Originally conceived over twenty years ago, penile traction devices are designed to treat Peyronie's disease, defined as an abnormal curvature of the penis. More recently this same medical technology has become increasingly popular as an alternative method to enlarge the penis. Traditionally, these types of extenders use spring tension to apply the traction force and use either a silicone band or strap to hold the penis in place. The method of fixation is often the main, sometimes only, difference between many popular types of penis extenders. The type of extender that includes the silicone band is sometimes referred to as the "classical" extender since the simple design has often been imitated. Since the rigidity of the silicone band has been known to cause discomfort for some men the development of the silicone strap was an innovation hailed as the "modern" extender. The strap system has gained much popularity in the enlargement community due to the fact that many men find it to be a more comfortable alternative to the band. Since many men often wear penile extenders for hours at a time, comfort and blood flow to the penis are the most important factors they have to consider. The one indisputable fact that scientific research and common sense can agree on is that all men are not created equal. Depending on factors ranging from penis shape to skin type, each individual will have to find the method that is best suited to their own body. While the classical and modern fixation methods are both considered very effective, there is no reliable way to determine which method best suits a particular individual. Penis shape, foreskin, and skin sensitivity are all important factors to consider when finding the best method of fixation to use.
Recently there has been a new development that gives more flexibility and choice to many male consumers. Now a new traction based extender that incorporates both the classic and modern designs has been unveiled. The patent pending design was researched and tested by X4 Labs Inc., a Canadian firm, and has now been approved for retail distribution worldwide. This new design, referred to by the manufacturer as a Hybrid Support System is a major improvement over other models that tend to have a one size fits all approach to penis enlargement. With the creation of this new Hybrid Support System men now can choose for themselves which method of fixation is best suited to their particular body type. Since many men are unfamiliar with penile extenders it can be difficult to know what type will be the most comfortable and efficient without getting the chance to try it out. The X4 extender marks a major advancement that has been long overdue. Men now have the chance to decide for themselves if the silicone band or strap is the right choice for their needs, without the need to first try out the product. While both the strap and band both have the backing of medical experts and professionals, there is still only one way to know which method best suits the individual and that is to try them both and see which one they prefer.