What are cuffs?
Handcuffs in the BDSM context are toys used to restrain the hands. However, they can also be used to restrain the feet. Classic hand or foot cuffs typically have a simple locking mechanism and a connecting element, such as a chain, carabiner, or leather strap. However, there are countless other variations designed for use in BDSM.
What are hand and ankle cuffs used for and why?
It’s simple: to restrain a person. By applying hand and foot cuffs, you can limit their freedom of movement. A person can also be restrained to a piece of furniture or object. Alternatively, the hands and feet can be bound together to create an uncomfortable forced position.
Hand and foot cuffs are a simple alternative to ropes in their application. No special technique is needed to quickly and safely restrain another person with them. They are also easy to release and, thanks to many variations and accessories, are incredibly versatile. Additionally, they come in a wide range of materials, ensuring that material fetishists can also enjoy their preferences.
What handcuffs and ankle cuffs are available?
On the market, there are countless variations, not only in terms of design and materials, but also in terms of closure type. Among the most popular are…
Leather (or latex) cuffs
They usually work in a similar way to a belt, with one or two metal pins on one side and a row of holes on the other. These restraints are rather soft due to the material and are therefore among the more comfortable. However, they cannot be individually adjusted due to the pre-punched holes. However, they are quick to put on and take off.
Ratchet cuffs
Cuffs made of fabric or woven material with a metal buckle that can be individually tightened. Inexpensive models are available in nylon with a plastic ratchet. They are also quick to use and remove.
Metal hand and ankle cuffs
On the one hand, there are the classic handcuffs used by the police. These usually have little space between the two cuffs and fit tightly. They are also uncomfortable due to their angular shape. You need a key to open them.
O-shaped steel cuffs are also popular. They tend to be slightly wider and are available with rounded edges. Many feature a small “Ring of O” attached, which serves as an additional loop for attaching chains, ropes, or carabiners. For many in BDSM, the “Ring of O” itself is considered a symbol of submission.
Steel cuffs close with a magnet, with an inserted bolt or also with a key. The correct size is particularly important here, as it cannot be readjusted.
Velcro cuffs
These inexpensive restraints are also usually made of synthetic fiber. However, they are not of high quality and you can easily free yourself from them.
Silicone cuffs
They are elastic and made from one piece. For once, there is no locking mechanism. They are put on by stretching the material. It is important to ensure good quality here. If the material tears, it can snap back and become (unintentionally) painful.
…and captivating combinations
Spreader bar with hand or ankle cuffs
With a spreader bar, the handcuffs or ankle cuffs are attached to an inflexible bar. This is often a telescopic tube. It can only be extended further by the restrained person, but cannot be retracted again. In combination with ankle cuffs, this allows the person’s legs to be spread.
The bondage cross
This is a device that can be attached under the mattress of a bed. Four strands with a cuff at each end divide from the center of the cross. Once fitted, these are each located at a corner point of the bed. This toy is often offered cheaply and seems to promise great bondage fun. However, it is often of inferior quality. Velcro fasteners that wear out quickly and slipping strands spoil the fun. If you like to tie up often, it’s better to invest in high-quality versions. Or attach a few carabiners to the bed.
Cuffs in combination with a harness
These cuffs are not only visually appealing but also offer additional possibilities for restraint. When metal loops and carabiners are combined with leather harnesses, even more binding variations become available. A collar is also a great anchor point for attaching handcuffs, which can be used to put Sub in an uncomfortable position.
What do I need to bear in mind when using hand or ankle cuffs?
It’s important to keep in mind the basic rules when handling a restrained person, such as never leaving them alone and having safety scissors or the appropriate key within reach. If the person is gagged as well, agree on a signal instead of a safeword, one that can still be performed while bound—such as dropping an object.
Handcuffs and ankle cuffs should also not be too tight or cut in. Pay attention to the right size and how much padding you prefer when buying. Some materials can chafe the skin if they slip. If this is not a desired effect, the cuffs should not be too loose.
If you have a special preference for hand and ankle cuffs, consider investing in high-quality models. Unfortunately, the rule of thumb applies: the cheaper, the less secure, the higher the wear and tear, and the easier the escape.
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