Get Caught in a Web of Pain

The Spider Paddle is a fairly versatile toy, but is geared more towards the moderate-level BDSM enthusiasts. Newcomers may enjoy it, given that the person wielding the paddle knows how to warm up a body, preparing it for more intense play. Those who are interested in sting on the very extreme end of BDSM play may be less enthralled with the Spider Paddle. So, moderate-level players, it's a win.

As someone who has played with a variety of bottoms, from those who are "sensation sluts" to those who are "pain sluts", I can say with authority that this will hold the attention of quite a variety of individuals.

The design of the Spider Paddle doesn't really impress me. The shape is more an impediment, rather than an asset. Over time I can see that the edges will not wear well. From the handle and down through the center is a firm base that I can feel sewn in. However, it doesn't extend to any of the points, so this also aids in the weakening of the Spider Paddle.

Also, in regards to the shape, I noticed it isn't symmetrical. If you were to fold the shape in half you'd assume that the points on one side should align with the points on the other side. It just isn't so, and it's quite noticeable.

The handle of the Spider Paddle isn't a comfortable fit for my hand, and I have typical medium-sized (female) hands. I can imagine for a man it would be even less comfortable to hold. Firstly, it's too short. When I wrap my hand around the handle it feels like there should be more handle to hold onto. Also, there is a gradually widening area as it becomes the business end of the paddle. I found it less comfortable than if it were to be constructed with a straight section for the handle.

The material on the side with purple stitching feels rather cheap. It appears to be patent leather and isn't visually appealing to me. When I run my hand over this side the sensation is rough and I'm not moved to land strikes with that side due to the roughness. The stitching in some areas looks like it will come loose with any regular use of the paddle. The opposite side is more streamlined, with only stitching along the edges. Still, the stitching is imperfect and it shows. The black leather on that side is more visually appealing.

As far as the construction of the actual edge, or the part of the paddle between each of the sides, it seems that the makers did a shoddy job. In some areas the leather overlaps. In other areas the leather doesn't meet to cover the inside of the paddle.

I tried out the Spider Paddle in as many ways as I could use it. First, the way one might assume you'd use it. I held it by the handle and hit with the "web". I suppose some might be satisfied with using it this way, especially if they're casual BDSM players and don't intend to create marks, a lot of redness, or a bottom (receiver) who swears at you after you whack them. If you think paddles are "novelty toys" and aren't really into using them on a very regular basis, well, this is probably a great paddle for you, used in the typical way.

I found two other ways to use the Spider Paddle that people with an evil streak (like me) will find useful. It can work well for impact play with masochists when used in a specific way.

The actual edge of the paddle, between the two sides, is appealing to me. It requires a bit more focus from the top (giver) in order to land a strike where you want it on a body and where you want the section of the paddle to make impact. The sections on the sides, between the two points, are my favorite. Hold the paddle by the handle, turn it sideways so the edge makes impact, and make calculated, focused strikes. It gets the bottoms attention in short order.

The other way I like using the Spider Paddle is upside down. Rather than use the handle as a handle I use the handle as the business end. Since the handle has a firm inner core and is inflexible, it makes a good paddle in itself. The awkward part of that is, of course, that you now have to use the web as a handle. It's uncomfortable to be sure, and I find myself gripping the right side of the web with four fingers under the web and my thumb above. This way of using the paddle is only good for short sessions, or interspersed with other ways of using the paddle. When I hold the paddle this way, my favorite way to make an "impression" on a bottom is to land strikes in the exact same spot repeatedly. This tends to make them swear at me and lets me know I'm doing it right.

The Spider Paddle is leather and should be cared for in the way one cares for leather. That means no immersion in water. Cleaning should be with a damp cloth and mild dish detergent. A leather cleaner could be used as well. Of course, clean it after each use and most definitely between partners if it's getting any use at a party.

I took the hanging cord right off the Spider Paddle as it was just annoying and got in my way. I store the paddle in my toy bag and don't feel any need to hang it.

I was able to experience the Spider Paddle as a top and a bottom. I prefer to top with it. As a bottom I like a gradual increase in sensation when pain is part of play. This paddle has some sting that can take you by surprise. I tend to bottom to people who aren't into warm up and want to get right to it. So this paddle isn't my favorite.

As a top, however, I'm skilled at the type of warm-up that works for most people. That allows me greater control in a scene and lengthen the play to my whims. Even if you aren't a fan of sting, if you have adequate warm-up you may find you like what the Spider Paddle dishes out.