Strapon Service: Your Go-To Guide for Curious Couples

Gareth Blythe 0

Most couples get curious about strapon service, but starting the conversation can feel weird. No one really teaches you how to bring it up, let alone how to actually try it out together. That’s the first thing you should know—curiosity is normal, and there’s nothing wrong with wanting to mix things up.

If you’re reading this, you probably have questions you’re too shy to ask. You’re not alone. Plenty of people wonder about everything from how to pick the right gear to what it even feels like. There’s no one-size-fits-all answer, but there are definitely ways to make the whole strapon thing fun and comfortable for both of you.

Whether you’re nervous, excited, or both, the key is to go step by step. Don’t just jump in without talking about what you both want. That takes out a lot of the awkward guesswork and actually makes things hotter. Want to know what gear works best or how to stay safe? Stick around. This guide covers the questions real couples have and skips the embarrassment.

What Is Strapon Service, Really?

Let’s clear up what strapon service really means. At its core, it’s when one partner uses a wearable harness with a dildo to give their partner penetration. Usually, but not always, it’s a woman wearing the strap-on and a man receiving, a setup often called pegging. But honestly, any gender combo can enjoy it if they want—there are no strict rules.

Strapon service isn’t just about the act itself; it’s about flipping the usual roles, exploring power dynamics, and building trust. Plenty of couples use it to shake up their sex life or satisfy curiosity about new sensations. For some, it’s about pleasure and trying something different; for others, it’s a chance to swap who’s in control. Sometimes it’s just about having fun together in a new way.

You might be surprised at how common it is. According to data from 2023 by the sex-toy retailer Lovehoney, sales of strapons and harnesses increased by more than 30% compared to the previous year. More people are talking openly about pegging and strapon play than ever before.

Strapon FactDid You Know?
First Strap-On PatentFiled in 1899 in the U.S.
Most Popular Harness TypeAdjustable, with O-ring—fits most body sizes
Average Time Couples Talk Before Trying3 to 6 months (per Lovehoney customer poll)

If you’re new to the idea, it can sound a bit intimidating, but it helps to know exactly what’s involved. A strapon harness holds a dildo in place, leaving the wearer’s hands free, so they can focus on other things—like balance, rhythm, or building a connection. Some harnesses are simple, others have extras for extra sensations, including vibrating functions.

  • Strapon service isn’t just a trend—it’s a way for couples to explore fantasies and build trust.
  • You’ll find options made for all bodies, all orientations, and all comfort levels.
  • Communication makes the difference between a good and an awkward or uncomfortable experience.

A lot of people try it at least once, then talk about how it totally changed their view of intimacy. If you’re considering giving it a shot, you’re definitely not alone—and you’ve got choices.

Why Couples Try It (and Love It)

So what’s behind the jump into strapon service? The reasons are more relatable than you might think, and it’s not just about sex—there’s a lot of curiosity, trust, and playfulness involved.

For a lot of couples, it’s about breaking out of the usual bedroom routine and seeing what another kind of pleasure feels like. Some just think it looks hot, while others like the idea of switching things up and exploring new power dynamics. When one person tries strapon play on their partner, it’s called pegging if the giver is female and the receiver is male, and it’s been talked about way more openly lately.

If we look at real numbers, interest in strapon play has shot up. A 2023 survey from a well-known adult retailer found that about 1 in 5 couples under 40 have tried or want to try some kind of strap-on or pegging play. That’s a massive leap compared to just a decade ago, when people barely talked about it at all.

Reason Couples Try It% Who Mentioned This
Curiosity and Exploration53%
Switching Roles/Power Play31%
Increased Intimacy24%
Trying Something Trendy16%

Besides the stats, people get serious benefits from trying. Here’s what couples mention most:

  • Better communication—because you’ve got to talk to make sure both of you are comfortable.
  • Feeling closer, since it takes trust to try something new together.
  • A big confidence boost for both partners—giving and receiving in new ways changes how you see each other (in a good way).

There are zero rules about who should or shouldn’t try it. What matters is that it’s something you both want to explore. For a growing number of couples, strapon service isn’t just a wild idea—it’s a real way to have fun and grow closer.

Choosing the Right Strapon Gear

Choosing the Right Strapon Gear

Finding the right strapon setup can make or break the experience for you and your partner. There's a ton of gear out there, but not every strap-on is made equal. The best gear depends on comfort, fit, and what you both want to try. Don't overthink it—start simple, and work your way up as you get more comfortable.

First, there are two main types of strap-on harnesses: strap-style and strapless. Strap-style (with buckles or Velcro) are more stable, while strapless types rely on squeezing muscles to stay in place. Most beginners start with the strap-style harness. Comfort matters more than you think, so many folks look for harnesses with adjustable straps and padded bases.

