Strap-On Harness – The Foundation for Hands-Free Pleasure
What Is a Strap-On Harness?
A strap-on harness forms the “beating heart” and the foundation of your pegging experience. It’s the wearable system you fasten around your hips or waist, acting as the stable connection between your body and the dildo. Without a harness, attachment isn’t possible – unless you opt for a strapless strap-on.
The main purpose of a harness is to create a hands-free experience. This gives the wearer full freedom of movement to caress their partner with both hands or shift into different positions, while hip movements are directly translated into penetration. A well-fitted harness provides control and stability – essential to prevent the dildo from slipping and to allow precise thrusting motions.
Types and Systems: Choosing the Right Strap-On Harness
Not every harness works the same way. The best choice for you depends on what you're looking for: maximum stability for more intense sessions, comfort for longer wear, or a purely aesthetic option. Here are the key differences:
1. The O-Ring System: Universal and Versatile
The most common attachment system for harnesses is the O-ring — a ring (usually made from metal, rubber or silicone) located at the front of the harness, through which the dildo is inserted.
Interchangeability:
The biggest advantage of this system is that you can swap out dildos. As long as the dildo’s diameter matches the ring, you can freely switch between different lengths, widths and textures without having to buy a new harness.
Suitable Dildos:
For this system, you’ll need a dildo with a wide base (flared base) or a suction cup to prevent it from slipping through the ring during use.
Double Rings:
For adventurous couples, there are harnesses with two rings placed side by side or one above the other — ideal for double penetration or simultaneous stimulation.
2. Wearing Styles: From Sporty to Lingerie
The design of a harness influences not only its look but also the level of control and comfort it offers.
Jockstrap & Classic Harness
This is the most popular choice for anyone seeking stability and control. The design features sturdy, adjustable straps around the waist and buttocks/thighs. Because this type of harness holds the dildo very close to the body, it is ideal for powerful thrusting and more intense pegging sessions.
Underwear Style (Boxers & Briefs)
These models resemble traditional underwear or boxer shorts and provide a high level of comfort. They are perfect for beginners or for those who want to wear the dildo for extended periods (e.g. for “packing”, the daily wear of a penile prosthesis). For people experiencing gender dysphoria, this style can contribute to gender euphoria, as the dildo feels more like a natural part of the body. Note: Since fabric has more give than leather, it can sometimes be advisable to choose a smaller size to ensure enough resistance and a secure fit.
Lingerie & Design
Brands like Strap-On-Me combine functionality with seduction. These harnesses are designed like luxurious lingerie, often made from lace or fine fabrics. They look less “clinical” than classic leather straps and are considered an erotic accessory in their own right.
String & Thong
These styles offer minimal coverage for a particularly sexy appearance. However, they provide less stability than jockstraps and are therefore better suited for foreplay or gentler penetration.
Material Choices: Comfort and Durability
The material not only affects how the harness feels against the skin but also how much support it provides during use.
Leather and Faux Leather
The preferred choice for anyone seeking maximum stability and control. Leather is durable, offers the firmness needed to keep heavier dildos securely in place, and gradually moulds comfortably to the body. Faux leather is often easier to clean with a damp cloth.
Nylon and Polyester
These synthetic materials are lightweight, highly adjustable and often more affordable — making them ideal for beginners. They are easy to maintain, although they may provide slightly less rigid support compared to leather.
Textile and Lingerie Style
Harnesses made from soft fabrics (such as cotton, lace or microfibre) feel like regular underwear. They are perfect for longer wear (“packing”) and offer a softer, more aesthetic look. Many of these fabric models can easily be cleaned in the washing machine.
Rubber and Latex
For those who enjoy specific fetish styles or want maximum hygiene, rubber and latex are excellent options. They are extremely durable and easy to rinse — ideal for frequent or intense use.
Silicone
Although silicone is primarily used for dildos, some modern harnesses or strapless systems are made entirely from ultra-soft, phthalate-free silicone. This offers outstanding comfort and great hygiene.
