5 Best BDSM Spreader Bars

   Cassie M
As someone who has tried a LOT of different bondage gear, spreader bars are at the top of my list! They are an amazingly kinky tool to play with and surprisingly versatile. So, I’ve consulted with our Bedbible Tester Team to pick out our best recommendations. I’ve rated each product base on design, ease of use, and quality, and highlighted the most important pros and cons. Let’s dive in!
1 Test Winner

Bondage Boutique Expandable Spreader Bar w. Cuffs

 Bondage Boutique Expandable Spreader Bar

Bondage Boutique Expandable Spreader Bar

  • Ankle spreader bar that expands from 18-26 inches
  • Matte black metal bar with non-removable padded, black leather cuffs
  • Bar is adjusted with two ball lock pins that slide in to keep the bar in place.
  • Comes with two padlocks.

  • Great quality for its price point
  • Full 180° ankle cuff rotation
  • Expandable feature makes for versatile use

  • Difficult to assemble or adjust length in low light
  • The locks are not very durable
  • Ball lock pins can be finicky to use
Bondage Boutique Expandable Spreader Bar
Length24-36 inches
MaterialsMetal, Leather, Faux Fur
WaterproofSplashproof
Storage Bag IncludedNo
FasteningSafety locks

I selected the Bondage Boutique Expandable Spreader Bar with Leather Cuffs as the Test Winner because it has some great features and a decent quality for a great price. The expandable feature is my favorite. I always appreciate adjustability in sex toys–especially BDSM restraints! This makes it easier to customize the experience to your body size or whatever position you’re in. Our tester, Jason,  “was immediately pleased with the quality of the bars, they were much stronger, and I believe more durable, than what I had been expecting.” While he expected the the leather cuffs to be thicker, both he and his wide agreed that they were non-escapable nonetheless. As far as comfort goes, they “were nice and soft and supple with a faux fur lining that again I wasn’t expecting.” The main drawbacks are that “the jangling of the rings attached to the ball lock pins” are quite distracting. The included padlocks are also quite flimsy and don’t seem to hold up well during vigorous play. Although, if this is an issue, you can easily use your own padlocks!

2 Runner-Up

Sportsheets Saffron Spreader Bar & Cuffs

 Sportsheets Saffron Spreader Bar

Sportsheets Saffron Spreader Bar

  • Ankle spreader bar with wrist attachments
  • 2 sets of removable padded faux leather cuffs included
  • Signature Saffron black and red design.

  • Sturdy construction and high-quality materials
  • Comfortable, detachable cuffs for versatile use
  • Can be used in multiple restraint positions
  • Vegan-friendly materials

  • Cuffs may feel stiff initially
  • Color scheme might not appeal to everyone
  • May not accommodate all body sizes
Sportsheets Saffron Spreader Bar
Length24.75 inches
MaterialsStainless Steel, Nickel-Free Metal, Polyurethane Foam
WaterproofSplashproof
Storage Bag IncludedNo
FasteningBuckle

In my opinion, the Sportsheets Saffron Spreader Bar is an excellent choice for both beginners and advanced users in the world of BDSM. Its sturdy construction, ease of use, and versatility make it a great investment for enhancing bondage play. I really like that it has additional restraint points for your wrists and that it comes with 2 sets of cuffs. The fact that the cuffs are removable makes the product really versatile as well! You can use these independently of the BDSM spreader bar and opt for more light bondage sessions once in a while! While the wrist and ankle restraints offer some creative positioning options, the fact that it isn’t expandable does mean that it may not suit all body types and sizes. Our tester, Isabelle, was really satisfied with her experience: “The Sportsheets Saffron Spreader Bar is a fantastic bondage accessory that has a lot of potential for creative positioning and use! If you are ready to explore more intense restraint play, I would highly recommend this set! I think the overall quality and versatility make this a great investment!

3 Budget-Friendly

Bondage Boutique Black Rose Spreader Bar

 Bondage Boutique Black Rose Spreader Bar

Bondage Boutique Black Rose Spreader Bar

  • 20 inch BDSM spreader bar with removable ankle or wrist cuffs
  • Signature Black Rose design from Bondage Boutique
  • Cuffs have a soft faux fur lining and an adjustable velcro fastening.

  • Suitable for complete beginners
  • Black Rose design is subtle and elegant
  • Adjustable and removable cuffs for versatile play

  • Not expandable (or very long)
  • The surface is difficult to clean
  • Not suitable for heavy-duty bondage
Bondage Boutique Black Rose Spreader Bar
Length20 inches
WaterproofNo
MaterialsFaux fur, metal, fabric
FasteningVelcro & lobster clasps
Storage Bag IncludedNo

I had the pleasure of testing out the Bondage Boutique Black Rose Spreader Bar myself! I wanted to include it in this review because it’s one of the better budget-friendly options that’s we’ve tested here at Bedbible. While I was skeptical of the glittery, floral design at first, I actually ended up liking it a lot! It may not be for everyone, but the florals are surprisingly subtle and the glitter-y effect is pretty fun! The length was also a cause of concern for me initially. Since it isn’t expandable, you only have those 20 inches to work with. As someone with larger thighs, I didn’t think that would spread my ankles as far enough apart. Luckily, it worked really well in the right positions! I don’t think it’s suitable for those who want a high quality BDSM spreader bar that will last them lifetime and withstand several sessions of heavy-duty bondage fun. For newbies on a budget, however, it’s perfect! The removable cuffs are perfect for beginners who might also want to play around some wrist or ankle cuffs independently of the spreader bar sometimes!

