12 Best Bondage Restraints to Keep Your Sub in Place (Fall 2022)

Selection of the best bondage restraints - padded cuffs, leather hogties, harnesses, special gloves and many more for all types of scenarios
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Reviewed by
Last updatedLast updated: December 21, 2023
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The joy of tying your partner up, down and in all the other directions is something we all understand and praise. Yet when it comes to the use of the proper equipment, it is often overlooked that the blood flow must be supported throughout the whole session. And not all gear is capable of keeping up with safety standards.
So we’ve done the heavy lifting for you by looking at 29 top-rated products. We eventually chose 12 best bondage restraints, with the Liberator Leatherworks Mercer Padded Wrist Cuffs being our Editor’s Choice. Our picks include different types of bondage restraints for various BDSM scenarios. To keep your sub safe and moderately comfortable, we’ve opted for reliable materials and padded cuffs when long BDSM sessions are expected. Read on to see the best of the best!

Top 12 Bondage Restraints Review 2022

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Consumer Engagement
Chosen by 2252 people in the past 30 days
9.8
Customer Feedback
Based on cross-platform reviews
9.5
Brand Reputation
Based on web analytics & content of negative reviews
9.3
Features & Benefits
Based on our product testing team's experience
9.4
9.8
Features
  • Type: wrist/ankle cuffs
  • Width: 6-9 in
  • Materials: latigo leather

More features: 2-in cuff height, nickel-plated rings

The Liberator Leatherworks Mercer Padded Cuffs are our editor’s choice because of their many positives, including the incredible comfort they offer. They are meticulously padded, meaning they are comfortable on the skin; you won’t feel any discomfort even when you use them for hours in our experience. And we won’t do justice to these elegant cuffs if we don’t mention their hot looks. They are backed in red, pillowed black, purple, or pink lambskin with precise stitching. No doubt, these bondage handcuffs will look great on your sub. It’s worth mentioning that the cuffs are made from latigo leather, which is known for exceptional strength and durability. Plus, the D-rings and buckles are nickel-plated.
Moreover, the Liberator Leatherworks Mercer Padded Cuffs are famous for their simplicity, which many people prefer. In contrast, there’s nothing simple about other Liberator bondage restraints such as bed buckler tether and cuff restraint system, bondage board, spreader bar, and spinning sex swings. So, if you’re looking for simple, unelaborate bondage restraints, you can’t go wrong with the Liberator Leatherworks Mercer Padded Cuffs. And you might not find a better option than these bondage cuffs if you’re looking for simple wrist restraints. They also work for restraining the ankles. 

What makes it stand out?

  • Multiple color design is attractive
  • Works for wrist and ankle restraints
  • The padded design ensures a comfortable bondage experience
  • It comes with a microfiber pouch

Which disadvantages must you keep in mind?

  • Some buyers might find the cuffs too expensive
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Consumer Engagement
Chosen by 2398 people in the past 30 days
9.6
Customer Feedback
Based on cross-platform reviews
9.3
Brand Reputation
Based on web analytics & content of negative reviews
9.5
Features & Benefits
Based on our product testing team's experience
9.5
9.6
2
Best BDSM Straitjacket Restraints

Bolero Straitjacket

Features
  • Type: straitjacket
  • Neck sizes: 13.5-18 in
  • Sizes: XS, S, M, L, XL, 2XL
  • Materials: latigo belting, leather

More features: nickel-plated hardware

The Bolero Straitjacket is undoubtedly the best BDSM straitjacket currently on the market because it brings out the hotness in your sub. Like every traditional straitjacket, this BDSM wear features a buckling collar, back closures, and glove-like sleeves that go beyond the fingertips. At the end of the sleeves are a one-inch wide strap and a small rectangular ring, which we found hot. Impressively, the Bolero Straitjacket is not entirely like other regular products we’ve seen. It boasts a cropped length and an adjustable chest strap that exposes most of your sub’s breasts and back. It doesn’t get sexier than that.
Moreover, the Bolero Straitjacket takes BDSM activity up a notch with its elaborate design. That’s a departure from the Liberator Leatherworks Mercer Padded Cuffs that only bind the wrists or legs without adding extra restraint. In contrast, the straitjacket restricts the entirety of your sub’s arms and neck. And if that wasn’t enough, the jacket also exposes the sub’s breasts in a sensual manner, which is not a scene you get from the Liberator Leatherworks Mercer Padded Cuffs or the Bondage Opera Gloves. Additionally, the Bolero Straitjacket offers more size options (XS, small, medium, large, XL, and 2XL) than the Liberator Leatherworks Mercer Padded Cuffs.

Why is it special?

  • Body-safe latigo leather construction
  • Adjustable chest strap offers exceptional sensuality
  • Features two D-rings that provide extra points for attachment
  • Many size options

What are the flaws?

  • Pricey
?
Consumer Engagement
Chosen by 2165 people in the past 30 days
9.5
Customer Feedback
Based on cross-platform reviews
9.0
Brand Reputation
Based on web analytics & content of negative reviews
9.1
Features & Benefits
Based on our product testing team's experience
9.1
9.5
3
Best Bondage Gloves

Bondage Opera Gloves

Features
  • Type: gloves
  • Size: S/M, M/L
  • Length: 26 in
  • Wrist widths: 8.5-10.25 in
  • Materials: leather

More features: 1.5-in thick leather bucklings, 3 D-rings on each glove

You’ve probably seen a lot of opera gloves, but have you met a kinky pair that can leave your sub totally submissive to you? That’s what you get from the Bondage Opera Gloves. These BDSM restraints are designed to hold your sub’s hands at the back. And they have three large D-rings on buckling straps to attach any part of the arm to the body, behind the back, down to the sides, bondage furniture, or anything else you can think of. Another interesting thing about these bondage gloves is their inner flap that fills the gaps between the laces and doesn’t bunch. 
At first glance, you can tell that the Bondage Opera Gloves are nothing like wrist cuffs. While wrist cuffs like the Liberator Leatherworks Mercer Padded Cuffs only bind your wrists, the bondage gloves also restrict your elbows and upper arms. That’s a level of intensity you can’t get from regular cuffs. Speaking of intensity, the Bondage Opera Gloves are more intense than the Bolero Straitjacket because they leave the sub’s hands completely restricted. If you’re looking for something intense for your BDSM relationship, you should consider the Bondage Opera Gloves.

