Whether it’s with a vibrator, a penis ring, a butt plug, or lingerie, there are hundreds of ways to make your relationship even hotter. But if you’re looking for a way to really fly, there’s a product that turns your average sex sesh into a full-body sensual experience. We’re talking about sex swings.
Sex swings utilize the pleasure and weightlessness of zero gravity, making them a wildly underrated way to enhance connection and sensation. Contrary to popular belief, they do exist outside of porn. And no, you don’t have to be a Cirque du Soleil performer to use one. In fact, once you get into the “swing” of things (sorry, we couldn’t help it), you might be surprised how much you’ve been missing.
What is a sex swing?
Sex swings are harness-like devices that lift a person and/or their partner off the ground to experience new positions and sexual sensations.
Because swings allow couples to situate their bodies in ways not otherwise feasible on a bed or surface, they can make previously impossible positions and acts totally doable. By elevating both partners and distributing weight, common physical limitations like height, strength, flexibility, and stamina suddenly don’t matter as much. It’s like applying the “work smarter, not harder” mantra to your sex life.
Though often associated with BDSM or porn, sex swings are not solely for the kinky crowd. There are several different types and styles with degrees of structural requirements for installation. The variety of swings makes it surprisingly easy to find your fit. So whether you’re shopping for your sex dungeon or your studio apartment, it’s possible to find one that fits your lifestyle.
Why are they so hot?
A sex swing is more than just a device—it’s a full-sensory experience. It allows for gravity-defying new sex positions as well as familiar positions with greater ease and a twist.
On top of that, it gives the standing partner more access to the swinging partner’s body without having to be a contortionist. It also has the potential to let people with injuries or mobility barriers be more physically intimate. And since the person in the swing is inherently more restricted, there’s a lot of potential for exploring power play.
In terms of putting swing-friendly spins on classic positions, you can go with things like flying missionary, swinging cowgirl (or reverse cowgirl), or weightless doggy style. Other super-hot options can include oral-friendly moves like swinging 69 or using the stirrups for a sexy spread-eagle. You could also do a lap dance where the strapped-in partner sits on the standing partner’s lap and effortlessly glides and grinds to their pleasing.
Types of Swings and Installation Safety
If you’re in the market for a sex swing, one of the first things you need to do is decide which type of swing is best for you. When assessing your space, it’s good to consider where you can securely mount the swing itself. You should ensure the spot has enough clearance for motion if that’s your thing. There are three basic types of swings:
Over-the-Door
Since they typically involve minimal installation and are available at a decent price, over-the-door sex swings are one of the most popular options, especially for beginners. In place of permanent hardware, these swings usually have small bars attached to the ends of two straps that are thrown over the door when it’s open. Then, you close the door to “lock” the straps into place to support the weight of the person. That way you can conveniently pack up and store it in a closet whenever you aren’t using it—just be sure your door is sturdy enough to handle the weight!
Over-the-door swings are also often called “slings,” as they’re not technically free-standing or permanently installed, and they feature a more hammock-like seat. Because of that, they’re the perfect choice for apartments, rentals or when traveling. Plus, the swinging partner can feel more supported due to the slightly larger seat.
Traditional
Another option is a traditional swing, which is commonly hung from the ceiling or a doorway. This type of swing can definitely lend itself to a larger range of motion, which offers much more opportunity for creative positions. However, it requires more permanent hardware and a very structurally sound base; you need a decent familiarity with tools so that you know it’s securely mounted.
Free-Standing
If you have space, free-standing swings can be a great pick as well. Keep in mind that they tend to be the size of a small jungle gym. You’ll have to leave it out as your featured decor or else have some major room to store it.
When it comes to sex, safety and consent are two of your most important considerations. So if you’re going to implement something that will literally be suspending one or both of you in the air, you must learn how to install and operate your swing correctly.
For all swings…
Depending on how you plan to use your swing, pay attention to the clearly stated weight limit and know what structural/hardware requirements are involved for your specific model ahead of making the purchase. Once it comes time to install, be sure to follow all of the instructions to a T. No matter how antsy you are to hop in (and believe me, we get it!), this is not the time to cut corners.
You’ll find that using something as exciting and explorative as a swing will eventually give birth to a whole slew of sexy ideas you might have never considered.
Remember the importance of communication. With so many potential motions and positions, a lot is going on when introducing a swing into the mix. So go slow, communicate, and don’t compare yourself to the porn stars. If you like it—amazing. If not, at least you have a fun story to tell at parties.
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Alex Anderson is an LA-based lifestyle designer proactively raging against the cultural grain. By day she works in television production, and by night enjoys writing, sewing and seeking guidance from the stars. She also finally has an all black kitty named “Cher.” You can follow her alt-lifestyle blog MSFT Living and on Instagram.