4 Best for Beginners

Sportsheets Saffron Thigh Spreader Sling

 Sportsheets Saffron Thigh Spreader

Sportsheets Saffron Thigh Spreader

  • Thigh sling with a padded neck rest
  • Made of faux leather and nylon straps
  • Adjustable stirrups and straps keep your thighs, lower legs, or feet spread and supported
  • Two D-rings on the neck rest allows you to attach additional bondage gear

  • Easy to use during penetrative sex
  • Neck rest supports head
  • Can be used around thighs, legs, or feet
  • D-rings neck rest for hand cuffs
  • Fully adjustable straps

  • Might not be suitable for more advanced bondage
  • Not lockable
  • Straps can slip mid session
  • It gets sticky on thighs/neck
Sportsheets Saffron Thigh Spreader
LengthStraps: up to 48 inches, Thigh Cuffs: up to 32 inches
MaterialsPU Vegan Leather, Nylon
WaterproofSplashproof
Storage Bag IncludedYes
FasteningAdjustable straps

While this isn’t technically a BDSM spreader bar, I think the Sportsheets Saffron Thigh Spreader deserved a spot in this review. This thigh sling acts as a spreader bar but without the bar getting in the way! Our tester, Mariah, noted in her review that this is designed help achieve “hands free positions, and deeper penetration”, which according to her felt absolutely amazing! The padded neck rest makes it comfortable to lie back on and stops the sling from pulling too much on your neck. It’s also nice and easy to customize to your body and your desired positions because both the straps and the stirrups are adjustable. While it doesn’t have a fixed spreader bar, it’s more versatile in the ways you can use it!  Thank to the extra D-rings on the padded collar, you have the opportunity to attach your own handcuffs to restrain your partner’s wrists to the collar.

5 Expert Pick

Fifty Shades of Grey Spreader Bar

 Fifty Shades of Grey Spreader Bar

Fifty Shades of Grey Spreader Bar

  • Sleek and elegant faux leather BDSM spreader bar
  • 2 gold-finish metal clips in each end
  • Can restrain both ankles and wrists
  • Ankle and wrist cuffs not included.

  • Luxurious and feels very luxurious
  • Versatile design
  • Comes with a storage bag

  • Doesn't come with cuffs
  • Not adjustable
  • Expensive
Fifty Shades of Grey Spreader Bar
Length20 inches
MaterialsFaux Leather
WaterproofSplashproof
Storage Bag IncludedYes
FasteningMetal clips

I included the Fifty Shades of Grey Spreader Bar as my Expert Pick because it looks and feels a bit more like a premium product. It’s also a bit expensive, but it’s a great option for those who like this elegant faux leather design with the brass, brushed metal clips. Our tester, Erin, was ” immediately impressed by how beautiful this spreader bar was and how smoothly the snap swivels operate.” These swivels make the spreader bar so much more comfortable to use, especially when both your ankles and wrists are restrained! While the faux leather wrapping looks and feel very luxurious, Erin mentioned that real leather may be more long-lasting in the long run. However, the brass elements were well made and “should hold up very well even under heavy use”. One main con is that you need to have your own wrist and ankle cuffs to attach to the spreader bar. This also makes it a lot more expensive compared to other BDSM spreader bars that usually include a set. Erin’s recommendation, however, was “If you have a little cash to splash, I say go for it.”

What to Consider When Buying a BDSM Spreader Bar

If you’re thinking about buying a BDSM spreader bar then you’re going to want to think about a few different things.
  • Fixed or expandable? With fixed ones, you’re tied to a certain width (no pun intended), but with expandable ones you can change and customize the experience to your body or whatever position you’re in.
  • Does it come with cuffs? Some BDSM spreader bars require you to buy additional cuffs to help you use them. This is different from product to product.
  • Wrist attachments? Some spreader bars only accommodate the ankles, whereas other have additional restraint points for the wrists as well. Consider whether or not you’re interested in using your spreader bar for full-body bondage or prefer to just restrain the ankles.
  • How secure are the restraints? You don’t want your sub slipping free, right? Making sure the BDSM spreader bar restraints are firm and won’t become loose or broken is essential. This often is a question of quality and durability. Try to find online reviews of whatever product you have in mind and figure out what others are saying about the quality.
  • Comfort – As much as you want to have all kinds of naughty fun, it’s important that whoever is wearing the spreader bar is comfortable. Try to look for cuffs that are padded or have a faux fur lining.

