Hi - I'm Martha! I'm a journalist and product tester at JoyNights. I love to share my ideas and personal sex life experience so that others can learn from my experiences.
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Hi - I'm Doris! I've spent decades working in the adult industry, including at several sex toy manufacturers as well as a large brick & mortar sex shop. I love reviewing read more
Last updated: June 24, 2023
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When you think about bondage, you might automatically think about handcuffs and rope. And while these are often used, many parts of bondage include the unexpected. The best bondage ticklers can be used in any relationship but are primarily used in the realm of BDSM. These feather sex toys can add a playful aspect to any scene and can keep a submissive on their toes.
In this review of the best tickling toys, we’ll look at six top contenders for your bedroom experience. We’ll look at basics such as size and shape, as well as more advanced features such as the type of handle and storage accessories. We’ll also look at different games you can play with your new feather tickler. There are many ways to be adventurous in the bedroom and if you and your partner are looking for a new experience, one of these bondage ticklers may be the way to go.
More features: cord-wrapped handle, nickel-free hardware, 5.5-in diameter
Sophisticated and classy, the Noir – Soft Feather Tickler is our Editor’s Choice and for good reason. This is a tickler that will delight your senses and expose all your hidden fantasies. It is a loft 15 inches in length. This will allow you to reach all sorts of areas, either from a distance or up close. The plush feathers are a delight and are constructed really well. You won’t have to worry about them coming apart and making a giant mess.
We absolutely loved the plush feeling of the Noir – Soft Feather Tickler. Unlike other ticklers, where the feathers are a bit sparse, this model is nice and thick. The result is that you can use the toy for many different capacities. You can start off in a sensual manner and use the tickler in a caressing or teasing manner. The softness of the feathers is great for this. You can then transition to a more arousing approach as the long handle allows you to find all those sweet spots on your partner. And, for the person who is holding the tickler, you will be impressed by the construction. The handle is metal but is wrapped in thin cord in the middle. This will allow you to have a comfortable and solid grip when using the tickler.
Why did it make our list?
Nice, plush feathers
Cord-wrapped handle is easy to use
Nice and long for versatile use
What is not ideal about it?
Not much variety in designs and colors
?
Consumer Engagement
Chosen by 8648 people in the past 30 days
9.7
Customer Feedback
Based on cross-platform reviews
9.3
Brand Reputation
Based on web analytics & content of negative reviews
Bondage can be overwhelming to start out with. You may have an idea of what you want to experiment with but talking about it with your partner, let alone engaging in an aspect of it, can be hard to do. For those that are new to bondage, be suggest the Bondage Boutique Luxury Ostrich Feather Tickler. It is simple to use, looks good, and doesn’t have a lot of extras that can get in the way. Sometimes simple is exactly what is needed in a situation.
The Bondage Boutique Luxury Ostrich Feather Tickler features two lush ostrich feathers in a matte black color. The feathers are long and soft so you can play around with the texture and pressure. As for the handle, it is one of the longest on our list and measures 14.5 inches. The handle is made from plastic but has fabric woven over top for a warmer, more comfortable grip. This feather tickler looks elegant so there’s no need to hide it when people come over. You can actually display it on your dressing table for a sense of whimsy and sophistication. Overall, if you want to try out some light teasing and have a bit of elegant fun in the bedroom, the Bondage Boutique Luxury Ostrich Feather Tickler is the perfect toy to start with.
What are our favorite features?
Ostrich feathers are long and sumptuous
Woven handle is easy to grip
Simple and not too intimidating for beginners to use
What could be better?
Slightly more expensive than other ticklers
Handle may be too long to be comfortable with
?
Consumer Engagement
Chosen by 2154 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
More features: storage box included, stainless steel and acrylic handle
Those looking for elegance will really appreciate the ZALO Feather Teaser. Unlike other ticklers, that tend to stick to shades of black and grey, this feather toy wows with its pop of pink feathers. With varying lengths, you really play around with the toy and enjoy some very intimate moments with your partner. We’ve nominated as the best toy for gentle subs as its handle is quite short. At only 8.7 inches in length, this is a toy that need to be used up close and personal. Teasing is definitely a recommended activity but you won’t be able to dominate your sub as much as with other feather ticklers.
The ZALO Feather Teaser has a gorgeous aesthetic to it. In addition to the plush pink feathers, the handle is made from a beautiful clear acrylic material that then is connected to the feathers by a stainless steel area. It is modern, elegant, and sophisticated toy that can heighten any activities in the bedroom. The ZALO Feather Teaser also comes with a handy storage box. Again, this is made to look elegant with subtle line works that looks like it is straight out of a Parisienne boutique.
What makes it special?
