Marital Aid Test Kitchen: Incoqnito Lash Belt

I was hard pressed to convince my boyfriend that this was a belt... But I suppose that's not really the point. Regardless, it's a high quality, classy-looking flogger that can be as gentle or stern as you like.

The lash belt has three leather straps that attach to the handle full-circle, giving it the power of six lashes while providing what I presume to be a gentler whipping experience (I imagine loose whip-ends stinging more than these that double back on themselves). The straps are adjustable to aid with the "belt" role of the toy, which claims to fit waists 28" to 52". I did have some trouble in the adjustment department, as I assumed it would be intuitive... But I can only blame myself as the toy comes with a diagram to explain the process, which I failed to consult the first go-round. Nevertheless, I had it on belt-style and waltzed into the bedroom with a sense of purpose.

I reached for the handle of the whip, which is sterling silver-plated, very elegant, and very heavy. It splits in half to allow for removal of the belt, and attaches back to itself with a strong magnet and very small guide pegs. So, I removed the belt, preparing to enter whip-mode. But the magnets in the handle are so strong that it will clamp back together even when not properly aligned. Of course, it still functions this way (like I said, magnets are strong) but it doesn't feel as secure as when completely cohered, guide pegs in place. Fumbling with the alignment detracted from a bit of my flourish, but I managed to get it together fairly quickly to commence with the whip portion of the evening.

The Lash Belt's straps are wispy enough to provide just a tickle with gentle strokes, but when deployed full force they are quite capable of bringing the pain. The silver handle feels so solid in hand it made a fast authoritarian out of me. Swapping the toy back and forth and exploring different whipping sensations proved titillating for all involved, and definitely made for an exciting foray out of the ordinary. I'm sure with a little effort I'll have my adjustment and alignment issues in check, and will be able to wield the Lash Belt like a proper dominatrix. With a price tag of $89 this doesn't come cheap, but if you're able to splurge the Incoqnito Lash Belt could be just the trick to make your holiday season extra naughty.

· Buy the Incoqnito Lash Belt (babeland.com)