Babeland

RingO & BabeLicious

mandy — Sun, 05 Sep 2010 10:00:00 +0000

Sweets for your sweet. Available in Dulce de Leche, Pomegranate Vanilla, Mojito Mint, and Chocolate Orange, the virtues of Babeland’s new BabeLicious flavored gel lubricant are more numerous than its flavors. Babeland has delivered my most favorite lube ever. It’s glycerin and paraben free, the lack of dyes means it doesn’t stain the sheets, and the fact that it doesn’t have sugar shields the user from that cause of yeast infections.

Never mind what it doesn’t have; of course, it’s a winner due to what it does possess. The standard fruity flavorings that plague massage oils and lubes strike me as fit for fighting plaque, not finding pleasure. Those particular chemicals are just too reminiscent of cough drops or the fluoride washes at a dentist’s office to be involved in any fun. In contrast, BabeLicious (I sampled the Dulce de Leche) has a genuine good taste, sweet and with a bit of mocha in the caramel. A dime-sized dollop started things off just fine, and it stayed wet and ready after extensive play.

Water-based and for any place, the only thing that lingers is its scent. After repeated washings, my hands still smelled like a candy shop. (I did not sniff-test other relevant regions.) With its only potential negative being the lasting whiff of dessert, BabeLicious' Dulce de Leche is now my go-to lube.

If the BabeLicious tastes like a sundae, the RingO cock ring looks like an ambitious lifesaver. The fact that it can be purchased in three colors—lollipop red, sky blue, and pinstripe-ready gray—made me smile: do people want to coordinate it with the drapes? Their neckties? Pocket handkerchiefs?

“Longer, harder, firmer,” the packaging promises in all capitals. I did not whip out the micro-calipers to establish the veracity of this claim in ängströms, nor contrive a device to determine Diamond Pyramid Number of the effected organ. However, a splendid time was experienced by all, and for a longer duration. My co-tester exclaimed “Wow! It’s great! I mean it, really: it’s great!” and then insisted that I rate it a “cock-up” and added, “You get the reference? Huh? You get it? They’ll get it?” Yes, dear, they’ll get it.

If you want to get the RingO cock ring, it’s a splendid investment. One warning: it’s firmly elastic enough that it should be placed with some delicacy and a generous quantity of lubricant. BabeLicious would work just fine, or the unflavored water-based gel of your choice.

To date, BabeLicious has been a delight to experience solo or in combination with the RingO. My partner seemed positive enough, but I have a few more questions about these products. We may have to test them again. Oh, Honey…?

Written by: Paulette S. Case, September 5th 2010

Blueberry Buzz

admin — Mon, 12 Apr 2010 08:00:00 +0000

By Babeland

The Blueberry Buzz vibrator looks like a good time, if a good time brings the 1970s disco era to mind—you dancing with your friends in a place overflowing with neon electric lights and disco music. This vibrator, in a loud neon electric blue, looks like a lava lamp, only in miniature. It is a compact 6.25 inches, and approximately one inch wide, which makes it a great travel companion—but clearly, in size and girth, won’t rock your world.

The series of Waterproof Turbo Gliders is touted as being waterproof, and I can confirm the battery-powered vibrator still works when wet. The sound of the vibe is quite tame compared to the buzz-saw cacophony of some other vibes out there, which, for me, is one of the Blueberry Buzz's advantages.

At the same time, the power of the vibrator itself is moderately palpable at best. The power is muted by the fact that the head, or nodule, at the tip of the vibrator is separated from the body of the vibrator by a plastic disk. The consequence is that the head is detached from the vibrations that shake the body of the vibrator; there’s no action at the tip. The plasticity of the vibrator again adds to its value as a travel companion, but it also makes the vibrator feel terribly cheap—it seems more of a gag gift than sex toy.

Also a bit perplexing is the product note included in the package, which reads “[f]or external use only.” Um... really? To my vibe-enthusiasts out there, I suppose there’s not much more to say, now, is there? Clearly Blueberry Buzz is intended for some lighthearted fun—perhaps even waved around as a glow-stick at a Jonas Brothers concert—but it is not intended for hardcore action.

Written by: Zara Thustra, April 12th 2010

Better Than Chocolate Vibe

admin — Tue, 10 Nov 2009 09:00:00 +0000

Babeland

Italian researcher Dr. Andrea Salonia believes that women who eat chocolate have better “overall sexual function and sexual desire” than women who shun it. Chocolate is even said to have aphrodisiac qualities due to two chemicals: tryptophan, which increases serotonin (a feel-good mood stabilizer), and a stimulant similar to amphetamine that “is released in the brain when we fall in love." Still, the debate rages on.