Why did it make our list?

  • Ideal for intense BDSM sessions
  • Made with high-quality, safe leather
  • Buckles and lacing let gloves expand in diameter
  • Multiple size options

What is not ideal about it?

  • The gloves don’t come with a brass master lock and snap hoops; they’re sold separately
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Consumer Engagement
Chosen by 8373 people in the past 30 days
9.5
Customer Feedback
Based on cross-platform reviews
9.1
Brand Reputation
Based on web analytics & content of negative reviews
9.0
Features & Benefits
Based on our product testing team's experience
9.4
9.5
4
Best Male BDSM Restraints

Cock and Ball CBT Pillory

Features
  • Type: pillory 
  • Overall dimensions: 12 x 12 in base, 29-45 in poll
  • Materials: steel

More features: powder coated, 7 attachment points

Has your sub been a bad boy? The Cock and Ball CBT Pillory is a very effective tool to keep him in check. We’ve chosen this product as the best male BDSM restraint because it is as intense as you want. Frankly, it doesn’t get more sadistic than the Cock and Ball CBT Pillory. It can exert crushing power on the balls depending on how far you’re willing to go and the amount of pressure your sub can take. As if applying pressure to the balls and scrotum wasn’t enough, this BDSM tool lets you tie, bind, or cuff your sub’s wrists and ankles simultaneously. So, there’s really no escape from your torture.
With bondage restraints like the Liberator Leatherworks Mercer Padded Cuffs, Bondage Opera Gloves, and Bolero Straitjacket, your sub can sit or lie on a bed as you torment them. However, the Cock and Ball CBT Pillory is not one to give your sub any leeway. It requires your sub to keep standing while you punish them in any way you deem fit. With the pillory holding their balls, wrists, and ankles, they’re not getting free until you let them go. Also, the stand lets you adjust its height to a large extent—29 to 45 inches. In contrast, a restraint like the Bondage Opera Gloves offers only two length options, making it less inclusive.

Why is it special?

  • It offers total restriction by cuffing balls and binding wrists and ankles
  • Ideal for sensation play
  • The stand is adjustable from 29 to 45 inches high
  • The pillory is breakable into four pieces for travel or storage

What are the flaws?

  • A bit intimidating to newbies
  • The pillory does not come with snap hooks and cuffs
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Consumer Engagement
Chosen by 8220 people in the past 30 days
9.3
Customer Feedback
Based on cross-platform reviews
8.9
Brand Reputation
Based on web analytics & content of negative reviews
9.0
Features & Benefits
Based on our product testing team's experience
9.2
9.3
5
Best BDSM Harness Restraints

PVC Female Slave Harness

Features
  • Type: harness
  • Size: S/M, L/XL
  • Materials: PVC

More features: stainless steel attachments and chain, 3 attachment rings

It takes little effort to look sexy when you have the perfect thing to wear. At first glance, we can tell that the PVC Female Slave Harness can bring out the sexiness in most women. It is made of thick PVC belting, and you can trust it to last long. Besides, this harness features three horizontal bondage straps—one around the hips, one below the breasts, and one around the neck—held together by two vertical straps, including one in the back and another in the front. Additionally, this BDSM wear features eight buckles in the back and one to adjust the vertical strap in the front for easy adjustability. 
There’s no question that the PVC Female Slave Harness takes bondage play to another level. Unlike bondage restraints such as Cock and Ball CBT Pillory and Liberator Leatherworks Mercer Padded Cuffs that do not give you a chance to drag your sub around, the harness lets you move them around with a leash. There are four D-rings on the harness, including two on the hips, one on the back, and one on the front of the collar for various bondage possibilities. 

Why did it make our list?

  • It features adjustable straps that ensure a convenient fit
  • The heavy-duty design is durable
  • Available in multiple sizes, including small/medium and large/extra large
  • The nine buckles offer easy adjustability

What is not ideal about it?

  • Expensive
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Consumer Engagement
Chosen by 6935 people in the past 30 days
9.2
Customer Feedback
Based on cross-platform reviews
9.0
Brand Reputation
Based on web analytics & content of negative reviews
8.8
Features & Benefits
Based on our product testing team's experience
9.0
9.2
6
Best BDSM Restraints for Experienced Users

Deluxe Suspension Cuffs

Features
  • Type: cuffs
  • Width: 4-8 i, wrists, 5-9.5 in palms
  • Materials: leather

More features: vertical pull, padded leather, adjustable straps

The Deluxe Suspension Cuffs are not an uncommon sight if you’ve seen a lot of action movies. You must have seen a couple of guys suspended in the air getting tortured. Pretty intense, huh? It’s little wonder we’ve found them to be the best BDSM restraints for experienced users. You can also suspend your sub in the air with these suspension cuffs. The cuffs restraints are designed for upright suspension, and their D-rings are attached so that you only get a vertical pull; they don’t pull the wrists sideways, ensuring your safety. And you can forget about the cuffs hurting your wrists because they are well padded.
Unlike the PVC Female Slave Harness for feminine bodies and the Cock and Ball CBT Pillory for people with dicks, the Deluxe Suspension Cuffs work for everyone without exception. Any experienced person, regardless of gender, who’s daring enough to go for it, can use the suspension cuffs. Also, the PVC Female Slave Harness offers more intense restrictions than the Cock and Ball CBT Pillory. While the pillory keeps the sub standing, the harness leaves them suspended, exerting pressure on the wrists. 

What stands out?

  • The cuffs are comfortable and strong
  • The D-rings don’t pull the wrists sideways, keeping you safe
  • The insides of the cuffs are well padded with soft, smooth leather
  • The wrist and palm straps are adjustable

What cons did we manage to find?

