If you're looking for a dainty, yet sassy collar for a petite neck, then look no further than Ruff Doggie Style's Heart Beat Collar. It really is a gift to those of us with small necks, as well as those who want something a bit more feminine in their BDSM collection.

*This review is on the collar featured in the current product picture. As far as I know, the previous four reviews are on a different collar.*

Materials

The collar's main layer is made of a decent quality black leather. Before seeing the tag, I knew of the leather. Yes, I experienced that wonderful moment when you unwrap a toy and have that lovely earthy smell waft up to your nose. That said, this is obviously not a product for vegan users. The leather is somewhat stiff, but it instantly molded to my shape. According to the tag, the small O-ring and studs are made of brass. When I deferred to the internet judges collectively known as Google, I found that brass does not inherently contain nickel, but that manufacturers may use nickel as an additive. I'm no expert on allergies, so those who suffer from one may want to do further research. The four 1/2" studs are not sharp to the light touch, but they'll cause some discomfort if you press down harder. The collar's lining is a black suede and the heart inlays appear to be made of pink suede. While the suede is not silky soft against the skin, I find that it is perfectly comfortable during extended wear.

Fit

Ruff Doggie Styles claims this 18" long and 1" wide collar will fit necks in the 12" to 16" range. While they're not far out, my careful measurements (OK, clumsy and involving two hands and my mouth. Why does my measuring tape taste so good?) beg to slightly differ. On its smallest setting, I can personally attest that the collar will accommodate a 12.5" neck per-fect-ly. I cannot express how happy I am with this! On its loosest sitting, it will snugly fit a 15" neck. If you're a bit larger, fear not: there is 2.5" of strap available for homemade holes. The strap tapers down to a 1/2" width. I should note that the strap excess will hit one of the studs if you wear this on the tightest setting. I plan to trim it down since I will be the only one wearing it

The O-ring is itsy bitsy, teenie weenie. If collars had feelings, I imagine that mine would be puffing its chest out at me. Really though, this thing is small. If you wish to loop clamps or a leash through it, you'll have about a half inch diameter to work with. As someone who is used to larger than life O-rings, I was a bit concerned. However, I happily found that it could accommodate my leash from EdenFantasys. All the leashes on EF seem to have similar sized connectors and you can get one with the Heart Beat collar for a discount. The pairing of the two is really meant to be!

Craftsmanship

The collar is beautifully constructed and I suspect it will last through many play sessions. The pink stitching is straight with no frays or loose ends. The leather and suede layers appear to be solidly glued together. If you use this with a leash or clamps, it should be able to withstand a moderate amount of tugging without stretching or losing its shape. My only complaint is (was) that the O-ring was not on straight. Let me tell you, that wonky ring was driving me up the wall. I twisted and tugged and huffed and puffed and then...I unscrewed it. The O-ring is fully removable, so if yours comes crooked, you'll just need a little elbow grease. It definitely won't come undone on its own. I imagine the studs also screw off, but I don't have an endless supply of elbow grease, you know?

As previously stated, I was absolutely overjoyed that this collar fit my tiny neck without cutting of my circulation. Since my partner is currently stuck in the office, I tested the collar's performance with the help of me, my aforementioned leash and all my strength. I was able to use every last bit of my arms' energy to pull on the leash. The collar did pull away from my neck, but not in any way that was detrimental to the collar or to me. Since the O-ring is on the front, tugging on it put pressure on the back of the neck instead of the tender throat in front. It is incredibly comfortable for extended wear and has not made me hot or sweaty in the slightest. The suede does not appear to shed or stain.

If you're into a bit of a kick - or slap, in this case - you can try using the collar as a slapper. I'd recommend the suede side for light BDSM players and the studded side for those who know they like some sting. If you choose to use the collar in this way, please make sure to only use it on the fleshy butt and thighs. You don't want any impact on vital organs and nerves.

I've assigned the collar one bee since the O-ring makes a little clinking sound. This shouldn't deter you if you live with others, though, for it won't be audible from behind a closed door. So, your roommates won't be getting a show. Er, at least not from the collar.

As far as cleaning goes, you'll want to run a wet cloth and soap over the leather and studs. Be sure to dry it immediately, as leather and metal do not fare well with moisture. If you notice the leather getting dry, a conditioning wipe should take care of it. Finally, make your new collar a nice home in a cool, dry and dark place. Since leather cannot be sterilized, I'd recommend this for fluid bonded partners or for people who are careful not to get any 'fluids' on the collar.

The collar arrived in a small plastic bag. May that bag rest in peace, for it was tragically lost in a fit of crazed "gimme gimme gimme" excitement. The product's tag was briefly lost in a similar fit, but was eventually recovered amongst the rubble. Let's hear it for the little trooper!

The Heart Beat collar is a beautifully made collar. If the design pleases your tastes, then I highly recommended taking the very reasonably priced plunge. The light pink hearts compliment the more "traditional" BDSM spikes to make for a perfect balance of sugar and spice and everything nice. Or not so nice. Never fear - your secret's safe with me.

Now, this review wouldn't feel complete without some pictures. Without further ado, I give you...the Heart Beat Collar.

Front view:



Side view - you can see how the strap overlaps to cover the stud:



Strap - check out the extra hole space!



Buckle with a loop for the extra strap:



Collar with O-ring removed:



Collar and leash: