Complete Strapon Equipment Buying Guide: Choose the Perfect Gear
Choosing the right strapon equipment can make the difference between an amazing experience and a disappointing one. This comprehensive buying guide covers everything you need to know to select the perfect gear for your needs, experience level, and budget.
Understanding Your Needs
Before diving into specific products, it's important to understand your unique needs and preferences. Consider these factors:
**Experience Level:** - Beginners need different equipment than experienced users - Start with simpler, more forgiving options - Advanced users can handle more complex or specialized equipment
**Intended Use:** - Frequency of use affects durability requirements - Type of play (gentle vs. intense) influences material choices - Solo vs. partner use may affect size and feature preferences
**Physical Considerations:** - Body size and shape affect harness fit - Comfort preferences vary between individuals - Any physical limitations or sensitivities
**Budget:** - Quality equipment is an investment in your pleasure and safety - Consider cost per use over time - Factor in accessories and maintenance costs
Harness Selection Guide
The harness is the foundation of your strapon setup, and choosing the right one is crucial for comfort, stability, and enjoyment.
**Jock-Style Harnesses:** These harnesses feature a waistband with straps that go around the thighs, similar to a jockstrap design.
*Pros:* - Excellent stability and control - Minimal coverage allows for easy access to other areas - Generally more affordable - Easy to put on and adjust
*Cons:* - May dig into thighs during extended use - Less coverage may not appeal to everyone - Can shift during vigorous activity
*Best For:* Beginners, those who prioritize stability, budget-conscious buyers
**Brief-Style Harnesses:** These provide more coverage, similar to underwear, with attachment points for dildos.
*Pros:* - More comfortable for extended wear - Better weight distribution - More coverage can be psychologically appealing - Often include pockets for vibrators
*Cons:* - Can be more expensive - May retain heat and moisture - Can be more complex to put on
*Best For:* Extended sessions, those who prefer more coverage, users who want additional features
**Corset-Style Harnesses:** These combine functionality with aesthetic appeal, often featuring lacing or decorative elements.
*Pros:* - Visually appealing and sexy - Can enhance the psychological aspects of play - Often very well-made and durable - May include additional features like breast support
*Cons:* - Usually more expensive - Can be time-consuming to put on - May prioritize appearance over pure functionality
*Best For:* Those who value aesthetics, special occasions, experienced users
**Strapless Harnesses:** These rely on internal retention rather than straps, with one end inserted into the wearer.
*Pros:* - No straps or buckles - Can provide stimulation to the wearer - Minimal visual obstruction - Can feel more "natural"
*Cons:* - Requires strong pelvic floor muscles - Less stable than strap-on varieties - Not suitable for vigorous activity - Requires more experience to use effectively
*Best For:* Experienced users, those with strong pelvic floor muscles, gentle play
Dildo Selection Criteria
Choosing the right dildo is just as important as selecting the proper harness. Consider these factors:
**Size Considerations:** *Length:* - Beginners: 4-6 inches - Intermediate: 6-8 inches - Advanced: 8+ inches - Remember that too long can be uncomfortable
*Diameter:* - Beginners: 1-1.25 inches - Intermediate: 1.25-1.5 inches - Advanced: 1.5+ inches - Girth often matters more than length
**Shape and Design:** *Straight Dildos:* - Simple and versatile - Good for beginners - Easy to clean and maintain - Usually more affordable
*Curved Dildos:* - Designed for prostate or G-spot stimulation - More targeted stimulation - May require more skill to use effectively - Often preferred by experienced users
*Realistic Dildos:* - Designed to look like actual anatomy - Can enhance psychological aspects - Often include textural details - May be more expensive
*Abstract Designs:* - Focus on function over appearance - Often feature unique textures or shapes - Can provide different sensations - May be more comfortable for some users
Material Guide
The material of your dildo is crucial for safety, comfort, and durability.
