This toy is best for masochists and sadists. It is also good for those just looking to threaten, but it's not as much fun just using it as a threat. I think this will give beginners a good way to ease into paddles, but it has enough oomph for more seasoned swinging arms.

The paddle itself is a tougher handle under what feels like a thick cardboard material, covered in velvet. The top of the paddle is two pieces that merge before the handle and are thinner and more flexible. I was unsure of how this would hold up, but so far so good. I love the heart cut out, but so far it hasn't made a heart impression on my ass. The stitching of the material and the glue holding it together has so far held up well through our play session tonight. It's not too heavy so it is easy to swing and maneuver. The handle is nice and wide for a good grip. It measures exactly 12" from tip to tail, 2 3/4" wide at the business end, and 1 1/2" at the handle. The heart cutout is approx. 1 1/4" x 1 3/4".

In the pictures you can see the size comparison to my arm as well as how the top part of the paddle splits.

I loved this paddle. I didn't get to use it on my husband as it was a gift for him and he is claiming it exclusively his to use. We started out slow of course and within no time I was begging for more. The sound was incredible. The double top on the paddle gives a nice crack sound when it connects with skin. It will make a decent noise even with the lightest of touches. It also can create quite the sting when yielded with a heavy hand. I love it for this reason. I'm new to paddles and still learning what I like best. So far this inexpensive toy is a win. My husband enjoyed using it as much as I liked being on the receiving end. He said it was easy to hold onto during a variety of positions and swings. We used it before we had intercourse and during. He liked the length of the paddle because he was able to slap me very close to his penis during sex without worrying about it potentially getting him too. He said it never got in the way but "became an extension of his hand". The little vinyl piece on the end is a great loop for hanging on a hook next to the bed, but if you need a larger loop to secure it to your wrist you'll have to put one on yourself. I am happy to say by the end of our 30 min play time my ass was significantly red, stinging, and happy.

There were no instructions with the paddle, but due to the materials I'd suggest using just a damp cloth to wipe it down and let it dry. If you don't use it with any fluids or supplements it wouldn't necessarily need to be cleaned. An idea I had for preventing damage to the material would be to secure a latex or nitrile glove over the business end. This should provide extra sting in addition to protecting it from lube or bodily fluids.

There was no real packaging to speak of. There is a small card tag attached to the handle end. It mentions what it is, the manufacturer (Pipedream), Pipedream's website and address, and a quick blurb about "exploring your dominant or submissive side". It is not discreet as a scantily clad woman shows off the paddle and pretends to use it on her thigh/butt area. Anyone seeing this will know what it is I'm sure.

This paddle will be good for travel as it's lightweight, flat, and not too long. I don't know if I'd bring it to a hotel where there may be children around, because it can create quite a loud noise. I suggest using it only at home or in a secluded place, unless you like having people know what you're up to (and as long as you don't think someone will call in a domestic dispute).

As I said in the Performance area, this paddle definitely lived up to my standards. It was great fun to use and matches my other spanking implements in color. Apparently only red and black will do. My husband enjoyed using it as much as I had fun being used. I know this will be in our regular play rotation. We've only used it the once, but that says a lot for me. We like to push things like this to its limit when we get them to test quality and function. It held up well, so normal wear and tear will be expected; I'll do a follow up in a month to keep updated on quality and performance.