  • Not for beginners or those who don’t have strong wrists
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Consumer Engagement
Chosen by 7366 people in the past 30 days
9.1
Customer Feedback
Based on cross-platform reviews
9.0
Brand Reputation
Based on web analytics & content of negative reviews
8.7
Features & Benefits
Based on our product testing team's experience
8.9
9.1
7
Best BDSM Spreader Bar

The Deluxe Pranger Pillory

Features
  • Type: spreader bar
  • Weight: 3.3 lbs
  • Materials: stainless steel, leather
  • Length: 11.8 in ankle, 10.2 in wrist

More features: 360-degree rotating shackles, padded cuffs

The Deluxe Pranger Pillory was the best BDSM spreader bar we found on the market after testing a few highly rated products. It’s one of the few hand and leg restraints BDSM tools that offer total bondage with its four-way bondage design. This pillory uses a stainless steel bar that can take anything you throw at it. And each end of each bar features padded leather ankle and wrist cuffs. Needless to say that this spreader bar is designed for use in a kneeling position, and there’s a healthy distance between the wrists and ankles for your comfort.
Besides, the Deluxe Pranger Pillory is a different pillory from the Cock and Ball CBT Pillory, as you can probably tell. While the latter keeps the sub in a standing position, the former keeps them in a kneeling position, which is more intense. Also, the Deluxe Pranger Pillory is ideal for every gender. In contrast, the Cock and Ball CBT Pillory works only for those with a penis. Furthermore, the Deluxe Pranger Pillory works like the Bondage Opera Gloves because both restrict your hands to the back, but the pillory adds your ankles to the bondage.

What are our favorite features?

  • Ideal for submissive and slave training
  • The wrist and ankle cuffs are well padded with leather for comfort
  • The stainless steel bar is durable
  • The shackles rotate 360 degrees to provide a great amount of flexibility in how they are positioned for various scenes

What could be better?

  • Not ideal for people with back pain
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Consumer Engagement
Chosen by 9851 people in the past 30 days
8.9
Customer Feedback
Based on cross-platform reviews
8.5
Brand Reputation
Based on web analytics & content of negative reviews
8.7
Features & Benefits
Based on our product testing team's experience
8.4
8.9
8
Features
  • Type: rope
  • Length: 25 ft
  • Materials: nylon

More features: color variation

The KinkLab Bondage Rope is evidence that you don’t have to break the bank to buy kinky restraints. The rope’s versatile use offers the best value in our experience. Made of nylon, this bondage rope is strong enough to endure complicated and intense ties. Even though it has enough strength for serious bondage play, it is gentle on bare skin. So you don’t have to worry about bruises. Notably, this bondage rope is 25 feet long, opening up endless possibilities for bondage ties. And it is available in two colors; White and Black. Choose your favorite.
Unlike bondage restraints such as the Deluxe Pranger Pillory and Cock and Ball CBT Pillory that use cuffs, the KinkLab Bondage Rope does not need you cuffing it. Instead, you’ll need to tie the rope. Also, while restraints like the PVC Female Slave Harness and Bolero Straitjacket don’t give you a choice to use various styles, the KinkLab Bondage Rope is flexible enough for several rope ties. With this bondage rope, it’s up to you to decide the style of your restraint.

What makes it stand out?

  • The soft construction ensures that the rope is gentle on bare skin
  • The rope is strong enough for intense bondage play
  • The length offers countless rope play possibilities
  • Available in multiple colors

Which disadvantages must you keep in mind?

  • It gets uncomfortable after some minutes of bondage play
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Consumer Engagement
Chosen by 5814 people in the past 30 days
8.8
Customer Feedback
Based on cross-platform reviews
8.4
Brand Reputation
Based on web analytics & content of negative reviews
8.5
Features & Benefits
Based on our product testing team's experience
8.3
8.8
Features
  • Type: bed restraints
  • Tethers length: 20 in
  • Materials: nylon, microfiber

More features: blindfold included, velcro fasting, color variation

If you’re planning a bondage play for your bed, the Liberator Bed Buckler Tether and Cuff Restraint System is the best BDSM bed restraint to help out. The system’s uniqueness lies in its ability to work without bedposts. So, if you don’t have bedposts and want bed bondage play, no problem, these BDSM bed restraints slip beneath any mattress, futon, or box spring with ease. Hence, you can use them anywhere you want, including a hotel. Four 20-inch adjustable tethers wrap around the bed surface, leaving enough room to strap down the sub with the adjustable wrist and ankle cuffs. 
Even though bondage restraints such as the Deluxe Pranger Pillory and Cock and Ball CBT Pillory cuff the ankles and wrists simultaneously like the Liberator Bed Buckler Tether and Cuff Restraint System, they don’t allow the sub to lie on a bed. In contrast, this sexual tie downs system lets the sub rest their back on the bed while the dominant torments them. Unlike the Liberator Leatherworks Mercer Padded Cuffs and Deluxe Suspension Cuffs, the Liberator Bed Buckler Tether and Cuff Restraint System is not restricted to using only cuffs. These sex restraints are also compatible with scarves and ropes, thanks to the bonus D-rings.
 

What makes it stand out?

  • It comes with Velcro adjustable ankle and wrist cuffs
  • It conveniently and discreetly slips beneath mattresses, box springs, and futons
  • It is compatible with attachments other than cuffs
  • It comes with a clear plastic travel/storage box

Which disadvantages must you keep in mind?

