I've never used silk ties, handcuffs, rope or any other movement restricting methods before, however, it seemed like it might be fun, and these were inexpensive enough that I wouldn't be distraught if I ended up chucking them in the trash. The ballet pink was not exactly ideal (I suspected my husband would protest), but I liked the faux-fur lining, and they looked sturdy in the pictures.

They arrived in a plastic clam-shell, from which they were easily liberated, no scissors necessary. For the price I feared something slightly above a kiddie toy you might find at the supermarket but I was pleasantly surprised. The leather (maybe pleather?) was flexible and had a nice feel, and the faux-fur was short yet comfortable. The straps have five holes placed about ¾" apart, so there is a good amount of leeway for fit. My twig-tiny wrists can be securely fastened (i.e. no slipping out), as can the muscular wrists of my husband.

The hardware is a bit of a mixed bag. The d-rings are firm and the rivets are secure, however the buckles are a little chintzy though they do their job. I love that the chain is removable, but the paltry length - mine is only 5¼", not the advertised 6" - is a tiny downer as it limits how far apart the wrists can be chained. The links are also worrisome as I think even I could break the chain given enough excitement so my husband got a stern, "Don't wiggle too much," before I tried them on him.

Of course, telling a man not to wiggle beforehand, and expecting him not to wiggle when you're having some fun with him are two different things. To my surprise, the chains held up to vigorous wiggling (and even some light yanking). There was a moment of: "They're pink." - ::unhappy man face:: at the beginning, but the issue of color was forgotten in less than 60 seconds once we started playing.

It remains to be seen how long these cuffs last - reading the reviews of more experienced users leads me to believe they'll either give out or I'll want to upgrade - but they're a fabulous start for a novice couple. Which leads me to one last bit on information: pulling a Houdini, i.e. escaping the cuffs. I know, I know, the fun is that you can't escape! But allowing reality to intrude for a moment, in the event of an emergency I'm going to want/need to put the fantasy on hold. With these cuffs, I know I can unclasp the chains from the d-rings and set myself free. It might take a few tries, but I can do it. I could probably even unbuckle the straps, but that's much more time consuming, and seconds count if someone is having a medical issue. If I never have cause to unchain myself, magnifique! It's just reassuring to know that I can.

Replacing the chain is high on my agenda, so there's been some scouting at the local hardware. However, while a stronger, longer chain/clasps would be ideal for play, I'm being very careful not to choose something too heavy. I don't think the leather (pleather?), rivets and d-rings can withstand something significantly larger or heavier than the chain the cuffs come with.

Over three months and they're still holding up nicely. The pink, fuzzy lining needs the occasional spritz of Febreeze, but otherwise they're in great shape. The d-rings and buckles look good and function well, and the pink pleather is still supple. The included chain is in like-new condition, but it has been retired in favor of fabric tethers. They are long and strong, but unlike a heavy chain they're quiet and cause little to no damage to the cuff.


Now that I own Aslan's Jaguar cuffs and Spartacus' Fleece Lined Wrist Restraints these seem a little cheap by comparison. However, for the price point I remain impressed, and — if they're ever in-stock when I place an order — I'd even like to get the matching Pink Plush ankle cuffs.