GQ's Best Fleshlights
GQ asks me about the reasons you might want to add a Fleshlight to your solo repertoire and offer their top picks.
Read the full article here or an excerpt below:
Glance at any sex toys list and you’re bound to see Fleshlights make an appearance or three. The best Fleshlights top a lot of those lists because the brand’s products—of which there are many—feel good, are high-quality, cater to both gay and straight men (or anyone with a penis), and use some impressive technology to elevate the once hidden-in-shadows category of sex toys for penises to new levels. And while there are now plenty of top-tier brands making equally impressive Fleshlight-esque male sex toys these days, there’s a reason the O.G. of DIY male orgasms continues to earn accolades (and our recommendation).
Even if your hand can get the job done just fine, you may want to mix things up sometimes and explore different sensations. “A quality Fleshlight offers a close emulation of PIV—penis-in-vagina—penetrative sex through stimulation to the shaft and head of the penis,” says Indigo Stray Conger, a sex therapist and advisor for ThatSexQuiz. “The Fleshlight can also offer a similar sensation to anal sex or oral sex, especially if you purchase models created for these purposes.”
Beyond putting a new dish on the masturbation menu, a Fleshlight can also potentially help with sexual problems you might be experiencing, like “death grip syndrome” or premature ejaculation. “Certain patterns of masturbation, particularly manually or with rougher materials, can alter sensitivity over time,” Conger says. “A Fleshlight prevents this from happening, making sure there is no overstimulation or chafing to any part of the penis.” Of course, the best sex toys are no replacement for a doctor’s opinion, especially when it comes to a healthy orgasm.
What are the different Fleshlight types?
Fleshlight’s product lineup has been as much of a grower as a show-er in the last few years, adding new models frequently that work for male masturbation toy beginners and repeat customers alike. We don’t blame you for getting a little thrown by all the choices in your hunt for the best Fleshlight for you. It helps to start by knowing the categories that Fleshlight models fit into before you start shopping for your next sex toy:
Fleshlight Classics models: These are your standard Fleshlights. Typically made to look like a vulva or a butt, they feature tried-and-true textures inside sleeves that are about 9 inches long, so they can provide full-shaft stimulation for almost any dick size.
Fleshlight Turbo models: This product line tries to mimic a blowjob-esque sensation by using three contact points that replicate the lips, tongue, and throat. Fleshlight’s Turbo models are available in various sizes and textures.
Fleshlight Quickshot, Go, and Flight models: These are all sleeker, more travel-friendly Fleshlights—which also come in handy if you have smaller hands. The Fleshlight Quickshot models are open-ended on both sides so they can be combined with a partner’s mouth or hands (among other creative possibilities).
Fleshlight Stamina Training models: Fleshlight makes a few products that are specifically designed to “treat” premature ejaculation by using a texture that’s supposedly more intense than anything a human can offer—and in practicing your stamina with the toy (over, and over, and over), you’ll theoretically be able to stave off orgasm for longer when you have sex. That said, even if you’re not trying add time to the clock, these models feel fantastic.
Fleshlight Ice models: Most Fleshlights are opaque, but these models are translucent, so you can see yourself thrusting in and out. A go-to model if you (or your partner) enjoys a visual.
Fleshlight Vibro models: Fleshlight’s top-of-the-line textured strokers let you place battery-powered removable bullet vibrators (yes, multiple) inside that add an extra dimension to your pleasure. The Best Fleshlights, at a Glance
Visit the GQ article for a comprehensive list of top picks and price links.
*** There are hundreds of models and options from different companies, including many that have been molded from the bodies of porn stars. You can even make your own fleshlight from one of the free online websites offering start to finish instructions. Take care to purchase or create a fleshlight from high quality materials, including medical grade silicone. To keep your fleshlight in good condition, use an appropriate cleaning product, like the one Fleshlight brand offers, and never use silicone based lube, which can break down the material. ***