When it comes to sexual practices that have gone from taboo to pretty much mainstream, pegging might be considered number one with a bullet. Between television shows, books and movies referencing it to the plethora of pegging sex toy kits available, there is no doubt pegging is having something of a moment. If you want to be a part of that moment, read on because we’re about to discuss the ins and outs, no pun intended (okay, some pun intended), of a particular, trendy piece of equipment used for one of today’s hottest sex acts!
Today, we’re talking all about the best realistic strap-ons for pegging! From what exactly pegging is to what a realistic strap-on is and why you might want one to what to consider to find the best one for you, it’s all right here. So, buckle in, folks! It’s time to talk about realistic strap-ons for pegging!
What Is Pegging?
Pegging is an anal sex act where the partner penetrating (i.e. pegging) wears a strap-on dildo.
Why is it called pegging? In 2001, sex columnist Dan Savage coined the term. He initially used it to reference cisgender women using strap-ons to penetrate the anuses of their cisgender male partners. The definition has expanded and become more inclusive over the last two decades. Now, the term ‘pegging’ can be applied to any sexual configuration where one partner dons a strap-on dildo and anally penetrates another.
What do you Need for Pegging?
Pegging requires three things: a dildo or penetrative toy, a harness that can hold that dildo or toy, and lubricant. We refer to the combination of a dildo and a harness as a “strap-on“. You can buy the two pieces separately or in sets together. You have tons of options for dildo size and shape, but today we’re focusing specifically on realistic dildos – ones that look (and feel) like real penises.
Why a Realistic Strap-on?
Dildos (and consequently, strap-ons) come in all sorts of shapes and sizes, from ones that look just like replica penises to completely smooth probes to fantasy shapes like tentacles.
Some folks like realistic strap-ons because it is the closest they can come to having a penis of their own, others like them because of the sensations they provide, and others like them for aesthetic purposes. Whatever the reason, realistic strap-ons can be a lot of fun. Imagine being able to pick out a penis that never gets soft, can be as big or as small as you want and can come with all the things you’d enjoy about a real live penis, like veiny texture and a yummy curve, but it’s purple– that’s a realistic strap-on!
When discussing realism in dildos, we talk about both look and feel. Lifelike dildos are achieved via design– beautifully detailed dildos created with attention to detail– and via the use of materials that feel realistic which can include super-soft TPE-type materials or, increasingly, dual-density silicone that mimics the “soft over hard” sensation that can come from touching a real erect penis.
If that all sounds good, let’s talk about some things you want to consider when shopping for your own realistic strap-on.
Things to Consider When Shopping for a Realistic Strap-On
À la carte or as a set?
When shopping for pegging supplies, you can buy your harness and dildo separately, but picking a strap-on set can be a convenient and cost-effective option. Something like the PinkCherry Ride On, Ride On Harness & Strap-On is excellent for pegging beginners as it provides a comfortable harness along with a slim silicone dildo perfect for easing your way into pegging with a budget-friendly price tag.
How big should it be?
You want to think about both length and thickness. The person being penetrated should definitely be part of the decision-making process.
In terms of thickness, it is a good idea to aim for a slimmer dildo (like the one that comes with the Vibrating Slender Penis Harness) if you’re a pegging newcomer. Many realistic dildos include pronounced heads and veins that make for a thicker feel, even on a thinner shaft.
When it comes to length, it can be helpful to err on the side of longer. Why? Typically, the harness eats up an inch or two at the toy’s base. Plus, if a dildo is too long, the person doing the penetrating can always hold back a bit, but if it’s too short, there’s not much to be done. So, when in doubt, aim a little longer.
What material is it made of?
In this case, you need to keep two things in mind: the dildo’s material and the harness’s material(s).
In terms of the dildo, you’ll have a ton of choices. Silicone is my top recommendation as it is non-porous, hypoallergenic, smooth, and durable. Plus, dual-density silicone toys with a soft outer layer covering a firm inner core offer a realistic feel.
If you want a toy that feels like skin, a TPE-based material like Ultraskyn might be the way to go. This material requires a little more maintenance, but it’s soft, flexible, and lifelike.
You also have to consider what material your harness should be made of. You have options here:
Leather (real or vegan): For softness, durability and sex appeal combined, this is a great pick. It’s not the easiest to clean, though.
Nylon: On the other hand, nylon is easy to clean while still durable but probably the least sexy (looking) option.
Polyester: This is the most low-maintenance and versatile of the harness material options. All sorts of different harnesses are made with it.
Note: many harnesses feature metal elements. Look for ones that specify they are nickel-free, as many folks have skin sensitivities that result in rashes when exposed to nickel.
Whatever material you go with, make sure your harness is comfortable. Pegging can be physically challenging, so ensure your harness fits comfortably without chafing. Look for an adjustable and padded one, especially in the groin and thigh areas.
Is it versatile?
Yes, you want a kick-ass strap-on, but wouldn’t it be great if you also had a versatile dildo and harness? For example, dildos with suction cup bases are harness-compatible and great for solo play, while harnesses with O-rings can accommodate various dildos.
Do you want extras?
These days, sex toys come with all sorts of bells and whistles. What does this mean in this context? Well, there are hollow strap-ons that allow folks with penises to augment their unit with a little something extra, strap-ons that vibrate, strap-ons with a bullet vibe pocket in the harness, strap-ons that feature a smaller shaft on the harness end so the wearer can also be penetrated and things like the 3 PC Strap On Pegging Set that come with an ultra-realistic vibrating dildo, a slim, non-vibrating anal penetrator, and a versatile harness. If you want a little something extra with your strap-on, it’s an option.
I know there’s a chance that giving you all that to think about made the decision feel overwhelming. Fear not; now we’ll talk about how to zero in on the ideal realistic strap-on for you.
How to Pick the Ideal Realistic Strap On
There’s a lot to think about, but the good news is that that can work in your favor! Use these criteria to narrow the field and find your perfect realistic strap-on:
- Budget: You always want to head into sex toy shopping knowing how much money you want to spend. A super easy way to narrow the field is to rule out things that fall outside your budget.
- Features: If you want your strap-on to do something cool (vibrate, thrust, glow-in-the-dark), that might rule out many strap-ons that don’t do that thing.
- Material: We discussed this earlier, and knowing which materials you’d prefer for your harness and dildo will get you closer to finding the right combo.
- Size: This is a big one that will rule out a whole lot of dildos, but also, don’t forget to take harness sizes and adjustability into account. Harness comfort is super-important.
- Aesthetics: As you start narrowing it down, you can begin to weed things out based on appearance. Torn between two pegging sets, but one comes in a cooler color? Done!
Once you’ve found the right realistic strap-on, don’t forget to grab some lube before heading home to embark on your pegging adventure! PinkCherry has a vast selection of harnesses, dildos, and lube for a safe and sexy pegging experience!