In recent years the popularity of strap-on sex has soared and what was once a practice presumed reserved for lesbian couples has become commonplace enough to turn up in mainstream magazines! With this popularity comes an influx of shoppers new to strap-on play and, consequently, it is now more important than ever that adult retailers stock a wide variety of accessories and assure that staff know how to help customers find gear that’s right for them.
The swell in strap-on popularity has also resulted in manufacturers offering so many more strap-on styles, which, while exciting, can also be challenging for retailers and consumers alike. Strap-ons are available in two distinct styles: harness strap-ons, which, perhaps obviously, require a harness and strapless strap-ons that don’t. Today we will be discussing the latter. Strapless strap-ons can be a lot of fun to wear and use but they come with some very special considerations all their own, so let’s talk about it!
Despite their name, strapless strap-ons aren’t always best-used strapless.
What are strapless strap-ons?
A strapless strap-on is a dildo that is designed to be used without the aid of straps or a harness holding it in place. Most have a bulb-shaped insertable end that the wearer grasps with their vaginal muscles. This style can be enjoyable because it allows for maximum physical closeness while potentially providing the wearer with G-spot stimulation.
What are the strapless strap-on options?
There are so many! Like most other toys, strapless strap-ons come in all sorts of shapes and sizes. Some feature fairly straightforward designs and other strapless strap-ons feature a textured pad for clitoral stimulation plus vibration — whether from a removable bullet or a built-in motor — that can be felt on both ends of the toy.
Helping customers find the right strapless strap-on for them
When working with shoppers to select a strapless strap-on, there are several points you should keep in mind and teach your customers. Strapless strap-ons can be tricky to maneuver. With this in mind, they may not be the best choice for first-timers and if someone chooses one for their first strap-on, they should leave your store knowing that it may require some time and practice to use it comfortably so they are not disappointed when they get home. Additionally, keep in mind that some folks who find strapless strap-ons difficult to use choose to use them with a harness. Many harnesses can be fashioned to accommodate this type of product. Let your customers know that, despite their name, strapless strap-ons aren’t always best-used strapless.
Finding the right strap-on harness isn't always easy and selling them requires a twofold approach. Because there are so many variables that go into finding the right gear, it’s imperative to stock a wide variety of styles, sizes and types. You must have enough inventory to account for variations in body size/type, genital accessibility, comfort and sensations desired. Also, make sure your sales staff is well-educated on the pros and cons of each type of strapless strap-on. This way, they can manage customers’ expectations and set up solutions for possible pitfalls discovered after they use their new toy. Arming your customers with the information they need to use a strapless strap-on in a manner that is safe, satisfying, accessible and fun will attract lifelong customers and clinch repeat sales.
Rebecca Weinberg is the president of XR Brands.
