How to Measure Yourself for a Custom Strap-On Harness Fit
By New York Toy Collective | Published: 2026-10-16
Category: How-to Guides
Get a comfortable, stable custom strap-on harness fit by measuring your hips and thighs, then using adjustable straps to dial in the right tension.
Quick answer
Measure your hips at the fullest point, then measure your upper thighs where the harness straps will sit. Use those numbers to choose an adjustable harness with enough range, and tighten the straps so the harness stays put without pinching. A custom fit comes from adjusting, not from a perfect size chart.
Why hip and thigh measurements matter more than waist size
Most harnesses sit low on the hips, not at the natural waist, so waist measurements alone can lead you to the wrong size. Your hip measurement determines whether the main strap will sit flat or ride up. Your thigh measurement matters for thigh-strap systems, which control how the base of a toy sits against your body. If you only measure your waist, you may end up with a harness that shifts during use or digs into your sides.
How to take your measurements accurately
Use a soft measuring tape and wear thin clothing or none. Stand relaxed and breathe normally. For hips, wrap the tape around the fullest part of your buttocks and hips, keeping it level all the way around. For thighs, measure the upper thigh where a strap would naturally rest, usually just below the groin. Write down both numbers in inches or centimeters, and measure twice to check for errors. If you are between sizes, size up when the harness has adjustable straps, because you can always tighten it.
Using adjustable straps to fine-tune the fit
Adjustable harnesses let you customize the fit beyond your initial measurements. Start with the straps loose, step into the harness, and then tighten evenly on both sides. The harness should feel snug but not restrictive. You should be able to slide one finger under each strap. Check that the front panel or O-ring sits centered and flat against your body. Move around—walk, squat, and bend—to see if anything shifts or pinches. Readjust as needed.
When to consider a thigh strap system
If you use a packer or STP and want to control bulge size and shape, a thigh strap system can give you more stability than a standard waist harness. These systems wrap around your thighs and work with any outfit. They are especially useful if you find that waist harnesses ride up or if you want to change your silhouette without changing underwear.
Steps to measure for a custom harness fit
- Measure your hips at the fullest point: Wrap a soft tape around your hips and buttocks, keeping it level. This is where the harness waistband will sit. Common mistake: measuring at your natural waist instead of your hips. Write this number down; it's your primary size reference.
- Measure your upper thighs: Measure around the upper thigh where a strap would rest, usually just below the groin. This matters most if you use a thigh strap system. Checkpoint: the tape should be snug but not tight enough to indent your skin. If you're between sizes, round up for thigh straps.
- Check the harness size range: Compare your measurements to the harness's adjustable range. A fully adjustable harness can accommodate a range of sizes, so you don't need an exact match. Mistake: assuming one size fits all without checking the strap length. Look for harnesses with at least a few inches of adjustment on each strap.
- Put on the harness and adjust: Start loose, then tighten straps evenly on both sides. The harness should stay in place when you move but not pinch. Checkpoint: you can fit one finger under each strap. Recheck after a few minutes of wear; straps may settle.
- Test movement and re-tighten: Walk, squat, and bend to see if the harness shifts or digs in. Adjust as needed. Mistake: only standing still during the test. A good fit stays comfortable through movement.
Product facts
- STP & Packing Strap – Adjustable Bulge Control: Two-strap thigh system that lets you control the size, shape, and silhouette of your packer or STP without special underwear. Worn on the thighs, it works with any outfit. If you want adjustable bulge control and a secure fit that doesn't rely on a waist harness, this thigh strap gives you that flexibility.
- Choose Your Harness | Strap-On Harnesses by New York Toy Collective: Fully adjustable harnesses designed for comfort, stability, and control, from soft beginner-friendly designs to premium leather and all-day wear options. Choosing a fully adjustable harness means you can dial in the fit to your exact measurements, even if you're between sizes.
