Sex Toy Reviews

Below you’ll find all of the sex toy reviews I’ve written at Of Sex and Love. Find my opinions on vibrators, dildos, media (sex education books, porn, DVDs and erotica), bondage and BDSM gear, lingerie,  anal toyslube, massage products, and more!

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VixSkin Tex

November 30th, 2011

Tex

Tex
$72.99 from SheVibe

If the house were on fire and I had just enough time to grab one sex toy (assuming the cats, laptop and Mountain Dew were safe), I’d grab the Vixen Tex. I’d be sad to leave some behind, like the Yooo or Tango but I’d replace those. I probably wouldn’t replace any of my Lelo toys. I’d opt for cheaper G-spot vibes in general.

The reason is simple: VixSkin is awesome. It’s soft without being floppy. It’s surface isn’t perfect so it’s more skinlike. It’s squishy and it just feels good. There are few materials that I can comfortable thrust with. My vaignal walls and cervix don’t like rigid or aggressive movements so unless I used a harder toy slowly, it kills me. So I can thrust with Tex and it feels good. It also feels fantastic when I’m orgasming. Generally, I hold it in place while that occurs, and the way my muscles contract around it feels more like sex than any toy I have. During thrusting, it’s just a tad too soft to feel real but, my God, it replicates the feeling of cumming around a cock amazingly.

So that’s my case for VixSkin but I really like the size and shape of Tex, specifically. I bought this one (gasp!) after I accidentally ruined my Spur. Spur was a smaller thing. Tex is larger but it’s not super long, which is something I also like (re: cervix). Tex measures in at 5″ long with a diameter of 1.5″ at the widest part of the shaft. Tex has a rounded, realistic head with a split down the center. Below the corona is another slight ridge that I can’t necessarily feel in use but looks realistic.

The shaft increases slightly in diameter toward the base, which is flat, round and perfect for use in a harness. Tex would also be okay for anal use, I think but you might find it a bit short with a strap-on. This isn’t a problem for me and I find the base super easy to hold on to or to hold in place between my thighs.

Tex does have a slight curve to it which is a-okay for hitting my G-spot. I don’t tend to use this one for squirting as much as I do vibrators but it’s great for that. Tex is filling enough that it’ll sit against my G-spot with no finagling at all and the curve ensures it’ll hit the spot even when you’re thrusting and not holding it in place.

The squishiness of Tex does make it feel slightly smaller and less abrasive than harder toys but this special formula from Vixskin is a little more demanding than regular silicone. You should reaaaally stay away from silicone based lubes. I used just a tiny packet when I ruined my Spur. The softer formula is more reactive. Silicone is a lint attractant so I actually store my Tex in the cylindrical container it came in. It’s a little bulky but always easy to use and, if you have multiple Vixen toys, you can see through it to pick one out. Tex is still non-porous and you can clean it with soap and water.

Tex is available for around $70 from some retailers and it’s worth every fucking cent. Especially if you think the size will work well for you. Vixen makes this dildo in several skin-tone shades, including vanilla, chocolate and caramel. Hell, why not get one in every color?

9 Comments


Silicone Jack Rabbit

November 27th, 2011

Cal Exotics has released their classic jack rabbit in a new silicone formula and, in general, I approve. The line up includes blue, pink, purple and white models. The silicone itself is smooth with a bit of drag so you’ll probably want to use a bit of your favorite water-based lube with this one.

This vibrator only offers 5″ insertable and has a diameter of 1.5″ at the widest point, which is where the beads are, slightly more than halfway down the shaft. The shaft has a rounded, contoured head and there are several protruding bulges on the back of the shaft, just under the head, making a Y shape.

The beads are arranged on several vertical poles and all of them move, either clockwise or counter-clockwise. The clitoral attachment is, traditionally, a rabbit with soft, squishy ears. His nose extends toward the body as well.

The controls on this one could be a little more intuitive. There’s a squiggly line which turns on the vibrations. Pressing it again cycles through three modes of steady vibration as well as pulsation. There are three heart-shaped LED lights below this button that light up or blink in tune with the setting. There are three more buttons. An up arrow and a down arrow. Pressing the up arrow turns on the bead movement, of which there are three speeds. Pressing the down arrow does the opposite while the last button, which features arrows, changes directions. I wanted to press this button, though, because of how the main vibration button works. It seems off balanced to have three buttons for one function and a single for the other.

