Packing: Creating a Realistic Bulge
Introduction
The term "packing" refers to the process of creating a male-looking and/or male-feeling bulge in one's crotch. This can be accomplished through a home-made or store-bought pants stuffer, or through a realistic-looking prosthetic device. A packing device may be referred to as a "packer" or "packy," or as an "STP packer" if it can also be used to pee through while standing up (STP= Stand To Pee). Some guys simply refer to their packer or prosthetic as a cock and balls, a dick, etc.
The goal of packing differs depending on who is doing it. A number of trans men do not pack at all-- some find it too hot and/or sticky, others find it uncomfortable and/or inconvenient, and still others find it personally unnecessary. Some trans men pack simply for the sake of creating a realistic-looking bulge in their pants. Others may pack only on certain occasions (while swimming, while in the locker room, or wearing tight-fitting pants). Still others may feel incomplete and/or conspicuous without wearing a packer or prosthetic device. Some have realistic prosthetics that are affixed to the skin for wear throughout the day and night. For many trans men, the term "packing" itself is not even an accurate descriptor for the wearing of a prosthetic device-- a prosthetic may be considered an extension of the body rather than merely a pants-stuffer.
For the sake of convenience for the reader, many types of packers as well as prosthetics are included in this section, with the understanding that different individuals may have different uses for and feelings about such devices.
This section covers a range of packers, including home-made devices, pre-made items that can be purchased in stores or over the internet, and professionally-made prosthetic penises, as well as straps and harness devices that can be used to hold a packer in place.
Packing hard
To "pack hard" refers to the wearing of a dildo or other prosthetic device that is erect and can be used for sexual penetration. As the vast majority men do not walk around for most of the day with an erect penis, this section is devoted mainly to "soft packing," or packing with the intent to create the look and/or feel of a flaccid penis and scrotum.
There are times when packing hard might be attempted (for example, just before sexual activity is anticipated). However, for general day-to-day packing, it is not recommended that you pack hard, as the look it creates will be unrealistic. Devices that can be used specifically for sexual penetration are described in the Packing Hard section.
There are very few products that have been designed for "dual use" (i.e., they can be packed fairly comfortably in everyday situations and can also be used for penetrative sex). Such "dual use"/"pack and play" packers and prosthetics are also included below.
A note about male anatomy
For those who are packing for the first time, and who may not have a lot of direct experience with men's penises, it can be helpful to do a little research in order to create a realistic look. In order to see what male anatomy tends to look like in underwear, in swim trunks, or jeans or slacks, it can be helpful to look at men's clothing catalogs or internet retailers of menswear or men's underwear-- this way, you can stare as much as you want at guys' crotches without having to worry about offending or upsetting anyone. In order to get an idea for how the male anatomy looks and sits on the body, you might wish to look at a magazine, web site, or book that shows flaccid penises. The web site www.erectionphotos.com has a "soft/hard" section, showing penises in both flaccid and erect states. It shows variation in the size and shape of men's penises, and shows men of varying body types and ages. The site is not pornographic, is free of charge, and provides useful information on erection curves, penis shape and size, and scientific studies on those topics. Searching the web for "flaccid penis photos" will yield other results as well. Just keep in mind while you are looking that the average length for a flaccid penis tends to be just over 3 inches, and that the men you see in most porn sites and movies will tend to be very well-endowed, and will usually be shown while erect.
Packing devices: home-made
There are affordable and realistic looking/feeling packers on the market today, but if you are very short on cash, are just starting to pack, or simply do not want to invest in a store-bought packer, the following home-made devices can serve quite adequately, and can be adjusted to your own tastes.
Socks
The use of a rolled up sock is an inexpensive way to create a bulge. Be realistic-- don't use your thickest athletic socks rolled up in a big ball! You may wish to use a jock strap to keep the sock(s) in place, or you may try pinning the sock(s) to the inside of your underwear so that they don't shift or fall out. You also may want to try tying the sock with a string or strings to help hold its shape, so that it doesn't unfold or unroll in your pants as you move.
A big disadvantage of using socks is that the extra layer of material in your pants can be uncomfortably warm and cause sweating and lingering dampness. Socks also do not feel realistic-- if you are concerned that someone might come in close contact with your crotch, you may wish to use a different method.
Condoms and hair gel or "gak"
This method feels more realistic than the sock method, and is fairly inexpensive (keep in mind, though, that the least expensive, pre-molded store-bought packer costs about $12-13, will not require any assembly, and will last much longer than the method listed here, so cost savings won't be that great overall). To make this packer, you will need a few unlubricated condoms and some unscented hair gel or "gak." Gak can be made at home with white glue, water, and borax (the recipe is listed below).
Partially fill a condom with hair gel or gak-- this will be your dick. Leave enough room so that you can tie the condom, and so that the size of the dick is realistic. Tie the condom tightly, place it inside another condom, and tie that one tightly. If you are expecting to be very active, you might want to "triple bag" and add another condom.
