Archive | Product Reviews RSS feed for this section

Tantus T-Rex

by Kara_Sutra on March 27, 2012 in Dildos/Dongs, Product Reviews, Tantus Inc

Tantus T-Rex, Giant Dildo

All Hail the T-Rex

Let me start this review by stating that I am not, in any way, shape, or form, a “size queen’. My happy number is around 5 – 6′” inches in length (insertable) and around 4 – 5″ inches in circumference, leaning more toward 4- 4 1/2″…. anything more and it’s a damn near special occasion, with me making the accommodation simply because the product in question is worthy of the wait, effort and persistence.

The Fun Factory Amor, measuring 5″ insertable and 4 1/2″ in girth, is my ideal (I have 2, one marbled and one in a rainbow), however the Tantus Cush is a very good example of an amazing toy for those moments when a girl is in want for a little ‘something more’ (Cush measures 6 3/4″ length insertable with a circumference of 5 1/2″). Yes that extra inch or two can make a huge difference. Literally.

With that in mind, my experiences with the T-Rex weren’t positive, instead being somewhat labor intensive and overwhelming in every way possible. As someone who likes to ‘test’ a product up to 6 times for certainty before making a final judgement call, I was only able to go through the motions a couple times… not comfortably and sadly not as impressively as I had originally hoped. Having said that, if you are a “size queen”… one that absolutely loves a challenge and isn’t afraid to test their skill and courage, the T-Rex will likely be for you.

*Even though it didn’t really work for me I’m going to do my best to make this review non-biased for those that are thinking of an adventure. Yes I’ll have my complaints and air them openly, but that doesn’t mean I’m going to bash the product like I did with another I thought truly deserved it. The T-Rex is meant for a specific market. I sadly am not of that market, something I fully understand and can’t hold against the T-Rex.

Tantus T-Rex, Dino Dildo Badassness

Dino Dildo Badassness

The Good

Being that the product is made by Tantus there are a quite a few good things it has to offer, much of which has to do with the amazing level of quality it has to bestow;

Like always the packaging is respectful, professional, and gender neutral with nothing on it that’s rude, crass or offensive. The clear plastic box is the same as pretty much every other Tantus toy, having a top that opens usually with a bit of struggle on my end via a few sliding tabs and a removable plastic insert that houses the product to keep in place for display.

The glossy and lustrous dark purple silicone is smooth, supple, and slightly squishy with a bit of give that’s also surprisingly flexible. I honestly think it was these features that allowed me to use it at all, had it been a firm product with no squish or give I likely would have given up on the first attempt due to the discomfort. Fortunately there was just enough give to help my body overcome obstacles like the upper ridge and girthy shaft.

As with all Tantus products the T-Rex is hypoallergenic, hygienic, non toxic, phthalate and latex free, odourless, tasteless, eco-friendly, virtually non-porous so it won’t absorb bodily fluids, lube or bacteria, and designed to last a lifetime with a minimal amount of care. I’ve said it over and over again, if you want quality, you want Tantus. Trust me on this.

The firm but squishy balls located about a third of the way down the shaft let you gauge how far it’s inserted, something that can be rather difficult to know when you can’t see due to awkward positioning, leaving one to wonder if it’s in… all the way. Usually I wouldn’t mention this since I don’t necessarily think it’s a standard selling feature, but with the T-Rex, a product many will buy just to conquer, having the balls lets you know when you’ve succeed. At least that’s how I looked at it when I won (it also gives new meaning to the term “balls deep”).

The flared base acts as a pretty decent suction cup for those that like to mount from the top and go for a ride. My only suggestion is to slightly wet the bottom with a bit of water first (to make sure there’s no pet hair or lint to get in the way) and slam it down fairly hard on the surface you want it to stick to. It’s got quite a bit of weight to it so it’s not going to instantly affix itself as easily as some others and it’s also not going to stick so well to walls (the weight will eventually cause it to fall off)… but considering I was able to lift my table off the ground when trying to remove the T-Rex, it does have some impressive suction once in place.

Also on the note of the flared base, it’s totally compatible with strap-ons for those that like pegging. Sure getting it into the harness ring may require a bit of push and pull, but it’s very flexible and should insert without too much trouble. Just know in advance that it’s not going to stand at attention when you’re wearing it – it’s heavy, very heavy, and will slightly droop.