So which is better—sex or chocolate? And, if it is sex, can a vibrator make the same a claim? After all, as Woody Allen once said, “Don’t knock masturbation, it’s sex with someone I love.”

With a name like Better Than Chocolate you can bet that the inaugural luxury vibrator by Nomi Tang is selling like hotcakes... with melted truffles drizzled on top, of course. It is a sexy, savvy, “sensual accessory” with an ergonomically curved body that provocatively molds itself to the vulva. The Chocolate features an innovative touch-pad strip that allows you to cycle through its rhythmic vibrations, and then easily lock your desired pattern into place.

Better Than Chocolate encourages you to leisurely, tenderly explore and stimulate your erogenous zones, taking the time to fully luxuriate in the experience of self-pleasure. It is packaged in an elegant creamy-textured gift box and includes a user manual and silk storage bag. The quality and presentation of this luxury vibrator make it an ideal gift, and with a price tag under $100, it is a sensual luxury that most anyone could afford for special occasions like Christmas, Valentine’s Day, and very happy birthdays.

Sex may not be better than chocolate, but the afterglow feels just as good. So the next time you want to buy your lover a box of chocolates, think of the Better Than Chocolate vibrator by Nomi Tang. Why not choose both?

Written by: Pop My Cherry, November 10th 2009

Come for a Cause Kit

admin — Fri, 17 Apr 2009 10:42:00 +0000

Babeland

From the moment I laid eyes on the Come for a Cause Kit, it was love, or at the very least lust, at first sight. An adorable vibrator, a three-pack of latex protection, and AAA batteries all in one shiny little bag made my heart flutter—but not based on the content alone. The Come for a Cause Kit benefits not one, but two organizations. The condoms benefit Planned Parenthood, while the Papillon vibe proceeds go to Living Beyond Breast Cancer. Charity has never felt so good.

On the safer sex front, never before have I seen such a successful attempt at a stylish repackaging of condoms as in the case of Proper Attire Color. Not only was I unembarrassed to tote these rubbers around, I was almost hoping someone would accidentally discover them in my purse. The modern and bright package design is female-friendly without the “pinkification” so common in today's marketing. Gorgeous is not something most people would describe a condom wrapper as, but Proper Attire is quickly broaching on this territory.

The Papillon vibrator packs a surprisingly strong punch for a toy of its size. Lightweight and discreet, the purple vibe is great for first-timers and experienced users alike. The two-speed vibrator and is waterproof and proved itself durable after many trial runs. While the Papillon is perfect as part of the Come for a Cause kit, purchasing it with intentions of it being one's main source of battery-powered pleasure may not be the wisest decision, though it deserves a position in one's artillery of toys.

Written by: C. Janssen, April 17th 2009

Tom and Sally’s Body Paint

admin — Thu, 23 Oct 2008 11:00:00 +0000

By Babeland

When it comes to sex, everyone wants a little something to spice up the night and make the bed sizzle. Whether its garter belts, handcuffs, or studded leather whips, there’s no such thing as a fantasy that can’t be fulfilled with some helpful accessories. The old saying, “a way to a man’s heart is through his stomach,” may have been proven centuries ago by a naughty mistress who realized that if a lover can be satisfied with a hearty meal, imagine all the possibilities food can awaken on a quivering body. Today, there are countless ways to apply yummy desserts – such as oozing chocolate syrup, fluffy whip cream, or melting caramel – in the bedroom that are guaranteed to awaken taste buds and make anything taste more delicious.

Tom and Sally, who left their corporate jobs in Manhattan over eighteen years ago to make chocolates in Vermont, know the art of indulging appetites. The couple has been producing chocolate pasties, thongs, even French cocoa that can be lightly dusted on whatever tickles your fancy with a feather. Although their most famous product is chocolate body paint that’s heated and then applied with a thick brush, Tom and Sally also chose to go on a sweeter route with fruit flavored body paints that are mouthwatering and a surefire way to make any occasion satisfying.

Although the fruity body paints have minor flaws, they can easily be forgotten with all the delicious wonders they provide. The pack comes with strawberry, blueberry, lemon, and watermelon paints that all taste like freshly made, sugary, tropical snow cones on a hot summer day. Unlike the chocolate body paint, which may damage skin if heated too much, the fruit body paints only need some water to loosen its texture, as it is made with ingredients like high fructose syrup, real fruit juice, and milk powder. At first, it may seem as if you’re applying a messy watercolor that churns stomachs and stains sheets, but the luscious, candied flavor makes you lick with full force and cause your lover to pant from pleasure. Like a ripe fruit ready to be plucked, your partner will beg you to kiss, stroke, and suck all over, starting up your appetite and compelling you to eat.

