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How to Use a Hollow Strap on Dildo | The Complete Buyers Guide

Written by Mayla Green. Published March 16th, 2019 | Last updated on August 21, 2020

Looking for a sex aid for couples? The hollow strap on dildo is a commonly known popular choice for men with erectile dysfunction, but there's alot more to them than you may know! Discover insider tips and secrets you'll only discover here and prepare to re-ignite the spark in your sex life.

What is a Hollow Dildo?

There is another common question that we're often asked: What is a Hollow Strap On? Before we explore this popular type of sex aid in detail, it must be mentioned these terms are synonymous, the dildo & strap on fit together to create one type of strap on for couples seeking sexual enhancement.

DEFINITION: The hollow strap on is a sexual aid originally made for men with erectile dysfunction. This sex toy type has since evolved and now there are new thick & large options made for extreme sex. These are not just for guys with ED anymore, they are commonly purchased by lesbian couples too. They always includes a waistband or harness belt that straps around the wearers body to be held in place during sex.

We receive questions every day asking how they're made, what are the best hollow strap ons, how they fit, do they feel realistic and how they work. Some couples are too shy to call and ask questions, so I've prepared this guide with answers to all our frequently asked questions about hollow strap ons for men. Of course if you have a question that is not covered in this guide, please send us an email or call. We're always happy to help!

How do I Use a Hollow Strap On?

We have 30 different models of hollow dildos and the belt straps vary, so the best way to figure out how yours fits is to view the photos of the mannequin on the product page. We posted photos of the sides, front and back of every harness so you can see exactly how it should fit on your body.

The waistband style straps are the most straightforward, they come in 1 size and should be positioned low on the hips. If yours has adjustable straps, loosen the straps and put the harness on then tighten the straps at the hips first, then the straps that go around legs. Position the device so that your penis rests inside the core.

You might be wondering...

Will the hollow center fit my penis? We have men who call and ask if our inside diameter measurement is correct because their penis is wider than the opening, and the opening size dimensions seem really small.

In this case, we clarify that the hollow strap on is made for men with ED, therefore, they are designed to hold a flaccid penis only. The opening is too small for an erect penis or in most cases, even a semi-erect penis.

Hollow Jock Strap
The quintessential hollow strap on dildo.

OK I know what you're thinking:

Why don't they make the hollow dildo opening bigger? We do have some that are larger inside, big enough to support a semi-erect penis. The only concern is that now the exterior diameter is overly large. The alternative option is the Zoro hollow dildo, it has a large opening for his partial erection. It is hollow, but only to reduce weight and make the dildo shaft flexible enough for comfort.

These are much thicker than an average dildo and most women would find the girth too large. This is the reason the openings are so small – to be able to minimize the exterior girth to make it more comfortable for the partner during sexual intercourse.

But wait, there's more!

The ultra kinky folks who crave giant sex toys (also known as size queens) love a big hollow strap on dildo! We have a few models that are very large inside to fit a small fully erect penis, or a regular sized semi erect penis.

If your partner secretly craves the big stretch from a massive girth and you want to give it to them personally, strap on the largest hollow dildo and enjoy extreme sex. Sure it's not for everyone but if you're the extra kinky couple in your town, this will be the perfect fetish couples toy of your dreams.

How to Use a Vibrating Hollow Strap On?

The vibrating motor is located in the tip of the attachment. Once little known advantage of the vibrating hollow strap on is that both partners will enjoy the vibration; the man will feel the buzzing on his penis too! Click here to view all battery operated vibrating options we have for sale.

The tip of the hollow attachment is always filled with either silicone or rubber for enough sturdiness for vaginal penetration. Inside this firm tip lies the vibrating motor. A wire runs between the 2 layers and connects to a battery pack.

The battery compartment has a dial or buttons that control the speed of vibration, and often there is a clip on the back of the compartment so the wearer can attach it to the waist and or belt. The cords will not get in the way, they just dangle to the side.

The separate controller unit has multi speed capability allowing the user to keep the speed setting low during warm-up, then turn it up to maximum power when the action is hot and heavy. This helps the receiver enjoy a fabulous orgasm with vibration!

The man will also feel the tingling vibration on his penis because the intense waves will travel down the core and into his penis. The vibrating hollow strap on adds a nice boost of intimate and erotic pleasure for the couple.