  • A bit tricky to set up
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Consumer Engagement
Chosen by 2421 people in the past 30 days
8.7
Customer Feedback
Based on cross-platform reviews
8.4
Brand Reputation
Based on web analytics & content of negative reviews
8.6
Features & Benefits
Based on our product testing team's experience
8.6
8.7
10
Best BDSM Hogtie Restraints

KinkLab Leather Hog Tie Bondage Kit

Features
  • Type: hogtie restraints
  • Length: 5.5-7 in wrist, 7-10.5  in ankle
  • Materials: leather

More features: nickel-plated hardware, 4 D-rings, 1 O-ring

The KinkLab Leather Hog Tie Bondage Kit offers convenient hogtie bondage play without the stress of rope tie. It boasts self-keeping leather wrist and ankle cuffs that provide full restriction. Besides those cuffs, a leather hogtie puts your sub in a hogtie position in no time. These hand and leg restraints feature four leather straps for sex that are permanently attached to the central O-Ring with studs. And each strap sports a snap hook that easily attaches or detaches with one hand. While the hogtie measures 11 inches from tip to tip, each strap is three inches long.
Moreover, the KinkLab Leather Hog Tie Bondage Kit is a 4-point spreader like the Deluxe Pranger Pillory, but the former is more comfortable because there’s no bar. Also, the Deluxe Pranger Pillory forces the sub to stay kneeling, but the KinkLab Leather Hog Tie Bondage Kit requires them to lie on their stomach. Usually, you need a rope like the KinkLab Bondage Rope for hogtie, but it takes time and effort to do the tie. So, it’s a good thing that the KinkLab Leather Hog Tie Bondage Kit ensures that you don’t have to deal with the inconvenience of a rope tie.

Why did it make our list?

  • The hogtie is made with authentic leather
  • Minimal effort to clip wrist and ankle cuffs
  • The leather straps attach and detach with ease
  • The straps are adjustable for a good fit

What is not ideal about it?

  • The ankle and wrist cuffs don’t come with the kit; they are sold separately
RELATED: 8 Best Hogtie Restraints – the Right Type of Game (Fall 2022)
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Consumer Engagement
Chosen by 5504 people in the past 30 days
8.5
Customer Feedback
Based on cross-platform reviews
8.3
Brand Reputation
Based on web analytics & content of negative reviews
8.4
Features & Benefits
Based on our product testing team's experience
8.1
8.5
11
Best Neck and Wrists Restraints

Sportsheets Neck and Wrist Restraints

Features
  • Type: collar and cuffs system
  • Width: 17 in collar, 11 in cuffs
  • Materials: nylon

More features: metal D-rings, 

As our research showed, the Sportsheets Neck and Wrist Restraints have everything you want for neck and wrists bondage. It boasts a strong Velcro closure collar that stands up to intense play but is still soft enough to be gentle on the skin. Besides the collar, there’s a nylon webbing strap with four sturdy metal D-rings on either side that let you do any play, regardless of the level of flexibility. There’s a ninth D-ring for attaching the cuffs or a leash. Speaking of cuffs, the set also comes with neoprene cuffs for complete neck and wrist bondage. 
Unlike the Liberator Leatherworks Mercer Padded Wrist Cuffs, which stop at wrist bondage, the Sportsheets Neck and Wrist Restraints add the sub’s neck to the bondage play. These bondage wrist cuffs are also different from the KinkLab Leather Hog Tie Bondage Kit, which restrains the ankles but doesn’t touch the neck. Although you can restrain your wrists behind your back with the Sportsheets Neck and Wrist Restraints for hogtie-style positioning, it’s still not as intense as using the KinkLab Bondage Rope.

What do we love it for?

  • Durable construction
  • The closure collar is strong
  • The nickel-free D-rings offer plenty of bondage possibilities
  • The collar and cuffs are padded with neoprene for comfort

What were we disappointed with?

  • It contains a chemical known to cause cancer and reproductive harm, if used for a long period of time
?
Consumer Engagement
Chosen by 2193 people in the past 30 days
8.2
Customer Feedback
Based on cross-platform reviews
8.1
Brand Reputation
Based on web analytics & content of negative reviews
7.8
Features & Benefits
Based on our product testing team's experience
7.8
8.2
12
Best BDSM Tape

KinkLab Bondage Tape

Features
  • Type: tape
  • Width: 2 in
  • Length: 65 ft

More features: non-sticky,

The KinkLab Bondage Tape is undoubtedly the best BDSM tape. It’s one of the bondage restraints we thoroughly enjoyed testing. There’s no occasion you want the tape for and won’t get the best results; it is ideal for many BDSM scenarios. And you can forget about the bondage tape hurting you because it won’t adhere to your skin. Instead, it sticks only to itself. More impressively, you can reuse the tape if you have the patience to straighten it out after use. And it’s available in red and black; pick the color you fancy.
Moreover, the KinkLab Bondage Tape offers an exceptional level of simplicity that you can’t get from bondage restraints such as the Deluxe Pranger Pillory, Deluxe Suspension Cuffs, and Bondage Opera Gloves. Although the Liberator Leatherworks Mercer Padded Wrist Cuffs are almost as simple-looking as the tape, they have much lesser versatility. Speaking of versatility, the KinkLab Bondage Tape can bind, mummify, blindfold, gag, and do any kinky stuff you dream up. Although the KinkLab Bondage Rope seems to have the same level of versatility, it is much harder to use; beginners and experienced bondage players can use the tape.

What are its best features?

  • Extremely versatile
  • Ideal for all experience levels
  • The reusable design offers good value for money
  • The non-sticky design ensures painless, seamless application and removal

What could be improved?

  • The bondage tape contains a chemical that the State of California knows to cause cancer, although it’s not generally accepted

Things to Consider

Everyone wants the best bondage restraints, but the restraint (pun unintended) is that too many products are on the market. Naturally, the high number of options complicates finding the best. But it gets much easier when you know everything about what you want to buy, including what to look for in the best products. Luckily for you, we’ve developed a comprehensive buying guide with all the information you need to pick the right bondage restraints.

Main Types of BDSM Restrains

As you’ve probably noticed from our reviews, many types of bondage restraints exist. Below, we’ll give you in-depth information about the popular types of restraints so that you can decide what you want.

