Hasta La Ideas

While the vibrator was invented just shortly after Edison created the electric light, it’s only recently that adult toys have begun to fully tap the power of technology. From vibrators that sync with iPods to toys purposefully designed for using in water, the industry is challenging both the way sex toys are designed and the way we think about them. Highlighted below, check out some of the latest “sexcessories” that apply a modern approach to stimulation.

Ola Memorable Vibrator

Created by newcomer Minna, the Ola vibrator (pictured at right) reacts to how it’s squeezed, remembering the rhythm pattern for the ultimate in personal satisfaction. Officially launching later this year, the Ola will sell online along with a collection of smartly designed products for intimate activity.

We Vibe Couples Vibrator

The unique We Vibe vibrator is designed to maximize both internal and external stimulation. Made of medical-grade silicone, the flexible “zero maintenance” vibrator features a powerful motor on each end and a slim profile that doesn’t interfere. It sells online or at Babeland stores in NYC for around $100.

Tenga Flip Hole

Newly introduced to the U.S. market, the Flip Hole (pictured at left) demonstrates Tenga‘s remarkable capability to remain a front-runner in adult toys for men.

The reusable hole takes male masturbation to the next level, adding a complex interior shape with each centimeter lending a different sensation—check out the video for a detailed description.

Opening up for easy cleaning and a complete air dry, it also improves upon the hard-to-wash sleeve design of the popular Fleshlight. The Flip Hole sells for $110 from Tenga.

Tenga Egg

Tenga also offers the Egg, a smaller, simpler version of the Flip Hole (pictured above). A silicone oval with three different patterns within the soft silicone interior, the Egg stretches and flips inside out for ease of use and cleanliness. It runs $35 for a set of three, sold from Tenga, where you can also check out their new accessories and creams for further control over masturbatory experiences.

Ohmibod Freestyle Wireless Vibrator

Ohmibod‘s musically-inspired vibes already have quite the following, but 2010 sees the pleasure toy go wireless with their updated version called the Freestyle. Simply connect the wireless transmitter to an iPod or other mp3 player using the mini jack and the Freestyle’s high-powered motor vibrates to the rhythm of the music. The vibe retails online for $130.

Sex in the Shower

Designed specifically for use in water, Sex in the Shower offers suction cup hand holds and foots stands, as well as a variety of products like vibrating loofahs and a waterproof strap-on that make bath time more fun. The line sells from Amazon.

Je Joue

Je Joue offers two varieties of vibrators in four colorways, each with specific purpose. The G-Ki’s space-age look matches its adjustable design, which is light years ahead of the average vibrator. With two heads—one long and slender the other wide and curved—the G-Ki changes shape from a hook to a subtle half-moon. Its ergonomic design maximizes all areas of a female’s anatomy and is perfect for couples’ use. Pre-order it from Je Joue.

“The closest thing to the tip of the tongue,” the SaSi ($150) is a hand-held vibrator that memorizes which of its five patterns move you the most. Learn more about the G-Ki and SaSi from the Je Joue website, where you can watch directional videos and find a local retailer.

Lelo

An original juggernaut of the modern sex toy industry, Swedish label Lelo offers a line of toys boasting clean, minimalist shapes and materials. The Tor ($109), an elegant take on the classic gentleman’s ring (above left), features six stimulation modes that adapt to the user’s desires. The Mia ($64), a discreet, lipstick-size travel vibrator, doesn’t sacrifice quality with size and conveniently recharges through a USB port. Lelo also offers a “Luxe” version, which casts their favored toys in steel or gold.

Zini Duex

This two-part toy, designed for use by couples and inspired by yin and yang, vibrates in tandem for a whole new foreplay experience. Both pieces feature 10 modes and five speeds and sells from Liberator for $175.

Given the snowpocalypse going on around us in NYC, killer gloves have become the essential accessory and the Alpha SV from Arc’Teryx is just the item. I’ve been testing them for a couple weeks now and am thoroughly impressed.

The Gore-Tex gloves embody all of the vital attributes for facing extreme winter conditions, further enhanced by Arc’Teryx’s new patent-pending Tri-Dex technology. This advanced construction involves a three-lobed finger pattern (see below) and authentic anatomical fit, providing the utmost comfort and dexterity by moving seams away from critical flex and touch points. The wind- and water-resistant shell comes with a removable fleece liner made in the same Tri-Dex form.

Breathable but completely insulating, the Alpha SV Gloves maximize warmth without causing interior moisture which is critical in the backcountry (where they’re really meant to be used).

Available next year, the gloves will also be made in mitt form.

The first device for playing outdoors as well as inside, Swinxs provides hours of recreational use with lights and a built-in voice that explains games, recognizes players and serves as a referee.

Announced in 2008, launched in Europe last year, and now making its U.S. debut, the portable, screen-free device accommodates up to 10 players and features 26 games broken down into three categories—active, educational and adventurous. It includes classics like charades, hide-and-seek, and tag, along with new options such as Flyswatter, which sharpens fine motor skills, and Swinxsball, a mash-up of dodge ball and critical listening.

The games themselves encourage good old-fashioned fun and social interaction, while computer connectivity keeps things fresh and makes the accessory relevant to today’s wired youth. Kids can download more games (for free), exchange tips and experiences, and keep track of personal scores. With a pretty robust dev tool set, the brand clearly hopes that others will likewise start making new games. Interactive books (already available in Europe) will also soon come available once the rights get sorted out.

Designed for ages four and above, Swinxs sells online for $150 and includes the console, four wristbands, a USB cable, an adapter and 10 pre-installed games. Check out the video for a full look at Swinxs’ many capabilities.

Upcycling scraps and remnant fabrics, LooptWorks makes neoprene-lined computer sleeves that protect both laptops and the earth. By sourcing materials thrown out in excess from industrial countries such as Malaysia, India and China, the Portland,OR-based brand creates new products without tapping any new materials and eliminating superfluous waste.

Boasting handy zippered pockets and bold colorways, the functional sleeves add a pop look to normally drab office accessories. They sell online from LooptWorks and other sustainably-minded retailers for $30.