How Realistic are Hollow Dildos?

Sport Hollow Harness
Note how it's rigid for penetration despite being malleable.

The reality is that all hollow dildos are firm, and none are overly realistic or super soft and/or flexible. We get asked all the time about Cyberskin hollow dildos. Unfortunately the only ultra realistic or Cyberskin sleeves that exists do not have straps. They are penis sleeves without straps that fit over the erection like a condom.

Couples who seek specifically something that looks and feels realistic will choose the Vac-U-Lock dildo harness system. Is this your first time hearing about that? If so, then learn what is Vac-U-Lock here!

Even though the attachments are not hollow, the harness has a wide open crotchless base that allows the man's penis and scrotum hang freely below. The advantage of the Vac-U-Lock system is that couples have several options that are really soft, really life like and the most comfortable compared to any hollow dildo for men with ED.

The secret to making these work however is that a man needs to have an erection to make these work. They will fall off a flaccid penis. The reason they are firm is so they can maintain their shape during penetration. They are firm enough to penetrate even when the strap on is worn by a man with ED.

What about comfort?

Some shafts are completely solid, but we do have a couple models that are softer. The Sport Stud and Sport Hollow are the 2 softest styles. They are not completely malleable however and still have a rigidity to their structure, but it's the most comfortable option.

How do they Hollow a Dildo?

To make a hollow dildo, sex toy makers don't just simply hollow out a dildo, they actually create a unique mold specifically for this purpose. This type of sex aid is actually made from 2 parts attached together: an interior support and exterior sleeve. If the center portion is solid, a soft layer of rubber is attached to the exterior to make it more comfortable for the receiver, and sturdy enough for the man's flaccid penis.

The high quality and luxury silicone styles are a single piece mold created by pouring medical grade pure liquid silicone over a mold and letting it set. There is no advantage or disadvantage of single silicone piece versus the 2 piece rubber type, but the rubber versions are softer and more practical for seniors looking for a simple sex aid whereas the silicone styles are larger and have more serious styling better for hard fetish or kinky sex.

X-Tension Hollow Dildo
One of the widest hollow dildos.

How Can I Hollow out a Dildo at Home?

Knowing that a real one of is made of 2 parts attached together, your attempt to hollow out your own dildo at home likely will not work. Why? There must be a support system inside otherwise the exterior will simply crumble away.

Even if you're successful at making your own DIY homemade hollow dildo, it will not be able to withstand the pressure and force exerted by the act of sexual intercourse. It will fold over, tear and crumble. (Of course if you're feeling crafty, you can attempt to DIY and make your own, but don't blame me when your homemade sex toy crumbles!)

How to Choose a Hollow Strap On

You'll want to note the measurements listed and talk to your partner before trying one. Make note of the maximum waist size, the interior & exterior diameter. Be sure your partner understands these are firmer than the average sex toy and ask what features you would like. Some styles have veins and a realistic shaped circumcised head, others are smooth like a probe.

The ONE awesome feature that couples like:

Some strap ons for men vibrate, in this case, the motor is located near the tip of the shaft. Both partners will feel the motor vibrate as it radiates down the shaft. Vibrating strap on dildos bring a new level of excitement to your sex life.

Women enjoy the placement of the motor, the deep down vibrations feel wonderful! Vibrating hollow strap ons offer an extra boost of pleasure and since the motor is well buried inside the shaft, they often operate quietly too.

The battery controller unit is attaches to the device by a 2 foot cord and often they have a clip on the back which you can attach to the belt or waistband. One of my best selling points for the vibrating hollow strap on is that it's there when you want it, but leave it off when you don't. You're covered regardless of how you're feeling that night.


Q. Will the Man Have any Feeling?
A. Not at all. The device mutes all physical sensation for him, but what he will feel is the emotional satisfaction of being able to sexually please his partner like he used to before erectile dysfunction became an issue. One of the unexpected advantages is that you'll never have to worry about premature ejaculation or going soft too soon. You'll be able to last as long as you want (or as long as she wants!) ~ Mayla Green

What are the Best Hollow Strap Ons?

The best hollow strap on for your personal needs depends on what features you're looking for. The most important determining factor is what size & girth will best suit the receivers needs, and how much space inside the man needs to place his penis.

