If you’re someone who is looking to add some spice into your party life but is kinda confused with what to wear, or if you've ever asked yourself the question: "What is a gay harness?", "Why do gay men wear harnesses?", or "How to choose the right harness?", you have come to the right place! Harnesses are an extremely popular at Pride events, parties, and -of course- in the bedroom.
In this short guide, we briefly touch upon all the tidbits that one should be wary of while venturing into the world of gay harnesses.
So buckle up, and read on!
Gay harnesses can be seen as a distinctive creation embraced by the LGBTQ+ community, particularly among gay men. Unlike some other attire like jockstraps or crop tops, whose origins might be debated, harnesses hold a unique place as a creation tied to the male gay community.
In essence, gay harnesses consist of straps, traditionally crafted from leather, that individuals wear during intimate moments. These harnesses serve both decorative and sensual purposes. They come in a variety of styles and materials, each with its own distinct characteristics. Generally, harnesses aim to offer something to hold onto or to accentuate the shoulders and chest – whether for aesthetic enhancement or to add to the sensory experience.
A uniquely crafted style, the chain harness is composed of interlinked metal rings, creating a distinctive look. Traditional chain harnesses like our Gabor Harness would often be favored by dominant individuals in relationships, but these boundaries have blurred especially with the Taylor collection (named after Liz Taylor who was famous for her diamond and jewel collection). Adding a touch of shine to any ensemble, whether nude, combined with leather, lace, or worn on top of a dress shirt, chain harnesses are here to stay!
-------
Bulldog Harness
Considered the classic among gay harnesses, the bulldog harness accentuates broad shoulders and a muscular upper body. It exudes masculinity and showcases your confidence. Even if you're not overly toned, this harness flatters your physique while emphasizing the right areas. Our perspective is all about body positivity, celebrating any gay man who dons a harness. The straps snugly embracing your torso with metal ring attachments, give the perfect amount of definition. A staple in anyone's wardrobe, destined for frequent use!
-------
Harness Tops
Striving to combine strapping allure with ease of wear? Harness tops come to the rescue. These clever designs provide the "oomph" factor while maintaining all the visual cues of a harness. Sensual, inviting and confident.
There are a multitude of different options these days from the very accessible items to more intricate combinations of Harness Top with elastic straps, or combinations with bikini bottoms to create leotards.
-------
Combat Harness
Ideal for a military-inspired theme, these rugged harnesses with mesh panels turn heads even among those wearing traditional camo gear. Pair them with leather boots and accessories for an ultimate Future Tom of Finland aesthetic.
The gladiator, half-H, and Sea-Dog harnesses all fall under this category. Asymmetrical by design, they rest on a single shoulder, with the attaching hook resting in front of the left or right chest. Simplicity makes them popular among beginners. Looking for a quick and sleek harness for impromptu sessions? This style is your go-to.
The epitome of harnesses, the full body type covers both upper and lower regions. The strategically placed straps open doors to a world of possibilities for enhancing your kink experience. Try leather versions in our Holland collection or Vegan Leather versions in our Barcelona collection if you're interested in, or familiar with BDSM and fetish kinks!
-------
Elastic Harness
While leather kicked off the trend, elastic harnesses have taken center stage in the mainstream gay scene. They offer a unique charm and are more budget-friendly. Perfect for a casual queer party look, they come in a wide array of styles, with vibrant colors that go beyond the typical leather options, there's something for everyone. And yes, we're particularly smitten with our neon yellow Hector harness!
-------
These represent some foundational harness styles for newcomers to explore. If you're feeling more adventurous, you might delve into options like dildo harnesses, puppy tail harnesses, and Y-harnesses, just to name a few.
HOW SHOULD YOU TAKE CARE OF YOUR HARNESS?
Just like every other thing you love, taking care of harnesses, especially after use, should be on your priority list
For fabric and elastic harnesses, machine washes are usually ok. Please follow care instructions that come with your purchase. For harnesses which are made of leather, one must take a bit of extra care, read ALL about how to take good care of your leather items in this article
Sometimes there are silicon or metal parts, be wary of not using silicon-based lubes or any corrosive detergent, which might damage the harness adversely.
HELPFUL TIPS FOR CHOOSING A HARNESS:
Venturing into the world of harnesses can be both exciting and a little overwhelming, especially if you're new to the experience. Here are some essential pointers to consider before you dive into purchasing or trying your first harness:
- Prioritize Comfort: Trust your instincts. If the harness doesn't feel comfortable or seems awkward, take the time to adjust the fit or experiment with different configurations. If it still doesn't feel right, explore other styles until you find the one that suits you best.
- Metal Chains and Experience: While metal chain harnesses can be alluring, they might require some practice to master. If you're new to bondage, it's wise to start with a different style before delving into the intricacies of metal chains. Save these for later, once you're more familiar with harnesses.
- Choosing Material for Purpose: If you're seeking durability and a long-lasting investment, (vegan) leather harnesses are a solid choice. For occasions where aesthetics matter most or if you're mindful of your budget, fabric or elastic harnesses offer practical options without compromising style.
- Comfort of Fabric Harness Tops: Fabric harness tops with a smooth surface offer an exquisite sensation against the skin. They're designed to embrace the body comfortably, providing a flexible and pleasant feel. If you're uncertain about your size or new to harnesses, opting for this material can be a wise decision.
Remember, the journey of exploring harnesses is about finding what resonates with you. Prioritize your comfort and preferences, and don't hesitate to experiment until you discover the perfect harness style that complements you and your style!
