15 kinds of tops & how to spot them in the wild
| 09/13/24
acvalens
By continuing to use our site, you agree to our Private Policy and Terms of Use.
Drazen_/Getty
Did you know every top has a distinct style? Much like kissing, everyone tops a little differently.
It can be hard to figure out the types of gay tops that are out there, whether you identify as one or whether you're looking for one of your own.
If you're curious to find your topping personality, then don't worry: We've got you covered.
Here are 15 tops that we've run across in the wild, from gentle to aggressive (and everything in between).
Shutterstock
There's no shade here, but a lot of tops out there are either straight or still in the closet. There isn't anything wrong with that, but those on the hunt for something more should remain aware of these.
Shutterstock
Much like the straight top, the curious top includes bottoms who are curious about topping for the first time. Believe it or not, there's a lot of men who don't particularly like penetration in the first place, so they could easily fall into this category, as well.
It's his very first time being a top. It's very cute, even if he's not good at it. Time for you to take him from a starter to a pro, huh?
William Stitt/Unsplash
The Classy Top dresses freshly, hangs out at up-scale restaurants, and always offers to cover the bill, without question. Out of your league? Very. Good at topping? Extremely.
Nikola Jelenkovic/Unsplash
If cool took top form, it would be him. He dresses well, has a killer job, and knows how to sweet talk like no other.
Lobo/Shutterstock
This has nothing to do with the words that come out of his mouth, but everything about when he chooses to speak. The Vocal Top is just that — very vocal during sex. He’s not quiet and focused, he’s telling you precisely what’s working and what’s not, and you’ll know exactly when he’s finished.
Karina Carvalho/Unsplash
His job is to take care of you and protect you, including making you feel amazing in bed. He's a keeper, and pretty gorgeous to boot.
Samuel Dixon/Unsplash
On the other hand, there's the Aggressive Top. His job is to be rough, and sometimes, that's just perfect. He can be fun at times, just make sure to communicate with each other if you're feeling comfortable (or want him to go faster).
Evan Batky/Unsplash
This top will take you to new and exciting worlds of rope, handcuffs, spankings, and sex toys. Ready to get tied up?
Clem Onojeghuo/Unsplash
Who doesn't like an older top? Experienced, rugged, and at least ten years older than you... it's definitely hot. Grab one if you can.
Henri Meilhac/Unsplash
There's the Gentle Top, and then there's the soft top. Everything about him is femme, he's the twink among twinks. Very cute, especially when he gets down to business.
Lobo/Shutterstock
These are the mountain men, the lumberjacks, the hairy men, the bulky bears. He’s a real man’s man, and you’re likely to feel very safe and protected in his arms. Unlike the Daddy, the Rugged Top can come into his own as soon as he sees some chest or facial hair.
Tamarcus Brown/Unsplash
For him, topping is a romantic experience, one of love and tender care for his bottom. Doesn't hurt that he's cute! Can be gentle or rough, but probably a mix between the two.
Jascha Huisman/Unsplash
King of the Tops. He knows where to put his hands and how, he knows when to go faster or slow down, and he never stops until both of you are finished. He's a dream, and you're lucky if he's yours.
Lobo/Shutterstock
He knows just what to say before, during, and after sex. Similar to the Romantic Top, he’ll make you swoon with his words and shower you with his affection to let you know just what it is about you he’s interested in.
Ana Valens is a trans woman and queer critic. She writes about representation in media and the daily lives of queer and trans women living in the United States. Alongside PRIDE, her work has been seen on Bitch Media, ZEAL, The Mary Sue, Kill Screen, and The Toast.
Ana Valens is a trans woman and queer critic. She writes about representation in media and the daily lives of queer and trans women living in the United States. Alongside PRIDE, her work has been seen on Bitch Media, ZEAL, The Mary Sue, Kill Screen, and The Toast.
Andrew J. Stillman is a freelance writer and yoga instructor exploring the world. Check him out at andrewjstillman.com or follow him @andrewjstillman on all the things.
Andrew J. Stillman is a freelance writer and yoga instructor exploring the world. Check him out at andrewjstillman.com or follow him @andrewjstillman on all the things.