If you wish to make balls, you can make two smaller pieces in the same manner, and tie them inside a third condom to mimic a scrotum. You can then carefully tie the whole package together.
This packer can be worn in a jock strap, or in tight fitting underwear. It can also be worn in a number of the store-bought harness/strap items listed below. You may wish to place the packer in the toe of a nylon stocking or in a thin sock (a baby sock works well), as unlubricated condoms can pull on your public hair in a way that is uncomfortable.
For this type of packer, gak tends to be more realistic in feel than hair gel. The main disadvantage of this packer is that it can be accidentally torn or punctured. It should be replaced every few months, or whenever it shows signs of wear.
Recipe for gak
Items needed:
2 containers
1 measuring cup (ml)
hot water
1 stirring stick
1 large container non-toxic, all-purpose white glue (such as "Elmer's" or school glue)
1 box borax
tap water
Directions:
Label the containers: one "A" and the other "B."
Measure out 30 ml of tap water and pour into container "A."
Measure out 30 ml of Elmer's glue and pour into cup "A".
Stir thoroughly, about 1 minute. Set aside.
Measure out 240 ml of hot water and pour into container "B."
Measure out 16 ml of borax and pour into cup "B."
Stir thoroughly until totally dissolved. Set aside for 2 minutes.
Measure out 30 ml of the dissolved solution in container "B."
Pour this measurement into container "A."
Immediately start stirring. Stir until it thickens into a gel-like state.
With the remaining contents of container "B," you can measure out additional contents of "A" mixture to make additional gak, or throw out remaining contents of "B."
Packing devices: store-bought
Realistic and affordable packers, as well as STP devices, have been developed in recent years. There are a number of online retail outlets from which these products can be purchased, including sites operated by trans men. The main types of packers are listed below, along with general pricing information and retail contacts. Keep in mind that pricing and availability may change.
Caring for yourself and your packer:
A note about silicone, cyberskin, ultraskin, softskin, elastomer, and other materials
Store-bought packers are made out of different types of materials. When purchasing a packer, it is important to know what the device is made of and how to care for it and use it safely.
The surface of packers made from materials such as "cyberskin," "ultraskin," "softskin," "elastomer," or "thermal gel" is porous, meaning it can easily pick up dirt and bacteria. If you try to use these devices for any kind of sex play, they should always be used with condoms. Keeping these types of materials clean will help maintain their texture and quality. They should be washed frequently with mild soap and warm water, and rinsed well. They cannot be boiled for sterilization purposes, as this would melt the material. When storing or wearing them, you may wish to dust their surface lightly with cornstarch to keep them from collecting dirt and lint, and also to keep them from sticking to your skin. (Do not use talcum powder for this purpose, as there is some evidence that the use of talcum powder has been linked to cervical cancer.)
There are also packers made from soft, high quality silicone. 100% silicone products are non-porous and can be sterilized by boiling in water for 1-2 minutes. Silicone packers should also be regularly washed with a mild soap and hot water, then rinsed and dried thoroughly. When storing or wearing them, you may wish to dust their surface lightly with cornstarch to keep them from collecting dirt and lint, and also to keep them from sticking to your skin. (Do not use talcum powder for this purpose, as there is some evidence that the use of talcum powder has been linked to cervical cancer.) Care should be taken to avoid breaking the surface of silicone. Once a crack has formed, silicone can tear quite easily.
Other packers are made from soft plastic materials such as jelly, "siligel," or other creative names. Unless stated otherwise by the manufacturer, such items should be treated as porous materials such as the cyberskin family listed above.
Soft packers: introduction
Affordable, realistic-feeling soft packers are available through a variety of sources on the internet, as well as in some sex shops. For the most part, the soft packers listed below fall into two basic categories: A. "softskin"/"thermal gel"/"elastomer" packers, or B. soft-silicone packers.
Within category A, there are two widely available kinds of "softskin"/"thermal gel"/"elastomer" packers. The first is an elastomer packer that is referred to as "Mr. Limpy" or "Mr. Softie" (different stores will call it by different names, but they are all the same packer), made by Fleshlight. The second is a "softskin" packer called the "Sailor" (formerly called the "GV Soft Pack"), made by Good Vibrations.
Within category B, there are three widely available kinds of soft-silicone packers. The first is called "Mr. Right", made by Vixen with their special "VixSkin" silicone formulation. The second is called "Bella", made by Vamp Silicone. The third is called "Pac Man", made by Happy Valley Silicone. (There are additional, more expensive packing products made from silicone-- these are listed in the Prosthetics section.)
Soft pack choices are described in detail below.
A. Softskin/thermal gel/elastomer packers
The stores listed below carry type A softskin/thermal gel/elastomer packers. Each store might use a different name to describe these products, and some have different names for the various sizes. The online sources featured below are affirming of diversity in gender and sexuality.
