Riding crops are "so hot right now," and that's not just how internationally acclaimed fashion designed Mugatu feels. While we only carry one design currently, we are looking to create new models to keep up with the demand! But how do you use a riding crop? And safely? We're here to give you tips and tricks on how to enjoy your new accessory the most!

Safe, Sane, and Consensual

We've said it before, and we will say it again: Your play needs to be safe, sane, and consensual. So what does this "safe, sane, and consensual" thing mean? "Safe" refers to both parties communicating and understanding the scene, in this case, riding crops. Do both parties understand the proper use of the riding crop and how both parties will respond to its use? If not, more communication is needed. "Sane" refers to the state of mind of all participants. If you enjoy imbibing or partaking in other substances, do so in safe ways, and remember that they may impair your ability to use the riding crop properly. Also, understand that your current state of mind can also have an impact. Finally, consent. Why? Because CONSENT IS SEXY!  I have to give a shout out to my friends, Opal and Jade, for that amazing mantra!

Establish a Safeword

In kink scenes, we don't have our mothers or Kramer to throw their arms across our chests to save us from unsafe situations. That's why we establish safewords. This can be a random word or phrase to use if you want to stop the session. Another standard and handy method of creating easy mid-session communication is the "traffic light" method. If you want to slow down and let your partner(s) know, you can say "yellow/orange," and if you want to stop completely, say "red ." When you are ready to resume or take it to the next level, say, "green ."In either case, if you are unable to speak or have a hard time hearing, you can also establish another method, such as tapping or using hand signals to communicate with your partner(s).

Practice Your Swing

Don't jump into a session not knowing what you are doing. Would you take the Bar Exam without going to a single law class? Well, unless you are Frank Abagnale Jr. In regards to riding crops, I recommend that you have a base knowledge of spanking. And it just so happens that I recently wrote a blog all about it!  Read it here!  This will help give you a better understanding of what impact you're capable of and what your play partner enjoys. Work up to stronger strokes and check in on your partner to make sure it's still enjoyable for them. Switch it up by mixing in lighter smacks, speed it up/slow it down, and change up the smacks' location. As I have mentioned before, the riding crop gives a high-intensity sting with a moderate amount of burn/lingering sensation, so it's essential to keep this in mind.

Location, Location, Location

Location isn't just an important factor in real estate.  Concentrate your smacks on the fleshier/meatier parts of the body. The butt and thighs are the best spots. Avoid joints, the spine, and around the kidneys as these areas can prove dangerous in any impact play. Experiment on yourself to understand the sensitivity of the body's various areas and continually check in with your partner.  But remember the wise words of Rachel Greene, "If you go to Disneyland you don't spend the whole day on the Matterhorn!"

Aftercare Should Not Be An Afterthought

I cannot say this enough: Don't forget the aftercare, because they won't! Aftercare is an opportunity for deeper bonding and the formation of trust relationships. For more information on aftercare suggestions, check out our blog on impact play.

Now, go get off!