New to BDSM – Restraints

Some people like to use restraints on their partners simply because it turns them on to see them helpless, while others simply like it because their partner can be quite a handful and they may feel the need to use something because it keeps them in place. Whatever the case, there are a lot of options to choose from (which is a great thing if you ask me wink*)

The handcuffs or wrist cuffs are probably the most used form of restraints when you want to incorporate some kinky play into the bedroom. When you cuff your partner’s wrists they won’t be able to touch you or the toys you are using on them. You can use the cuffs to restrain their wrists in front of them, behind them, or even to some other type of restraint. These are also a great way for beginners into this world.

On the other side of the cuff coins we have ankle cuffs; they are like handcuffs for the ankles. Ankle cuffs make it almost unmanageable for your partner to be able to walk because their ankles are stuck together. If you are interested in them you will be glad to know that they come in a variety of materials and designs.

Bondage mittens or mitts are just mittens for the hands. They are usually made of leather and the good thing about them is they restrain the hands and fingers completely, so it will be impossible for your partner to escape. Mittens also increase sensitivity because touching anything is impossible… oh and they also work amazingly with other restraints wink*

If you want something pretty restrictive, arm binders are the way to go. Although you do need to have more experience with restraints to use them (so it’s not for beginners), they are completely worth it; do be careful because they can lessen the circulation around the hands and shoulders. They bind the arms on the back, so your partner will be completely immobilized.

For a little something extra in penetration, spreader bars are the way to go; they consist of a bar that spreads the legs in the position you want them so your partner won’t be able to move (they are adjustable). Or if you prefer, you can use them to spread the arms so your partner cannot move them. Another cool thing about them is there are different models; some of them are lined so they won’t hurt the skin.

Rope restraints are probably the most common type of restraints and they get the job done. They can be used for beginners and experts, but you do need to know what you are doing and how to tie the knots (there is a learning curve there). They are very durable and strong and if you tie them right, your partner will not be able to escape. If you want to, you can also play with more complicated types of bondage with rope as well, just make sure to read more about them so you can do it right.

Body harnesses are a form of restraint commonly used in suspension play, but you can also use them to keep your partner right where you want them. About suspension bondage, that is something you should definitely not attempt if you don’t know anything about it (if you want to try it, look for some classes online or around your town). But body harnesses look pleasantly attractive and most of them have rings so you can attach other restrains to them.

For those who want to take it to extreme, straitjackets is the answer. Straitjackets are for the most experienced people, so beginners should stay far away from them. They last a long time and there is no chance of escape, but if you want to use one you need to build up tolerance; they restrict circulation and can cause shoulder pain. Seeing your partner in a straightjacket can also be quite a view, so this is also not for the faint of heart…