Cuffs

Cuffs can be your movie-famous fluffy play-toys, but BDSM users also use them for hardcore suspension play

When you read cuffs, the first thing that likely comes to mind is the thing the cops use to restrain suspects or criminals. In the BDSM world, cuffs are also used to restrain the sub, but they look different from conventional handcuffs. Generally, traditional handcuffs are often made of only metal.
In contrast, BDSM cuffs are typically made with leather and often padded with fake fur or soft leather. Another difference between conventional handcuffs and bondage cuffs is their versatility. While handcuffs are only made for the wrists, BDSM cuffs are made to restrain the ankle and wrists. These cuffs are fastened by a locking mechanism, including a buckle or Velcro.
Additionally, bondage cuffs often come with buckles or D-ring attachments to which chain, nylon webbing, or any other restraining strap can be attached. Essentially, you can add other objects to BDSM cuffs, depending on their designs. Besides, you can use cuffs to create a hogtie.

Straitjackets

Depending on the type of the scenario, restraining jacket is proven to be one of the most effective accessories

Gone are those days when all straitjackets could do was restrict prisoners or mentally ill people. Today, bondage play is a more creative way to use jackets. Straitjackets are typically strong pieces of special clothing that look like jackets with long sleeves, only that their sleeves tie the arms to the body, making them effective bondage restraints.
Once a sub slides their arm into the sleeves of a straitjacket, the dom crosses the sleeves against their slave’s chest, and a strap usually holds the arms in place with as little movement as possible. As such, the sub’s arms are completely restricted, making them unable to stop the dom’s torment with their hands. The sub sits down there and takes whatever is thrown at them.

Spreader bars

Spreader bars offers great variability when it comes to restraining your sub and adding new sexual positions to try

Spreader bars, also known as bondage bars, are exactly what they sound like; they’re used to spread two parts apart. In the case of BDSM, spreader bars are designed to keep the sub’s legs apart. Just like bed restraints keep legs apart, these bondage bars keep the ankles spread in the heat of the moment.
Unlike bondage restraints that restrict the sub to a place, spreader bars still allow movement, albeit limited. And it’s worth mentioning that bondage bars generally feature cuffs or padlock systems to keep them locked. Also, they’re either fixed-sized or adjustable. And we recommend adjustable ones because they allow you to adjust the space between your ankles.
Besides, experienced bondage players won’t mind using spreader bars with leather cuffs, but you should opt for models with easy-to-remove Velcro cuffs if you’re a newbie.

Body harnesses and collars

Harnesses and collars often come as a light bondage toys but expert use offers a full-body restraining system

If you’ve thought about exploring animal play, body harnesses and collars are made for you. Body harnesses generally sport different designs for use in various positions. Some harnesses go from the waist to the neck, where there’s the collar. Some go from the neck all the way to the thighs. Others don’t have a collar and are restricted to the lower body area.
With harnesses, there are various intricate patterns; some are complex, and others are simple. And they generally expose body parts such as breasts, vagina, and penis to add sexual tension to the bondage sessions. So, you’ll have to pick the pattern you’re attracted to. Besides, body harnesses usually feature O-rings on the chest or collar for you to attach other restraints or accessories.
Overall, body harnesses and collars add an unmistakable fetish look to anyone and are fun bondage restraints.

Chains, ropes and straps

From simple tying person down to aethetics of shibari – ropes can offer a great variability of uses

Chains can be effective restraint tools, and daring BDSM enthusiasts go for them for extreme BDSM activity. They’re made of steel and can hurt the skin, so bondage players don’t use them on bare skin. Instead, they connect the chains to the rings on straps to create a bondage restraint.
So, if you want a BDSM instrument more intense than regular cuffs, you can create it with straps and chains. Besides using chains to create cuffs, you can use them to hang bondage swings, suspension equipment, sex slings, and many more bondage tools. You don’t want to leave chains out of your BDSM gear if you’re a hardcore player.
Moreover, if you want something less intense, ropes are great options. They’re usually made of soft cotton or nylon. Even though nylon ropes are often designed to be gentle on bare skin, soft cotton models are much more gentle and don’t chafe the skin. Also, they usually feel more sensual than nylon ropes. Notwithstanding, some nylon ropes, such as the KinkLab Bondage Rope, are pretty comfortable.
With bondage ropes, you can do a lot of ties, depending on your skill set and experience level. Some ties are simple, while others are complicated and more intense. Some common knots are double column tie, spreader bar legs spread eagle, reverse chair, interrogation chair, sexy spoon, hogtie, the puppy style, the crab, bondage doggy, boxtie, and dragonfly tie.
But you can go beyond these common ties by using your imagination. The possibilities are endless but tie safely. If you’re not sure you can find high-quality and safe ropes, our review of the best ropes for bondage is made for you.
Straps complete the trilogy of chains, ropes, and straps. Just like chains and ropes, straps help to restrain subs. Often made with leather, straps are designed like belts, but they’re more sturdy than your regular belt. And they usually have soft padding to keep you comfortable.
Furthermore, you can easily secure bondage straps around various body parts, including the wrists, waist, thighs, ankles, etc. Additionally, they feature buckles or D-rings on both ends to restrict the wearer. Finally, you can secure straps to any stationary object by tying them on if you’re aiming to keep your sub from moving.

Armbinders

Limiting sub’s ability to even move a finger is one of the most popular BDSM scenarios for full submission or pet play

As the name of armbinders suggests, they are used to bind the arms. More specifically, they are bondage restraints designed to bind the arms to each other or the body. These binders usually bind the arms behind the back to intensify the bondage play. And they usually use a range of bondage tools to bind the sub’s hands.
Such tools include rods, straps, gloves, and cuffs. Typically, straps and cuffs combine to hold the arms. And a series of cuffs, often made from metal or leather, is placed on the wearer’s arms at multiple points from the wrists to the elbows and upper arms. The arms are then held in a particular position with the cuffs linked to a series of rods or a webbing of straps.
The Bondage Opera Gloves on our list give you the perfect visual of such armbinders. They use gloves, straps, and cuffs to restrict the wearer. Your sub wears the gloves, and the cuffs attach to the straps at various points of their arms to restrict them. Depending on the design of the armbinders, you can restrict the arms to the front, side, or back of the body.

