Sex and Mischief our first bondage kit - cuffs and blindfold set discontinued by Sportsheets - review by Spoken Pandora

Usually when I come across "My first..." anything, I expect a cheaply made product that won't withstand a full session, let alone multiple uses. Imagine my surprise when I opened "Our First Bondage Kit" and found agressively adhering velcro, soft faux fur cuffs, and over 3 feet of nylon trap on each of the four restraints. And I can't forget the handy dandy blindfold that fits tight enough for even the most defiant brat.

The set of four restraints and blindfold do look cheap and at first glance one would assume that it would be easy to manipulate the wrist and ankle straps and blindfold. But you know what they say about "ass-suming". Don't underestimate these inconspicuous little gems.

This kit is perfect for newbies to bondage and easily folds in the pocket for a "quick-fix" restraint for that unruly partner while on the go.

Nothing pleases me more than being bound during foreplay and sex and I don't allow the lack of anything to ruin the experience. However when I do venture away from my "grab whatever is near" session toys and buy something specifically designed for my kink of the day, I expect it to withstand as much as I can endure and I have a high tolerance.

A few of the qualities I look for when it comes to restraints are: something that resists my attempts to break free, restraints that bruise only because I choose for them to, for the product to be well-made, and for it to be something that can easily be hidden when needed. Because of the price, I automatically assumed I would be disappointed but I'm a "try-anything" type of girl, so I figured, "what the heck."

The stitching that affixes the nylon straps to the 10" ankle and wrist cuffs do look like someone sewed them in their basement. But nonetheless, no matter how hard you pull, jerk, or tug, the thread does not budge. (I promise I made a point to try to pull them apart.)

The design is perfectly simple which is great because instructions aren't included with this product. But I guess if you have to ask then you have no business fooling around with them in the first place. The simplicity is what makes this product appealing for any beginner. There are no clunky chains or complicated locks and because the cuffs are fastened with velcro, it only takes seconds to bind your partner. The velcro is extremely strong and doesn't slip while you resist. (Let's face it, we really don't want to be free but it's fun trying.) Because the velcro is so strong I do suggest being careful during play to avoid snagging on hair or garments. At the same time, after prolonged use I feel that the aggressiveness of the velcro will dwindle.

The oh-so-soft faux fur cuffs are a dream around the ankles and wrists and this feeling doesn't go away after hours of restraint. If you are a runner, these straps were made for you because they won't leave scars when you fight. The straps themselves are strong as heck. The more you pull the tighter they knot, which may be a disappointment to the one trying to break free but will put a smile on your "captor's" face. The length of the straps is perfect for a full sized headboard and Queen size bed and I am willing to bet that they would also be long enough to tie one up in a King size bed.

The faux fur blindfold is flimsy looking but surprisingly fits tightly and comfortably over the eyes and cuts off all light. However if one tried hard enough they could wiggle their way out. Over time I do fear that the elastic band will stretch out, but so far so good.

There is definitely a reason why this kit is for beginners. It works wonderfully right out of the package and serves the purpose for a quick tie-up and light "rough-housing" without complications. The restraints are comfortable and keeps one bound. But I am defiant and the more I pulled the more the nylon straps slipped, however they never came undone even though they were single knotted. The softness of the cuffs and blindfold is inviting and would make one look forward to being tied up. This could be a bad thing though, depending on the effect you want to have during playtime. They are not intimidating by any means. But they are strong and this is what makes it a great starter kit.

The length of the straps work well, not too long and not too short. And three feet is perfect for a simple tying to the headboard and footboard.

The straps and blindfold can easily be folded and stashed, whether it's in your toy chest or in your pockets for a surprise during a night out on the town. They are easily cleaned with soap and water or a damp rag. I do not suggest washing and drying them in a machine because it will soften the material and wear down the velcro over time.

The restraints and blindfold come in a plastic case that is bulky. But when taken out of the packing they fit almost anywhere. The pictures of the straps on the front of the packaging appear longer than they are and there are no instructions on the back of the package. But again, this product is one of those "stupid-simple" types of item, so no worries.

On a side note, I personally enjoyed playing with this product. But my tastes have evolved and so have those of my partner and this product will be used again but not during serious play or punishment.