Total enclosure
Fetishistic activities based on total enclosure of the body exist in several forms:
- Rubber fetishists often fantasize about being totally enclosed in rubber suits and gas masks;
- Vacuum beds rigidly enclose the entire body under a rubber sheet with a small breathing tube
- Some bondage enthusiasts also use sleep sacks and body bags; see mummification
Although many people would regard these experiences as claustrophobic, some people actually put their fantasies into practice, sometimes combining them with bondage to intensify feelings of helplessness. As with all activities involving bondage or potential risk to breathing, this is a risky activity. Clearly, maintaining an airway, preventing postural asphyxia, and ensuring that the enclosed person has a means of escape at all times are of paramount importance, if these activities are not to result in death. (See the articles on bondage, erotic asphyxiation and autoerotic asphyxia for some discussion of the risks involved).
Whole-body catsuits known as zentai which cover the entire human body from head to toe are also a form of total enclosure fantasy. In the case of zentai, the wearer breathes through the loose-woven fabric itself, the garment is not as tight as a rubber of PVC garment would be, and the costume generally comes off with a zipper that can be operated by the wearer.