Hogties

Hogties are used when sub is ready to be put in vulnerable position – they leave little to no ability to move the limbs

Hogties are some of the most intense types of bondage restraints. They bind a sub’s arms and legs behind them, leaving them to lie on their stomach. Hogties typically use wrist and ankle cuffs and straps to restrict users. The Kinklab Leather Hog Tie Bondage Kit paints the perfect picture of hogties using straps and cuffs to bind users.
Although you can also use ropes to do a hogtie, the process is complicated and requires a high skill set to be done safely. With hogties, you can put your sub in a hogtie position in minutes without having any special skill.

How to Use Bondage Ties

BDSM can deliver a lot of fun for sadistic people, but you take in the whole experience if you don’t know how to use bondage ties properly. Rest assured, this section will discuss all areas of using bondage ties.

Preparation

Frankly, bondage play is not for the faint-hearted. So, it’s not an activity you want to do without being absolutely ready for it. After all, there’s usually no success without preparation. The first step in using bondage ties properly is mentally and physically preparing for them.
And you should know that preparation for bondage ties is not a one-person activity. You and your partner have to be equally involved in the preparation.

First, have a comprehensive conversation about what you both want and your limits. Such a conversation sets the pace for the BDSM activity. Ultimately, ensure that you both come to an agreement.

Besides, your preparation is not complete without developing safe words and gestures. These are words and gestures the sub makes during BDSM activity to control the dom’s actions. That’s how the sub does not get hurt. So, create simple words with meanings such as stop, reduce the intensity, and go. You’ll know what to do when your sub says words corresponding to these meanings.
And in bondage activities where the sub’s speech is restricted, create simple gestures that signal lowering intensity or withdrawal of consent. Also, prepare yourselves mentally by getting in the mood. Some music might help create an enabling atmosphere for what is about to happen.

Choosing scenario

The interesting thing about bondage play is that there is no shortage of scenarios you can explore. You can even get creative and create scenarios that excite you and your partner as long as it’s safe and you have the appropriate gear. Before using bondage ties, we recommend choosing a scenario because that is where the most excitement comes from.
Here are some exciting bondage scenarios you can explore when using bondage ties:
Chair prisoner

Chair prisoner can be used for torture play which is one of the most popular BDSM plays

The name of the chair prisoner already paints a picture of what it looks like. This scenario involves putting your sub on a chair and treating them like a prisoner. Of course, you’ll need ankle and wrist restraints such as cuffs, ropes, or straps to create that prisoner scenario effectively. Get your sub on a sturdy chair, restrain them to the chair, and do whatever you like to them.
You can also add a blindfold if you don’t want the “prisoner” looking around or seeing the “interrogator.” Force them to tell the truth to get their freedom.
Handcuffed victim
The handcuffed victim involves an innocent sub—not a guilty prisoner. So, there’s no need to bind them to a chair. Nevertheless, the handcuffed victim scenario requires your sub to be a scared victim in the bondage of cuffs and you to be the cruel captor. You can add other BDSM equipment to make the scenario more realistic.
For example, get your handcuffed sub in a cage to paint a clear picture of a victim. Luckily for you, you don’t have to look too far to find a relevant cage for the activity—check our list of the best BDSM cages, and you’ll find a suitable option.
Bed rest

Beginner BDSM scenarios often offers soft bondage as the meaning of getting used to restraining games

Bed rest is another interesting BDSM scenario. Of course, it involves the sub resting on the bed. You’ll need a bondage tie like the Bed Buckler Tether and Cuff Restraint System for the best experience. Make your sub lay on their back with the arms and legs spread to each corner of the bed. Then, attach the restraint to their arms, legs, and bed.
In this scenario, your sub is completely restricted and at your mercy. You can decide to torture them or screw them in their bondage position. The bed rest scenario also works for teasing oral sex; play with your sub’s genitals and keep them on edge whenever they are close to an orgasm.
Waitress
Picture in your head the posture of a waitress while serving food or drinks. That’s what the waitress bondage scenario looks like, but with restraints. You can get your sub in this scenario by constraining their elbows behind their back with a rod and constraining their wrists in the front with cuffs or ropes. Ensure they still have a little wiggle room to carry a food or drinks tray so that they can serve you.
Alternatively, you can get your sub’s wrists restrained behind them and have them wear a harness and collar with D-rings. Then, attach chains to the collar, the harness around your partner’s waist, and a drinks tray. The chain will hold the tray in place while your sub goes around with drinks, serving you at your pleasure.
Reverse prayer

We recommend this scenario only after a lot of practice and understanding sub’s limits to not harm the latter

This scenario represents praying hands but in reverse. That means the sub forms praying hands, but they stay behind them. For this bondage tie, your sub must be very flexible because it’s quite intense and can get painful for a rigid person.
Once your partner consents to the reverse prayer scenario, make them strike a prayer pose behind them with palms joined together. Then, bind their hands in that position with your preferred bondage restraints. You can be lenient and let your sub sit in this scenario, or be cruel and let them stand while you torment them.
Moreover, you can add to the experience by making them wear hoods and masks. Go through our list of the best hoods and masks to find an option that makes your sub look like you want. If you don’t want them to see you as you torment them, opt for a mask that blocks all light.
Alternatively, the dom can have the sub give them oral pleasure in that position. Whether they’re sucking a dick or eating a vagina, they’ll struggle to do it, but they will have no choice but to continue because the strict dom is expecting an orgasm.
Rope cocoon
Have you seen a cocoon before? It is the silky case spun by inserts’ larvae for protection as pupae. This protective case typically does not have any space. Now, think about making such a cocoon with a rope. You’ll need to tie a rope around your sub’s body, from their ankles to their shoulder. Of course, not everyone can do this bondage tie.
Only do it if you can do it safely. In no time, you’ll see your partner entirely wrapped up like a cocoon.
Naughty dog

Pet play is a whole lifestyle for BDSM practicing couples, it offers total dehumanizing of the sub

The naughty dog scenario is exactly what you’re thinking. It requires treating the sub as a dog that has been naughty and deserves punishment. Make them assume the position of a dog by being on their knees. Then, let them put their chest on the floor, couch, or bed. Next, tie the sub’s wrists together behind their back or tie them to their ankles.
Alternatively, direct them to put their hands straight in front of them and bind their wrists with bondage restraints, preferably chains, since you’re treating a “dog.” You can add more restraints, such as a collar and leash, to enhance the image of a naughty dog. If you’re interested in them, you should check our list for the best BDSM collars and leashes.
Swing-away
The swing-away scenario brings back the fun memories of childhood. It requires strapping your sub to a sex swing and keeping them there while you torment them in the most creative ways. You can use a sex swing without other bondage restraints because a high-quality product will have basic restraints such as clips and straps.
As you’ll see in our review of the best sex swings, you’ll find multiple restraints on a suitable option.

