After a few years in which TPE seemed to be the preferred material for realistic sex dolls, silicone has regained the upper hand. Most established brands now prioritize silicone in their catalogs, driven by two key factors: a narrowing price gap (often only 20-25% more than TPE) and massive improvements in material softness.

Silicone Heads: Regular vs. Soft

It has been approximately two years since soft silicone heads were introduced. While soft silicone heads feature a more flexible oral opening, they are typically slightly less detailed than "regular" silicone versions. In this excellent comparison video provided by Irontech Doll, you can see the difference in facial flexibility and detail:

The choice is straightforward: if you want the highest level of facial realism with implanted hair and eyebrows, choose a regular silicone head. If you prioritize physical interaction and sexual use of the mouth, the soft silicone head is the better fit.

The Rise of Soft Silicone Bodies

Manufacturers are now increasingly confident in releasing soft silicone bodies. During our recent visit to the Guangzhou Adult Products Fair, brand representatives showcased dolls with a level of softness that was previously unthinkable. Irontech Doll has released a thorough and honest comparison between their soft and regular silicone bodies here:

To see how this material behaves in a real-world scenario, you can view this pre-shipping test of an Irontech 160cm model crafted entirely in soft silicone:

Note of Caution: Soft silicone is more prone to denting and compression. These bodies require more delicate handling than regular silicone. Currently, the soft silicone body option from Irontech Doll is offered free of charge.

Brand Specifics and New Releases

Elsa Babe is another leading manufacturer offering a soft silicone option. While it usually carries an additional fee, the tactile realism is exceptional. Observe their material demonstration in the video below:

In April 2024, Zelex also entered the arena with their own "ultrasoft" silicone variant. Observe the incredible elasticity and "bounce" of their new material in this presentation:

Conclusion

We welcome these enhancements as they bridge the gap between the durability of silicone and the lifelike feel of TPE. While most brands now offer soft silicone heads, many are still rolling out the soft body option. If you are interested in a specific brand's soft silicone body but don't see it listed, please contact us and we will inquire with the manufacturer for you.