X - 10 beads - beads discontinued by Cal Exotics - review by Kitty LaRue

The X-10 Beads is a set of very standard, by the book anal beads. I've been hesitant to get into anal play, and these were (other than a plug that turned out to be much too large for me to use) my introduction into that realm of sexual play. I didn't use these with a partner, so my review will be written from a solo point of view. I used these in correlation with a rabbit style vibrator, as part of a "triple stimulation" sort of deal. They were slim enough as to not cause me any sort of pain, though I was aware of the length when they were inside me. The graduated size felt nice upon insertion, and the material was smooth when lubricated. The toy is also highly flexible, which was important for me as a beginner. Since there's no motor or moving parts, this toy is 100% waterproof, which made clean-up much more pleasant than it might have otherwise been. The toy is smaller than I expected it to be, and once they're tucked into my "toy bag," they're discreet. Due to the size and material, these could be considered travel friendly.

The X-10 beads are made out of Jelly (Poly Vinyl Chloride), which has a safety rating of 2. This material cannot be sterilized completely, so either keep this toy to yourself or use with a condom. The smell of the material is very strong, almost like that of a pool toy. I did not taste them (seeing where they were about to go made me not as willing to put them in my mouth), but I can only assume that the taste would be similar to the smell. The texture is highly stimulating. The graduated size of the beads provide a "popping" sensation that I found pleasant. I would say that this texture is suited for beginners, and since the beads never get too large, they're okay for even the most virginal of anal enthusiasts to try out. One thing I definitely did not like about this toy was the raised seams on the edge of the beads. If they were any rougher, I would say they had the potential to cause injury internally. As it is, they're not that rough, but the seams are raised enough to cause me a little concern.

The design of the X-10 beads is the fairly traditional "anal beads" design. Looped handle at one end, with beads going from largest to smallest attached to the looped handle. This design is classic for a reason. it works well with anatomy and is also convenient to use solo. I can see how the design would also facilitate itself well for use with a partner. The toy is not realistic looking at all (no phallic themed designs) and instead looks like what it is: a string of beads. Due to the "classic" design, I wouldn't outright label this toy as discreet. While there's a chance that you could leave it out and not have it recognized as what it really is, most people are going to recognize it as a sex toy. (I.E "Is that the thing that Betty White's character wore around her neck in Made of Honor? That's a sex toy!") However, the size is such so that it can be hidden away quite easily in the corner of a drawer or bottom of a bag. The size is intimidating at first (12 1/2 inches, 10 1/2 insertable), but the size of the beads themselves (ranging from pea size to the size of a shooting marble) are small enough that even complete amateurs can comfortably experiment.

This toy does a pretty decent job at what it was designed to do. Once inside, it provides a gentle sort of feeling of "fullness" that isn't unpleasant, however, it wasn't as intense as I thought it would be. I'm guessing this is because of the slimness of the "neck" of the toy (the part between the first bead and the handle). The seams were a little uncomfortable during insertion, and again when I removed it. Even though I was a beginner, this toy was incredibly easy to handle and didn't provide as much of a "challenge" as I was expecting. If I go the anal route again, I'll likely try something bigger.

Jelly is easy to take care of, but not easy to sanitize. Due to the material, you can't boil it, so it definitely should not be shared between partners unless you've used a condom with them. Other than that, wash with warm water and soap. Due to this toy being used anally, I would definitely use anti-bacterial soap, and I wouldn't try to use it for vaginal or clitoral stimulation, as to avoid cross-contamination. This material is compatible with water based and silicone lubes, which is a plus for some people. I used it with my water based lube, which was fine. The toy is also small enough that it can be stored fairly discreetly. I keep mine in my "toy bag."

The toy came in a clear "blister" package with a fairly pornographic picture on the front. It was not the picture that was showed on the product page, but instead one that was a bit racier. This doesn't bother me because I don't keep packaging, but if you're one who likes classy packaging in which to store toys, this is something to consider. I wouldn't use it for a gift or as storage.

I think this toy is great for what it is: a cheap introductory toy to anal stimulation. However, I plan on "graduating" fairly soon. I'm not a fan of the material, and even for me as a beginner, it's not big enough to provide good stimulation. If you're looking for a nice cheap starter toy, this might be for you. If you're experienced, I'd buy something a little larger, and a little more well made.