Gorgeous handle has an elegant design
Pink feathers are a delight and a nice alternative to blacks and greys
What cons did we find?
Pink color may not be to everyone’s tastes
Handle is rather small
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Consumer Engagement
Chosen by 7255 people in the past 30 days
9.4
Customer Feedback
Based on cross-platform reviews
9.0
Brand Reputation
Based on web analytics & content of negative reviews
More features: E.L. James approved collection, flexible handle
Those that read the steam Fifty Shades of Grey books may have found themselves itching to try some new things in the bedroom. If you love the books or just want to dip your toes into the world of bondage, the Fifty Shades of Grey Tease Feather Tickler is a great place to start. Not only is it constructed really well, but it is also very affordable. This is a great option if you are a beginner and aren’t ready to invest a lot of money in toys.
The Fifty Shades of Grey Tease Feather Tickler has a nice, long length of 14.5 inches. The handle is long and flexible so you can play a bit harder with it, if you want. However, the handle is only made of plastic and it would be nice to have a wrapped element for a more sophisticated feel. As for the feathers, they are a mix of white and grey and come in different lengths. The feathers are rather plush which makes this great for first timers. You can play around with your partner and alternate between sensual touches and devious teasing. If you want to enhance the experience, you can also use a blindfold on your partner so that they are always in anticipation of where you will tickle next.
What stands out?
Affordable and great for newbies
Long handle is easy to use and flexible
Feathers are a nice shade of color
What cons did we manage to find?
Handle is not wrapped and only made of plastic
A few feathers are rather long and may need to be trimmed
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Consumer Engagement
Chosen by 4264 people in the past 30 days
9.3
Customer Feedback
Based on cross-platform reviews
9.2
Brand Reputation
Based on web analytics & content of negative reviews
More features: wrapped handle, feather duster shape
The idea of a feather tickler is often associated with a traditional French maid outfit and if you purchase the Fetish Fantasy Frisky Black Feather Tickler, you can have all your fantasies come to life. While other ticklers have a similar appearance to a maid’s duster, this toy is as close to it as you will get. The long, 16-inch length is perfect for appearance and the tousled mass of black feathers is the perfect shape to go with a maid’s outfit. You can use it as part of roleplay or you can use it on its own. There is no wrong way to use it.
The Fetish Fantasy Frisky Black Feather Tickler can really delight the senses as the feathers are all in different sizes. You can have a lot of fun playing around with it as the feathers will provide different sensations, depending on how you use the toy. The handle is wrapped in faux leather for an extra delight. The person holding it can feel like they have a better power element when using this toy. Furthermore, while the feathers may look black in appearance, they actually have subtle shades of green and purple to them. This is an erotic tickler that has more to it than at first glance.
What do we love it for?
Wrapped handle has a nice feel to it
Perfect when paired with a costume
Subtle color of feathers is an elegant touch
What were we disappointed with?
Some might not be into maid role playing
Feathers can sometimes fall out of it
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Consumer Engagement
Chosen by 8755 people in the past 30 days
9.1
Customer Feedback
Based on cross-platform reviews
8.6
Brand Reputation
Based on web analytics & content of negative reviews
When we think about ticklers, we often associate them with feathers. However, there are other forms and that includes a flogger. With the Silver Ball Tickler, you can change your experience up as you engage in a bit of light bondage. This tickler has six ropes that are lined with small ball bearings. The impact this flogger will have is entirely dependent on how hard you use it. You can softly run it over your partner’s body for a more intimate experience or you can use it harder to engage in a bit of punishment. The fact you can do so much with this flogger is what makes it truly versatile.
The Silver Ball Tickler has a long, 18-inch handle and the strands are a further 5 inches in length. You have a wide range of motion thanks to these dimensions so you can really play around with the toy. If you’re interested in trying out the world of floggers but don’t want to spend a lot of money, this is a good option It is one of the least expensive options on our list although we do wish that the handle was made from a nice material as the plastic feels a bit cheap.
Why did it make our list?
Long length increases use
Can use the flogger soft or hard, according to taste
Very affordable
What is not ideal about it?
Handle is made of plastic
Ball bearings can hurt if you aren’t used to the pressure
Things to Consider
When entering the world of bondage, it’s important to have the right tools. While ropes and handcuffs are obvious, and some people even use the best ball gags, the inclusion of a bondage tickler shouldn’t be forgotten. These sensual toys can delight the senses and add a whole new element to the bedroom.
How to Use Ticklers in BDSM Play
The great thing about bondage ticklers is how versatile they are. Here are a few ways to incorporate feather tickling into your bedroom.
