Gender-X The Embrace

Gender X The Embrace is a vibrating male masturbator with a different idea from the usual sleeve: instead of a tunnel, it has two soft silicone wings that curve towards each other to form an open cradle. Rest the penis in that cradle, or let the wings hug the shaft, and two motors send vibration and a tapping pulse through both sides at once. Nothing has to be inserted into anything, there's no sleeve to wash out, and it doesn't depend on being fully hard to work.

How this male masturbator's cradle works

The two wing-shaped flaps almost meet at the tips, creating a circular nest. They're flexible, so they can be squeezed gently around the shaft for more contact or left open for a lighter touch. Two motors run together, one in each side, and Gender X lists 10 functions that mix vibration with a tapping, thumping pulse, each with 3 intensity levels. That tapping is what distinguishes it from a basic vibrator: it feels more like a rhythmic pulse than a constant buzz.

Using it solo or with a partner

Hold the ergonomic handle and lay the cradle along the underside of the shaft, where the frenulum and the area below the head respond well to vibration. Move it slowly up and down, or hold it still and let the pulses do the work. Many people prefer starting on the lowest intensity and choosing a pattern before turning things up. A partner can hold it during oral sex or mutual masturbation, and the open shape makes it easy to combine with a hand. It can also be pressed against nipples, the perineum or the testicles, or used by anyone on any body part that enjoys broad vibration.

Controls and charging

Three buttons on the handle switch it on, change the function and set the intensity. They light up when the toy is running, so you can find them in a dim room. It recharges with a magnetic USB cable, included in the box, that clips onto the handle. Gender X lists the toy as fully waterproof and submersible, so the bath or shower is fine. Gender X doesn't publish a run time, so charge it fully before a longer session, and top it up after use rather than letting it sit flat for weeks.

Care

The Embrace is made from smooth silicone with black ABS plastic detailing, and Gender X lists it as phthalate-free and latex-free. Because there's no internal tunnel, cleaning is quick: wash the wings and handle with warm water and a toy cleaner, rinse and pat dry. Use a water-based lube if you want extra glide, as silicone lube can damage silicone surfaces. Let it dry before charging and store it away from other silicone toys.

Specifications

• Brand: Gender X
• Model: The Embrace
• Type: vibrating cradle-style male masturbator
• Material: silicone, with black ABS plastic detail; phthalate-free and latex-free
• Motors: 2, controlled together
• Functions: 10 vibrating and tapping functions, 3 intensities each
• Controls: 3 illuminated buttons on the handle
• Size: about 7.32 in tall × 3.31 in deep × 2.28 in wide; just over 0.5 lb
• Power: rechargeable, magnetic USB cable included
• Water: waterproof and submersible

Browse more from Gender X, compare other male masturbators, or read our guide to male sex toys.