Tuesday, July 30, 2013

Toy Tuesday: Harness

Hi guys! I can't believe it's been almost a month since I've written. Sorry about that! Let's get right onto Toy Tuesday, shall we?
The folks at Pipedream Products were nice enough to send me one of their Fantasy Harnesses, so here goes. (This review will stick to position facilitators and restraints; it will not include strap on harnesses)

Today's Toy: Bondage Harnesses

Harnesses are a kind of restraint made for BDSM play, typically consisting of straps, ties, and/or adjustable cuffs. There are several variations of harnesses, such as swings, slings, or straps.
And don't worry lovers, these products can be used for men and women, and come in many different styles, to fulfill your every kinky need:
  • Doggie Style Strap: A simple strap with, normally, a thicker center band and handles on each side for an easier grip. (Seriously, though? C'mon ladies, how hard is it to hold that ass up in the air?) My suggestion for its best use is while standing in the downward dog position.
  • Sex Sling/Position Facilitator: Similar to the doggie-style strap, the sex sling is made to facilitate sexual positions. It has a simple design, consisting of ankle restraints and a simple band connecting the two.
  • Standard Bondage Restraints: Standard bondage restraints serve a similar purpose as sex slings, but have a more complex design with added wrist cuffs and adjustable straps. These tend to be a little more difficult to use than the previous two models.
  • Sex Swing: Remember how much fun it was to go to the playground when you were a kid and swing on the swing-set? This is the same thing, but better. It is set up exactly the same way as a standard swing with added stir-ups or handle bars so you don't fall off. Some swings come with additional straps to restrain further. Other variations are swings that hang from the ceiling, a stand, or from your doorway, as seen below.

When it comes to harnesses, take the same precautions you would with any other kind of restraints: Make sure to leave enough space for two fingers to go through the restraint, trust the person you are using these items with, and if you ever feel any numbness, remove the straps immediately.

Best thing about this equipment? You don't have to worry about their care. Just take down and store.

Difficulty to use:
Depending on the kind of harness being used, the difficulty can range greatly. Slings and doggie style straps are the easiest to use. As for harnesses with more straps and restraints, these can get pretty complicated.

Versatility: 
Although they pretty much do the same thing, there are a few variations on what kind of harness you can buy.

My Rating:
This rating will be for Pipedream's Fantasy Fetish Harness.

The product itself is very well made. The straps are very resilient, and the collar and cuffs are very comfortable. They have velcro adjustable straps, facilitating the tightness of the fit, as well as faux fur lining.  I also love the multiple rings for adjusting the positioning of restraints. Despite my favor towards the product, here's why I only gave it three and half lips as a rating:
The harness was easy enough to put on, but my boyfriend and I decided to get creative with it and added ankle cuffs to the mix...Don't do this. We attempted to try out a "hog tying" position. Not only was it awkward to fuck in, my legs went numb after a few minutes. He tried to flip me over so maybe we could try it doggy-style, but again, it was not happening. Overall, it was kind of a disaster.
I liked the harness itself, but the overall experience (or I should say, inexperience) knocked it down a rating and a half.

Boyfriend's Rating: 
On the other hand, he absolutely loved it.


For more updates on Pipedream's toys, visit their blogFacebook page, and Twitter.