Partner consent

Bondage play can be cruel and painful, but it’s not abuse. And what sets the activity apart from abuse is consent. Once a bondage activity starts ignoring the sub, it’s no longer BDSM; it’s abuse. So, when using bondage ties, you are responsible for getting your sub’s consent to do whatever you want. That is why preparation comes first.
During preparation, you’ll have conversations about limits, and the dom must respect those limits during BDSM activity because that is how to have abuse-free sessions. Even after getting consent, you must pay rapt attention to what the sub says or gestures.

If they ask to stop, you must immediately halt whatever you’re doing. Doing it for a second more could be harmful.

Safety

Even when you try your best to be safe during BDSM activity, things don’t always go as expected. But you can take steps to minimize the risk as much as possible. Here are some safety precautions to take when using bondage ties:

  • Always expect and obey safe words or gestures during bondage sessions
  • Always tie the rope correctly to avoid friction burns or circulatory damage
  • Don’t tie the bondage rope if you don’t have the skill to do it
  • We recommend only silk scarves or cuffs that fasten with Velcro, especially for beginners, because they’re easy to remove quickly
  • Don’t tie too tightly; ensure that you can get a finger inside the bindings and communicate properly with your sub
  • Don’t use chains unless you’re experienced with them, and make sure you can use them safely
  • Know your limit; don’t go beyond it

Additional gear

Restraining the sub can be a whole purpose of the BDSM play or just the beginning – using various toys adds a lot of enjoyment through pain

Only cuffing your sub’s wrists and/or ankles won’t deliver the full excitement; adding extra BDSM gear will. It’s a good thing that options are abundant out there.
Bondage boards
There’s no need to use your bed for BDSM activity if you have a bondage board. This board has restraints that can attach to your cuffs and straps. We reviewed some of the best bondage boards in this article.
Chastity cages
Also, if you don’t want your sub’s dick growing while you torment them, why not consider caging it? You can restrain your sub’s dick from getting hard during BDSM sessions with the best chastity cages we’ve reviewed.
Blindfold
You can opt for an uncommon restraint tool like a blindfold. Although it doesn’t necessarily cause physical pain, it inflicts mental torture. Denying the sub their sight can go a long way in satisfying a sadist.
Sex pillow
Sex pillow is not made for only vanilla sex; it can be an effective bondage tool if you’re using cuffs. Your hogtied partner can lie on the pillow and rest their muscles. And if you don’t want your sub kneeling when using a spreader bar, they can lie on the sex pillow.
The best part about using the pillow is that it gives you perfect access to your sub’s ass and vagina or penis; the pillow exposes those body parts. So, you have the freedom to do whatever you like to your partner’s genitals with ease.
Spanking paddle
Don’t just sit down all day admiring your sub’s restricted body when you can enhance your experience with sensation play. Get yourself a spanking paddle and spank their exposed butt. Your partner will feel mixed sensations of pain and pleasure.

Aftercare

We’ve not shied away from the reality that BDSM activity primarily involves pain. So, after you’ve finished using bondage ties, you have to move to recover from the experience physically and mentally. This is the time for the dom to show they care about the sub by pampering them and showering them with tender care and kindness.
Showing kindness might mean giving the sub a sensual massage, cuddling with them, or getting them their favorite drink.

Basically, aftercare is helping your sub relax and recover from the bondage session.

How to Pick the Best Bondage Restraints

With so many bondage restraints on the market, identifying the best products can be a struggle, but it doesn’t have to be. Here are some factors and features you should consider in an ideal bondage restraint so that you don’t suffer to find a suitable option:

Type

The first thing you need to consider when shopping for the best bondage restraints is to determine the type of restraint. As you already know, there are various types of bondage restraints.
There are cuffs like the Liberator Leatherworks Mercer Padded Cuffs, straitjackets like the Bolero Straitjacket, bondage gloves like the Bondage Opera Gloves, pillories like the Cock and Ball CBT Pillory, harnesses like the PVC Female Slave Harness, and many other types. Ultimately, you’ll have to decide what you want and choose a bondage restraint type that can give it to you.

Materials

Materials are the primary reasons we have all products. Essentially, there can’t be products without materials. As such, materials determine the quality and longevity of products. That is true for bondage restraints. Many materials are used in making BDSM restraints, but leather is undoubtedly the most popular because of its comfort and durability.
While leather is used for the outside of most cuffs and straps, it is also used to pad their inside. And it’s worth mentioning there’s no single kind of leather. Some leathers are real, and others are synthetic. Although real leathers are naturally stronger, more durable, and safer, some synthetic variants boast high quality.
A good example of such synthetic leather is the latigo leather used in making the Liberator Leatherworks Mercer Padded Cuffs. Another popular material for making bondage restraints is nylon, which is used in creating ropes and straps. PVC and latex are also used to make straps and are of great quality.
Besides nylon, cotton and polyester are some high-quality materials for bondage ropes. In fact, cotton ropes are gentler on the skin than nylon, but they are a bit weaker. So, the choice is up to you. Also, stainless steel is used for metal restraints and holds up well to frequent use.
Overall, leather, nylon, steel, and PVC are some of the best materials you should look out for in the best bondage restraints.