Before you shop online, be sure to communicate with your partner how big or small it should be. Do you want a thick or thin shaft? I must mention again that the majority of hollow strap on attachments are thick and large. Why? There needs to be enough space inside for the man to insert his dick, therefore, the exterior dimensions are always wider than a typical sex toy.

On that note, these are the best hollow strap ons with an even combination of sizes:

Are There any Soft Hollow Strap Ons?

We're often asked about Cyberskin hollow strap ons because the secret is out, adults everywhere know how soft and awesome Cyberskin feels, so it would only make sense that there would be a hollow Cyberskin dildo, right?

Cyberskin is SO soft, that it would be tricky to use in a harness. We do have Cyberskin sleeves, but they do not have a belt or waist band. The sleeve slides over his penis, but it requires an erection for support because Cyberksin is so incredibly soft. It will not work with a flaccid penis.

So, are there any soft hollow strap ons? Yes, we have 3 items that will work for couples who need a more delicate sexual touch in the bedroom. The most bendable and malleable are the Fun Boy, Sport Stud and Sport Harness.

What is the Most Realistic Hollow Strap On?

Couples like to buy the most realistic hollow strap on for added visual appeal, or to add a life like touch to sex. In this case, the X-Tension is the most realistic looking option with intricate detail across a massive silicone shaft.

This is the ultimate extreme kink tool for crazy couples who like big penetrations and hardcore sex. This must define a huge segment of American couples because this is one of our best selling 10 inch hollow strap ons ever.

If you're seeking a life like feeling option, again we have to reference the same 3 choices as above, the Fun Boy, Sport Harness and Sport Stud. To view photos of these worn on a mannequin and see how the harness fits from all sides, click on the links just above this section!

What are the Best Hollow Silicone Strap On?

Couples who shop for a hollow silicone strap on are not always plagued by issues with erectile dysfunction. They often just want a tool for BDSM or intensely kinky extreme sex. Lesbians enjoy these because they are firm enough even without a penis inside.

A man can wear this with a semi-erect penis because there is more space inside compared to the regular device. As such, the exterior is wide and larger than life. If this appeals to you, choose the Fantasy Extreme, the biggest, highest quality and most advanced silicone hollow dildo of all time.

Vibrating Hollow XL
Hollow dildo with interior padding.

How to Clean a Hollow Dildo?

After sex, rinse thoroughly with water then apply antibacterial sex toy cleaner or antibacterial hand soap across the interior & exterior surfaces. Suds it up well with your fingers. Rinse well. Pat dry with a lint free cloth before storing.

The straps are washable too, but most straps do not detach from the dildo. Be sure the straps are dry before storing as they can get moldy or musty if stored in a confined space. Leave it out for a day to make sure the straps are completely dry.

Alternative Suggestions for Seniors & Men with ED

Some couples do not like the idea of a thick and firm strap on dildo. Especially seniors, the typical girth of 1 1/2 inches and up and the rigidity of the shaft is simply too uncomfortable.

We recommend these customers shop for a unisex strap on dildo instead. The harness fits in a similar fashion by wrapping around the waist and legs leaving the crotch area open. The man's penis and testicles hang freely below during sex and do not interfere with either the harness or the motions during intercourse.

If you choose a unisex harness instead, you'll be able to select a thinner and softer attachment. If comfort is of utmost importance to your partner, I would highly recommend skipping the hollow dildo altogether and go for the regular strap on for couples with a unisex harness. Read the male strap on guide for full shopping hints, tips and how to identify a strap on harness that men can wear.



Click to buy Hollow Dildos



Mayla Green

Mayla has been involved in the sex toy industry since 2004. Working behind the motto “Sex TOYS should be FUN”, Mayla provides unique tips & advice amassed from over a decade of hands on experience with adult products. She also coaches clients how to fully enjoy sexual pleasure and can be seen in major publications & magazines online.

Happily married since 2009, she knows firsthand how the sex life eventually becomes repetitive (which truthfully means boring), so if you're looking to spice things up in the bedroom, Mayla's your gal! Her literary pride & joy is covering topics for established couples needing inspiration to keep lovemaking exciting and fun.

Not in a relationship? Her other focus is teaching women how to properly handle the “little person in the canoe” to experience the best orgasms ever, no partner required!

View all articles published by Mayla Green exclusively for The Adult Toy Shop sex blog.