Sex doll, real doll, what's this about?

Why are these dolls called "sex dolls" in Sweden?

Sex doll, Real doll, love doll, adult doll, etc.—there are many different names for these dolls. In Sweden, the word “sex doll” is the most common term when we’re talking about large, realistic dolls made of TPE or silicone. Even in our store, the term sex doll is the one we use most often. However, it’s a rather misleading term, since many people purchase dolls for reasons other than sexual purposes. That said, sexual use is, of course, still the most common reason people buy dolls. We’ll discuss why people buy dolls for purposes other than sex a little further down. The downside of the term sex doll is that those who need these dolls for purposes other than sex may feel that the product itself becomes unnecessarily stigmatized.  

What about Real Doll? 

Real doll is the most commonly used term for dolls in the U.S. and is also used to some extent in Sweden and Europe. We’ve chosen not to use that word very much in our store, for two different reasons. First and foremost, we’re a Swedish store, and we naturally want to use Swedish words and expressions as often as possible. Second, Real Doll is actually a brand name—that is, a doll brand—and not just a generic term. Real Doll is one of the few doll manufacturers based outside of China. All of our dolls at Docklandet can be called “real doll’s” but they are, of course, not from the American brand Real Doll. A doll from the brand Real Doll costs between 60,000 SEK and 120,000 SEK and, on top of that, isn’t exactly a breeze to import from the U.S. These dolls are sold exclusively at the factory’s own store, primarily to American customers. On the other hand, we can proudly say that our higher-end silicone dolls from Irontech Doll and Zelex meet the same (and sometimes even better) standards and quality as the American Real Doll. At a fraction of the price they charge. Incidentally, real doll is actually a pretty good term, but unfortunately the Swedish translation "riktig doll" quite as good.  

Other terms

"Knulldocka" is used by some other Swedish stores. The word "knulla" is perfectly fine, but we think "knulldocka" sounds a bit more questionable. "Barbara" is an old Swedish term and refers mainly to inflatable dolls, which we don’t sell. silicone dolls is a term that’s used and sounds perfectly fine; however, many of these dolls are made of a different material (TPE), so that term isn’t entirely accurate either. “Love doll” is derived from “love doll” and is also a perfectly fine term, but unfortunately it’s a misleading term—just like sex doll—since people have different purposes for their dolls. “Adult doll” is a good term, though not entirely accurate and somewhat misleading, since the word “adult” in most cases is associated with eroticism. Still, it’s a perfectly acceptable term. “Manikin” was used more often when these dolls were new products and is rarely used today; this, too, is a somewhat misleading term.

What term will be used in Sweden in 10 years?

We believe that sex doll is the one that will stick, even though, as mentioned, we aren’t entirely satisfied with this word since it’s misleading. Otherwise, we think “adult doll” could be a strong contender. Real doll will probably continue to be used as well, but true doll enthusiasts will likely never use this term since it (as mentioned) is actually a doll brand and not a generic term. 

What other uses are there for dolls besides sex? 

Here we’ll discuss a few more uses for dolls besides sex, since the term sex doll isn’t entirely accurate. Even though, as mentioned, sex is the most common reason people buy a doll, there are many more uses. 

⦁ For companionship
Having a realistic doll at home can provide a sense of presence and help you feel less lonely. In today’s society, many men—and even women—live alone, and a lifelike doll can bring a little extra warmth to an empty home. 

⦁ As a partner
: Some people go all the way and come to like their doll so much that it becomes an important part of their lives. There are even those who are completely in love with their doll. Of course, it’s easy to have opinions and laugh at it, but we should never forget that we’re all different—we function differently, have different tastes—and we should do what we feel like doing and live our own lives. A doll doesn’t hurt anyone and can be a doll—a healthy element in a life where relationships are otherwise difficult. ⦁

As a model
A realistic doll can be anything from a Instagram model to a mannequin or a host in the entrance of a restaurant. There are many people who design their own clothes that don’t fit their own bodies. Perhaps they are of the opposite gender or have a body type completely different from the clothes they design. Instead of hiring an expensive model or scouring among friends for someone suitable, a high-quality, realistic doll is a convenient alternative that, to say the least, can easily pull off any outfit. 

⦁ For events and various occasions
It’s common for a “group of guys” to chip in and buy a doll for an unsuspecting guest of honor at a bachelor party. Dolls are also sometimes purchased for various events. In most cases, however, the purpose of the dolls is to be fun (and sexy, of course), and it’s usually not the more expensive dolls that are bought but rather our cheaper models; and when several people split the cost, the doll can certainly have a really festive evening every now and then. 

⦁ For Shibari—The Japanese Art
of Rope Bondage You may be familiar with Shibari or have at least seen or encountered BDSM play involving ropes. Shibari is, simply put, the art of tying a body with ropes in various positions. This is a technique that requires a lot of practice, and to become a “certified” Shibari master, one must have practiced tying for 1,000 hours. Of course, it can be tricky to find a tolerant person who’s willing to be tied up for a total of 1,000 hours. And that’s where dolls come in. A sex doll works well for practicing your tying skills and will happily lie still for 1,000 hours—and even longer if necessary.