Reflections hope - traditional vibrator by Doc Johnson - review by Pleasure Piratess

Hope is one of the new Doc Johnson's line of Glass Reflections vibrators. The metallic, deep-pink glass is punctuated by large, dark purple nubs and clear swirls. The effect is decidedly feminine, though either gender could enjoy this toy. The ideal use would be for insertion not just because of the shape and design, but because the vibrations are very diffuse. However, caution would have to be taken if used anally, as it does lack a safety base.

Glass may be one of the sexiest sex-toy materials out there. The solid, heavy, and cool weight feels exciting from the first touch. It has no smell, no taste, no foreign feeling. It feels powerful and intense. Completely smooth and super slippery with only minimal amounts of your favorite lube.

One of glass's most notable features is that it's ideal for temperature play. Simply place the vibe in cool or warm water, or in the fridge for a few minutes to illicit a whole new sensation to your foreplay. Hope quickly absorbs both temperatures, though they do tend to fade slightly quicker than solid glass wands.

Because Hope is made from borosilicate glass, it does not break easily. And even if it should, it would not shatter into small pieces. Rather, it is made to withstand temperature changes and stress, making it an ideal choice for a sex toy. Glass is also hypo-allergenic, non-porous, and phthalate-free. It is even safe for sharing with a partner, provided it is sanitized between uses.

If temperature-play and vibrations weren't enough to lure you in, the design certainly will. The shaft is stick-straight with the entire toy being 6” long, with 4 3/4” of which insertable, and a 1 1/2“ diameter. Though this may not sound overly large, it does feel bigger in use because it has no give. Yet at the same time, it would present little risk to most women's cervices as opposed to longer versions. The tip is tapered like a torpedo, and only 1/2” from the tip starts the continuous raised swirl that is felt over the first three inches. Where the swirl ends, the large raised nubs start.

This texturing is not just meant to make Hope pretty- although is does- but it is meant to be felt. The swirl is quite innocent and adds to the feeling of thrusting by creating ridges that massage with each stroke. Though the swirl does create a noticeable sensation, it is perfectly suitable for all users and even shallow anal penetration.

The nubs, however, are for the more experienced user… or at least a well-excited user. They are actually a little bigger than a lady-bug, including their height. Due to their placement, which is only over the last inch of the insertable portion, they are only intended to massage at the entrance. They create a very noticeable bumpy texture that might feel overwhelming in any other material, but because glass glides so smoothly, only adds an increased awareness with each stroke.

Sometimes simple is better. The three-speed motor is focused at the tip of the shaft and controlled via the push-button control on the bottom of the battery cap. With each push the speeds progress from low, to medium, to high… and then back to off. The cap is plastic and the button is rubbery in texture, and highly raised, making it easy to feel, but does not accidentally change speeds in use.

The vibrations are a cross between a deep and rumbling, and somewhat buzzy. Even on the highest setting, because the vibrations are so diffuse over the length of the shaft, they are not overwhelming. But combined with the cool glass and interesting textures, the vibrations add the perfect amount of sensation for a completely exciting experience.

The glass not only diffuses the vibrations, but also quiets them as well. Hope could barely be heard through covers, and not at all through a closed door. But not only is it quiet, it's waterproof as well. A word to the wise though, if this touches the side or bottom of the tub while in use, the noise could wake the dead.

Glass is compatible with all lube types and safe for sharing if sterilized between uses. Glass is not only easy to clean with soap and hot water, but is sterilizable with a 10% bleach solution or rubbing alcohol. Do not attempt to boil or microwave this toy due to the internal motor. Remove the 1 AA battery prior to storage to ensure battery-life and prevent corrosion.

For safe storage, be sure to buy a padded toy pouch to protect the glass from accidental bumping. And though it is small enough for travel, special considerations must be made, such as a plastic case.

The packaging for Glass Reflection's Hope may not be discreet, but is still classy. Arriving in a clear plastic box, and housed in a clear plastic tray, the pink of the vibe is accented by the green hearts and swirls design. Very cute, very presentable. Not suitable for long-term storage though, and minimal instructions located only on the side of the box.