The Rise of the Fleshlight: A Sex Toy Revolution

When it comes to male sex toys, few names are as iconic- or as game-changing- as the Fleshlight. What started as a discreet sperm collection device over two decades ago has now become a cornerstone of modern sexual wellness and a bestselling sex toy.

A brief history of the Fleshlight

The Fleshlight was invented by former SWAT officer Steve Shubin, who filed the first patent for his design in 1998. Motivated by both necessity and innovation, Shubin created what he called a “device for discreet sperm collection.” From there, the Fleshlight evolved into a sleek, casing-equipped toy replicating a variety of orifices. Over the years, it expanded into lines like Fleshlight Girls, Freaks, and even Bluetooth-enabled versions like the Fleshlight Launch. 

Popularity that keeps on growing

Fleshlights have become synonymous with quality and realism. With millions of units sold worldwide, and hundreds of thousands produced in Europe alone in 2023, the demand for male masturbators like these is stronger than ever. Male sex toy sales surged during the pandemic and continue to grow as attitudes shift toward normalising male wellness and pleasure. 

Why Fleshlights lead the pack when it comes to male sex toys

1. Realism and variety
   Each Fleshlight features a soft inner sleeve designed to mimic flesh, with options spanning vaginal, oral, or anal entry. Brands also offer fantasy style textures and even celebrity-moulded versions for highly personalised experiences.

2. Customisable suction and control
   Many models allow users to adjust tightness and suction. Advanced versions even pair with tech like the Fleshlight Launch for synced movement, ideal for VR or long-distance use.

3. Stigma-free solo pleasure
   The tide has turned on male masturbation. Today’s men are owning their sexual wellbeing. Masturbation sleeves are no longer taboo- they’re considered essential in many wellness routines, with health benefits from stress relief to better heart function.

4. Durable and discreet
   Fleshlights are built to last and packaged to look inconspicuous. Their “torch-like” casing and easy cleaning design make them discreet and convenient for home use.

Join the male sex toy evolution

At Electric Love, we celebrate how far male sex toys have come. We stock a wide range of Firelight-style sleeves and realistic and non-realistic masturbators for every preference- realistic or abstract, low-tech or app-enabled.

If you’re new to the world of male sex toys or simply curious about what’s out there, exploring a Fleshlight is a great place to start.

Explore our Fleshlight Collection