Sex Toys: Dildo Types

Traditional Dildos

Traditional Dildos are the most popular variety of dildos on the market. They are usually shaped like a penis, although the realism of each can vary. On one end of the spectrum you have the ultra-realistic dildos, which are shaped and colored to look as close to a real penis as possible. In fact, some dildos are made from molds of actual penises. Adult film actors have been lending their names (and their penises) for sex toy molding in recent years. On the other end of the spectrum you'll find dildos that are made from brightly colored material and do not look anything like a penis. Traditional dildos fall into a range of between 5" up to as much as 18" for some of the larger varieties.

Balls

Balls fall into the category of dildos if they are not attached to a motor. Unlike vibrating balls, the non-motorized versions do not require batteries and are not attached to an electric cord. One of the choices in this category is Ben Wa Balls. A set of Ben Wa Balls consists of two large, smooth ball bearings and are intended to be used by inserting them into the vagina. They work by stimulating internal areas when they rub or knock up against each other. The sensations from Ben Wa Balls are often very subtle and some women do not find them pleasurable. If you're considering a set of Ben Wa Balls, you should consider whether you would find these subtle sensations pleasurable. Another type of ball is the Duotone Ball. Duotone Balls, like Ben Wa Balls, are ball bearings that are encased inside a larger plastic sphere, which is usually made of silicone. The two spheres are connected by a cord, which is used for easy retrieval. Duotone Balls work much the same way as Ben Wa Balls, but the sensations are much more intense because the inner ball bearings of the Duotone Balls have room to move, so they knock against the outer casing, or each other with more force. Duotone Balls can be used by either placing both balls inside the vagina, or by placing one inside and letting the other ball hang out.

Beads

Beads appeal to a wide variety of people and are a popular choice for anal play. Beads consist of a series of silicone, jelly or plastic spheres attached together by a cord. They are inserted one by one into the vagina or anus, and then slowly removed creating pleasurable sensations.

Anal Dildos

Anal Dildos are specifically designed for anal use. They are distinguished from all other dildos because they have a flared base or cord so they don't get lost in the anus - an amusing but very common occurrence. If you plan on using a dildo anally, we would recommend getting one that's designed for that purpose.

Double-sided dildos

Double-sided dildos are dildos that can be used from both ends. This is a common choice for people who want to use a dildo on themselves and with a partner simultaneously. Double ended dildos can either be two standard dildos joined at the base, or one that is molded with two working ends. These dildos, like most other dildos, are available in a wide variety of shapes, sizes and colors.

Realistic dildos

Realistic dildos are designed to look like he real thing. Most are flesh-tone in color and several models are available in "light", "medium" and "dark" to suit individual tastes. They can, depending on the material that they're made of, also feel very realistic. There are several materials that are designed to mimic the feel of skin. Among them, Cyberskin, UR3 and New Skin seem to be the favorites.

Strap-on Dildos

Strap-on Dildos are dildos that can be attached, if desired, to a harness. Harnesses usually require that the dildo have a flat or flared base to stay attached during use. The dildo is inserted through a hole in the harness, and the harness is then strapped to the user. The exception to this rule is the Vac-U-Lock Harness. This harness comes with a "plug" which accepts specially designed dildos that have a hole at the base. The vacuum created when the plug is inserted into the hole is enough to keep the dildo in place.