While some may be turned off by the too-bright neon colors and watery mess, there’s no denying that Tom and Sally have another winner for hungry, sexy couples everywhere. Whether you’re ready to ignite some passion or want to channel your inner artist, Tom and Sally’s fruit body paints will transform consumers into erotic Picassos with an imagination that runs wild and can last for hours.

Written by: Stephanie Nolasco, October 23rd 2008

Bunny Love Kit

admin — Wed, 21 Nov 2007 13:13:00 +0000

By Babeland

There’s something to be said for a sex toy that intimidates your boyfriend. Upon seeing the Rabbit Habit in the Bunny Love Kit, my partner looked at me and said, “Well, it’s finally happened. I’m officially outdated and have been replaced by technology. There’s no way I can do all of that.” Luckily for him, I don't expect him to.

Technology has come a long way, indeed, and the Bunny Love Kit has all of the makings for a night (or day… or weekend… or…) of intense and mind-blowing self-satisfaction. Aside from the Rabbit Habit, the kit includes a four-ounce bottle of BabeLube, two Babeland condoms, batteries (!!) and Babeland Toy Cleaner (because taking care of your toy is essential to its longevity, and your vaginal health!). And it all arrives in a cute gift box, complete with tissue paper and a Babeland ribbon that extols the virtues of an active sex life.

So, does ‘bunny love’ live up to the hype? Absolutely! There’s a reason this vibe has found its way into pop culture media, appearing as a central plotline on Sex and the City and in the pages of many popular and indie mags (Oprah Magazine, Self, Glamour, Jane, Venus Zine, Bitch). And on YouTube, Alexyss K. Tylor’s Vagina Power talk has spawned a very funny music video that remixes Tylor's comments about the Rabbit. No other sex toy has yet to receive such accolades.

Still unsure? There’s only one way to find out. Add the Bunny Love Kit to your wish list, and decide for yourself! There ain't nothing wrong with a little experimentation, folks.

Written by: Mandy Van Deven, November 21st 2007

Blossom Sleeve

admin — Sat, 10 Nov 2007 23:13:00 +0000

By Babeland

Billed as ‘The Personal Choice of The Wicked™ Girls’ (though what they would do with it is far from obvious), the Blossom Sleeve is a ‘deep penetrating’ four-inch, ribbed tunnel made of Senso® material. Remember those twenty-five cent rubberish spiders that stuck to the wall it was thrown against, and subsequently 'walked' down? That's the stuff this is made of. Who ever said squishy toy spiders don’t feel anything like vaginas? The Blossom Sleeve even has eight little petals standing in for labia minora. But I’m making this all sound less appealing than it actually is. It heats up quickly and is a very nice masturbator once you grasp the essential fact that it can, and should, be enjoyed hands free. I'll leave you to sort out the logistics on your own, but it tears easily, so be gentle, use lots of compatible lube (BabeLube works quite nicely), and clean it with short fingernails or you’ll be on the market for a new one.

Written by: Kramer Goldsack, November 10th 2007

Mamba Condoms

admin — Mon, 06 Aug 2007 13:38:00 +0000

By Babeland

Well, I did make a concerted effort, and asked for a deadline extension, and enlisted the assistance of my women’s book group, but it appears that product testing in this case is indefinitely delayed. I’m in good company: one of the most attractive members of the reading circle, a doe-eyed, winsome, gamin brunette, has informed me that she’s also given up. Another responded, “Oh, yeah—I read the e-mail. But I have a dozen in my drawer, gathering dust.” This is sad. Prospective co-testers were eliminated or declined under the following circumstances:

skittish endomorph guaranteed to disappoint me
visitor from a demographic far, far away
aesthetic atrocity
married
asexual
older than my Dad

I even trolled the vast wasteland of the digital world, stating the task at hand (or other parts), and set the bar relatively high by insisting that respondents name a feminist in the subject line of their reply. I decided to accept Edith Piaf. The best writer in terms of volume, literacy and humor displayed discouraging signs, so I asked him if he was married. He said yes, and I declined. He immediately began to prevaricate, saying that he had never expressly stated that he was married, just suggested that I might “enjoy the illicit thrill…”

“What are you?” I typed. “A lawyer?”