Teasing
The lead up to sex is often more important than the act itself. If you are looking for ways to enhance the sensual aspects of the bedroom, a feather tickler can help. Slowly tease your partner and ignite their senses. For an added effect, try these best ropes for bondage so that your partner can’t move out of the way of your teasing.
Bondage ticklers are perfect toys for stimulation of nerve endings all over the body
Feather games
There are many feather games you can use and they vary depending on your bondage preferences. A simple punishment game can include teasing your partner and if they move too much, a punishment then ensues. To enhance the game, check out this selection of the best spanking paddles.
Torture play
Doms can invest their subs in a torture scenario, but there is a certain danger of overdoing the process. The trust between partners is a must in nay BDSM game, certain preparations must be made beforehand. Make sure to establish the safe word that can be understood even when person squeamish under torture and is out of breath, you can even try to create a signal or gesture that immediately stops the process.
Carefully follow partner’s condition, have a few tries before diving into scenario to understand the discomfort level that shouldn’t be overstepped.
How to Pick the Best Bondage Ticklers
Not all bondage ticklers are the same so you want to pay attention to certain elements when conducting your search.
Tickler type
Most bondage ticklers involve the use of feathers. However, there are some that are a lighter flogger style. If you want a tickler with more power behind it, consider the Silver Ball Tickler. It has six strands of ball bearings that you can alter the momentum behind.
As for the shape of classic feather ticklers, there are actually quite a lot of choices within this narrow category. If you are into roll play, you mind want a tickler such as the Fetish Fantasy Frisky Black Feather Tickler. It looks just like a classic French maid and pairs well with a matching outfit.
Those that want a touch of sophistication will appreciate the ZALO Feather Teaser. It has soft pink feathers that give a feminine appeal to your events.
Materials
Most effective ticklers are made of several feathers bounded together, the feathers themselves can be natural or artificial
When deciding on a bondage tickler, the feathers should be made of durable materials that won’t fall apart or make a mess.
Even though most ticklers aren’t used in a very aggressive manner, you still want them to be durable. The handle should be made with quality materials and if they are made from plastic, it shouldn’t break or crack easily.
One issue that can arise with bondage ticklers is that the feathers can come out in hard play. It’s best to give the feathers a slight tug after you purchase your item to see if they come out easily.
Grip
The last thing you want to do when using a bondage tickler is to use your grip. Most ticklers have a plastic handle but some have better grip if they are wrapped in a different material. The Noir – Soft Feather Tickler has a thin cord wrapped around the handle that is soft but also allows for better grip.
In choosing the bondage tickler length consider BDSM scenario type and sometimes costume dom’s wearing
The length of a bondage tickler is a lot about preference. If it is long, you can tease your partner more and have more of an authoritarian feel to your play. However, shorter ticklers are often more intimate.
The shortest bondage tickler on our list is the ZALO Feather Teaser which measures just 8.7 inches. In contrast, the longest tickler is the Bondage Boutique Luxury Ostrich Feather Tickler at 26 inches. More length means more options but if you are a shorter person, then it might feel a bit weird to hold at first.
Flexibility
Depending on how you use your bondage tickler, you might want to consider flexibility in the handle. More flexibility will allow you to put more pressure on your partner as you can mold the tickler to the person.
Those looking for a flexible tickler may want to consider the Silver Ball Tickler. This flogger tickler has a pliable plastic handle that is easy to use.
Within any BDSM relationship, both partners need to agree on what they will engage in. The use of a tickler can be a sensual act, a form of punishment, or a way to push to your limits. If the submissive agrees to using a tickler as a form of punishment, then that is ok. However, if the submissive has not agreed to this usage, then it should definitely not be used as such.
You may be looking at bondage ticklers and think that a regular duster can be used instead. While it may have the same effect, it is not recommended. Bondage ticklers have longer tassels so they are more versatile. Also, there are many non-expensive bondage ticklers available so if you are worried about price there are many products that will fit any budget.
Our Verdict
Finding the right bondage feather tickler is all about thinking about your needs and preferences. We hope that our list has helped you narrow down your search. Our Editor’s Choice is the Noir – Soft Feather Tickler. Its soft plumage and cord-wrapped handle are excellent features. Those that are new to bondage might want to consider the Bondage Boutique Luxury Ostrich Feather Tickler. It has two large ostrich feathers and a long handle for versatile use. Finally, if you want a budget option, the Fifty Shades of Grey Tease Feather Tickler has a lovely crop of soft grey feathers. The best bondage ticklers will delight your senses so pick one that you can play around with.
References
1.
Death By Tickling: The Horrible Torture Method That Can Cause An Aneurysm
If you thought it was impossible to die of laughter and that tickling was always harmless, you'd be wrong. This horrible torture method can lead to death by aneurysm.
Bondage-Discipline, Dominance-Submission 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.