Because the silicone jack rabbit uses 3AAs, the vibrations in the clitoral attachment are pretty impressive. It’s the giant bullet style that I tend to like, too. The ears offer a lot of movement but I tend to prefer to press the body of the rabbit against my clit. The larger size will extend about 1.5″ (without the ears) to 2.5″ with the ears.

The beads are also pretty strong. I can stop them with my hand but only if I’m really squeezing it.

This rabbit features the easy remove battery pack. The cover has a knob you grasp to turn it. I find it a bit difficult because the cap is a shiny plastic. My fingers want to slip around and it takes a lot of effort to turn it in and out of place. There’s is a permanent O-ring around the area where the battery pack sits. It’s more secure-looking than many I’ve seen. I don’t use my toys in wet settings, typically, but I have no fear this toy will stand up during washing with soap and water. You could also use a toy wipe or cleaning spray, though.

This vibrator is priced lower than some of the Couture Collection and based on power alone, I think it’s a better deal. But it’s MSRP of $81.99 seems slightly high in my book. but Sextoy.com sells it for much less, a more reasonable price. At If you’re a diehard fan of the rabbit and want one that is higher quality than many on the market, you might consider the silicone jack rabbit.

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Cush O2

November 20th, 2011

There isn’t too much I can say about the Tantus Cush that differs from what I said about the Tantus Flurry. It’s pretty, silicone, dual-density and fantastically shaped. It’s also a little larger–even though the Flurry isn’t tiny–so if you’re deciding between the two, this will probably be the factor you most consider. The Cush measures 7″ long, 1.75″ wide, so it’s definitely on the larger end but not necessarily ginormous. While the dual-density silicone makes it a little less imposing than a rigid dildo would be, it’s still a little large for me. I also feel that the head is less squishy, so it’s not as kind to my cervix as the Flurry was.

The other significant difference is the ridges on the shaft. While Cush remains mostly straight, except for the tapered head, it doesn’t have the pronounced ridges right below the head. There’s one ridge that is most pronounced about halfway down the shaft but the ridge itself starts nearer to the head, on the back of the shaft. In use, it’s not as dramatic a sensation and I prefer the ridges near the head for G-spot stimulation. I don’t think this ridge is intended for G-spot stimulation; rather it’s more for vaginal entrance stimulation and, considering as I don’t want to shove this thing up to my cervix, it spends its time outside of my body anyway.

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Fetish Fantasy Series Furry Handcuffs

November 15th, 2011

I decided to request these handcuffs to review simply because they were tiger striped. It seems to me that furry handcuffs are something that even a lot of vanilla folks have on hand and why shouldn’t I have my own pair? I haven’t necessarily been thrilled with anything in the Fetish Fantasy series and while these are about as functional as one would expect, I do have a major complaint.

The tiger stripes are wrong. You can see it in the photo but, in person, it just looks even stranger. Instead of black on orange, the stripes themselves are a light and dark brown with cream/white. Even a brown-tinted orange would make sense but these handcuffs should really just be named “striped.”

The fake fur has the netting-like lining and the edges aren’t really finished. It seems like you could rip them with a little force. Like many furry handcuffs, the fur itself is just a sleeve that slides over the cuff. It’s a little loose so there’s room to move. This can be a hassle when you’re trying to put on the cuffs as the sleeve can get in the way. A lot of struggle can also cause it to bunch up toward the side so while the fur does offer some protection against the cold and rigid metal of the cuffs, it’s not foolproof.

Because they’re metal, these handcuffs are weightier than the plastic kinds you’ll run across. This pair comes with a set of keys. The cut is very generic and they’re tiny, less than an inch long. I think the tiny key size will be difficult for people with larger hands or even fingernais to use. Luckily, there’s a quick release mechanism on these handcuffs. Some part of me think that deters from the point of bondage but folks just getting into it will likely feel reassured by it. Nevertheless, my short fingers are unable to reach the level to release it.

The cuffs are adjustable, like real ones, with the teeth things. I don’t know what they’re called. There’s about 1.25″ difference between the tightest and loosest settings so they’re not quite as adjustable as some of the bondage cuffs around. They’re also not ideal for use about most ankles.

The cuffs are connected by a small chain about 2″ in length. The chains that attach the cuffs are more secure than I was expecting. There’s no way I could break them and then links are soldered, not just pressed together. There’s a little room to move but not so much. They’ll work well for police-style restraint or simply cuffing the hands in front of the body. You could also use them to attach one wrist to another object, like a bedpost or.. bike rack. I don’t know. There could be kinky bike rack scenes, am I right?

