The purchase of BDSM Equipment can be a very personal choice. In pictures, two pieces can seem virtually identical, but feel completely different in the real world. The experience can vary with weight, material, fit and even the opening of a clasp. That’s why it is rarely the best idea to only go for equipment that looks dramatic. With a little careful thought regarding the practical details, a new piece can be far more enjoyable and much easier to use, with confidence.
Start With the Material
Material is one of the first things worth considering when searching through BDSM Equipment. Stainless steel has a solid, robust feel and is favoured by those who prefer more substantial equipment. Leather offers a very different feel. It has some flexibility, gets softer and doesn’t feel quite as tight on the body.
Neither material is necessarily the superior option. A leather restraint might be preferable for some people or a metal restraint for others who are interested in solid restraints. The important thing is to select something suitable for the practical application of the equipment.
Fit Should Never Be Guesswork
Many people don’t give as much attention to sizing as it needs. In the case of everyday pieces, a slightly imperfect fit may be merely an inconvenience. BDSM gear is so close to the body that a slight size mismatch can become apparent sooner rather than later.
It is, therefore, advisable to take measurements before ordering, rather than relying on appearance. Some flexibility can be achieved with adjustable parts, but they must begin in an appropriate size range. Good fit is not a matter of “loose” equipment; it is a matter of a position of equipment that allows it to do its job without introducing new issues.
Think About Weight in Practice
A metal product may look fairly compact online but feel surprisingly substantial in the hand. This is particularly true when using weighted equipment.
For example, a ball stretcher shouldn’t be considered solely on the basis of its weight. How it feels also depends on its shape, width and weight distribution. Individuals new to weighted equipment are best served by knowledge of comfort, not just “heaviest” or “largest.
BDSM doesn’t have to be a test of endurance. The equipment should enhance the experience, not make it a competition!
Check How the Gear Works
It’s important to handle a new item before using it in a scene. Unlock and lock the fastening. Check screws, locks or valves. Check how quickly the system can be removed.
These little things are easy to overlook when you’re jazzed up about a new item you’re buying. If you know how a piece works before playing it, it’s easier on the actual playing and you don’t have to think of a mechanism in the middle of a session.
Cleaning and storage are important too. Metal and leather require different care and should be inspected regularly for wear or loose parts.
Conclusion
Good BDSM equipment does not have to be heavy, large or showy. The best option is something that fits well, is appropriate for the type of play intended and is easy to handle for those who use it. Prior to purchasing a piece, take just a little extra time to consider the material, sizing, weight and construction and you’ll find you will know whether it is a repeat favourite or a piece that sits in a drawer unused.
