Beginner's Guide To Whips
First things first; if you’re looking for a whipping technique that will pick up the pace of your Sunday afternoon hack, you’re in for a supremely satisfying surprise! This sort of whipping will inspire specific reactions, but it will be in your human pet, not your actual one.
Okay, so now we’ve cleared that up, let’s get down to the nitty-gritty. Before you start wielding your whip like Indiana Jones, there is a lot of information that you need to be aware of. But, don’t despair; UberKinky has compiled it all into this very informative guide, for your reading pleasure. We’ll have you whipped into shape in no time!
If you haven’t already, it’s essential that you check out our Beginner’s Guide To Spanking for general information on safety, warm up techniques, positions and aftercare.
Now, we’d hate for anyone to suffer with whiplash as a result of this play, so please pay close attention to our safety section before proceeding. although we’ve already covered the main safety concerns in our Beginner’s Guide To Spanking, there are a number of additional points worth noting for you whip-its out there!
The whip is a dangerous device, and is perhaps the most hazardous of all the spanking implements. Its reputation certainly precedes it, and not without good reason. The sensation delivered from a whip is extremely intense and painful. Unlike other spanking tools, the surface area is tiny, meaning that the pain is confined to a much smaller impact area. Whips can also be somewhat difficult to control and, because of the design, ‘wrapping’ can easily occur. Wrapping is when the tip of a tool overlaps the ‘sweet spot’ and impacts on another, more sensitive area of the body. This can potentially be very harmful and as such it is vital that you perfect your technique prior to play.
Whips, more so than other spanking tools, are likely to cause cuts and abrasions of the skin. It is therefore essential to take the necessary precautions against blood borne diseases. Have a first aid kit nearby, complete with latex gloves and antibacterial cleaner. The majority of whips, if not all, are made from porous materials, so please refrain from sharing with multiple partners. Or, if you do decide to share, make sure you change the cracker/popper between playmates.
Finally; watch what the end of your whip is doing, we don’t want it to snap back and hit you in the face.
So, to avoid an UberKinky tongue lashing, please always follow our advice!
Do
- Wear goggles or a peeked hat (Tops and bottoms)
- Have a first aid kit handy (complete with latex gloves and antibacterial cleaner)
- Practice on plush toys, teddy bears or pillows
- Stick to the back, buttocks and back of the thighs
- Always warm up properly
Don't
- Use a bull whip unless you have been fully trained and had significant practice
- Hit the spine, kidneys, face or neck
- Share porous whips with multiple partners
- Strike the joints (particularly the ankles, knees and elbows)
We know that you’re anything other than whipped! So, for those of you that wear the trousers, it’s important that you have all the facts before choosing your dangerous device. That’s where we come in! Take a look at the UberKinky breakdown of whip types, so that you can pick the one that’s right for you.
For beginners, we recommend a flicker whip as it is far easier to control than other, more flexible, whips. Refrain from using bull whips, unless you have had proper training beforehand. Your first whip should be no longer than four foot.
Whips are typically made up of a handle, thong (main body), a fall and a cracker/popper. Bull whips, snake whips and stock whips have a fall between the thong and the popper which protects it from wear, however, some whips do not have a fall. Whips are either a firm stick for direct impact, or they are flexible implements which must be swung in a particular manner to be effective.
Here’s our UberKinky breakdown;
Stock Whip
Stock up on whips; they will form an essential part of your play! Technique is far easier to perfect with a stock whip than a bull whip; however this type of whip is also less versatile. It will produce a crack with little effort, instilling fear in bottoms everywhere, and with a simple fishing rod cast movement a loud noise can be achieved. A stock whip has a long, rigid handle which promotes easy grip and maximises control. You’ll definitely want shares of this terrifying tool!
Bull Whip
We know that that when Tops see this sort of whip, it is like a red rag to a bull! However, please only attempt to use a bull whip if you have had a lot of training prior to first use. The best way to master the bull whip is to attend a fetish workshop. It differs from the stock whip in that the handle and the thong are constructed from the same plait, or the thong is a continuation of the handle. This is a very versatile whip, but we’re not talking bull when we say; it is not for beginners!
Black Snake
Want to really stick your tongue out at your bottom? Then a blacksnake whip could be just the tool you’re looking for! although similar in design to the bull whip, the handle is typically more flexible and is shot loaded. The blacksnake whip is short, fast and extremely severe, so only use after a LOT of practice. It’s a slippery little device, so it can take some time to master technique, and we certainly wouldn’t recommend it for your first time.
Signal Whip
How’s this for a signal? This whip is the most popular choice for whipping enthusiasts! However, it can be relatively difficult to control and as such is not ideal for beginners. The design of this implement means that it doesn’t have a handle, but instead the thong is filled with shot. Similar to the blacksnake and bull whip in construction, it is considerably shorter in length. Signal whips do not sport a fall between the cracker and thong, meaning that wear and tear can be a little more severe. They'll never be out of range with a signal this powerful!