Mister Softie Elastomer Packer from The Tool Shed
www.toolshedtoys.com
The Mister Softie Elastomer packer, made by Fleshlight, is a realistic-looking packer made from phthalate-free elastomer, a soft, flexible material that maintains the same temperature as your body and feels realistic when squeezed. It is made into the shape of a flaccid penis and scrotum, and is available through the Tool Shed in two flesh-tone colors: vanilla and caramel (a new option as of Dec. 2010). The Mr. Softie comes in three shaft sizes, 3-1/2 inches for $13.00, 5-1/2 inches for $14.00, and 6-1/2 inches for $15.00. The 3-1/2 inch model has larger testicles than the 5-1/2 or 6-1/2 inch models. Note: Purchasing products through the Tool Shed web site directly supports FTMguide.org. The Tool Shed is a trans and partner friendly.
The Sailor aka GV Soft Pack from The Tool Shed
www.toolshedtoys.com
The Sailor aka GV Soft Pack, made by Good Vibrations, is made a bit differently than the "Mr. Softie" listed above. The shaft of the packer features a slightly stiffer inner core material that provides a bit more of a realistic feel, and the outer design of the shaft includes veins and texture on the scrotum. It is made of a phthalate-free softskin. The GV Soft Pack is available in two shaft sizes, a 4 inch model for $24.00 and a 5 inch model for $28.00. Colors are vanilla, caramel, and coffee.
Note: Purchasing products through the Tool Shed web site directly supports FTMguide.org. The Tool Shed is a trans and partner friendly.
The Packy from Early To Bed
www.early2bed.com
The Early to Bed Packy is the same as the "Mr. Softie" listed above. They carry small (3-1/2 inch) for $12.00, medium (5-1/2 inch) for $14.00, and large (6-1/2 inch) for $16.00 in pink.
B. Soft-silicone packers
Soft silicone packers have a few substantial differences from their softskin/elastomer counterparts. First, even when cast in a soft formulation, 100% silicone packers tend to be a bit firmer and less flexible/stretchy than softskin/elastomer. They also tend to be a bit denser and heavier. This is simply due to the inherent differences in the materials.
As mentioned previously, 100% silicone packers are non-porous and can be sterilized, and they are easier to keep clean over the long term than softskin/elastomer packers. The surface of the silicone will not "pill" or deteriorate (though if nicked or cut, silicone can tear). Silicone also may be a good choice for people who have sensitive skin or find themselves to be irritated by softskin/elastomer packers.
Mr. Right from The Tool Shed
www.toolshedtoys.com
This packer is made from a soft, molded silicone that feels realistic. The shaping includes slightly different-sized textured balls and a detailed head. It is firmer and a bit heavier than the type-A soft packers listed above, and it holds it shape more firmly. Because this packer is made of silicone, it is easy to keep clean and can be sterilized, and it can be less irritating for those with any kind of skin sensitivity. It comes in one size only, a 4-1/2 inch shaft length with a 1-1/4 inch diameter shaft. Three colors are available: vanilla, caramel, and chocolate.
$48.00
Note: Purchasing products through the Tool Shed web site directly supports FTMguide.org. The Tool Shed is a trans and partner friendly.
Mr. Right from Early to Bed
www.early2bed.com
This packer is the same packer as the Mr. Right described above. Again, it comes in one size, 4-1/2 inches long with a 1-1/4 inch diameter shaft.
$50.00
Mr. Right from The Smitten Kitten
www.smittenkittenonline.com
This packer is the same packer as the Mr. Right described above. Again, it comes in one size, 4-1/2 inches long with a 1-1/4 inch diameter shaft.
$56.00
Bella Packy from The Smitten Kitten
www.smittenkittenonline.com
This packer is made by Vamp silicone. It is not quite as soft as the Mr. Right, and the balls are much smaller and flatter in proportion to the shaft. The small has a 4.5" shaft with 2.5" wide balls, and the large has a 6" shaft with 3" wide balls. Available in cream, cocoa, and cafe au lait colors.
$50.00
Pack-Man from Come As You Are (Canada)
www.comeasyouare.com
This packer is made by Happy Valley Silicone. It is the smallest mass-produced silicone packer on the market. The shaft measures 3" x 1-1/4" diameter. Available in vanilla, caramel, or chocolate.
$40.00
Dual-use packers
There are very few packing products that have been designed for "dual-use" (i.e., they can be packed fairly comfortably in everyday situations and can also be used for penetrative sex). Unless otherwise indicated, you can assume that the dual-use packers listed below include testicles. See also the dual-use devices in the "prosthetics" section.
If you are anticipating sexual activity, having a dual-use packer available can be quite helpful. However, if you plan any vigorous motion, you'll probably have to wear such packers with a harness. You also may want to use plenty of lubricant, as they tend to be a bit less firm than most dildos/prosthetics designed for penetration.