Tips: How to Get the Most Out of Your Harness
Using a harness can feel a little unfamiliar at first. With the right preparation and adjustment, you can ensure it not only sits comfortably, but also feels like a natural extension of your body. Here are our most important tips:
1. The “One-Finger Rule”
A properly adjusted harness is essential for control. If it’s too loose, the dildo will wobble; if it’s too tight, it may dig into the skin. Use the one-finger rule: exactly one finger should fit comfortably between the strap and your body. If two fingers fit, it’s too loose. If no finger fits, loosen it slightly to avoid discomfort.
2. Practice Makes Perfect (Solo Use)
Don’t jump straight into bed with your partner if it’s your first time. Wear the harness and dildo at home on your own first, so you can get used to the weight and movement. Masturbating with the harness can also help you form a mental connection with your new “body part”.
3. Lubricant Is Essential
Since a silicone dildo doesn’t produce natural moisture, lubricant is crucial for a comfortable experience.
Material:
Always use a water-based lubricant with silicone dildos and O-rings. Silicone- or oil-based lubricants can damage both the dildo and the harness rings.
Amount:
Be generous with the application to avoid friction. For anal play (pegging), a thicker, specialised lubricant is recommended for extra comfort. We offer dedicated anal lubricants.
4. The Golden Rule
Never switch directly from anal to vaginal penetration without thoroughly cleaning the dildo. Bacteria from the intestines can cause severe vaginal infections.
Cleaning:
Clean the dildo and O-ring before and after every use with warm water and toy cleaner or mild soap.
Harness Care:
Pay attention to the material of your harness. Fabric models can often go into the washing machine, while leather and faux leather should be cleaned with a damp cloth and, if needed, a specialised leather cleaner.
5. Positions for Beginners
New to using a harness? Start with positions that offer stability. Doggy style or missionary are ideal beginner-friendly positions.
Frequently Asked Questions About Strap-On Harnesses
What Is a “Packer” and Which Harness Is Suitable for Packing?
A packer (also called a “penis packer”) is a prosthetic, usually shaped like a soft penis, designed to mimic the volume and appearance of a flaccid genitalia.
Packing: This refers to wearing the prosthesis under clothing throughout the day. It is commonly used by trans men or non-binary individuals to experience gender euphoria or to reduce gender dysphoria.
The right harness: For packing, underwear-style harnesses (boxers or briefs) are the best choice. These models fit comfortably like regular underwear, are discreet, and keep the packer securely in place throughout the day.
Can I Use Any Dildo With a Separate Harness?
Almost any dildo can be used as long as it is compatible with the harness’s O-ring system.
The dildo: It should have a wide base (flared base) or a suction cup to prevent it from slipping through the ring during use.
How Do I Know if the Harness Fits Properly?
Follow the “one-finger rule”: exactly one finger should fit easily between the strap and your body. If two fingers fit, it’s too loose and you’ll lose stability. If no finger fits, it’s too tight and may dig into the skin. Also ensure the straps do not rub directly over your hip bones.
Are Harnesses Suitable for Men?
Absolutely. There are harnesses specifically designed for men or people with penises. They are often used with a hollow dildo, which can serve as an extension, offer additional girth, or assist with erection difficulties. Men can also use harnesses for pegging, role reversal, or for double-penetration play if the harness is equipped with the necessary rings.
How Do I Clean My Harness?
Leather and faux leather:
Wipe with a damp cloth and mild soap or toy cleaner. Never submerge leather in water.
Textile (underwear style):
Many models can be washed in the washing machine (often in a laundry bag). Always check the care label.
Nylon/synthetic materials:
Usually cleaned with warm water and antibacterial soap.
Ready to Take Control?
Now you know that the right harness is the essential foundation for your pleasure. Whether you’re after the firm stability of leather for more intense play or the soft comfort of textile for packing — at NovusEros you’ll find the quality that suits your needs.
Order your ideal harness today and enjoy free shipping from €80 along with our discreet delivery service.
