Usually only the cheapest strap-ons have a integrated harness, often made out of the same plastic as the dildo attached to it or by attaching simple straps to the base of a natural shaped dildo. This type of strap-on is not designed for much use (the straps usually tear easily) although it serves well in humiliation play where the wearer is made to wear the toy under clothing, giving the impression the wearer is walking around with an erection.

Harnesses allow the wearer to exchange the attachment. They also often contain ways to attach additional toys to penetrate the wearer.

The first difference is the material the harness is made of. This determines the overall durability and of course the price of the harness.

Leather harnesses is rightfully considered the top material for strap-on harnesses. While fairly soft and feels nice, leather is strong enough and does not stretch when used.

Nylon (or rarely other synthetics) hardnesses are also a good choice for strap-on harnesses although most people don’t enjoy it’s feel as much as leather’s. It also does not absorb sweat - less comfortable to wear but much easier to clean.

Cloth harnesses are usually used as part of a larger outfit and are often designed to match a dress, skirt or corset. Cloth does not have the durability of leather or nylon and will deteriorate quickly under heavy use.

Like cloth, latex harnesses are often used as part of a larger latex outfit. Because of the soft material they are made of, they have a limited lifespan. For more information on latex, click here.

There are several different ways to connect the dildo or other attachment to the harness. However, most manufacturers have standardized on two methods.

Rings are the most common way to attach toys to the harness. Cheap harnesses often only have a cut out in the harness material while more expensive and durable models feature a steel or plastic ring. The toy is slid through the ring and has a wider base to keep the toy from sliding out. This does however not keep the toy from turning (making it difficult to use curved attachments), it also does not keep the toy from being pushed back against the wearer when penetrating someone else. This can lead to bruising of the pelvic area.

Vac-u-lock was developed by Doc Johnson. There are several incompatible copies of this attachment type, however all share the relatively high price and limited selection of attachments. On the up side, the attachments are secure and do not turn.

Harness style strap-ons come with a variety of attachments, both for penetrating the wearer of the harness as well for penetrating another person.

Strap less toys (sold under the brand name Feeldoe and others) are specifically shaped to be worn by one woman to penetrate another. One end of the toy is shaped similar to a light bulb, securing the toy inside the vagina. Then the toy has a curve, usually about 110 degrees, allowing the other end of the toy to point forward in an angle similar to the male penis. Using a strap less requires the wearer to clench the toy with her vaginal muscles, making the toy a good way to exercise the muscles. Strap less toys are not usually seated stable enough inside the wearers to engage into anal se because of the additional friction from anal penetration.