For general day-to-day packing, wearing dual-use packers is usually not very comfortable, and may also look and feel unrealistic, as though you are sporting an erection or semi-erection all day. Use you judgment when considering these packers-- they might not be the best for everyday wear.
Shilo from the Tool Shed
The New York Toy Collective's Shilo is made with a bendable inner rod running the length of the shaft, allowing the wearer to bend it up, down, or to the side while in everyday packing situations. Shilo is made from a soft, skin-like silicone, and it has a very pronounced head with a veined shaft. Optional testicles (the Love Bump) can be purchased with the Shilo in matching skin tones from the same soft silicone. The inner rod is quite durable, and there is little danger of it poking through the shaft due to how the Shilo is made. Diameter: 1.3125" (head with is 1.75" at widest point), length is 6.5" (6" insertable length), Available in 4 skin tones: cashew, caramel, hazelnut, and chocolate. $129 ($39 for Love Bump)
Tantus Pack 'n Play from the Tool Shed
The Tantus Pack 'n Play line is made from Tantus' soft silicone without the firmer inner core that is found in some of their other products. This enables the user bend the toy downward or to the side until ready to play. There are two sizes available: Pack 'n Play No. 1 and Pack 'n Play No. 2. Because these toys are still relatively dense, they will show a significantly large bulge in everday packing situations (especially Pack n' Play No. 1). No. 1 diameter is 1.75", insertable length is: 6.5". No. 2 diameter is 1.375", insertable length is 6.25". Available in only one color, which is a mid-tone tan color. $69 and $63.
VIP Super Soft from the Tool Shed
The VIP Super Soft is made from Tantus' soft silicone without the firmer inner core that is found in some of their other products. The shaft, while dense, is bendable to the side or upward for packing purposes. If packing the VIP Super Soft, one should be careful how it is worn, because too much strain on the area between testicles and shaft during everyday wear might damage that area. Because it is rather large and dense, this will still show a pretty significant bulge when packing. The VIP Super Soft is made of 100% medical grade silicone. Diameter: 1-11/16", length: 6-1/2". Colors are cream (lightest tone), cocoa (mid tone), and black (not a skin tone, just matte black color). $59.00
Silky from the Tool Shed
Semi-realistic, with veins, no balls. Made of phthalate-free elastomer, with a flexible rod at its core that can be bent to almost any angle. The color is very pink in hue. 7" x 1-1/2" (Use caution with toys that have bendable spines; during vigorous play, the rod may break through the surface and can cause injury.)
$55.00
Also listed under "dual-use" packers
Bendy from Early to Bed
www.early2bed.com
Bendy is a 6 x 1-1/2 inch dildo that can also be used for penetration. It has a rod at its core that can be bent to almost any angle. The texture of the outer layer is soft and skin-like. This packer's material is porous and should be used with a condom. It comes in light pink. $38.00
Danny from Early to Bed
www.early2bed.com
Realistic, with veins and balls. Made of "siligel," it is a relatively soft material. 6" x 1-1/2". This packer's material is porous and should be used with a condom. It comes in vanilla. $20.00
Porter from Early to Bed
www.early2bed.com
Porter is a 6 x 1-1/2 inch dildo/dick that can also be used for penetration. It has a rod at its core that can be bent to almost any angle. It has a little more cushioning than the Bendy model around the rod, has more of a "loose skin" look, and the color is much more pink in hue. The texture of the outer layer is soft and skin-like. This packer's material is porous and should be used with a condom. $30.00
Prosthetics
If you are looking for a realistic packer than can be worn on your body without a harness or strap for days at a time, then a prosthetic penis and testicles might be what you are looking for.
Pee-Cock 3-in-1 Packer
www.peecockproducts.com
This product, introduced in 2011, is designed to be a stand-to-pee packer and pack-and-play model all in one. Made of soft silicone, the shaft of the Pee-Cock has an opening throughout its length to allow for urination. The opening through the shaft also can accommodate a flexible "erection rod" that is inserted through the back of the packer to allow the Pee-Cock to be used for sexual penetration. The back of the packer is shaped like the opening of a funnel; it is pressed low and tightly against the body over the urethral opening during urination. Due to the shape of the funnel, the Pee-Cock may also work well for men who have had metoidioplasty.
The Pee-Cock comes in three sizes, 4 inches ($129), 5.5 inches ($139), and 6.5 inches ($149). They are in the flaccid state when worn without the erection rod. There are 3 shades of skin tones available: caucasian, moderate brown or dark brown. Pee-Cock Products also offers two harnesses to wear with the Pee-Cock.