Pocket Snake
This dangerous little snake can coil up so tightly that it will actually fit in your pocket! That means you can now take your fun with you wherever you go. Similar in design to the signal whip, the pocket snake has no handle and a shot loaded thong. As this whip is rather small in size, the crack produced may not be quite as loud as some of its larger counterparts. However, it is easy to manage and control, making it a good choice for beginners. Bound to make bottoms hiss, be careful that they don’t try to slither away!
Flicker Whip
Flick the switch between 'play' and 'BDSM play'! The Flicker Whip is the UberKinky recommended tool for beginners. Its rigidity means that is reasonably easy to control and technique can be mastered without difficulty. The pain it delivers is intense and stingy, but less severe than some afore mentioned tools. The flicker whip has no fall, meaning the long thong is directly connected to the popper/cracker. This can result in greater and faster wear and tear. That flicker of hope in their eyes is sure to go out after continued chastisement with this device!
Quirt
A quirt is similar to a stock whip, but with a forked tail (similar to that of a tawse). It is small in size; making it relatively slow and not as painful as many other whips. The core is filled with lead shot and the handle is typically made out of leather. It is ideal for beginners to help them become accustomed to the sensations associated with whipping. although less severe than its counterparts, this whip certainly has a lot of character!
Dragon Tail
Want to tame your inner beast? Then a dragon tail whip is not the answer for you! Sure to bring out your wild side, this type of whip is powerful, durable and designed to land with an almighty sting. The simple design feature includes only a handle and a thong; however the triangular tail (thong) tapers into a sharp point, enabling it to deliver a supremely satisfying crack. Relatively easy to control, this whip is an ideal choice for beginners and guarantees to have you all fired up!
Nylon
The material may be synthetic, but a nylon whip will certainly assist you in acting out all of your natural instincts! Nylon whips are extremely durable and easy to maintain. They can therefore last a lifetime with the minimal amount of care. Delivering short, sharp and powerful strikes, they are generally quite rigid and therefore easy to control. We never fabricate things here at UberKinky; so believe us when we tell you that a nylon whip is a good choice for beginners.
Leather
Are you ready to crackdown on bad behaviour? Then a leather whip is just the implement to deliver a perfect persecution. Tough and durable, it can last a lifetime if cared for correctly. Leather whips are firm and have a rigid quality which allows them to deliver a ‘thuddy’ and intense pain as well as a real ‘sting’. Due to the severe nature of leather, it is important to perfect your aim prior to play. One thing’s for sure; it guarantees to bring out the animal in you!
Rubber
A rubber flogger will bounce of your bottom’s skin with a satisfying sting. Well renowned for its severity, it is only for those who are more experienced. It may even cause abrasions and cuts, so take care and follow our spanking safety tips. You’ve got to have real balls to give this a go!
Want to whip up something they’ll really enjoy? Well, these UberKinky techniques guarantee to have bottoms hungry for more!
If you’ve read any of our other impact play guides, you should already be aware that there are two sensations commonly associated with spanking. These are ‘stingy’ and ‘thuddy’. More frequently associated with whips is a ‘stingy’ feel; however some can also deliver a ‘thud’. A ‘sting’ is felt on the surface, whereas a ‘thud’ lands with a deep solid impact, almost like being pushed hard. Your preferred sensation will determine the type of strike you choose.
Now all that’s left is for us to crack the whip! Don’t expect that all important technique to just happen. Practice makes perfect, so what are you waiting for? Here are just three of our favourites;
Overhand
Don’t throw all of your hard work away by not perfecting your stance! The overhand technique requires the forearm and elbow to be completely in line, pointing towards where you want the whip to crack. If the elbow is pointing outwards, the hand will compensate by twisting the whip back. So, take care, we don’t want you sending mixed signals. The whip should be laid out on the ground behind you. Pull the handle to move the thong over your shoulder, hitting the bottom on the desired ‘sweet spot’. Be careful not to go over the top; go slowly and gradually build up intensity.
Circus Crack
Please don’t be a clown and try the circus crack without any practice beforehand! Pull the whip forwards and up, then follow it back down, hitting your ‘sweet spot’ along the way. This ‘S’ motion involves bringing the whip up and over the shoulder, then downwards in a singular motion. It allows for greater power and momentum, therefore delivering a more intense pain upon impact. It also produces an almighty crack. This is an impressive act which is sure to make a real impression!
Reverse Snap
There’ll be no warnings for bottoms in its path! Start out by making a circle over your head with the whip. After you have mastered this, cut the handle back and strike forwards. This is quite an easy technique for those using a longer whip; however, it is not always accurate and delivers an extremely powerful and severe pain. We would recommend that you steer clear of this method until you are a little more experienced. After all, we don’t want you taking one step forwards and two steps back.
You can perfect your aim simply with the aid of two cardboard boxes and a pillow or towel. Space the boxes approximately two feet apart and place the pillow/towel in the middle. This will be your target. Once you can hit it every time, without touching the boxes, move them closer together and start again. Continue the process until you are confident that your aim is perfect. Now you’re ready to play!