Other categories in Dildos & Dongs
Strap-On Harness – The Foundation for Hands-Free Pleasure
What Is a Strap-On Harness?
A strap-on harness forms the “beating heart” and the foundation of your pegging experience. It’s the wearable system you fasten around your hips or waist, acting as the stable connection between your body and the dildo. Without a harness, attachment isn’t possible – unless you opt for a strapless strap-on.
The main purpose of a harness is to create a hands-free experience. This gives the wearer full freedom of movement to caress their partner with both hands or shift into different positions, while hip movements are directly translated into penetration. A well-fitted harness provides control and stability – essential to prevent the dildo from slipping and to allow precise thrusting motions.
Types and Systems: Choosing the Right Strap-On Harness
Not every harness works the same way. The best choice for you depends on what you're looking for: maximum stability for more intense sessions, comfort for longer wear, or a purely aesthetic option. Here are the key differences:
1. The O-Ring System: Universal and Versatile
The most common attachment system for harnesses is the O-ring — a ring (usually made from metal, rubber or silicone) located at the front of the harness, through which the dildo is inserted.
Interchangeability:
The biggest advantage of this system is that you can swap out dildos. As long as the dildo’s diameter matches the ring, you can freely switch between different lengths, widths and textures without having to buy a new harness.
Suitable Dildos:
For this system, you’ll need a dildo with a wide base (flared base) or a suction cup to prevent it from slipping through the ring during use.
Double Rings:
For adventurous couples, there are harnesses with two rings placed side by side or one above the other — ideal for double penetration or simultaneous stimulation.
2. Wearing Styles: From Sporty to Lingerie
The design of a harness influences not only its look but also the level of control and comfort it offers.
Jockstrap & Classic Harness
This is the most popular choice for anyone seeking stability and control. The design features sturdy, adjustable straps around the waist and buttocks/thighs. Because this type of harness holds the dildo very close to the body, it is ideal for powerful thrusting and more intense pegging sessions.
Underwear Style (Boxers & Briefs)
These models resemble traditional underwear or boxer shorts and provide a high level of comfort. They are perfect for beginners or for those who want to wear the dildo for extended periods (e.g. for “packing”, the daily wear of a penile prosthesis). For people experiencing gender dysphoria, this style can contribute to gender euphoria, as the dildo feels more like a natural part of the body. Note: Since fabric has more give than leather, it can sometimes be advisable to choose a smaller size to ensure enough resistance and a secure fit.
Lingerie & Design
Brands like Strap-On-Me combine functionality with seduction. These harnesses are designed like luxurious lingerie, often made from lace or fine fabrics. They look less “clinical” than classic leather straps and are considered an erotic accessory in their own right.
String & Thong
These styles offer minimal coverage for a particularly sexy appearance. However, they provide less stability than jockstraps and are therefore better suited for foreplay or gentler penetration.
Material Choices: Comfort and Durability
The material not only affects how the harness feels against the skin but also how much support it provides during use.
Leather and Faux Leather
The preferred choice for anyone seeking maximum stability and control. Leather is durable, offers the firmness needed to keep heavier dildos securely in place, and gradually moulds comfortably to the body. Faux leather is often easier to clean with a damp cloth.
Nylon and Polyester
These synthetic materials are lightweight, highly adjustable and often more affordable — making them ideal for beginners. They are easy to maintain, although they may provide slightly less rigid support compared to leather.
Textile and Lingerie Style
Harnesses made from soft fabrics (such as cotton, lace or microfibre) feel like regular underwear. They are perfect for longer wear (“packing”) and offer a softer, more aesthetic look. Many of these fabric models can easily be cleaned in the washing machine.
Rubber and Latex
For those who enjoy specific fetish styles or want maximum hygiene, rubber and latex are excellent options. They are extremely durable and easy to rinse — ideal for frequent or intense use.
Silicone
Although silicone is primarily used for dildos, some modern harnesses or strapless systems are made entirely from ultra-soft, phthalate-free silicone. This offers outstanding comfort and great hygiene.