Like Real Prosthetics
www.likerealusa.com
The professionally-made prosthetics offered on the Like Real site include both flaccid and erect models that are designed to be attached to the body with medical adhesive. A number of the flaccid models are equipped with an STP urination system that is built into the packer (the erect models do not have a urination system). There are flaccid models featuring the appearance of uncut foreskin, as well as circumcized models, and they offer a choice of 5 skin tone options. The detailing is quite realistic, and you can view videos of most products to see multiple views. Like Real also offers the medical adhesive and adhesive remover needed to wear the packers affixed to the skin. Prices range from around $200 to just over $700, and they do sell sets that include both flaccid and erect prosthesis.
Lola.Jake
www.lolajake.com
The Lola.Jake line of realistic prosthetic packers was created by the Too Sticky company; they have been designed specifically for the trans male community. Each prosthetic is hand-crafted and made of a blend of 5 silicone materials. There is excellent detailing of veins, texture, and coloring. Lola.Jake includes both simple packing models as well as "play" models that offer an insertable, bendable silicone rod so that they can be used for sexual penetration. Some (but not all) of the Lola.Jake designs feature 3D balls/testicles, while some offer balls/testicles with a flat back (as often seen in less expensive soft skin packers). They also offer both uncut foreskin as well as circumcised models.
Customizations are offered in coloring, length, girth, retractable foreskin, ball size, and STP modification-- be sure to check the pricing list, as these incur additional fees. Orders generally take about 3 weeks, though more time may be needed for custom work.
Measurements for the packers listed below are length x girth. Length measurements are taken from the base of the balls to the tip of the head. Girth/thickness measurements are the circumference of the shaft from the base of the balls.
The Lola.Jake packing models include: "Billy" (specs not provided, circumcised, with full 3D balls, $175) "Cherry Packer" (3.5" x 4.25", circumcised, flat-back balls, $125), "Cherry Packer Plus" (3.5" x 4.5", circumcised, with full 3D balls, $150), "David" (3.5" x 4", circumcised, full 3D balls, $195) and "Cooper" (3.85" x 4.5", uncircumcised, flat-back balls, $195), "Ryan" (5" x 4.5", with full 3D balls, circumcised, $225) None of these models features an insertable rod.
Pack and Play models in the 5-6 inch range (with insertable rod) include: "Sam" (5.25" x 4.75", circumcised, with flat-back balls, $325), "Sam Plus" (5.25" x 4.75", circumcised, with full 3D balls, $475), "Chris" (5" x 5.2", circumcised, with full 3D balls, $475), "Derek" (5.5" x 5.5", circumcised, with full 3D balls, $465), "Keith" (5.2" x 5.5", circumcised, with full 3D balls, $495).
Lola.Jake also offers several larger "Play" models above 6" in length (with insertable rods) that many may find to be a bit large for everyday packing needs-- these additional models are listed on the Packing Hard page, prosthetics section.
All of the Lola.Jake prosthetics can be worn with medical adhesive, in a packing harness, or using the Blue Tape & Poxy Kits offered by Lola.Jake.
Home Grown Packer Line
www.hg-prosthetics.com
This is an Australian site that offers several models and sizes of soft packers, made of elastomeric gel. The packers are made by an FTM community member and are sold at a very affordable price. They are designed to be attached to the pubic area with medical adhesive. But they can also be worn in the packing harnesses listed below.
There is also an option to convert most of the packers into stand-to-pee (STP) devices. The J Jay 4.5", Hugo 5.5", Average Joe 3.5", Johnson 6", and Peter 3.5" models can all be equipped as STP packers for an additional AU$30. The Trainer 3.5" and Nico 3.5" cannot be converted to STP. Prices range from AU$80 to AU$100. Prices can be converted to U.S. dollars at www.xe.com/ucc.
The Project
www.tyron2.net
The creator of the Project, based in Germany, began working with silicones and plastics in order to create a realistic, durable, and comfortable prosthetic for FTM transsexuals. As a trans man himself, he became aware of some of the limitations of other prosthetic products, and has attempted to address those in the Project's development.
The site offers a product called "Phase 2"--a very realistic-looking dick and testicles that can be worn both flaccid and erect. It is designed to be attached with medical adhesive at both the pelvis and at a very small area just below the tailbone. The prosthetic can become erect if you desire by pumping the balls until the shaft reaches full length and desired hardness. A release valve returns the prosthetic to its flaccid state. The shaft is designed to lay naturally when flaccid.
The flaccid size is about 4 inches long, and the erect size is about 6.5 inches long. The skin on the shaft and scrotum are soft and flexible move freely when touched. 9 different skin tones are available. Bluish veins can be seen and felt when erect, but not when flaccid. The prosthetic is made of silicone, and can be boiled to disinfect.
Phase 2 comes with a care guide (available in English or German), and the cost is 1,209 Euro. The site does not sell adhesives, but provides recommendations for where to purchase them. Prices can be converted to U.S. Dollars at the following web site: www.xe.com/ucc.