Size wise it’s a BEAST! No seriously, it’s huge. Like really huge… really, really huge, though that has more to do with the girth than the length. For those curious, the length is a fairly doable 6″ (Cush measures 6 3/4″), but the girth is roughly 7″ around. I say roughly because it slightly thickens toward the base, on top of having a protruding ridge around the head. Sure it’s big, but that doesn’t really mean it’s bad… at least not for those that like big things. For me on the other hand, yikes!

*For those that are going to attempt the T-Rex I have a couple suggestions to help make it far more enjoyable; use lots of lube and I do mean lots (it will decrease friction and allow it to ‘slide’ comfortably), don’t just go straight for the product unless you’re used to things of its size (or close to it) instead, work your way up to it by using a partner or other products before hand (the vaginal canal will expand and lengthen when a female is aroused, take advantage of that), finally, don’t be afraid to use something on your clitoris if you need to, it’ll likely help with the arousal and getting you in the mood.

Tantus T-Rex Dildo

Uncomfortable Ridging
Tantus T-Rex Dildo Girth

More Than a Handful
Tantus T-Rex Base

Super Flexible Base
Tantus T-Rex Packaging

Packaging

Care & Cleaning

Since it’s made of quality silicone you can wash it with anti-bacterial soap and water, boil it up to 600° Fahrenheit, bleach it with a 10% bleach solution, or simply put it in the top rack of your dishwasher…yes, I did say put it in the dishwasher.

As with all of the products Tantus makes you’ll want to use water based lubricants as a silicone lube will likely ruin it with time. If you’re dead set on using a silicone lube I’d suggest doing a patch test on the base of the dildo first. If it turns matte or ‘foggy’ don’t use it. If there’s no reaction you may be fine, I just wouldn’t chance it.

The Bad

Aside from the difficulty I personally had with the large size there are a few other issues I think are worth mentioning:

There’s a ridge that slightly protrudes around the head of the shaft, making insertion extra difficult for those that aren’t used to products of this size (pictured above left). Maybe it’s just me but I would have liked for the product to maintain the same width throughout since it would have encouraged me to keep going. Instead it acted as a barrier between me and the conquering of a beast. On that note, because of the way the ridge is angled removing it is also a challenge, leaving my second attempt a slightly more painful one due to the fact that I tensed up in anticipation of the awkward ‘pop’ I experienced the first time around, unintentionally tightening around it in the process. #ouch

Although it’s great once you can get it to stick, the base isn’t as firm as I thought it would have been, an issue that made thrusting even more difficult for me (not that it was easy to begin with). Having said that I do know that if the base was firm it would have been damn near impossible to get it to fold and easily insert into the support ring for a harness.

Finally, again with being a lint collector! That’s all I’m going to say about that.

Final Verdict

I’m admittedly a little torn on this one… on the one hand I can totally see how it’s an amazing product for those that like fisting or larger than average sized products. It’s quality made, virtually non-porous, easy to care for and clean, can be used with a harness, doesn’t leach harmful chemicals into your body or contain latex and has some seriously amazing girth to it. On the other hand, it was just to much for me. Which makes me sad… mostly because I really wanted to be able to say I ‘tamed it’, but also because had that ridge not been there I think I would have succeeded… and totally learned to love it. C’est la vie I guess.

To get more info or check out all of the other products Tantus makes, many of which will be smaller and much easier to take, head over to SheVibe where shopping is easy, discreet and great customer service is a guarantee!

Want to stay up to date with the new reviews? Just sign up for an email update through the form below!

Enter your email address:

Shevibe Sex Toys

Read full story • Comments { 0 }

Beginners Guide to Butt Toys

by Kara_Sutra on March 24, 2012 in Butt Play, Good Guides, Product Reviews, The Written Word

Butt ToysJust like every other intimate accessory on the market, butt toys come in a wide variety of colours, shapes, sizes and materials, with each designed to offer a specific kind of sensation; some target the p-spot (prostate in males), others provide a feeling of fullness, some allow you to become comfortable with the idea of having something inserted anally, while others penetrate deeply, some vibrate for a heightened sense of arousal, while others simply provide a means to which you can safely explore anal play. Regardless of what you’re into there is something on the market to suit your needs, it’s just a matter of finding one that works with you and your body.