So, weird patterns aside, these are a fun little item to add to your bedroom repertoire but I guess I’d opt for a different color in the future.

4 Comments


Metal Worx Curve

November 9th, 2011

Note: this is an archived review of a discontinued product, but you can buy the Fun Wand, which Pipedream knocked off.

I know Pipedream is getting a lot of flak for basically copying Njoy’s designs in its new Metal Worx line, and I have to say, I understand why. Most of the designs are far from original. However, I’m also glad to see a big name get into making quality metal dildos because this means there are more options and more affordable options for broke bastards like myself who want to experience metal at a lower price tag. For comparison, the Metal Worx Curve is a ripoff of the Njoy Fun Wand, which FunWares carries for $66. The Curve is just under $43. That’s a significant savings, in my opinion.

There are slight differences between these pieces, though. The Curve has four bumps on the one end. This makes it 2″ longer than the Fun Wand — for a total of 10″. The largest balls on the Fun Wand have a 1″ diameter while the larger on the Curve, at the G-spot end, is 1.25″ in diameter. This same ball is entirely spherical, while all the bumps on the Fun Wand are oblong. The four balls on the other end of the Curve are oblong, however.

I think that I would like the Curve better than the Fun Wand. This is where I remind you that the Pure Wand didn’t do it for me. It was bulky and hard to handle and one end was too small, the other end too large. It curved too much, ultimately missing my G-spot. At this point, I wish I hadn’t swapped it away for comparison photos but c’est la vie.

The Curve has a less drastic curve and because the other end curves away from my body, I can use it without stabbing myself in the mons. The four bumps also make for a good handhold, another complaint I had about the Pure Wand. The ball at the end is ridiculously good at finding my G-spot. In fact, I’d hazard a guess that I finally experienced the uber gushing that many women reported after using the Pure Wand. More FE than ever.

The balled end is more of an anal toy; although, I did try it vaginally. It felt interesting, but the dildo is just unbalanced. The other end is much heavier, and I found it difficult to control the balls. A more shallow thrusting was required, and I’m just not that patient. In addition to this, the last ball is just kind of pointy and the result was more pain than I like.

Cervix, you’re a bitch.

Here’s the thing, though. This line is not as high quality as Njoy’s toys, period. Some toys shipped with serious defects. It’s no wonder Metal Worx toys are a) not stainless steel; just steel and b) suffer from a serious lack of quality control if toys can ship with such issues. Pipedream stopped making them.

I didn’t notice any serious defects when I first examined the Curve nor when I washed it. Mine is definitely usable but it’s not as luxury as the Pure Wand. I took a closer look and noticed some “bubbles” in the finish as well as what look like “dried drips,” like you would get with paint. Picture for emphasis.

Metal Worx Curve Finish

Unfortunately, it’s a little difficult to take a picture of something reflective. I’m no photog.

Like Njoy, Pipedream has gone with a custom box for these. It’s a locking metal case that reminds me of a toolbox or some of the storage chests floating around. I don’t find the button to work very well so I have to manually lift the latch. Also, boxes are bulky so I’d be happy with a pouch, anyway. It does minimize packaging, though.

Ultimately, Pipedream has done some sleazy copying and some cheap production. I got lucky enough to get a usable Metal Worx dildo and it was super effective. I can’t say that the Fun Wand would be my best friend but you have to consider the chances of getting a dud if you want to save money and opt for the Metal Worx products. For some, it won’t be worth the risk.

4 Comments


Sinner’s Paradise

November 6th, 2011

Sinner's Paradise

Sinner's Paradise

This is an archived review of a discontinued product.

This outfit/costume/lingerie (available from sex toy retailer MyPleasure) looks so much better in pictures than it does in person.. it’s ridiculous.

First, let me outline the few good things about this piece. I like the cut. It’s a chemise that’s ruched directly down the front. This texture makes me feel less self-conscious, so I like it. The halter is flattering on the boobs, and I like how they looked when it was tied. The tie halter means this will better fit a variety of chest sizes; however, it’s intended for the bustier of us. The idea of a devil costume as a chemise works quite well, and there are feminine ruffles around the halter ties and bottom hem. The stitching all seems secure. The mesh is fine and soft and stretches nicely. I did order mine in the “Queen” size, and it fits loosely, so it’s good for 1x-2x, I’d suggest.