Camouflage Prosthetics
www.ftmprosthetics.com
This is the web site of a professional prosthetics maker in Australia who makes realistic penile prosthetics specifically for the FTM community. He makes flaccid, erect, and dual-use prosthetics, and each is custom made in a size that suits you, and from a choice of 15 skin shades.
These prosthetics are designed to be attached to the pubic area with medical adhesive. But they can also be worn in the packing harnesses listed below.
The flaccid models include small, mid, and large (approximately 3 inches, 4 inches, and 5 inches, respectively), and examples can be seen on the web site. They can be made with or without foreskin. They are made from silicone on the exterior and filled with a special gel so that the prosthesis is soft to the touch and will squash slightly when squeezed. All sizes are AU$730.00.
The dual-use prosthesis is hard enough for penetration, but soft enough for daily wear. It hangs down so that is does not create too much of a bulge. This model can be purchased with or without testicles. The model with testicles has a flexible implant in the core, so that you can bend it upward for penetration. The regular-size dual model is 5 inches in length, and the large size is 6 inches in length. The regular dual model without testicles is AU$1260; with testicles is AU$1400. The large dual model comes with testicles and is AU$1500.
Prices can be converted to U.S. Dollars at the following web site: www.xe.com/ucc
Reelmagik Prosthetics
www.reelmagik.com
Reelmagik is a company that makes custom masks and props like those used for movie special effects. They also offer two penis prosthetics that have been designed for trans men-- click on their "medical prosthetics" section for information and photos. Currently, the two prosthetics offered are 6" long and 8" long, respectively. They can be made with or without an optional flexible rod in the shaft, and can include hand-punched hair for added realism. The prosthetics come in 3 skin tones, or you can pay an additional $35 to select a custom skin tone from a chart the company will mail to you. You can also opt for advanced detail painting for $95. Base prices start at $329.99 and go up to $579.99, with additional fees for custom options. Please note: because these prosthesis are relatively long, they may not be suitable for smaller or average size men for everyday, flaccid packing purposes.
Stand-to-pee (STP) packers
The packers listed below are constructed to allow the user to pee through the packer while standing up.
STP-FITZ
All models sold through www.toolshedtoys.com
STP-FITZ, an FTM-owned business, retrofits soft packers into two styles of STP packer-- one with a medicine spoon receptacle, and one with a softer, wider silicone nipple receptacle. They retrofit two different soft packs into STPs, as described below.
STP-FITZ retrofits the Mr. Softie (i.e. Fleshlight) packer, which is available in two colors: vanilla and caramel. The Mr. Softie is unfortunately not available in a darker skin tone. This STP is available in two shaft lengths: 3.5-inch and 5-inch. 3.5-inch STP packers are $44, 5-inch STP packers are $47.
STP-FITZ also retrofits the Sailor/GV packer, which comes in three colors (vanilla, caramel, and chocolate), and in two different shaft lengths (4-inch and 5-inch). 4-inch STP packers are $52, 5-inch STP packers are $58. These cost a bit more than the Softie version because the GV packers are more costly.
All styles of STP-FITZ packers can be purchased through the Tool Shed web site, where a number of other products for trans men are also available-- check the "gender expression" link on the left hand page menu for a listing. Note: Purchasing products through the Tool Shed web site directly supports FTMguide.org. The Tool Shed is a trans and partner friendly.
The Pissin' Passin' Packer (PPP)
djknowsdicks.com
This item is a retrofitted soft-packer (Fleshlight packer) that has been modified with tubing and a medicine spoon to create a stand-to-pee packer. DJ offers 4 sizes (Teeny is 3-1/2 inches, Small is 5 inches, Medium is 6 inches, and Huge is 7 inches). All models are $50.00.
The Number One STP
Available through toolshedtoys.com
The Number One is a realistic, high quality, one-piece STP. Made from 100% high-quality silicone, the generous cup and opening at the head help prevent back flow or leakage. It is made from medium-soft silicone and has a narrow profile-- it is designed to be packed flat against the abdomen. Total length is 6", cup length: is 3", cup width is 1.5". Available in 5 realistic skin tones-- peach, olive, caramel, milk chocolate, and dark chocolate. $59
Pee-Cock 3-in-1 Packer
www.peecockproducts.com
This product, introduced in 2011, is designed to be a stand-to-pee packer and pack-and-play model all in one. Made of soft silicone, the shaft of the Pee-Cock has an opening throughout its length to allow for urination. The opening through the shaft also can accommodate a flexible "erection rod" that is inserted through the back of the packer to allow the Pee-Cock to be used for sexual penetration. The back of the packer is shaped like the opening of a funnel; it is pressed low and tightly against the body over the urethral opening during urination. Due to the shape of the funnel, the Pee-Cock may also work well for men who have had metoidioplasty.