Well, it’s not quite Kama Sutra territory, but there’s certainly no shortage on positions when it comes to a wilful whipping! The first thing you need to determine is where your ‘sweet spot’ is. The most common places include the buttocks, the back of the thighs and the back. Those that are real gluttons for punishment will happily endure a whipping on the genitals or chest. However, if you do opt for one of the latter, please stick to swift and gentle hits. Can you guess where our 'sweet spot' is? ;)
First things first; we’re all about equal opportunities at UberKinky, so let’s not neglect our Tops, shall we? After all, their stance is paramount to the sensations felt by the bottom. Firstly, the knees should be flexed and the glutes relaxed. Remain flat footed to begin; once you are more experienced you can move around and experiment with your footing. With feet shoulder width apart and the knees slightly bent, position your striking arm and shoulder towards the target. Now throw, putting the whole weight of your body behind it.
Okay, now let’s talk bottoms! Our favourite position when it comes to whipping is restrained. This helps to keep the bottom in place, particularly once they are flying, minimising the risk of serious injury. However, there are plenty of other positions too. Why not try doggy, standing or bent over? For more detailed information about the optimum spanking positions, take a look at our Beginner's Guide To Spanking. Just remember; OTK doesn’t work with long range implements.
Now you’re both ready for the ride of your life!
Ever wondered where that sadistically satisfying sound comes from? Well wonder no more, UberKinky friends! We have all the answers right here...
Whips move so fast that they actually break the sound barrier, producing a mini sonic boom. A crack occurs with minimal effort when this travels down the length of the whip. The pop is produced by the popper (a.k.a. cracker) at the tip of the whip. This creates a momentary vacuum, and the popping sound occurs as air rushes back into the space. A larger cracker doesn’t necessarily mean a louder the noise. However, it will break down the fall faster and cause damage to your whip. As such, we recommend sticking to smaller ones.
So now you know, you can have a crack at it yourself!
Replacing Your Cracker/Popper
It’s time for us to pop that all important question; do you know how to change your cracker?
Well, nothing lasts forever, right? So, when you consider all of the wear that this little piece of material endures, it’s hardly surprising that it needs to be replaced from time to time. It is important not to use your whip without a cracker/popper as it can cause damage to the whip itself, as well as result in poor technique or injury. The cracker/popper is usually connected to a fall at the tip of the whip; however, some whips do not have falls. This can lead to greater wear and tear. Poppers/crackers will need to be replaced often and you may wish to replace falls too once they start to look a little worn.
So, if you’re starting to panic because you don’t have a clue how to change your popper/cracker, don’t despair! There’s no need to crack up over it; we’ve summarised some point by point instructions below;
- Make a loop in one end of the popper using your fingers
- Place the fall/thong through the middle
- Loop the fall so that it bends back upon itself
- Pull the other end of the popper through the loop that has been created between the fall and the popper
- Pull tightly
- Cut off the fluffy excess of the fall
If you’re a fan of Blue Peter and like all things DIY, you may choose to make your poppers yourself. This is a simple process, and you will find many video tutorials all over the web to aid you in doing so.
So, now you’ve pulled your cracker, get ready for the best prize EVER ;)
Here at UberKinky, we care about you! That’s why we want you to take good care of your equipment. If you don’t it could result in inferior play, or indeed no play at all.... and we wouldn’t want that now, would we?
Whips can be cared for simply, with antibacterial soap and warm water. Never submerge your whip in water as it will absorb the moisture, possibly damaging the material and affecting its rigidity. Similarly, do dot drench in oil or treatments as this can have the same effect. For a quick clean, try using antibacterial toy cleaner or alcohol wipes.
Leather whips need a little extra TLC and should be conditioned regularly. A whip that is not treated will dry out and may lose strength. This could potentially lead to it being stretched out of shape. Many people choose to condition the fall more regularly than the rest of the whip as it endures a great deal of punishment, and unlike the popper/cracker it is not replaced at regular intervals. When conditioning your whip, avoid light oils as they can harbour bacteria, and we don’t want anyone picking up a nasty infection.
Try not to excessively bend signal or blacksnake whips as this could break the sack which holds the shot.
All whips require storage in a cool dry environment.
Our Best Selling
Whips
Need some help finding a real cracker? Here are the UberKinky bestsellers;
1. Strict Leather Wide Head Riding Crop
"The head leaves a desired slapping echoing, when hitting the naked skin. It does tingle, of course it would, you are being slapped by leather, but the experience is heavenly."
2. House of Eros Long Dragons Tongue
"Loved being on the receiving end of this. The softness of the suede and the sting it delivers are a delicious combination."
3. Fetish Fantasy Extreme Leather Riding Crop
"Really nice weight, good crack to it and leaves some beautiful marks. Very well packaged."
Further Reading
To ensure that you're well and truly whipped into shape when it comes to your impact play, take a look at our comprehensive UberKinky guides;