Where the tail attachesNow for the bad. This just wasn’t well thought out as a costume. The tail is a mesh-wrapped wire that ends in a mesh point. It’s permanently sewn to the back of the costume which pretty much means handwash only. I guess I don’t know how you’d detach it but it’s a bit awkward. You can bend and shape the tail but it always falls down. The most you can do is, like in the picture, extend it slightly from your ass in a downward direction. That can still be cute, though. The tail is definitely more functional as a cat toy. Be careful.

The horns, on the other hand, are a complete failure. They consist of horn-shaped mesh over plastic “bones” all attached to a string headband. You know, the type you tie under your hair? The worst kind there is. For the life of me, I cannot manage to make them stick up. They always lie flat. I don’t think I’m going out on a limb when I suggest the publicity image uses an entirely different headpiece. Sorry.

Tip of the tailThe outfit is more sheer in person than the image suggests. This isn’t a bad thing per se, but I wouldn’t wear it outside the bedroom. There are actually double layers of mesh over the cups, so it’s slightly less sheer. I like that.. Except, the outside layer of mesh seems to be really loose to the cups look saggy. I would probably notice more than a lover, but it feels unflattering on my C-cups. Larger breasted folks will fill it out a little better but a single layer of stretchy mesh would solve the problem.

There’s not much to say about the included G-string. It seems to run large, even for the queen size. It’s mesh and elastic and forgettable.

If you simply want to add some spice to the bedroom, you can certainly concoct a fun little scene out of the Sinner’s Paradise lingerie costume, but if you want a real costume, look for something of higher quality.

2 Comments


Make love to your long distance lover online

Vanity by Jopen #4

November 3rd, 2011

This is an archived review of a discontinued product.

The VR-4 marks the third Vanity by Jopen rabbit that I’ve tried and the third that I didn’t like. All the shapes are just slightly different enough that I find it hard to figure out which would work for me. The Vr. 6 was extremely rigid. Like Lelo’s Ina, it was a little pinchy.. but I liked the vibrations.

The Jopen #4 actually differs in that the neck of the shaft is quite flexible so you can experiment a little more with positions. This means it may work better for a variety of users.. or so I’d guess. The head of the shaft is a rigid silicone, however, so you can still get pressure where you need it.

The shaft is also more angular, too. First, it curves backward to accommodate the pubic bone. Then it curves forward toward the G-spot. The very tip curves very slightly back once more. In use, it really presses up against the G-spot. This is good for squirting — I did a lot — and makes me feel fuller but the angle isn’t so good for thrusting. I find myself having to be a little more careful. #4 provides direct stimulation in the way that’s best for users who like to hold a vibrator against their G-spot. The angles make the 3.5″x 1.5″ shaft feel much larger than it is, in my experience. My cervix is a little unhappy.

The insertable portion runs on its own motor that is powered by a single button. I’ve described that in detail here so I won’t do it again. I like it but I’m not used to it. Every time I reach for a Jopen toy, I have to relearn the buttons. Unless CEN plans to make all its toys operate in this manner, I think maybe it should consider not reinventing the wheel.

The clitoral arm is also more flexible. It doesn’t seem to have the motor right in it but just under it, so the vibrations here are weaker than I recall the Vr 6. The silicone provides a firm but flexible stimulation that I would like, except the arms just too damned short for me. It measures just over an inch long and is about 4/5″ wide. It probably wouldn’t provide the broad pressure I like if it did reach, though. The clitoral stimulator gets its own button. See above for my thoughts.

Overall, the Vanity by Jopen #4 seemed a little less powerful than other Jopen vibrators. This is especially noticeable in the clitoral arm. At times, the shaft motor also seemed jerky. This isn’t something I’ve experienced before and it’s not a deal-breaker, but it’s interesting enough to note.

Like the other toys in the line, this toy is rechargeable (there’s a light on the toy itself to indicate status) and comes with the adapter and a super large storage bag. I mentioned it before, but it’s so stretchy that it’s almost unwieldy. I’m not a fan. Jopen vibes are all waterproof, made of non-porous silicone and not compatible with silicone lubes.

The flexibility is the strongest feature of the Vanity by Jopen #4. I like how it creates more room for the pubic bone, too, but it does so in a way that presses toward the back vaginal wall, and I don’t like that so much. If you want a decently powered vibrator and think that this one will fit your proportions, you could do much worse.

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