Blush xoxo paddle by Sportsheets - review by Airen Wolf

Normally I am not a real big fan of pink toys or pink paddles but the Blush XOXO Paddle by Sportsheets was too cute to resist. I wouldn't recommend this toy to a couple who are hardcore players but for the 'armchair' enthusiast it is a great little addition to the toy box.

The paddle has a great shape and because of it's thin and elongated striking surface it delivers a pretty good sting. The surface area is narrower than rounded paddles and this causes a sort of higher pitched sensation that can be very intense depending on the force behind the strike. The paddle is flexible and this flexibility can intensify the stinging.
The Blush measures in at just over 12 and a half inches from the base to the flat top. The paddle curves inward to allow the hand to grip it comfortably before squaring off at the striking surface. The striking surface is nearly 2 inches wide and about 6 inches long which is great for coverage when striking buttocks or upper thighs.

The Blush Paddle is made of faux leather sewn over a black plastic paddle form. There is zero scent to distract you during play with this paddle. The edges are somewhat raw and unfinished but the stitching is even and there aren't any loose threads. The pink side has a row of stitching that marks the striking face and provides stability to the OXOX cutouts that give the toy it's name. The pink side is lined with black faux leather and this is very evident in the cutouts. Some of the letters have begun to break away from the black lining and it makes the toy look a bit cheap. To be fair it is an inexpensive paddle but I think it's going to look worse with more use. Already I notice that it doesn't leave even fuzzy lines anymore after a few dozen uses.

The black plastic form is shaped the same as the paddle itself but the core of the paddle is almost dowel shaped and it's off center. The edges of the form are thinner and almost floppy. This affects the effectiveness of the paddle a tiny bit as you will get an off center strike pattern and you lose the crisp edges and marks more prevalent from higher quality paddles. The form doesn't reach the end of the paddle but I don't see this as a design flaw because it means the silver grommet doesn't interfere with the paddle form in any fashion. A black neoprene string is knotted through the grommet and it makes a great hanger or wrist strap.

A damp cloth is about all you need to clean this paddle and I would caution the reader to be careful about fluids as the glue holding the pink 'leather' to the black lining is weak and comes apart quickly when wet. This is only a problem over the face of the paddle as the rest of the paddle is sewn together. I would recommend storing the paddle by it's hanging strap out of direct sunlight. A tie hanger meant to be used in a closet makes a great paddle hanger for those who need a bit of discretion.
This isn't a terribly discreet toy but it could be wrapped inside some clothing for those 'eyes only' inspections while traveling.

In use, this paddle feels a bit flimsy and doesn't deliver a solid thump. It is quite capable of delivering a good sting and a quickly fading mark. We have not been able to get a good crisp XOXO pattern no matter where we use the toy or how much force is used. It makes a great little warm up toy and has the humiliation factor I like when dealing with a male sub. Imagine having to say 'Thank you' while you are spanked with a pink, lightweight paddle.....mmmmmm!

The Blush Paddle would be a great toy for the adventurous couple who are just beginning their foray into BDSM as it will provide just a touch of sting without those telltale marks that hardcore players look for.

It is, also, great for breast play if you prefer a lighter paddle for this tender area. Personally, I like it for the upper thighs where the nerves can be more sensitive. Still, it would be nice to see a nice crisp red XOXO when I was done, ya know?

I worried that this paddle would fall apart rather quickly but I have been pleasantly surprised. The stitching is still intact and the paddle isn't bent from impact. It still doesn't leave XO impressions on the skin well but it's a great little paddle for a fun and flirty evening.