Got some burning FAQs on the Sniffies app? Let's unpack Sniffies for the curious (and spill the tea).
Cruising has a long but fuzzy history. When hom*osexuality was criminalized in the United States, men really had no other choice but to hook up discreetly and quickly, leading to this culture of riskier, anonymous encounters. While times have changed, the thrill of the chase remains. This is where Sniffies hookups come in.
Described as an irreverent, sex positive, and uncensored universe, you might be wondering if such claims are too good to be true. What makes it different from other queer apps? What are the pros and cons? Is it really a safe space? Scroll down for all the answers to your burning FAQs on the Sniffies app.
WHAT IS SNIFFIES FOR THE CURIOUS?
Sniffies is a map-based web app designed for gay, bisexual, and bicurious men interested in finding casual hookups. Known as Sniffies for the curious, the app makes gay cruising accessible to anyone using any device and any browser. The interactive map contains various tools and features that allow you to find and connect with cruisers in your area.
The Sniffies app is free, but you can also upgrade to Sniffies Plus, a paid premium membership that offers member-only features, like travel mode, anonymous check-ins, and liveplay minutes.
DOES SNIFFIES HAVE AN OFFICIAL APP IN THE APP STORE?
Since the Sniffies app doesn’t censor nudity nor sexually explicit speech, it is not available as a downloadable app in the Apple or Google Play app stores due to their regulations. However, you can still get the full app experience by installing it as a home screen app from any browser, compatible with iOS, Android, laptops, and desktops.
SNIFFIES 101: HOW TO START CRUISING ON THE APP
LOGIN TO SNIFFIES: To start using the gay Sniffies app, just type “sniffies.com” into any search bar. You can either login anonymously or with an account. When you login anonymously, you can use most features without registering your email address, but your chats will be deleted once you log out of your browser. Whether or not you decide to create an account, you can still fill out your profile or leave it blank.
FIND CRUISERS: The interactive map displays active profiles around your area. Profiles are displayed as circular markers with different colors that indicate varying profile types and statuses. You can click on any profile marker to get the user’s information or start a chat. Some profiles will “pulsate” on the map which means they are actively cruising at that moment. Use the Cruiser filter to search for profiles by age, position, endowment, body type, sexuality, photos, profile type, hosting type, and location type.
MAP FEATURES: PROS & CONS
- Cruising Updates: This is a real-time public forum so you can send out mass messages to everyone in the area. Only Sniffies Plus members can post updates, including free trial members.
- Location Randomizer: This tool masks your exact location by randomizing it within the selected distance, but users have complained about the tool getting stuck in some locations or not continuously randomizing.
- Pins: You can pin chats to keep track of anyone that caught your interest. Note: number of pins is limited in the free app.
- LivePlay: Sniffies offers a video chat feature if you’d rather hookup virtually, but it was more in-demand during COVID.
- Vanilla Mode: Since most profiles display nudity, you can turn on the Vanilla Mode toggle if you need to hide NSFW content out in public. Useful, but not always necessary.
HOW TO DELETE YOUR SNIFFIES PROFILE
Registered accounts: Login to your Sniffies account and find the Menu icon at the top right. Click on “Account Settings” and hit “Delete Account” to remove your account permanently.
Anonymous profiles: Click “Logout” at the top right of the menu and your account will be permanently deleted. Be sure to click “Logout” to delete your account; closing the browser will not remove your profile.
IS SNIFFIES SAFE? HOW TO PROTECT YOURSELF
It’s called Sniffies for the curious for a reason. Anonymity can be dangerously hot, but don’t throw logic out the window. Although Sniffies is a legit cruising app, you should still use caution, especially since you’re dealing with strangers in real time.
- Don’t give out sensitive information. If someone is demanding personal information (name, phone number, etc), chances are something’s not right. Keep communication inside the Sniffies app, and use a nickname or only your first name. If you suspect suspicious activity, block and report profiles.
- Post nudity with caution. It’s totally acceptable to post and send nude selfies on Sniffies, but do so with caution. Avoid revealing your entire body and face, even if you’re out with nothing to hide. Only post and send photos that don’t reveal your exact location and full identity.
- Be aware of your surroundings. Always be aware of your environment. Form an exit strategy to make a quick escape if necessary. If you're really unsure, let a trusted friend know you’re headed out, even if it’s just a quickie.
IS SNIFFIES PLUS WORTH IT?
It really depends where you live and what you're looking to get out of the app. Some users claim that the premium membership is only worth it if you live in a heavily populated area. (More people, better chances.) Depending on location, Grindr may still be the more popular app, even for hookups. On the other hand, premium members can have the upperhand since it gives them more credibility. You also get access to more features, increasing your hookup chances. What do we think? Try the free trial and decide for yourself.
SNIFFIES GEAR: WHAT TO WEAR CRUISING
Sniffies for the curious offers a platform to explore the cruising scene, but navigating the apparel aspect might feel confusing for first-timers. Here are some style recommendations for your next steamy hookup:
Back Zipper Bottoms: Back zippers offer easy access (front and back) so you can get the job done fast, especially if you’re doing it outdoors. For a discreet, casual look, try these back zipper shorts or back zipper pants that come with a hidden-zipper design so no one will know what you're up to. Look for styles with cargo pockets so you can carry small necessities on you at all times like condoms.
Easy-Access Underwear: Although sexy male lingerie might be on your mind, it’s not always the most practical thing to wear for cruising. Go for non-fussy and uncomplicated underwear, such as cotton jockstraps and mesh thongs. You can also try front-accessible pouch underwear with zippers or snap buttons so you can open/detach the pouch without pulling down your underwear.
Mesh Streetwear: Mesh clothing is great for cruising because it hits all the right marks. It’s sexy yet blends in, showing off just enough to pique curiosity. You can easily rock a mesh tank top or sheer short shorts at the gym or beach without looking out of place. Plus, it’s thin and breathable so you won’t be a sweaty mess post-hookup.
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Have any other tips or tricks on using the gay Sniffies app? Let us know in the comments below!
