6 underrated sex positions

When it comes to sex positions, most of us have our ride-or-die favorites, baby—the ones we can do in our sleep—or at least after drinks and/or food. They’re comfortable, they deliver, and they’re basically like your sex playlist’s top hits. But here’s the thing: just like listening to the same song on repeat eventually makes you numb to its brilliance, sticking to the same position(s) can flatten the peaks and valleys of your sexual soundtrack, nam sayin'?

Switching things up now and then isn’t just about novelty—it’s about discovery. Besides, you might not even know you love something until you’re suddenly twisted like a pretzel and realizing, damn, this angle just hits different. The truth is, while some positions get all the fame 'n glory (hello, cowgirl, hello, doggy), others are quietly waiting in the wings, packing just as much heat and sometimes even more satisfaction. It’s time to give those sexy wallflowers a li'l bit of the spotlight.

Underrated positions

What exactly makes a position underrated? Glad you asked. Usually, it’s that it’s been written off as “basic,” overlooked for flashier options, or misjudged as too vanilla or impractical. But when done with intention (and maybe a little lube), these moves can deliver unexpected fireworks. 

Take the following as perfect examples:

1. Missionary

Why it’s underrated: missionary gets dismissed as the vanilla ice cream of positions—plain, predictable, and a little too safe. But sometimes my friends, vanilla is artisanal, hand-churned, and topped with mouthwatering hot fudge.

To get there: one partner lies flat on their back while the other lies on top, body-to-body. Legs can be spread or wrapped around, and arms can be used to pull in closer or push back for rhythm control. Adjusting hip angles, putting a pillow under the bottom partner’s hips, or spreading legs wider can completely change the sensation.

Why try it: this position allows maximum eye contact, kissing, whispered dirty talk, and intimacy—all things that can heighten arousal more than acrobatics ever could. Plus, with the right tweaks, missionary offers deep penetration and g-spot access. Ya heard it here first.

2. Spooning

Why it’s underrated: spooning often gets pigeonholed as lazy morning sex before brushing teeth, but it’s actually a sneaky powerhouse of both comfort and closeness.

To get there: both partners lie on their sides facing the same direction. The thrusting partner slips in from behind with their cock or strap-on, hips snug against hips. Hands are free to roam: reach around to stroke breasts, play with the clit, or grip thighs.

Why try it: spooning, or a variation known sometimes as speed bump, offers a slow-burn sensuality that’s deeply intimate. It’s also great for those who like to be held, or for anyone craving connection alongside pleasure. Bonus: it’s practically built for multitasking—like nipple play or dirty whispers.

3. Lotus

Why it’s underrated: Lotus doesn’t get much airtime because it looks “too yogi” or intimidating. But it’s actually incredibly grounding, sensual, and hot as hell.

To get there: the receiving partner sits cross-legged (yes, like you’re about to meditate), and the other partner straddles them, sliding in while wrapping legs and arms around. Think tantric cuddle-meets-sex-throne. Movement is slower, more rocking than thrusting.

Why try it: Lotus is ideal for eye contact, kissing, and syncing your breathing with your partner’s. It’s intimate without being passive, and perfect for when you want connection to feel as central as penetration. Plus, it’s excellent for slower, more intentional sex sessions.

4. Standing face-to-face

Why it’s underrated: standing sex is often dismissed as awkward—like, where do I put my feet? Am I tall enough for this? But with a little creativity, it’s one of the most erotic, spontaneous-feeling positions ever.

To get there: partners stand facing each other. The receiving partner can lift one leg (onto a chair, wall, or around their partner’s waist), while the other supports them by holding their thighs or hips. Depending on height differences, heels, walls, or furniture can be your best friend.

Why try it: this position is perfect for passionate, heated moments—think hallway makeouts that escalate, or kitchen counter romps. It’s hot because it feels urgent and raw, but also allows for lots of touching, kissing, and body contact. It’s not just sex—it’s a movie scene.

5. Reverse cowgirl (with a twist)

Why it’s underrated: sure, reverse cowgirl gets some fame, but people often treat it like a visual-only stunt—fun for porn, but not real life. In reality, it can be ridiculously empowering and malleable.

To get there: the thrusting partner lies down, and the receiving partner straddles them facing away. From here, the rider can lean forward onto their hands for deeper penetration, or lean back for a slower grind. Hands can reach behind to touch thighs, or forward to stimulate their own clit.

Why try it: this position gives the receiving partner full control over pace, depth, and angle. It also provides a unique visual for both parties and can be adjusted for comfort. If you want to feel like the star of your own erotic film while simultaneously taking charge of your pleasure, this is it.

6. The seated edge

Why it’s underrated: it doesn’t sound too glamorous—yet it’s a position with secretly mind-shattering angles.

To get there: the thrusting partner sits on the edge of the bed, chair, or couch, feet firmly planted. The receiving partner straddles them, facing forward. From here, movement can be a slow grind, a bounce, or a full-body hug.

Why try it: this position is versatile—intimate if you wrap around each other, hot if you keep things upright and grind. It’s excellent for clitoral stimulation thanks to the friction and angle, and it also gives the thrusting partner great access to use their hands. Plus, it’s accessible for people who don’t want to hold up their entire body weight.

The moral of the story? Don’t sleep on the so-called “basic” or “awkward” positions. Just because they don’t come with Cirque du Soleil-level flexibility doesn’t mean they aren’t volcanoes waiting to erupt. Sometimes, underrated equals under-explored—and exploration is where the fun really begins.

So, the next time you find yourself automatically rolling into doggy or cowgirl, pause. Ask yourself: what if you gave spooning a chance to shine, or leaned into the intimacy of missionary like it’s the main character? After all, at the end of the day, great sex isn’t about performing—it's about staying curious, cum what may. <3