**Medical-Grade Silicone:** *Pros:* - Completely body-safe - Non-porous and easy to sterilize - Flexible and comfortable - Available in various firmness levels - Compatible with water-based lubricants
*Cons:* - Not compatible with silicone-based lubricants - Can be more expensive - May attract lint and dust
*Best For:* Everyone, especially beginners and safety-conscious users
**Borosilicate Glass:** *Pros:* - Completely non-porous and sterilizable - Can be used for temperature play - Very smooth surface - Compatible with all lubricants - Easy to clean
*Cons:* - Can break if dropped - May be too firm for some users - Limited flexibility - Can be expensive
*Best For:* Experienced users, those interested in temperature play
**Medical-Grade Stainless Steel:** *Pros:* - Completely sterilizable - Excellent for temperature play - Very durable - Smooth surface - Compatible with all lubricants
*Cons:* - Very firm, not suitable for everyone - Can be expensive - Heavy weight - Limited design options
*Best For:* Advanced users, those who enjoy firm stimulation
**High-Quality TPE (Thermoplastic Elastomer):** *Pros:* - More affordable than silicone - Soft and flexible - Can be very realistic - Compatible with most lubricants
*Cons:* - Slightly porous, harder to sterilize completely - May degrade over time - Quality varies significantly between manufacturers - Some may contain harmful chemicals
*Best For:* Budget-conscious users who verify product safety
Sizing and Fit
**Harness Sizing:** Proper harness fit is crucial for comfort and functionality: - Measure your waist and hips accurately - Consider that you may wear the harness over clothing or lingerie - Look for adjustable options that can accommodate size changes - Check weight limits if applicable
**Dildo Compatibility:** Ensure your chosen dildo is compatible with your harness: - Check the attachment mechanism (O-ring size, snap-in system, etc.) - Verify weight limits - Consider the dildo's base design - Some harnesses work better with certain dildo shapes
Budget Considerations
**Entry-Level Budget ($50-100):** - Basic jock-style harness - Simple silicone dildo - Essential lubricant and cleaner - Focus on safety over features
**Mid-Range Budget ($100-250):** - Higher-quality harness with better materials - Multiple dildo options - Additional accessories like extra O-rings - Better lubricants and cleaning products
**Premium Budget ($250+):** - Top-tier harnesses with advanced features - Multiple high-end dildos - Specialized accessories and storage - Professional-grade lubricants and cleaners
Essential Accessories
**O-Rings:** - Multiple sizes for different dildos - Replacement rings for wear and tear - Different materials (rubber, silicone, metal)
**Lubricants:** - High-quality water-based for silicone toys - Silicone-based for non-silicone toys - Specialized anal lubricants if applicable
**Cleaning Supplies:** - Antibacterial toy cleaner - Microfiber cloths - Storage bags or containers
**Comfort Accessories:** - Padding for harnesses - Disposable covers - Towels and cleanup supplies
Brand Recommendations
**Premium Brands:** - SpareParts: Known for excellent harnesses - Tantus: High-quality silicone dildos - Fun Factory: Innovative designs and materials - Vixen Creations: Realistic and high-quality options
**Mid-Range Brands:** - Sportsheets: Good value harnesses - Blush Novelties: Wide variety of options - CalExotics: Affordable with decent quality - Doc Johnson: Established brand with many options
**Budget-Friendly Options:** - Pipedream: Basic but functional options - XR Brands: Affordable starter sets - Various generic brands: Check safety certifications
Shopping Tips
**Where to Buy:** - Reputable online retailers with good return policies - Local adult boutiques with knowledgeable staff - Manufacturer websites for authenticity - Avoid questionable websites or extremely cheap options
**What to Look For:** - Clear material safety information - Good customer reviews - Detailed product descriptions - Warranty or return policies - Customer service availability
**Red Flags:** - Extremely low prices that seem too good to be true - Lack of material safety information - Poor customer reviews mentioning safety issues - No return policy or customer service
Maintenance and Care
**Cleaning:** - Clean before and after each use - Use appropriate cleaners for each material - Allow to dry completely before storage - Deep clean periodically
**Storage:** - Store in clean, dry locations - Avoid storing different materials together - Consider individual storage bags - Keep away from extreme temperatures
**Replacement Schedule:** - Inspect regularly for wear or damage - Replace O-rings as they wear out - Replace toys that show signs of degradation - Upgrade harnesses as they wear or your needs change
Special Considerations
**For Beginners:** - Start with smaller, simpler options - Prioritize comfort and ease of use - Consider starter kits that include multiple components - Don't be afraid to upgrade as you gain experience
**For Experienced Users:** - Consider specialized features and advanced materials - Look for unique shapes or textures - Invest in higher-quality, more durable options - Consider multiple setups for different types of play
**For Couples:** - Consider both partners' preferences and comfort - Look for options that provide stimulation for both partners - Consider aesthetic preferences alongside functionality - Plan for different types of play and scenarios
Conclusion
Choosing the right strapon equipment is a personal journey that depends on your individual needs, preferences, and experience level. The key is to prioritize safety, comfort, and quality while staying within your budget.
Remember that this is an investment in your pleasure and satisfaction. Quality equipment will last longer, perform better, and provide safer experiences. Don't be afraid to start with basic options and upgrade as you discover your preferences and gain experience.
Take time to research, read reviews, and consider your specific needs. The perfect strapon setup is out there for everyone - it's just a matter of finding what works best for you and your partner.
Most importantly, remember that the best equipment is the equipment you'll actually use and enjoy. Focus on finding gear that makes you feel confident, comfortable, and excited about your strapon adventures.