This article originally ran in the June 2015 issue of AVN magazine. Click here to see the magazine online.
There is probably no better time to introduce strap-ons to customers than International Strap-On Week, which this year takes place June 15-22. Adult retailers Good Vibrations started #StrapWeek in 2013 to raise awareness about the joys of strap-on sex for all types of couples.
To mark the week, Good Vibrations has published articles about everything from “How To Choose a Strap-On Dildo Harness” to “Strap-On Sex With A Male Partner” on their website, as well as hosted workshops in the years since the debut of #StrapWeek.
And as strap-ons have gained in popularity in recent years, more and more manufacturers are creating their own collections and systems to capitalize on the increased interest. Among the manufacturers and their top strap-ons are many standouts, detailed below.
Aslan Leather and Orgasmatronics
Aslan and Orgasmatronics have teamed up to release the Handsolo, a custom harness that allows users to enjoy their X1s hands free and in high style. With the Handsolo, users report that the X1 feels even more similar to the Sybian—but at a fraction of the price (and in a stylish package). Since its 2012 debut, the Orgasmatronics X1 Orgasmatron has been making waves with its high-powered pleasure system that packs the force of a Sybian into a discreet, handheld package.
California Exotic Novelties
CalExotics’ 10-Function Silicone Love Rider collection features premium, soft, silicone probes, dongs, and vibes. The harnesses are durable and sized-right. Powerful levels of vibrations and intense functions make Love Rider a brand that can be stocked with confidence. The manufacturer also makes a Dual Harness, offering stimulation to the wearer, and its Scandal collection of BDSM gear includes various harness styles, include a Thong Harness.
Doc Johnson
The Vac-U-Lock line of unisex Ultra Harnesses, realistic dongs, and matching attachments and accessories has been a staple since its inception, and the diverse products give retailers and shoppers enough choice to keep them reordering for years to come. All Vac-U-Lock packaging features a prominent number and color code on the box, signifying whether the item is a Complete Set (1), an Attachment (2), or an Accessory (3). Vac-U-Lock is among the world’s first patented harness systems, offering endless possibilities for your customers to embrace their fantasies—and one can be fulfilled with the James Deen UR3 Cock, part of the Vac-U-Lock series. (And speaking of James Deen, AVN's 2015 Mainstream Star of the Year is now writing a column, "What Would James Do," for TheFrisky.com, and a recent topic was ... “My Boyfriend Wants Me To Peg Him! Got Any Tips?” Deen indeed offered so good tips—read them here.)
Heeldo
The Heeldo is a neoprene harness that comes in several sizes (small and medium for women, and large and extra large for men) and has three O-rings (two stainless steel, one rubber) to attach practically any type of dildo to the foot. The unit works in two positions, the rear heel position and the bottom heel position, so the dildo can be used for self-pleasuring or couple’s play. The unit is also capable of holding an anal plug, provided it is O-ring compatible.
Liberator
Liberator’s Valkyrie collection gives the practicality of a harness with a ton of pin-up flair. The Valkyrie line has all the femininity and all the control needed to enjoy strap-on play with a partner. A feminine top is the subject of many people’s fantasies the world over, and this is a fine accessory. In an array of colors and prints offered nowhere else, Liberator Valkyrie stands out. Soft, washable spandex will fit perfectly in the panty drawer; it’s sexy without the hardware that gets between lovers. This is an innovative panty that functions just like a strap-on harness with enough support to get the job done when users choose the right size. And it holds toys up to 2 inches in diameter.
Nasstoys
Nasstoys carries three strap-on harness designs, designed to accommodate all types of bodies, regardless of gender. Both Harness the Revolt and Harness the Moment strap-ons are compatible with almost any dong in a person’s toy collection, but are made to work best with Nasstoys Whoppers or Lifelikes collections. Savvy retailers will do well to stock these new harnesses next to where these dongs are currently located in stores.
NS Novelties
NS Novelties offers the Fusion Pleasure Dongs and the Fusion Strap-On Harness. The non-phallic, phthalate-free and body-safe dongs are available in three unique shapes that complement the body’s curves. Fusion dongs are formulated to deliver a firm shaft for easy penetration, yet supply enough flexibility to glide against all of your hot spots.
Pipedream Products
Pipedream Products offers a number of strap-on styles, including the Fetish Fantasy Gold First Time Vibrating Strap-On Set. And the Fetish Fantasy Hollow Strap-On collection offers a solution for clients with ED. Men can say goodbye to embarrassing midway letdowns, while styles with an extra shaft allows a partner to experience the thrill of double penetration without involving a third party. The hollow dildo is made from super strong PVC, making it sturdy enough for women to wear as well.
SpareParts HardWear
SpareParts HardWear creates beautiful and stylish harnesses, versatile and suitable for a variety of uses and types of functionality. The harnesses are fashionable, sexy, and comfortable; each and every harness is hand crafted using high-quality materials. SpareParts HardWear makes harnesses to suit the wearer, whatever the size or shape. Proprietary to SpareParts is the company’s revolutionary fit instructional video, which allows wearers to properly select the proper fit not only to match a numerical clothing size but also their individual body shape.
Sportsheets
The Sportsheets Plus line is adjustable; its four-way straps fit sizes 12-30 and it adjusts to hip sizes up to 72 inches. The new product line currently features several SKUs including regular strap-on harnesses as well as the Doggie Style Strap. According to the company, the line is growing and new products are in development since demand has gone up.
Tantus
Made for optimal comfort and fit, the Tantus Connoisseur Harness Line consists of five opulently designed, high-quality leather harnesses, consisting of elements that improve functionality, comfort, and performance. Tantus is, yet again, sticking it to the man.
Topco Sales
True to its name, the Universal Harness offers a unisex design that can be used with most strap-on accessories. Topco’s E-Z Snap-Lock keeps everything in place, and the waist size can be adjusted from 19 inches to 45 inches. The black, velvet-soft faux suede backing is washable.
XR Brands
XR Brands is now officially shipping the full line of Strap U strap-on harnesses, bringing retailers a mid-level collection composed of 10 different styles for every sexual level and interest. Its color-coded packaging system makes it easy to find beginner, intermediate and advanced options each with quality construction and comfortable designs that appeal to even the most discerning harness user. The Strap U line ranges from inexpensive pieces for couples exploring pegging to higher-end durable systems with lingerie-like detailing.
Pictured above from left, Pipedream's Fetish Fantasy Gold First Time Vibrating Strap-On Set; the Thong Harness from California Exotic Novelties' Scandal collection; a Doc Johnson harness from the Black Rose collection, compatible wiht its Vac-U-Lock strap-on system.