Right again. Nature’s way of saying "don’t touch."

There was one individual with whom I would have product-tested on the spot, but he was met in a context that precluded the possibility of follow-through, tragically enough. Even my mother was impressed, and she’s a tough audience. “Wow,” she said when he left the room. “Could you come back and stand there and be handsome and articulate some more?” All males should be of such caliber. Why schtupp a homely dolt? I may be unrealistic, but I decline to product-test until I meet an available male of such grade: physically attractive, personal chemistry, quick and verbal, and knowledgeable in a field that I respect.

Wish me luck.

(Just got another e-mail. Is Liz Phair a feminist…?)

Written by: Erika Mikkalo, August 6th 2007

Emerita Natural Lubricant

admin — Thu, 19 Jul 2007 19:39:00 +0000

Babeland

Anything that crosses my pantyline has to appeal to my senses and pass a rigorous background check. This lube scored an eight on appeal, and a ten on personality. The packaging is attractive: subtle, unique, neither boring nor racy, more hip and less incriminating than a bottle of other top brand lubes. The two-ounce bottle is discreet enough for a first date and ample enough for at least a third and fourth. The price, $8.99, seems right, comparable to what I’ve paid for other natural lubricants. I also like that it is practically odor-free, more than other ‘unscented’ lubricants. Like most water-based lubes, it washes out easily. The one let-down, ubiquitous to most water-based lubes I’ve found, is evaporation. I really put it to the test, using it during the driest part of my cycle, which for me is like trying to raft in the Mojave desert. The lube got a little bit sticky and pasty as it dried up, but rehydrated just fine.

After researching the company, I wanted the lube to perform a bit more miraculously than it did. Emerita is a woman-owned and operated company with a variety of natural, herbal products for skin care, perimenopausal and menopausal women, and my favorite category of care: sexual vitality! The website contained understandable information about the ingredients that agreed with what I’ve learned as an herbal student. I was also pleased by the images on the website: women enjoying their healthy, beautiful bodies - cellulite, wrinkles and all.

Written by: Heather Irvine, July 19th 2007

Chocolate Hazelnut Massage Candle

admin — Tue, 03 Jul 2007 11:12:00 +0000

By Babeland

Babeland—a top sex toy retailer—offers plenty of bedroom additions perfect for making that next romantic night more memorable. The company prides itself on being female-friendly and encourages women to explore all areas of their sexuality. Customers can privately shop from their home computers or venture into one of their stores in New York, Seattle, or Los Angeles.

Their aromatic massage candle is one of their more traditional yet intriguing products. As the candle melts, luxuriously scented massage oil forms. The oil remains liquefied long after the flame is extinguished and feels great on the skin. The website assures customers that the product is “skin safe” and is made of soy. As I have sensitive skin I was hesitant about using the massage oil, but I did not encounter any problems.

The end product is thick, silky and smells wonderful. You can choose from Chocolate Hazelnut, Mango Vanilla or Mojito Peppermint. The Chocolate Hazelnut is richly fragranced and leaves skin pleasantly scented long after the massaging ends. Also, the candle conveniently comes with matches so there’s no scrambling for a lighter when the mood strikes. Babeland also reminds users not to leave the candle unattended and to extinguish the flame before using.

Written by: Michelle Tooker, July 3rd 2007

Lilac Woods Massage Oil Spray

admin — Mon, 25 Jun 2007 20:00:00 +0000

Babeland

Even the creators of sex toys have decided not to stick it to Mother Nature anymore. Getting it on has gone green. Kiss latex and chemicals good-bye. As Babeland’s witty press release summarily describes, its products are as eco-friendly as, say, fair trade coffee and organic vegetables. From rechargeable vibrators (no batteries in the landfill!) to organic, orgasm-inducing lubes, sensuality is trending decidedly au natural.

Lilac Woods Massage Oil Spray has a lovely, soft scent, but it didn’t smell anything like lilacs or woods. Made with sweet almond oil containing a touch of fragrance, the scent wafts creamy, light and baby-powder fresh. Wonderfully aromatic without being overwhelming, the spray also feels deliciously silky against the skin.

But back to that fabulous press release: did you know that a female ferret will die if it goes into heat and cannot find a mate? Or that the average speed of ejaculation (28 miles per hour) beats a city bus moving at 25 miles per hour? Also, I was surprised to learn that only 44% of women between the ages of 18 and 60 have used a sex toy. Perhaps now with Mother Nature’s permission, they will throw off their inhibitions and indulge.

Written by: Cheryl Reeves, June 25th 2007