The Pee-Cock comes in three sizes, 4 inches ($129), 5.5 inches ($139), and 6.5 inches ($149). They are in the flaccid state when worn without the erection rod. There are 3 shades of skin tones available: caucasian, moderate brown or dark brown. Pee-Cock Products also offers two harnesses to wear with the Pee-Cock.
Like Real Prosthetics
www.likerealusa.com
The professionally-made prosthetics offered on the Like Real site include both flaccid and erect models that are designed to be attached to the body with medical adhesive. A number of the flaccid models are equipped with an STP urination system that is built into the packer (the erect models do not have a urination system). There are flaccid models featuring the appearance of uncut foreskin, as well as circumcized models, and they offer a choice of 5 skin tone options. The detailing is quite realistic, and you can view videos of most products to see multiple views. Like Real also offers the medical adhesive and adhesive remover needed to wear the packers affixed to the skin. Prices range from around $200 to just over $700, though they do sell sets that include both flaccid and erect prosthesis.
Home Grown Packer Line, STP options
www.hg-prosthetics.com
This is an Australian site that offers several models and sizes of soft packers, made of elastomeric gel, that can be converted into STP packers. The packers are made by an FTM community member and are sold at a very affordable price.
The J Jay 4.5", Hugo 5.5", Average Joe 3.5", Johnson 6", and Peter 3.5" models can all be equipped as STP packers. The base price for J Jay, Hugo, and Johnson (without STP) is AU$100; Average Joe and Peter is AU$80. To add the STP feature, add AU$30.
Prices are listed in Australian dollars, and can be converted to U.S. dollars at www.xe.com/ucc.
The MANGO from Mango Products
www.mangoproducts.net
BUYER BEWARE: Numerous customers have reported that they never received their paid orders from Mango Products, and have not received responses from Customer Service (as of 12/2009).
Packing harnesses/pockets
This section covers various devices and methods that can be used to keep a packer or prosthetic in place.
Briefs
Most packers can be worn "loose" inside a pair of close-fitting briefs; however, trouble may be encountered when going to the bathroom or when changing clothes in a public setting such as a locker room. If care is not taken the packer may fall out, potentially causing confusion and embarrassment (not to mention unwanted exposure). Packers can also wiggle out of briefs during exercise or due to sudden motion. One solution to this problem is to tie the packer inside the toe of a nylon stocking or inside a small, thin sock, and then to attach the stocking/sock to the inside of your briefs with a safety pin.
Jock Strap
A traditional jock strap (used without a protective cup) can be used to hold a packer in place. Jock straps provide a bit more security than simply wearing the packer in your briefs (especially in the bathroom), but they are also susceptible to the same problem of the packer falling out at an ill-timed moment. As with briefs, a solution to this problem is to tie the packer inside the toe of a nylon stocking or inside a small, thin sock, and then to securely pin the stocking/sock to the inside of the jock strap. Another more secure solution is to use a jock strap that has a pouch built in for a protective cup: you can remove the cup and place the packer securely inside the pouch.
Jock straps come in a variety of styles and with varying thickness in their straps. Swimmers' jocks tend to have very thin and unobtrusive straps, which may work well under tighter clothing or inside bathing suits. International Jock features many different styles of jock straps. There are also jock straps available without leg straps which some find comfortable for packing ("The Sock" is an example of a strapless model available at www.undergear.com).
Performance/compression shorts with pouch
Certain brands of athletic performance shorts, such as compression shorts, have a pouch for a protective cup much like a traditional jock strap. A packer can be placed securely in the pouch of such shorts. Because compression shorts are tight, it is best to pick a brand that is made of a breathable material that will wick away moisture. Under Armour makes a Men's HeatGear Ventilated Compression Short for $29.99 (item 1000025) that features a mesh pouch. You may wish to check your local sporting goods store for similar products.
The World's Simplest Pack Harness
Check out these instructions for how to create your own inexpensive pack harness out of a clear elastic material. The instructions and diagrams have been generously provided by the author (email contact shown in the file) in PDF.
Basic Packing Pouch available through the Tool Shed
www.toolshedtoys.com
The Basic Packing Pouch is a simple U-shaped pouch designed to be pinned to the inside waistband of your underwear. The soft cotton pouch keeps the packer completely enclosed and away from your skin. The Basic Packing Pouch is hand-made locally for the Tool Shed. Colors and availability will vary. Note: Purchasing products through the Tool Shed web site directly supports FTMguide.org. The Tool Shed is a trans and partner friendly.
Basic Packing Jock available through the Tool Shed
www.toolshedtoys.com
The Basic Packing Jock takes the simple U-shaped pouch of the Basic Packing Pouch and adds jock-strap style waist and leg straps. The soft cotton pouch keeps the packer completely enclosed and away from your skin. Sizing from X-Small through 3 XL is available. The Basic Packing Jock is hand-made locally for the Tool Shed. Colors and availability will vary. Note: Purchasing products through the Tool Shed web site directly supports FTMguide.org. The Tool Shed is a trans and partner friendly.
