your pleasure isn’t interrupted by dead batteries. They tend to have longer lifespans and are more eco-friendly.

5. Thrusting Strap-On

A thrusting strap-on features motorised movement that simulates the sensation of thrusting. These toys often have multiple speeds and patterns, mimicking real penetration.

Features:

  • Motorised, with adjustable thrusting speeds
  • Usually rechargeable
  • Designed for intense stimulation and realism

How to use:
Thrusting strap-ons are ideal for users seeking a more dynamic experience. They should be used with plenty of lubrication and proper cleaning to ensure safety and longevity.

6. Big and Giant Strap-Ons

Models categorised as big or giant are designed for advanced users or those seeking more extensive stimulation. These toys are larger, often with substantial girth and length, offering a more intense experience.

Features:

  • Larger sizes, sometimes exceeding 8 inches in length
  • Thicker girth for a more filling sensation
  • Usually made from sturdy, body-safe silicone

Safety tip:
Using big and giant strap-ons requires patience, proper lubrication, and communication with your partner to ensure comfort and safety.

How to Use Strap-Ons Safely

Safety is paramount when exploring strap-on play. Proper preparation, communication, and hygiene practices will help create a pleasurable and safe experience.

Communication is Key

Before engaging in strap-on play, discuss boundaries, desires, and limits with your partner. Consent and comfort should always come first. Agree on signals or safe words to stop or pause if anyone feels uncomfortable.

Choose the Right Toy

Select a strap-on that matches your experience level and comfort. For beginners, starting with a small, soft, and adjustable harness is recommended.

Use Plenty of Lubrication

Lubrication reduces friction and enhances comfort. Water-based lubricants are compatible with all toy materials, while silicone-based lubricants should only be used with silicone toys to avoid damage.

Practice Proper Hygiene

  • Wash the toy thoroughly with warm water and mild soap or a toy cleaner before and after use.
  • Use condoms over the dildo if sharing between partners or switching between anal and vaginal penetration.
  • Ensure the harness is adjustable, comfortable, and clean.

Start Slow and Communicate

Begin with gentle, slow movements to gauge comfort levels. Check in with your partner regularly to ensure they’re comfortable and enjoying the experience.

Use Compatible and Safe Materials

Only use toys made from body-safe, non-porous materials like silicone, glass, or stainless steel. Avoid toys made from phthalate-laden or porous plastics.

Mind the Size

When using big or giant strap-ons, go slowly. Use ample lubrication, and gradually increase penetration depth and speed as comfort allows.

Tips for Men and Women Using Strap-Ons

For Women

  • Explore G-Spot and Clitoral Stimulation: Many strap-ons are designed to target the G-spot or clitoris simultaneously, especially vibrating models.
  • Try Different Positions: Missionary, doggy style, or missionary with legs elevated can enhance sensation.
  • Use a Hollow Strap-On for Shared Penetration: It allows you to experience intimacy while maintaining a connection.

For Men

  • Experiment with Pegging: Men can enjoy the sensation of being penetrated with a strap-on, providing new perspectives on pleasure.
  • Use Thrusting or Vibrating Models: These add dynamic sensations, making the experience more intense.
  • Consider Hollow Strap-Ons: For those who want to incorporate their partner’s penis or other toys inside.

Enhancing Your Experience with Advanced Features

Vibrating and Rechargeable Features

Vibrating strap-ons can be controlled via remote or app, allowing for hands-free pleasure and customisation. Rechargeable models ensure continuous use without the hassle of changing batteries.

Thrusting and Movement

Thrusting strap-ons simulate real penetration, increasing pleasure for both partners. Adjustable speeds and patterns allow you to tailor the experience.

Size Considerations

Big and giant models cater to experienced users looking for more filling sensations. Always prioritise safety, lubrication, and communication when exploring larger toys.

Cleaning and Maintenance

Proper cleaning extends the life of your strap-on and ensures safety:

  • Wash toys with warm water and mild soap or a dedicated toy cleaner.
  • Use condoms over the dildo if sharing or switching between anal and vaginal play.
  • Store toys in a clean, dry place away from direct sunlight.
  • Check for any damage or wear before use.

Final Thoughts

Strap-ons are versatile, empowering tools that can enhance intimacy, explore new sensations, and deepen connection between partners. Whether you're a beginner or an experienced user, understanding the different types—like hollow, vibrating, rechargeable, thrusting, big, or giant models—allows you to choose the perfect toy for your needs.

Remember, safety, communication, and comfort are the pillars of a positive experience. Start slow, use plenty of lubrication, and always prioritize hygiene. With the right knowledge and mindset, strap-on play can open new doors to pleasure and intimacy that you might not have explored before.

Happy exploring!

Disclaimer: Always choose body-safe, high-quality products from reputable sources. If you have any health concerns or experience discomfort, consult a healthcare professional.

Back to blog