KinkLab’s Leather Leash is an exercise in simplicity. It consists of a single, 3/4”-wide strip of leather that is folded on one side to make a loop handle. It’s folded again on the other side to create an attachment point for the hardware. That’s it; minimalistic, elegant, and straightforward.

My initial experiences with KinkLab’s leather products had been hit and miss in terms of the quality of the leather itself. Lately, however, I’ve only received products of excellent quality. I’m left to conclude that either something in KinkLab’s manufacturing process changed or the kink gods have been smiling upon me. Either way, the leash’s leather is gorgeous.

At 2.5-feet the leash’s length roughly spans the distance between the wearer’s neck and crotch. That’s an excellent length for leading a submissive, but it is more limiting if you’d prefer to attach your partner to something. (Safety first! Never leave your submissive tied up unattended! Make sure your submissive can’t fall and choke while attached with the leash!)

The leash’s hook is made of solid metal and appears to be covered in some sort of shiny silver coating. I didn’t see or experience any wear, but I can see paint erosion happening over time. Other KinkLab products have this same sort of hardware and what little chipping I’ve seen has only revealed a dull silver metal underneath. It’s nothing unattractive or anything that would detract from the aesthetic or functional experience. The hardware may very well wear down over time but, if it does, it should wear well. In other words, the hardware is up for the long haul.

The tension of the hook’s spring is tight and the hook can swivel around 360-degrees. It’s possible to open the hook with one hand, but that may take some practice.

There are two loops on each end of the leash. One is for the handle and the other for the hardware. Both are attached by rivets and the attachments are very solid. As hard as I tried, there was absolutely no indication that the leather would tear or the rivets would come loose. In the war between the leather and my hand, the leather won.

In the event that you need to clean the leash, any leather cleaner should do the job.

One of my primary concerns when thinking about adding something new to my toy chest is price. Before upgrading to leather I had been using a straightforward dog collar and leash that I had gotten from the local pet store. There is certainly no difference in functionality between cheap nylon and more expensive leather. Fido’s pet store leash attaches equally well and his collar is just as firmly in place as any BDSM collar. What’s different is the psychology behind the two types of material.

I like my kink to be subtle and elegant, and it should come as no surprise then that I prefer the experience of leather. The leash’s design also plays into that aesthetic. Rope and nylon are equally good but very different in the message they send. Abrasive rope or smooth leather? It depends on what you’re looking for. If you’re interested in the latter, KinkLab’s leash is an excellent example of what a good leash can be.