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Guide to Ball Gags

ball gagThere is a very distinct look to BDSM - or at least that’s what television and movies would have us believe. Any mainstream depiction of BDSM will feature black leather, lots of straps, big boots, rubber and latex as the stereotypical uniform of the scene. This is not to say that some, if not all, of these accoutrement aren’t popular. Damn right they are. But the thing is, there is more to BDSM than a dress code.

There is another specific item that is often depicted in portrayals of BDSM, but when it comes out, things are just starting to get hardcore. They can talk about spanking and whipping and wearing some pretty extreme outfits, but for some people, the sight of a ball gag still makes folks gasp.

What is a ball gag?

One of the more simple and sexy devices in the adult world, ball gags are easy to use and carry a distinct purpose - but they are also imbued with a very dark connotation. They are the most popular type of mouth gag, featuring a ball that fits in the mouth with two straps extending out either side. The straps extend around the head, at the jawline and connect in the back to form a secure hold. Ball gags are intended to muffle or silence the sounds of the person wearing it, who would usually identify as the submissive or slave.

Will a ball gag provide silence?

Maybe the ball gag is so iconic because it takes away one of our more fundamental forms of agency: our voice. By losing the ability to speak, you definitely enter a new realm of submission or subservience. You cannot object, so you must obey. And this loss of agency could be why people still react so strongly to even an image of a ball gag. And, for sure, they aren’t for everybody, but those who are into it, love them.

Can ball gags be used for bondage?

Ball gags are, essentially, another bondage technique. We so often associate bondage with the tying of limbs such as wrists and ankles. Let’s not forget that the head holds tremendous bondage potential too. By forcing the sub to keep their mouth in a specific and unmoving position, the dominant can exert even more control. They can force the sub to perform specific acts for the opportunity to have the ball gag removed - if even for a short time.

What are ball gags made from?

There are many different types of ball gags, but the most common are a combination of a latex ball and leather strapping. The strapping is often joined by a metal buckle in the back. You will also find ball gags with glass balls and some with chain straps.

ball gag

How can I use a ball gag?

When a dom is putting a ball gag into their submissives mouth (or ordering the submissive to do it), the key is the position of the ball. It is best to find the right size ball gag that can allow the ball to sit behind the front teeth. Once you get it in the right spot, tighten the straps to the desired tightness. It should not be too tight as to be painful for the sub (it is doubtful either player is aiming for that), however, the straps should be secure enough as to not let the ball move around. That’ll defeat the purpose. Your slave might get loose!

Before you even get to the wearing stage, both parties should establish a safe signal. Remember, safe words won’t work in a gag situation. The sub won’t be able to speak. Instead, establish a hand gesture that will be a clear indication to the top that it is time to stop. In this type of situation the dominant needs to be extra-aware of the submissive’s motions and take on extra responsibility.

One last thing about ball gags: prepare for lots of drooling. Society has turned drooling into a very taboo thing to do. It is associated with under-civilised people. In reality, saliva maintains a distinct following as something people find really sexy.

How can I buy a ball gag?

Is the thought of having your or your partner's mouth gagged with a ball gag turning you on? We thought it might be. If you would like to purchase your own ball gag to act out your fantasies, just head on over to our category: Buy Ball Gags.

Need more help?

Not quite sure if a ball gag is right for you and need a little help? Just Contact Customer Care and a staff member from the Cherry Banana team will be in touch right away to assist you. Alternatively, you can explore our other bondage and fetish guides here.

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