Tool Belt available through the Tool Shed
www.toolshedtoys.com
The Tool Belt is a packing harness made to be compatible for both regular packers as well as STP packers. The specially designed opening in the back of the harness is made so that an STP receptacle (nipple or spoon) can pass through it, and the material of the pouch is designed to fit closely around the testicles of either the Sailor or Fleshlight packers. The josktrap leg straps on the Tool Belt can be adjusted by sliding them to a comfortable position. The Tool Belt is hand-made locally for the Tool Shed. Colors and availability will vary. Note: Purchasing products through the Tool Shed web site directly supports FTMguide.org. The Tool Shed is a trans and partner friendly.
SpareParts Pete Packing Underwear available through the Tool Shed
www.toolshedtoys.com
Introduced in summer of 2011, Spareparts Pete Packing Underwear offers four different styles of underwear/jocks that are designed to securely and comfortably hold a soft packer. All four designs are also STP packer compatible. The Commando design ($27.95) is the simplest; it looks much like a jock strap with a hole in the front panel to allow the shaft of the packer to hang free. The Freestyle ($29.95) is similar to the Commando, only with a front panel covering the shaft. The Briefs ($34.95) look much like a traditional pair of men's "tightie whities," and the Trunks ($36.95) look like a pair of short boxer briefs. All styles are also available in 3-packs. Note: Purchasing products through the Tool Shed web site directly supports FTMguide.org. The Tool Shed is a trans and partner friendly.
FTM Cock Strap available through the Tool Shed
www.toolshedtoys.com
The FTM Cock Strap is a simple but effective packing solution. Made entirely from elastic banding, the strap has a hole in the front for the shaft to poke through, and a hole through the back for optional use of an STP receptacle. The waistband and main strap are made from 1.5" elastic banding, in either white or black (available colors and sizes will vary). There is a small elastic band to hold the spoon-style receptacle upward and away from the body when not in use. Made by the Gear Guy at Transitional Male. Note: Purchasing products through the Tool Shed web site directly supports FTMguide.org. The Tool Shed is a trans and partner friendly.
Velcro-Top Pouch available through the Tool Shed
www.toolshedtoys.com
The Velcro-Top (or V-Top) Pouch is a U-shaped pouch designed with a hole through the front so the shaft of your packer can hang freely. The Pouch has a strip of velcro across the top edge so you can attach it to the inside waistband of your underwear. If your underwear does not take easily to the velcro, you can use an optional safety pin. Made by the Gear Guy of Transitional Male. Available colors will vary.Note: Purchasing products through the Tool Shed web site directly supports FTMguide.org. The Tool Shed is a trans and partner friendly.
Aslan Packing Strap from The Tool Shed
www.toolshedtoys.com
The packing strap is designed specifically to work with the Mr. Right packer; it works best with Mr. Right, but the smallest versions of the soft packs can also be work with this harness. Available in extra small, small, medium, large, and extra-large. Available in black or white, Extra Small (28"-30" hips), Small (30"-34" hips) Medium (34"-38" hips), Large (38"-42" hips), or XL (42"-46" hips). $18.00 Note: Purchasing products through the Tool Shed web site directly supports FTMguide.org. The Tool Shed is a trans and partner friendly.
Aslan Jock-Style Packing Strap from The Tool Shed
www.toolshedtoys.com
The packing strap is designed specifically to work with the Mr. Right packer-- it is the same strap described above, except with jock strap style leg straps to help keep the packer in place more firmly. Available in extra small, small, medium, large, and extra-large. Available in black or white, Extra Small (28"-30" hips), Small (30"-34" hips) Medium (34"-38" hips), Large (38"-42" hips), or XL (42"-46" hips). $23.00 Note: Purchasing products through the Tool Shed web site directly supports FTMguide.org. The Tool Shed is a trans and partner friendly.
Medical adhesive for prosthetics
The silicone prosthetics made by Lola.Jake, Camouflage Prosthetics and The Project, as well as the elastomeric gel prosthesis made by Home Grown, can be attached to the skin with medical-grade adhesive. Please note that adhesives cannot be used with ordinary soft-packers, as the adhesive and the solvent used for removal will quickly damage the material the packer is made out of.
Basic Instructions for using Medical Adhesive for your prosthesis:
1. Shave the area where the prosthesis is to be attached.
2. Apply a thin layer of adhesive to the back of the prosthesis (where it will only come into contact with the pubic area).
3. Wait until the adhesive begins to dry (this should take 1 to 2 minutes).
4. Press the prosthetic firmly onto the pubic area
5. Hold in place for 60 seconds.
6. Apply a new layer of adhesive or as needed.
7. Use appropriate removal solvent with a cotton ball to remove adhesive.
The adhesive can be purchased through the three prosthetics makers listed above, or can be bought from a prosthetics supplier such as Factor II, Inc.