Tips & Suggestions

Since there is a lot of miscommunication and horrible myths when it comes to butt play, I thought I’d fill you in on a few tips & tricks just to make sure you’re fully in the know before getting busy:

  • Although some may feel using numbing agents is a good idea I have to suggest you refrain from using them, not only do they limit the amount of control you have, they also place you in a sense of danger as you will likely not be able to feel any pain and therefor not know when you’re going too far too fast. Instead, you may want to consider an anal spray that relaxes the area rather than numbing it.
  • Always use a product with a flared base as it will stop the product from being pulled inside, potentially saving you a trip to the doctors. If you’re using beads, make sure to count them after. Yes, they have popped off and been lost in people before.
  • No matter what type you choose I highly suggest the use of a thick lubricant that’s very slippery and maintains its consistency so that you don’t have to stop and keep reapplying. I find silicone lubricants work best (unless you’re using a silicone product, then I’d suggest something else like a good water based lube).
  • Be sure that anything you insert is smooth and free of any jagged edges, points or ridges as the internal lining of the rectum/anus could be torn or scratched.
  • Although you can go from vagina to anus, I highly suggest you refrain from going anus to vagina. That’s just asking for trouble. If you’re going to be sharing with a partner I’d advise either using a condom (and changing it between partners) or thoroughly cleaning it between uses.
  • On that note, because the anus can harbor bacteria it is always advised that you fully clean each and every product after use (that goes for everything, not just butt toys).
  • Finally, when shopping for a butt toy make sure to choose one crated out of a non-porous material like glass, steel, high quality silicone, sealed wood or aluminum as they won’t absorb bodily fluids, lube or bacteria.

*Wanna play but not sure how to do it safely or where to begin? Check out my Beginners Guide To Butt Play as it should answer any of the questions you have.

Butt Toy Breakdown

Because there are so many different butt toys on the market, some that often beget a ‘wtf is that for?’, I figured I’d explain what the most common products are and what they’re used for:

Tantus Ryder

Tantus Ryder

Butt Plugs: Butt plugs are designed to be inserted in the butt and held in place by the sphincter muscles. Because the muscles naturally react by clenching and unclenching around the stem and head of the plug it often gives the impression of being “plugged up”, as the name would imply. Basically put, you insert them in your ass and they stay there, providing a pleasurable sensation of fullness and/or pressure. Because many plugs are smaller in size they tend to be great for those that are easily intimated or afraid of inserting anything in their butt.

*the Tantus Ryder pictured left is a good example of a body safe butt plug. Some other great probes include the Vixen Creations Buddy, any of the Crystal Delights Plugs (comes with a genuine Swarovski Crystal in the base), any of the Njoy Pure Plugs.

Fun Factory Cavalier

Anal Probes: While the name may sound somewhat scary, thanks to the association with ‘alien anal probing’, this type of product is surprisingly pleasurable. Unlike plugs, which tend to be rather small by comparison, probes usually describe any type of longer sized intimate accessory that offers deeper anal penetration. Very often you’ll find they come in a tapered shape with some form of texture whether it’s ribbing, rippling or otherwise.

*the Fun Factory Cavelier pictured right is a good example of a body safe anal probe. Some other great probes include the Tantus Ripple,  Anaconda, or the Fun Factory Wanda.

Fun Factory Anal Beads

Fun Factory Flexi Felix

Anal Beads: Because stimulation of the anus and surrounding areas can offer a surprising amount of pleasure, many people have shed their inhibitions and begun to explore anal play with products like anal beads. As the name would suggest, anal beads consist of multiple balls or spheres of similar or varying sizes which are inserted anally and removed at varying speeds (totally depends on personal preference) during orgasm as the pleasurable feeling of having them pass through the narrow sphincter can help to enhance the experience.

Unfortunately not all beads are created equally, especially when it comes to body safe materials. Things you’ll want to consider when choosing a set of beads are; silicone or non-porous material for both the beads and the ‘cord’ to which they’re attached (nylon, lycra and other fabric materials are all porous and therefore cannot be fully sterilized), beads that are fixed in place – meaning they don’t move up or down the ‘cord’ and are firmly set in place, a sturdy handle for removal and absolutely no steams or sharp edges.

*the Fun Factory Flexi Felix is a good example of body safe anal beads. Some other great probes include the Fun Factory Bendy Beads, Ophoria A Chain,  Tantus Beads.

