The Sex and Mischief anal beads from Sportsheets are a wonderful set of beads that are relatively easy to use, are cost effective, and can be used by individuals and couples alike. Due to being silicone and having some length, this strand is quite flexible and bendable, while the last half of the strand itself can be used as a handle for added stability when thrusting. Due to the nature of the bulbs' shape (their flared base with narrowing tips), one can expect to experience a strong "popping" sensation when they are inserted and then removed, which lasts the length of the toy. As always, being silicone, this strand can be sanitized for safe partner play, and is also suitable for vaginal insertion if desired.

Silicone is by far one of the safest materials to use for sexual adventures, and Sportsheets took note when designing the Sex and Mischief beads. These beads, aside from the o-ring handle, are made of non-porous, food-grade, hypo-allergenic, latex-free silicone, and are phthalate-free. The surface has a matte, smooth texture that is delightful to feel in your hand and in your booty. Due to not having a slick and smooth surface, this toy holds on to lube more effectively than smoother materials like plastics or jellies, and has almost a velvet-like surface that I could play with in my hand for hours. The seam is pronounced to the touch but was less noticeable in use, so it might depend on the user how much it will distract. Being more velvety, it was a lint magnet, so be forewarned. Simple washing clears that up in no time, and if warm water is used it could add a lovely degree of temperature play into the mix.

The first thing that struck me about this set of beads was that each of the 9 bulbs reminded me of the tip of a butt plug. Each bulb tapers to a smooth "point," if you will, that adds to the ease of insertion and also provides a broader base to each bead that keeps them in or creates a "popping" sensation when removed. This bulb design is, by far, my favorite feature of this toy and one that I think will appeal to most users. The dimensions of the this string are as follows:

Length:
9 3/4"
Insertable length:
8 1/4"
Circumference:
2 3/4"
Diameter:
7/8"
Weight:
0.2 lb

The length of this string is perfect for the beginner interested in exploring anal play, while the handle provides added protection for those worried about losing this toy in their nether regions. As the length is rather long and the size of the bulbs are a modest 7/8", this string is a great beginner toy for those looking for something that isn't intimidating--it can add some spice and fun to their play, be it alone or with a partner.

This set of beads are your standard set made of silicone, are relatively easy to insert, are comfortable and straight-forward, while are also gentle when pulled out. Due to the generous length of these beads, I found the best uses were when they were pulled out during climax, as well as having a partner hold half the beads while thrusting. The length of these beads is generous but that also adds a degree of floppiness that can make insertion a challenge or even slightly uncomfortable due to the acorn shape of the individual bulbs. I found this strand to be pleasurable but had to find ways to use them that worked for my body.

Given that the insertable portion of these beads is pure silicone, washing with antibacterial soap and water or toy cleaners/wipes are easy ways to maintain this toy for fun on-the-go. One could also use a 10% bleach solution to ensure this toy is safe and fun to share with a partner. I wouldn't recommend boiling these beads due to the handle being made of a plastic material, but if you wanted to be extra thorough and brave, you could hold the silicone in boiling water. As always, you want to make sure to use water-based lube with any silicone toy to maintain the integrity of the toy. Silicone-based lube will bond and eat away at this bad boy. This toy is super easy to store due to it being flexible and small, but it can also collect lint when hiding away in a toy box--be sure to wash it before and after use to ensure a clean toy that can last over time.

Packaging was your traditional clamshell with a cardboard backing. The packaging wasn't terribly interesting or informative. On the front we see the beads packaged into the shape of a question mark. On the back there is a picture of a beautiful rear-end and some detailed information about the company. One could use this package for storage but it's big and clumsy, so the threat of lint might be worth storing this toy out of the pack and it taking up less room.