Strap-On & Pegging Guide: Harnesses, Dildos + How to Start

A strap-on is a wearable dildo system -- a harness worn around the hips that holds a dildo in place for penetrative sex. Pegging is the specific practice of anal penetration with a strap-on. Both are more popular, more accessible, and more beginner-friendly than many people realise. This guide covers harness types, dildo selection, how to get started, and what to buy.

What Is a Strap-On?

A strap-on is a harness worn around the hips or thighs that holds a dildo in position for penetrative sex. The wearer uses the dildo to penetrate a partner in the same way a penis would -- with thrust coming from the wearer's hips. Strap-ons are used by couples of all genders and orientations for vaginal penetration, anal penetration, and pegging.

Pegging specifically refers to anal penetration by a partner wearing a strap-on. It has become significantly more mainstream in recent years as a couples' experience that offers prostate stimulation for male partners and a reversal of the usual penetration dynamic that many couples find exciting. It is not specific to any gender identity or sexual orientation -- straight couples peg regularly.

Types of Strap-On Systems

Strap Harnesses

The most common and versatile type. Adjustable straps go around the waist and sometimes the thighs, with an O-ring at the front that holds a harness-compatible dildo in position. They fit a wide range of body types and work with any dildo that has a compatible flared base. Available in single O-ring (fits one dildo diameter) and dual O-ring formats (fits multiple sizes).

Strapless Strap-Ons

Designed for couples play without a harness. One end of a strapless strap-on is inserted internally into the wearer, held in place by internal muscle contraction, while the other end acts as the penetrating dildo. Both partners receive stimulation simultaneously. More intimate than a harness system but requires more coordination and muscle control to keep in position during active sex.

Hollow Strap-Ons

A full hollow dildo worn over the existing penis. The wearer's anatomy is inside the shell while the exterior dildo provides penetration. The Infiltrator II Hollow Strap-On with 9 Inch Dildo is designed specifically for this -- it works whether or not the wearer has an erection and adds significant length and girth. Also used by couples who want to explore greater size without pegging.

Choosing the Right Dildo for Your Harness

• O-ring compatibility: Your harness O-ring diameter needs to match your dildo's base diameter. Most harnesses include multiple ring sizes or accept dildos with a base of 1.5 to 2 inches. Check both your harness specs and the dildo base diameter before buying separately.
• Vac-U-Loc vs standard O-ring: Vac-U-Loc is a specific proprietary fitting that locks dildos more securely and allows quick swapping. Standard O-ring harnesses are more universal. Check which system your harness uses.
• Size for pegging: Start smaller than you think you need to. For first-time pegging, a dildo of around 5 inches insertable length and 1.25 inches diameter is a more comfortable starting point than a full-size realistic dildo. The receiving partner should set the size limit -- not the penetrating partner.
• Curve for prostate targeting: A curved dildo angled toward the front wall of the rectum will contact the prostate more directly than a straight dildo. If prostate stimulation is the goal, look for a dildo with a noticeable upward curve. The Light Bareskin Dildo with Balls provides a natural flared base via the ball structure -- suitable for harness-compatible pegging where the ball base fits through the harness ring.
• Material: Silicone is the best material for harness dildos -- firm enough to stay positioned during thrusting, easy to sterilise between partners, and body-safe. TPE is softer and more realistic in feel but porous.

How to Start with Strap-Ons and Pegging

1. 1
   Talk to your partner firstEstablish interest, boundaries, and what both people want before any equipment arrives. Pegging involves a significant power dynamic shift for many couples -- the conversation before the act is as important as the preparation.
2. 2
   Prepare the receiving partner with anal warm-upStart with fingers and smaller anal toys before moving to a strap-on. The receiving partner needs to be relaxed, aroused, and comfortable with anal insertion at a smaller size before progressing to a dildo. Do not skip this step.
3. 3
   Use significantly more lube than you think you needThe rectum does not self-lubricate. Apply water-based lube generously to the dildo and the receiving partner's opening. Reapply frequently. Lube is the single most important factor in comfortable anal penetration.
4. 4
   The receiving partner controls the paceThe person being penetrated should control depth and speed, especially initially. Agree in advance that they can signal to stop, slow down, or change position at any point without explanation.
5. 5
   Start with positions that give the receiver controlReceiver on top is the most beginner-friendly position for pegging -- the receiving partner controls all depth and movement. Doggy style gives the penetrating partner more control but requires clearer communication about pace.

Top Picks at Healthy and Active

Shop the full strap-on and pegging range at H&A -- harnesses, harness-compatible dildos, strapless options, and hollow strap-ons.

Frequently Asked Questions