It's not often that my partner asks me for a little BDSM play, but when he does a riding crop is my go-to toy of choice. Over the past 2 years we have purchased 4 crops, looking for one that will not only stand up to both me and my partners expectations, which can be quite high where bedroom antics are concerned, but also to the wear and tear that sex toys undergo with prolonged use. Spartacus' Riding Crop has done both and more.

Starting with a solid base is essential to any late-night crop play. Although the firm handle, as the base description states, is nice, there is something to be said for the rod itself. This riding crop is unexpectedly pliant and not as rigid as one finds in other brands. This means that the crop is more responsive when that special someone is begging you to 'stop' (insert safe word here...). In the past, I have had crops either too stiff, which may overwhelm, or too limp, which may underwhelm, ones partner. The pliant yet responsive rod of this crop makes for the perfect connection each and every lash.

The rubber tip of this toy is wonderful for anything from light taps to my partners balls to lashes to his ass when he's done something particularly naughty. It is surprisingly pliant and does not become misshapen when stored, as so many crops do that have a leather tip. This tip keeps its form and is ready when you are. Unlike other crops, the tip does not tend to fray or become cracked. This is perfect, seeing as whipping is not the only use for a crop. I enjoy toying with my partner by gently tracing the outlines of his body with the rubber tip of this toy. The only drawback here might be that you should warm the tip up, as rubber does tend to cool faster than other materials might.

Due to the rather slim base of this extraordinary toy, you can use the handle for bodily stimulation as well. Whether this be gently massaging the anus or, a particular favorite of mine, using it for harder lashes to the buttocks, giving you that extra dungeon master edge. You can then use the rubber tipped edge to lightly caress the more battered areas to soothe any of the sting you might have inflicted.

The last feature I will mention is the snap-factor. When playing with a crop, the auditory sensation can be just as much a sexual release as any tactile sensation. This crop makes a delightful snap when used properly that gives me the satisfaction of knowing that someone is being punished. Other crops that I have used produce little to no auditory stimulation, and that can sometimes ruin an otherwise-adventurous session.

I still cannot say enough about this crop. Months later, it is still my go-to toy when I am looking to kick things up a notch. If you are looking for a great crop that is pliant, easy to grip and responsive than look no further.