Impact play involves deliberately striking another person's body for pleasure, often using tools like paddles, whips, canes, and crops. Different implements create distinct sensations, so it's important to know how they work and what makes them unique.
Paddles are often made from wood or leather, though some have metal tips that sting more than others. They're generally used across thighs or buttocks, sometimes harder areas like the back or shoulders, but never the face. When struck correctly, they leave welts that resemble finger bruises, while incorrect hits cause pain but don't mark the skin. Paddling requires skill and precision, particularly when hitting areas where nerve endings are close to the surface.
Whips are thicker and longer than paddles, typically made from leather, suede, or rubber. They're best for striking unclothed bodies because they leave deep, red marks that fade slowly. Whipping also demands expertise, since you must calculate each blow's power and trajectory to avoid injuring your partner. Some people enjoy intense, heavy whipping; others prefer light flicks that barely graze the skin.
Crops are short, usually made of rattan or braided leather. They hit hard but not as hard as whips, leaving less-painful strikes without permanent damage. Cropping is often incorporated into BDSM scenes involving roleplay, like a dominatrix punishing her submissive with a crop or cat-of-nine-tails. Crops come in different lengths and widths, which affect their impact and appearance.
Floggers are multi-tailed whips made of leather, suede, or rubber. Each tail can be swung independently, making them versatile and responsive to the moment. Flogging is generally faster than other implements, delivering rapid bursts of stingy sensation across larger areas. It requires coordination and finesse to achieve consistent results without accidentally hurting your partner.
To create the right atmosphere for impact play, choose a quiet, private space free of distractions. Ensure your partner feels safe and relaxed before introducing any tools, then explain how each implement works and what sensations it creates. Experiment until you both find what you like. Impact play should feel pleasurable, not painful - use caution if your partner winces or asks you to stop.