Bareback

Bareback sex refers to penetrative sex without the use of a condom. This typically refers to anal sex between men, but is sometimes also used in context of sex between a man and woman. Bareback sex can somewhat of a taboo, depending on the context, as unprotected sex comes with its own risks. In kink, playing with that risk can be part of the fun. Using the taboo and risk as additional layers of intensity may be part of what people choose to enjoy. Bareback sex can also be related to other kinks like breeding. ### Origins of the Term The term is derived from the bareback riding of horses, which means riding a horse without a saddle. It was used earlier than the 1960s when it gained momentum, but it's not clear when the term was first used as slang. Its use is believed to have become more widespread in gay communities in the late '90s. It has become less popular among heterosexual people in recent years, even though heterosexual women are the group most likely to have unprotected anal sex.