Cuff padding

Cuffs must be padded to ensure proper blood flow through the limbs, subs must understand their limits while using this accessory

One major thing that sets bondage cuffs apart from traditional handcuffs is the former’s padding. The padding ensures that the cuffs are gentle on your bare skin. Leather is the most popular material for cuff padding, and it does a good job of keeping users comfortable, but it’s not the only one in the room.
Cotton is another nice padding material that offers comfort during BDSM activity. It is more breathable than leather, but the latter is longer-lasting. A third option is microfiber material. You might have noticed this material is used to pad the Liberator Bed Buckler Tether and Cuff Restraint System. Microfiber is less breathable than cotton but more durable.
In terms of overall quality, leather has the edge for cuff padding.

Lengths and diameters

Size is among the most important considerations when shopping for bondage restraints. The effectiveness and safety of most restraints depend on whether the size fits. There’s no point using bondage restraints that don’t fit you because they might hurt. So, you must check the lengths and diameters of the restraint you’re buying and ensure that it’s the right fit for you before paying for it.
Frankly, finding a suitable size is usually difficult, so we appreciate bondage restraints such as the Bolero Straitjacket and Bondage Opera Gloves, which offer multiple size options. Some restraints, like the Deluxe Suspension Cuffs, also let you adjust their size, which helps you to get the perfect fit. Finally, you either opt for a size that suits you or go for an adjustable restraint.

Ankle and wrist restraints

Some bondage players prefer to use ankle and wrist restraints simultaneously, but less enthusiastic players or newbies often favor using only wrist or ankle restraints. So, you have to determine what group you’re in, whether the one that prefers the Liberator Leatherworks Mercer Padded Cuffs or one that favors the KinkLab Leather Hog Tie Bondage Kit.

Durability

Buying high-quality bondage restraints is always essential. The last thing you want is the cuffs or spreader bar breaking down on the first use. So, opt for restraints made with enough quality materials to withstand what you want to use them for. You can also check user reviews if you have access to them to see what you’re getting into buying the restraints.
Rest assured, all the bondage restraints on our list passed the durability test before we chose to review them.

Cleaning

No one wants wears that are difficult to clean. The ease of cleaning usually comes down to the material of your bondage restraints. For example, leather is relatively hard to clean and doesn’t dry quickly. In contrast, nylon, PVC, and latex materials are easy to clean and dry fast. So, keep that in mind when shopping for bondage restraints.

Attachments

Adding ropes, harness and restraining the sub even more – choose the toy that allows to attach various accessories to spice up the play

If you like the extraordinary, you’ll want to use attachments with your bondage restraints. As such, buy restraints that come with attachments such as clips, removable cuffs, leashes, etc. With attachments, you can explore more bondage possibilities.
And if you can’t find satisfying restraints with attachments, ensure that the ones you buy have rings where you can attach the attachments you buy separately.

Prices

Price is another vital consideration you need to make. You don’t want to overpay for your bondage restraints. So, you have to make your choice carefully—without rushing. You should evaluate the product and determine if it has enough value to justify the price. Comparing and contrasting the bondage restraint with similar products can help you evaluate it.
If you can justify the price, buy. If you can’t, look for another option. The most important thing is to not to overpay for a product.

FAQ

How long can I be tied up before going numb?

There’s no definite number for this because a lot depends on blood circulation, flexibility, and personal endurance. The way you’re secured is also important. If you’re tied too tightly, you will go numb very quickly, which won’t paint an accurate picture of your tolerance. So, you must be secured properly.
Generally, some people go up to 15-20 minutes before they start going numb, and others can do hours before numbing. So, it’s up to the abovementioned factors how long it takes for you to go numb. Don’t hesitate to call your safe word once you’re in that situation.

Which BDSM restraints are the safest to use for beginners?

The BDSM world is generally complex, which makes some extreme bondage restraints unsafe for beginners. Restraints such as wrist cuffs, ankle cuffs, straitjackets, harnesses, collars, bondage tape, masks, and hoods are relatively gentle. So, they don’t put unbearable pressure on newbies and can help prepare you for the next levels.

What are the best sex straps positions?

Sex straps are a beautiful invention because they provide many bondage play possibilities. And there are various fun and daring positions you can assume when on sex straps. The best sex straps positions are reclining missionary, doggy style, the lie back style, queening, air rider, cowgirl swingin’, and swinging 69. All of these positions bring varying levels of excitement with them.

How should I store BDSM restraints?

We recommend buying a strong bag for your BDSM gear. After cleaning your bondage equipment, ensure they’re dry before storing them in the bag. Then, place the bag in an area that is not exposed to sunlight or water. If you don’t have privacy, we recommend a compact, opaque storage bag that is not easily noticeable.

Our Verdict

This article has discussed various types of bondage restraints, and of course, there are more, but we chose to review only the best products. And at the top of our list is the Liberator Leatherworks Mercer Padded Cuffs—our editor’s choice. The cuffs’ simple design and excellent padding make them our favorite.
Besides these cuffs, the Bolero Straitjacket is another bondage restraint that deserves a special mention. It exposes the best of the sub’s sexuality while keeping their arms in secure bondage. And in a world of expensive bondage restraints, the KinkLab Bondage Rope is a breath of fresh air. Despite costing so little compared to other restraints, this rope offers endless bondage possibilities, thanks to its 25 feet length.
Finally, as promised, our review of the best bondage restraints has discussed everything you need to know about the top BDSM equipment, and we hope this article helps you pick a suitable product.

References

1.
BondageDiscipline, DominanceSubmission and Sadomasochism BDSM From an Integrative Biopsychosocial Perspective A Systematic Review PMC
BDSM (bondage and discipline, dominance and submission, and sadism and masochism) increasingly receives attention from the scientific community. Where earlier research efforts mainly focused on epidemiologic characteristics, psychological and biologic factors driving BDSM preferences have recently gained interest as well.
2.
A Brief History of Rope Bondage Rope Study
When we talk about “rope bondage,” there are many things that we could mean: everything from tying your partner to the bedposts to intense forms of restriction and contortion to intricately-woven rope patterns. These roughly correlate to the three main styles of rope bondage: Western, Eastern (primarily Japanese), and decorative. This section will provide an overview of what those terms mean and where these influences originated.
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