In This Guide
What is a strap on?
A strap on is a wearable sexual device consisting of a harness (worn around the hips) and a dildo (attached to the harness at the front). The wearer — regardless of their body or anatomy — can use it for penetrative sex.
The core principle is simple: the harness holds a dildo in place against the wearer's pubic area, so the wearer can penetrate a partner using their whole body and hip movement, exactly as they would with a natural anatomy.
Strap ons are for everyone — any gender, any anatomy, any relationship configuration. That's the whole point.
Who uses strap ons?
Strap ons are used by a much wider range of people than most newcomers expect. Some common configurations:
- Lesbian and queer couples — penetrative sex between partners without a penis
- Couples with ED — a partner wears the strap on over or alongside their anatomy for penetrative sex
- Trans and non-binary couples — affirming, comfortable penetrative sex aligned with identity
- Heterosexual couples exploring pegging — a female partner wears the harness and penetrates a male partner
- Anyone who wants to try role reversal — the harness/dildo experience is genuinely different from any other sexual activity
Types of strap ons
Harness + dildo (most common)
A separate harness worn around the hips, with an O-ring or similar attachment that holds a compatible dildo. The dildo is removable — you can swap in different sizes, materials, or textures. The most versatile setup.
All-in-one sets
Harness and dildo sold together, usually designed to work as a matched pair. Simpler and cheaper entry point, but less flexible. Good for first-timers.
Strapless strap ons
A double-ended design — one end is inserted into the wearer's vagina (held by the PC muscles), the other end penetrates the partner. No harness required. Shared internal stimulation. Higher learning curve. Covered in our strapless guide.
Hollow strap ons
A hollow sleeve worn over the penis (or a flaccid penis) attached to a harness or ring. Used for ED support or when a wearer wants to add length/girth. See our ED guide for more.
The components: harness and dildo
The harness
The harness holds the dildo in place and transfers the wearer's hip movement to the dildo. A good harness is adjustable (fits multiple body sizes), comfortable for extended wear, and holds the dildo securely without shifting. Most use a central O-ring that the dildo base slots into.
The dildo
For harness use, the dildo must have a flared base that fits the harness O-ring. Most strap-on compatible dildos are clearly labelled as such. Material, size, and shape are personal preference — see our dildo selection guide for detail.
All-in-one kits with harness and dildo — everything you need in one package. Discreet delivery.
Choosing your first strap on
For a first purchase, simplicity wins. An all-in-one kit removes the decision of matching harness to dildo. Look for:
- Adjustable harness straps — bodies are different sizes, and the harness needs to sit snugly at the pubic area
- Silicone dildo — body-safe, easy to clean, works with water-based lube
- Modest dildo size — 5–6 inches is plenty for a first experience. You can always go larger; you can't unsurprise a partner
- Machine-washable harness — this is a quality-of-life improvement you'll appreciate
FAQ
Do I need a harness and a dildo, or can I buy them together?
Both options exist. All-in-one sets are simpler and cheaper. Separate harness + dildo gives you more flexibility to mix and match.
Does the dildo have to be phallic-shaped?
No. Harness-compatible dildos come in all shapes, colors, and textures. The only requirement is a flared base that fits the O-ring. Many couples prefer non-realistic shapes.
Does a strap on feel like anything for the wearer?
The harness presses against the pubic area, and the movement creates friction and pressure there. Some harnesses are designed with a pocket for a bullet vibrator to add direct stimulation. Strapless strap ons provide internal stimulation. Standard harnesses: modest sensation, but many wearers find the experience itself arousing.
How do I clean a strap on?
Silicone dildos: wash with soap and water, or boil (if no motor). Harnesses: most nylon/fabric harnesses are machine washable on gentle cycle. Leather harnesses: wipe with damp cloth.
Shop Strap Ons at Condom USA
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