Aneros Helix Prostate Stimulator

Aneros Helix

Prostate Stimulator/Massagers:The prostate, more commonly known as the “p-Spot”, is located few inches inside the anal canal of the male body (women don’t have one) and forms a part of the male reproductive system, with the main function of the prostate being to produce the fluid that protects and enriches sperm. Because the nerves that control erections surround the prostate, many have found that applying pressure to the p-spot or stimulating it via massage is highly pleasurable. As such, there are many specifically designed to massage the area and intensify stimulation.

*the Aneros Helix pictured right is a good example of a prostate massager.

For some it’s the sensation of ‘fullness’ that brings pleasure, for others it’s stimulation of specific areas like the ‘p-spot’ that do it, regardless of your specific likes or dislikes, so long as you’re being safe and using a product specifically designed for anal play I say embrace it and enjoy it!

Curious about the butt toys I’ve reviewed? Head over to my butt toy review page for all the ass stuffin’ goodness!

Want to stay up to date with the new reviews? Just sign up for an email update through the form below!

Enter your email address:

Shop Online For Butt Toys

Read full story • Comments { 0 }

Crystal Delights Frosted Plug

by Kara_Sutra on March 22, 2012 in Butt Play, Crystal Delights, Product Reviews

Frosted Crystal Delights Butt Plug

The Glorious Crystal Delights Frosted Plug

Back in 2010 I was sent my very first set of  handcrafted Swarovski embedded Crystal Delights products, a small and large butt plug, so I could provide a comparative review and offer some insight to the difference in sizes.  To say I was wowed, impressed or totally blown away by the craftsmanship, beauty and ease of use would be a huge understatement.

Now, almost two years later, I’ve been fortunate enough to get my hands on two of their newer frosted designs; a small frosted plug with a rose Swarovski Crystal (pictured left) and a larger Star Delight Frosted Dildo with a powder blue Swarovski Crystal, both of which have left me totally awestruck.

*for this review I’ll be covering the frosted plug, with a review on the amazing dildo to follow shortly.

Packaging

Swarovski Plug

Plug w/ Pouch

Unlike many other intimate accessories that come packaged in a plastic clam shell or cardboard box, the Crystal Delight plug comes rolled within a lovely black fabric pouch that’s pretty, elegant and discreet (pictured right). Since the pouch doesn’t bare any logos or written info it’s hard to tell exactly what it’s for, allowing it to be used for pretty much anything you choose. Fortunately it’s also slightly bigger than the plug giving you the option of also storing a few extras like condoms or a small bottle of lube. The outer layer of fabric is satiny, with a Damask design, while the inner layer is smooth and luxurious.

*I absolutely love the fact that it can be reused rather than being tossed in the garbage unlike most other packaging – #ecofriendlyforthewin

When it comes to cleaning the pouch you can simply give it a wash in cold water and line dry it. As for the material you’re looking at an outer layer of 60% Rayon/40% Polyester and an internal lining of 100% Nylon.

I know there are going to be quite a few of you that are looking at these and thinking ‘glass in my ass? No way!’, so before I go on about how much I love the plug I’m just going to suggest you head over to my original Crystal Delights review and take a gander at the great benefits and features Pyrex glass products have to offer. And while I’m at it, just let me state for the record that they’re far better than any porous jelly product you’d cram in your ass without thinking twice about how gross and unsafe they are.

You’re also probably going to assume that because the plugs are made of glass they might be a tad dangerous; so long as you don’t drop them or slam them against a wall I (but really, why would you be doing that?!) they will hold up to quite a bit of wear and tear. Trust me, I should know – I’ve accidentally dropped all of mine a couple times now  and not one has a chip or crack in it.

The Good

Unlike the previous versions I was sent, the frosted plug is not clear, instead being a slightly transparent white finish that turns almost transparent upon coming into contact with any kind of fluid. It’s this finish that gives it an almost velvety feel while still being wonderfully smooth.  As expected it’s hard with absolutely no squish or give, duh it is glass, allowing it to provide an amazing sensation of fullness once inserted.

Regarding the shape, the head is bulbous (rather than being tapered and elongated like the clear version – as pictured in the third from left image below), giving it a slight resemblance to a pawn from a chess set. At first I thought this would cause it to be difficult to insert and/or slightly uncomfortable, but to my surprise that just wasn’t the case; because the head is rounded there was a slight resistance at first, then ‘pop!’ in it went, with the rounded head helping it to stay in place without issue – if you’re tired of fighting with objects to stay in place, this should be a wonderful reprieve. The glass  also provides some weight to it, so it’s not a product you won’t be able to feel or wonder if it’s in. I gotta admit, the comfortable fullness it offers is pretty exceptional.