Tips: How to Get the Most Out of Your Harness
Using a harness can feel a little unfamiliar at first. With the right preparation and adjustment, you can ensure it not only sits comfortably, but also feels like a natural extension of your body. Here are our most important tips:
1. The “One-Finger Rule”
A properly adjusted harness is essential for control. If it’s too loose, the dildo will wobble; if it’s too tight, it may dig into the skin. Use the one-finger rule: exactly one finger should fit comfortably between the strap and your body. If two fingers fit, it’s too loose. If no finger fits, loosen it slightly to avoid discomfort.
2. Practice Makes Perfect (Solo Use)
Don’t jump straight into bed with your partner if it’s your first time. Wear the harness and dildo at home on your own first, so you can get used to the weight and movement. Masturbating with the harness can also help you form a mental connection with your new “body part”.
3. Lubricant Is Essential
Since a silicone dildo doesn’t produce natural moisture, lubricant is crucial for a comfortable experience.
Material:
Always use a water-based lubricant with silicone dildos and O-rings. Silicone- or oil-based lubricants can damage both the dildo and the harness rings.
Amount:
Be generous with the application to avoid friction. For anal play (pegging), a thicker, specialised lubricant is recommended for extra comfort. We offer dedicated anal lubricants.
4. The Golden Rule
Never switch directly from anal to vaginal penetration without thoroughly cleaning the dildo. Bacteria from the intestines can cause severe vaginal infections.
Cleaning:
Clean the dildo and O-ring before and after every use with warm water and toy cleaner or mild soap.
Harness Care:
Pay attention to the material of your harness. Fabric models can often go into the washing machine, while leather and faux leather should be cleaned with a damp cloth and, if needed, a specialised leather cleaner.
5. Positions for Beginners
New to using a harness? Start with positions that offer stability. Doggy style or missionary are ideal beginner-friendly positions.
Frequently Asked Questions About Strap-On Harnesses
What Is a “Packer” and Which Harness Is Suitable for Packing?
A packer (also called a “penis packer”) is a prosthetic, usually shaped like a soft penis, designed to mimic the volume and appearance of a flaccid genitalia.
Packing: This refers to wearing the prosthesis under clothing throughout the day. It is commonly used by trans men or non-binary individuals to experience gender euphoria or to reduce gender dysphoria.
The right harness: For packing, underwear-style harnesses (boxers or briefs) are the best choice. These models fit comfortably like regular underwear, are discreet, and keep the packer securely in place throughout the day.
Can I Use Any Dildo With a Separate Harness?
Almost any dildo can be used as long as it is compatible with the harness’s O-ring system.
The dildo: It should have a wide base (flared base) or a suction cup to prevent it from slipping through the ring during use.
How Do I Know if the Harness Fits Properly?
Follow the “one-finger rule”: exactly one finger should fit easily between the strap and your body. If two fingers fit, it’s too loose and you’ll lose stability. If no finger fits, it’s too tight and may dig into the skin. Also ensure the straps do not rub directly over your hip bones.
Are Harnesses Suitable for Men?
Absolutely. There are harnesses specifically designed for men or people with penises. They are often used with a hollow dildo, which can serve as an extension, offer additional girth, or assist with erection difficulties. Men can also use harnesses for pegging, role reversal, or for double-penetration play if the harness is equipped with the necessary rings.
How Do I Clean My Harness?
Leather and faux leather:
Wipe with a damp cloth and mild soap or toy cleaner. Never submerge leather in water.
Textile (underwear style):
Many models can be washed in the washing machine (often in a laundry bag). Always check the care label.
Nylon/synthetic materials:
Usually cleaned with warm water and antibacterial soap.
Ready to Take Control?
Now you know that the right harness is the essential foundation for your pleasure. Whether you’re after the firm stability of leather for more intense play or the soft comfort of textile for packing — at NovusEros you’ll find the quality that suits your needs.
Order your ideal harness today and enjoy free shipping from €80 along with our discreet delivery service.
