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KRUISE GUIDE
This guide gives a mix of history, useful tips, and some light-hearted innuendo while emphasizing on safety and consent—core values for both the practice and the community. (5 min read)
HISTORY
Gay kruising has existed as a form of connection and expression within the LGBTQ+ community for centuries. In societies where homosexuality was stigmatized or criminalized, public spaces became discreet meeting grounds for men seeking intimacy, companionship, or solidarity. Historical records suggest that cruising traces back to the 17th and 18th centuries in Europe, where men would gather in public parks, bathhouses, or known city locations to find like-minded individuals.
In the 1960s and 1970s, during the sexual revolution and gay liberation movement, kruising became a form of connection and resistance to societal norms. Locations like parks, piers, and bathhouses rose in popularity, and this culture was celebrated in art and media. The gay kruising handkerchief code, or “hanky code,” emerged in the 1970s as a discreet way for gay men to signal sexual preferences. Originating in San Francisco after Stonewall, men placed colored handkerchiefs in their back pockets to indicate kinks or roles, with left for “tops” and right for “bottoms.” For example, blue indicated oral sex, while black signified BDSM. The code offered a safe way to communicate desires during a time when open discussions of sexuality were often taboo.
KRUISING 101
More than likely you've come across someone in public who was f**king you with their eyes. If they actually did f**k you shortly after, and not within the confines of four walls, then you're a slut. Kidding! It just means you're familiar with kruising. If you're not, a basic understanding is that kruising is playtime anywhere else besides a bedroom. If you’re out for a stroll, using a public restroom, or trying on clothes in a fitting room—day or night—you might just encounter some public action.
SIGNALS + GESTURES
Understanding subtle signals is crucial.
EYE CONTACT
Prolonged eye contact with a glance up or down is a classic first move.
TOUCH
Touching your groin area is a common gesture signaling interest in more than conversation.
THE LOOK BACK
Walking past someone and looking back while slowing your pace could be an invitation to follow.
LINGERING
Hanging around a spot (restroom, park, certain section of a bar) can indicate that you're kruising.
MIRRORING
If someone mirrors your actions, there's a good chance they're probably interested.
ETIQUETTE
Kruising thrives on mutual respect, reading the room, and maintaining personal hygiene daily.
DON'T FORCE IT
NO means NO. If the vibe isn't reciprocated, move on. Consent is key. Attraction is subjective and it's perfectly fine if someone is not into you. You are still attractive to someone else.
HYGIENE
Shower daily and brush your teeth. No one wants to go down on someone with dirty d***.
DOUBLE D
Douche + Deodorant. Periodt.
DRESS TO I̷M̷P̷R̷E̷S̷S̷ F**K
Most people want to look their best when they step out of the house. But if you're going out to kruise, don't overthink it.
DRESS FOR COMFORT + EASY ACCESS
Sweatpants
Hoodie
T-Shirt
Basketball Shorts
Sneakers
Slide Sandals
Flipflops
SAFETY TIPS
While kruising can be fun, you should prioritize your safety at all times.
PrEP
You should be taking your daily PrEP medication if you are sexually active, in addition to using condoms. Heymistr.com is a great resource if you don't already have a prescription. Condoms should still be used as extra precaution.
HEALTH CHECKUPS
Regular STD testing is your responsibility. Know your status and communicate openly. There's no need to feel embarrassed. Please refrain from any sexual activity if you're still recovering from something.
ANALYZE YOUR SURROUNDINGS
Your eyes might be distracted by all the beef you're staring at. However, it's important to be aware of any escape routes or well-lit areas in the event of an emergency, or worse, you're caught with your pants down.
LOCATION SHARING
If you're up to no good, especially in an unfamiliar neighborhood, you should consider sharing your location with a friend to be extra cautious.
SECURE YOUR BELONGINGS
Always keep an eye on your phone and wallet. Secure your belongings inside zippered pockets or carry around a fanny pack when you're out and about. Kruising is the perfect chance for pickpockets to strike!
TRUST YOUR GUT
If something in your gut, besides the 🍆 you're taking, is telling you something feels off, it probably is. Don't be afraid to pull your pants up and walk away.
CLIMAXXX
Kruising is a blend of culture, history, and shared understanding among the gay community. It's about mutual respect, fun, and enjoying the thrill of the chase. Whether you're a newbie or experienced kruiser, knowing the signals, respecting boundaries, and staying safe will keep your experience exciting and satisfying.