Abstract: A dry insert is disclosed that is suitable for use in an optical waveguide assembly. The dry insert includes a compressible layer and at least one reinforcing element that are attached together. The compressible layer having a modulus of elasticity in a longitudinal direction of the dry insert and the reinforcing element having a modulus of elasticity in the longitudinal direction, where the modulus of elasticity of the at least one reinforcing element is greater than the modulus of elasticity of the compressible layer for inhibiting a longitudinal stretching of the dry insert under a tensile load. In one embodiment, the dry insert has a strain of about 1 percent or less along the longitudinal direction when a tensile load of about 10 Newtons is applied. Various modifications and options for the dry insert are possible.