Spreader Bar vs Bed Restraints

There are two main camps when it comes to getting awesome access to the fun bits on the body: those that love spreader bars, and those that love bed restraints. So, which one is best?
  • Spreader bar – They are easy to use, can be used anywhere, and require no additional apparatus to get them to work. One issue that you might have with spreader bars is that the bar itself may get in the way when you’re getting down to it. That can be quite annoying!
  • Bed restraintsSex bed straps are great if you want full-body bondage without needing to drill holes in the walls to make an anchor for your restraints. They are a little fiddly to get tight enough and get your partner in the right position, but it offers unobstructed access to whatever you want!

What's the Difference Between Thigh Spreaders and Full Spreader Bars?

Both thigh spreaders and BDSM spreader bars can be used to hold your legs open and are worn by the submissive partner during BDSM play, but what are the differences?

Thigh Spreaders:

  • Restraints are worn around the thighs
  • Can be a bar or sling
  • Great for teasing
  • Not as versatile for penetrative sex
  • Easier to use for self bondage

Spreader Bars

  • Restraints worn around the ankles
  • Can come in adjustable versions
  • Sometimes have wrist restraints as well
  • More versatile for penetrative sex

How to use a sex spreader bar or kit

  There’s no one way to use a spreader bar, mainly because they’re all so different from one another! The main thing to remember is that it doesn’t have to be for BDSM or kinky play. You can do all sorts of things with a spreader bar (though cleaning windows isn’t as fun as bending over and getting pounded!), and they’re good for posture training a submissive.

Letting go

Letting go

Spreader bars are great for  increasing intimacy via trust. How? Well, it’s simple! Just like with any relationship, if you trust your partner to bind you and to make sure the two of you both experience pleasure, rather than to do anything non-consensual, then boom! Trust increases.

It's tough out here for a sub

It's tough out here for a sub

Remember that most spreader bars are made of an unyielding, hard substance such as metal or plastic, and that you should never tug or pull your partner’s limbs – to do so can result in breakages, sprains and the bad kind of bruising or pain. Move with ease and always consider how the body moves and in which directions limbs and joints are supposed to move, before you try a position – particularly with ankles and wrists bound tightly.

Hit it!

Hit it!

Spreader bars can be particularly good for hitting the G-spot during penetration, if the person with a G-spot bends the right way. They can be great for standing sex or for light humiliation play, and of course, the people who are spreader bar devotees love the restrained feel of a bondage spreader bar. Take turns seeing which one of you loves being submissive and have a ball!

How to clean a sex spreader bar

Most spreader bars are metal, so use a wet cloth or a little bit of mild soap such as hand soap and a damp cloth and then rinse with another wet cloth. The same cleaning method applies to neoprene straps, which should be cleaned with just water, or a tiny bit of gentle household spray cleaner. At all times, make sure you read the manufacturer's instructions, which will include cleaning and storage - and make sure you don't stray from them. It's important to clean ALL your sextoys every time you use them, and this includes spreader bars. Not cleaning up sexual fluids can result in infections in both men and women, so keep it tidy!

FAQ

OF COURSE NOT. There are plenty of M-M couples and of course, straight men who love the feeling of being bound, stretched, spread and used by their partner, whatever their partner's gender! While a lot of sex toy imagery, including on some of our favourite sites, depicts women as the submissive, it's simply not the case that only women like to experience spreader bars, BDSM or being submissive.

Yes! Thigh spreaders can be beginner-friendly, but I would recommend going for a smaller bar and velcro restraints for a gentle introduction.

No. Like any tool, spreader bars are as dangerous or as fun as you make them! Remember the safety advice included above, do as much Internet searching, reading and of course, ALWAYS talk with your partner ahead of time, communicate during and remember after care afterward! Reddit has some great BDSM communities where you can ask questions, as do FetLife and Twitter. There are no dumb questions when it comes to practicing safe, sane, consensual BDSM.

100% not. Many of the leg spreader bars in this list are less than $50 and you can always look around for a bargain and compare sites. BedBible includes as many links as possible so that you get the fairest, best price for the item you want. That said, like with anything, quality often comes with a higher price tag.

It's best to find something that's tough, but a little flexible - mainly to avoid injury and make sure you can have fun and let yourself go in the moment. That said, one of the points is a spreader bar is to feel very restrained and to increase trust via giving up power, so go for what you and your partner need at the time. And remember, you can always have more than one!

Thigh spreaders tend to be used with a partner but they are also a good option for self bondage as they are easy to put on and take off by yourself.

Of course! Spreader bars can be and often are used at events to 'display' a slave or a sub, and they're also incorporated into burlesque, stripping and erotic shows. Just make sure that the spreader bar you choose is the one best suited to public play.

What is a sex spreader bar?

A spreader bar, leg spreader bar, sex spreader bar or BDSM spreader bar is an item used to keep a sexual partner's limbs - arms, legs or both akimbo, or literally spread apart, so that they're on display or so that their partner has easy access to their naughty, fun bits. Will you feel exposed while strapped into a BDSM spreader bar? Yes - and that's the whole point. For vulnerability and the sensation of being laid bare for someone else to completely enjoy. It's a deliciously helpless feeling that you and your partner are sure to revel in!

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