Finding your fit
While gear is by no means a requirement to participate or engage in the Rubber or larger Kink communities, let’s face it: it makes us feel great!
FINDING RUBBER GEAR THAT FITS YOUR NEED
So you have decided you want a piece of gear? Congratulations! That is the first step. When shopping for gear, remember there is only one opinion that matters: your own. The acquisition and wearing of Latex and other gear is an immensely personal experience. If gear doesn’t make you happy, or bring you some sense of pleasure, it is highly unlikely that you will wear it, or feel your best when you do.
To help pick the best possible gear, M.A.R.C. has assembled this simple guide to help you learn some basics about Rubber gear, some considerations when buying, and of course: some fantastic vendors and rubber artisans that we have had experience working with in the past, and recommend to our friends.
Types of Rubber
LATEX
When you first think of “Rubber” gear, this is probably what you are thinking of. Latex is a natural material found as an emulsion of polymer microparticles in water, that comes from rubber plants. It is extracted from plants as a milky fluid, and conditioned to be safe for contact with human skin.
Latex clothing is often made from latex sheets, which are cut to a pattern, and glued together to join the seams. These sheets come in a variety of thicknesses, which can increase the durability and/or flexibility.
Additionally, Latex can be molded into seamless garments, or poured in its natural liquid form to create organically shaped garments and textures.
NEOPRENE
Neoprene is a fantastic material option for more durable gear, or gear that requires a more significant weight, like harnesses and cuffs.
Neoprene is a family of synthetic rubber materials, commonly used for wetsuits. Available in a variety of thicknesses, Neoprene is incredibly easy to clean, maintains its structure well, and is sewable (unlike natural latex sheets)
Neoprene is unique in the rubber family of materials as it can often be described as “soft.” As a synthetic material, it includes air within its polymer structure, allowing it to be compressed when pressure is applied. This natural give makes it comfortable for extended wear.
Commercial Grade Rubber
Similar to Neoprene, some vendors make gear using commercial grade rubber sheets. This material behaves a bit differently. Unlike Natural Latex, this material cannot be glued together, nor can latex sheeting be glued to it. Rather it is sewn.
It comes in a smooth finish, but has little to no give, unlike neoprene which can compress when pressure is applied.
This material comes in a variety of thicknesses, but is incredibly durable, making it well suited for cuffs, harnesses, and outer wear like bar vests.
SILICONE
One fantastic thing about the fetish scene are that materials are constantly evolving in response to new artistry and technology. Molded silicone gear is a newer rubber material option that is increasingly more popular due to its ability to hold complex shapes, leveraging techniques used in costume and special effects makeup.
Molded silicone is similarly non-breathable to the rest of the rubber family of materials, but is very easy to care for and clean, making it a popular choice in heavy scene play gear. Gear made with this material have no seams, and can be very durable if cared for properly.
Chlorinated vs. Non-chlorinated Latex
M.A.R.C. Tip
“If you do not like the feeling of sweat and lube mixing, then try out chlorinated rubber. You do not need as much or even any lube to put it on, but fair warning: chlorinated rubber is duller and you will not be able to get that signature shine!”
NON-Chlorinated Latex
This is the natural material you are thinking of.
- Feel & Look: Natural, the material can be sticky, shiny, and requires lube to put on.
- Ease of Wear: More difficult to put on without talc/lube, but stays in place well.
- Durability: Highly elastic, but needs more care to prevent sticking or snagging on sharp objects.
- Care: requires regular talc/lube applicable.
- Repair: Easy to glue and repair.
- Appearance: High gloss finish when lubed. Available in a variety of vibrant colors and transparencies.
Chlorinated Latex
A chemically treated alternative, that offers increased durability and ease of wear.
- Feel & Look: Silky and smooth, but with a matte/low-sheen finish. It is described to “glide” on the skin.
- Ease of Wear: Very easy to put on/off without any talc/lube.
- Durability: Highly durable, and reduces stress on seams. Less elastic than non-chlorinated latex.
- Care: Minimal care required. Does not need talc, and polish is ineffective.
- Repair: Very difficult to repair.
- Appearance: Has a duller or slightly grey look, often muting the colors appearance.
Common Types of gear
When picking the right piece of gear for you, remember there are LOTS of styles to choose from, and almost anything can be made out of rubber. Your imagination and budget are your only real limits when working with a skilled artisan. Below is a gallery of example styles you will often find. These items can often be combined to form a complete “look” and can be layered depending on your comfort. A helpful hint when picking your outfit is to remember that the more coverage you have, the more your body heat will be trapped under the gear, which can lead to sweating or feelings of claustrophobia. It is always a good idea to try on gear and find the types of pieces that make you feel best.
M.A.R.C. Tip
“When buying your first piece, I recommend buying a surf suit or separates. I recommend starting off your gear collection small and then adding more later until you know for a fact that you love rubber/latex (which I am sure you will).”
Other considerations: Entry/Zip Style
We aren’t going to lie, rubber can be a chore to put on/off. But that is part of the fun when you think about it. When picking your gear, it is helpful to think about any mobility issues you may have, as these can impact the best entry/zip styles for you. As you would expect, the larger the entry, the easier it is to put on. None of these options are better or worse than others, but a matter of personal preference, comfort, and the look you are going for.
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Front
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Half Front
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Back
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Half Back
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Shoulder Zip
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Neck Entry
Other considerations: SIZING
While natural latex is elastic, and can stretch in a way that can be forgiving to fluctuations in body weight/form, it is important to pick a size for your gear that makes you comfortable. Many vendors have “off the shelf” sizes ready for purchase, but these don’t always fit the variety of beautiful body types out there in the world. Sometimes, it is easy to work with an off the rack size, and simply adjust the garment by working with a fantastic Bootblack with experience working with rubber. Other times, it is better to see what custom fitting options a vendor offers, especially when you are searching for your dream piece or looking at a higher priced item.
M.A.R.C. Tip
“I recommend buying made to measure over off the rack garments. Every company has a different measuring process, and no one garment will fit exactly the same. If you have wide shoulders, long legs, short arms, etc, getting a custom piece is a great option to make sure you are 100% happy with your purchase.”