Having said that this isn’t something I would suggest to someone who is new to inserting anything anally as the shape and design may be a tad overwhelming, especially for someone that is tense or fearing it may hurt (to help ease any fears about anal play I suggest viewing my post/video: Butt Play Tips For Beginners). If on the other hand you’ve explored anally and liked the experience the Crystal Delights plugs are definitely worth splurging on.

Stats: Length – 3.3 inches, insertable length 2.7 inches, width 1.4 inches, weight 3.9 ounces

*While most would assume they can only be used anally I’d like to suggest vaginal use; with its bulbous head the plug has the ability to provide great g-spot/vaginal stimulation and/or pressure in all the right places.  If you are going to be using them anally I suggest you use a very good quality lube as the anus, unlike the vagina, does not self lubricate which can make insertion rather difficult.  If you are going to be using them vaginally just remember; you can go from front to back, just not back to front.

Rose Swarovski Crystal

Length Comparison

Clear vs Frosted

Rolled In Pouch

Piece Du Resistance

When I got my first set of plugs I was a little worried the Swarovski Crystal might fall out or come loose, sadly I had the same fears about the new products.  Like before I started picking at the seam and ran my finger over every edge to test if it was sharp, not surprisingly the Crystal stayed in place and the surface was smooth with absolutely no jagged edges. I really should know better by now. I mean, the company is known for quality and no one has ever had a complaint about losing the Crystals or being hurt.

As for the actual Swarovski Crystal, it’s breathtaking. Seriously, the pictures I took don’t do it justice. The rose color shines and sparkles even in dim lighting, something I really didn’t expect. Whether it’s one of their Pleasure Paddles, dildos, or large variety of glass butt plugs, I think everyone deserves at least one of their products.  After all, there really isn’t anything more luxurious than these, especially when compared to other luxurious and far more expensive products that see little use past the initial ‘oh wow it’s pretty‘ moment – you’ll use these, you really will!

Old vs New Crystal Delights Packaging

Old vs New Pouches

The Bad

I really didn’t have anything to complain about regarding the actual plug, but having said that, in comparison to the original clear version it is a tad harder to find the tip of the product when it’s behind you and you can’t see it as it was much more rounded and bulbous, making the original a bit easier to insert. Once in place there really isn’t much difference to the feel, I just know that for some people inserting a product anally can be a bit nerve wracking and overwhelming so the easier the better.

Unfortunately I did have one small complaint about the packaging; while it is discreet, luxurious, easy to clean, and highly aesthetically appealing, the new pouch isn’t as thickly padded as the previous velvety version my other plugs came wrapped in. Do I think it will still protect them? certainly, but for clutzy peeps like me the added padding puts a person a bit more at ease. Having said that, the outer Rayon shell of the new version is so much better since it doesn’t attract lint or pet hair like the other one did.

Flash vs Low Light

Care & Cleaning

In regard to cleaning the plug nothing could be easier; you can simply wash it with soap and water, spray it with toy cleaner or wipe it with an anti bacterial cleansing cloth. No mater what you do you don’t have to worry as the glass won’t absorb any lube, bodily fluids or bacteria.

When it comes to caring for your plug, just keep it safely tucked away inside the padded cover and it should be perfectly fine.

Final Verdict

If you’re looking for a durable plug that’s made of body safe materials that’s free of any harsh chemicals that could leach into your system, while also being eco-friendly, luxurious, non-porous (a big deal when it comes to butt toys), easy to care for and clean, comfortable once in place, warms quickly to body temperature and can be used for temperature play (warm and cool water only, boiling or freezing it may be too much to your body), made to last a lifetime and worth every penny you’d spend, not to mention being embedded with a genuine Swarovski Crystal (with 9 different colors to choose from might I add!), the ones made by Crystal Delights are definitely something I’d highly suggest you add to your list of wants/needs.

Trust me, you won’t be disappointed. They really are that amazing.

To take a look at all of the products within the Crystal Delights collection I suggest you head over to their website where shopping for intimate accessories is easy, discreet and your privacy is of utmost importance.

Want to stay up to date with the new reviews? Just sign up for an email update through the form below!

Enter your email address:

Read full story • Comments Off
« Older Entries
Newer Entries »
Stop censorship