  • Strapon service kit basics usually include a harness and a dildo attachment. Pick a harness made from easy-to-clean materials like silicone, nylon, or vegan leather.
  • Dildo choices matter: silicone is body-safe, easy to sterilize, and doesn’t smell funny. Size isn’t everything—most newbies do better with slimmer, shorter shafts since these are easier to control.
  • If the person wearing the harness has a penis and wants extra sensation, try a harness with a hole for dual penetration or one designed for a vibrator.
  • Look for O-ring harnesses. These let you swap out the dildo for different sizes and shapes.
  • Fasteners like buckles are more durable, but Velcro is easier to adjust mid-action. Go with whatever feels less fussy to put on and take off.

A lot of people skip lube, but it’s a gamechanger. Always go for water-based lube—especially with silicone toys, since oil or silicone-based lubes can mess up the material. Don’t be shy about using a lot.

Here’s a quick stat check so you know you’re not alone in being picky about gear:

FeaturePreferred by Beginners (%)
Strap-style Harness76%
Silicone Dildo61%
Adjustable Straps68%
Padded Base54%
O-Ring Design59%

One last thing—clean your gear after every use. Hot water and mild soap usually do the trick for silicone and most harnesses. Some items can even go on the top rack of your dishwasher (just check the packaging). Keeping things clean isn’t just about hygiene; it helps your stuff last longer too.

If there’s one thing that can make or break your experience with strapon play, it’s how you talk about it. Before anything physical happens, you’ve got to be honest about what you want to try, what you’re worried about, and what your limits are. The awkward bit? Saying the words out loud. But honestly, the couples who talk openly about these things end up having way more fun and way fewer regrets.

Consent isn’t just a buzzword—it’s the bare minimum for any good experience, especially when trying something new like a strapon service. Both people should say what they do and don’t want, and remember, it’s okay to change your mind midway. Setting boundaries right from the start means no one feels pressured or nervous, and it builds trust (which makes everything better in the bedroom). Some couples even use safe words as a quick way to pause or stop if something feels off. It doesn’t have to be serious; some folks pick funny words just to keep the mood light.

Comfort ties into everything. This isn’t just about physical comfort, though that’s a big part—like going slow and using lots of lube. Emotional comfort matters too. If you’re both new to this, maybe start with just handling the gear together, or watching a how-to video before trying anything yourself. Checking in with each other throughout helps a ton. If something feels awkward or hurts, don’t push through—pause and regroup. There’s no gold medal for pretending to enjoy something that isn’t working for you.

  • Have an open talk before doing anything. Say what sounds good and what doesn’t.
  • Agree on a safe word—any word that’s easy to remember and use in the moment.
  • Check in during play, even if it feels a little silly. A simple “How’s this?” goes a long way.
  • If it’s the first time, go slow. Let your partner control the pace and say stop at any time.

Good communication, clear consent, and honest comfort checks aren’t just add-ons; they’re what make trying something new actually fun instead of awkward. You don’t have to get it perfect, just focus on being real with each other. That’s what makes new experiences enjoyable for both of you.

Top Tips for an Amazing Experience

Top Tips for an Amazing Experience

Getting the most out of strapon service isn’t about expensive gear or mastering complicated positions. The real magic comes from tuning in to each other. Here’s what works for most couples:

  • Communication before and during. Talk openly about boundaries and what you’re both excited or nervous about. Even a simple, "Let’s go slow" sets the tone for trust.
  • Lube isn’t optional. Silicone or water-based lubricants make everything way smoother and reduce any risk of pain or tearing.
  • Start small—literally. Beginners should use slim and flexible toys at first. Sex researcher Dr. Justin Lehmiller recommends, "Trying an entry-level harness and toy combo is way better than going big early."
  • Switch it up. Roles aren’t set in stone. If one of you wants to try being the receiver, swap when you’re both ready.
  • Clean gear after every use. Warm water and mild soap are your best friends here.

Don’t expect porn-level performances. Everyone fumbles their first few times. Actually, a Kinsey Institute study found that 82% of couples who talk during new bedroom experiences are more likely to keep exploring together.

“Great sex happens when both partners feel safe and supported. If you’re trying something new, checking in with each other every few minutes can turn nerves into excitement.” — Dr. Megan Fleming, Clinical Psychologist and Sex Therapist

A lot of couples ask how often they should switch things up, or even how common using a strapon really is. Here’s some interesting data you might not know:

QuestionAnswer
% of couples who try strapon play at least onceApprox. 25%
Reported increase in communication after trying63%
Most recommended lube typeWater-based

Treat this as a fun team adventure, not a test. Focusing on comfort, honesty, and consent goes way further than any fancy move or expensive toy. And remember, the goal is to connect and have fun together—don’t get stuck on the idea of "getting it perfect." If you stick to the basics and really tune in to your partner, you’ll both end up having a much better time. If you’re looking for more specific advice, plenty of sex therapists out there offer personalized coaching, so don’t be shy about asking for help.

And just one last thing: for your strapon service setup, take your time choosing the right fit for both comfort and confidence. That’s really what makes everything else fall into place.