How to Buy a Bondage Collar

by Lovehoney

on May 2, 2017

Collars are a visual symbol of submission and control, and are often worn in the bedroom (or fetish club!) by submissive partners to indicate their position. Collars can also be practical, often with hardware to allow leads and other restraints to be attached to them.

One of the questions we get asked a lot here at Lovehoney is “how do you buy a bondage collar?” This comprehensive guide aims to answer all of the questions that arise when you think about this seductive form of restraint, providing you with the information needed to enjoy collar and leash play with every sub and slave you meet!

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How to Measure for a Collar

Bondage Boutique Lace Collar with Lead SetGetting your collar to fit perfectly depends on two factors: measuring and fastening.

Before you buy a collar, use a flexible tape measure (like the ones tailors use) to figure out the circumference of your neck around the widest part. This will normally be around an inch above your collar bone and this is where the lower part of the collar will sit.

Take a note of this measurement and compare it to the maximum and minimum sizes on the product page. If your neck measurement fits comfortably within the sizes listed, this is the collar for you! If your size is not listed on the product page or you are barely within the sizes mentioned, it might be better to err on the side of caution and find something that gives a better fit.


Types of Collar

The range of collars out there is seriously huge and Lovehoney has such a fantastic variety that you may struggle to make a final decision.

The best place to start is by considering what you want to use your collar for. You may want it for role-play or you might be a fan of school-style discipline. Either way, you’ll want a collar that fits the scene and your mood.

Here is an easy overview of the main types of collar on the market:

Slave Collar

Bondage Boutique Advanced Deluxe Leather CollarVersatile and easy to use, slave collars are usually made from rubber or leather and have buckle or Velcro fastenings to the back. The thing that makes them ‘slave’ collars is the attached O-ring or D-ring to the front, like that on the Bondage Boutique Advanced Deluxe Leather Collar. This allows you to attach cuffs, leashes or rope for a suitably submissive look and feel!

Clamp and Collar

DOMINIX Deluxe Leather Collar with Nipple Clamps
A clamp and collar set is a great way to experiment with the more fetish-driven side of collar wearing. Attached to the collar are a series of chains with nipple or clitclamps at the end. This restricts movement of both the neck and body, unless you want a self-inflicted painful pull on the clamps! Take a look at the DOMINIX Deluxe Leather Collar with Nipple Clamps set for a great example.

Leash and Collar

Bondage Boutique Intermediate Faux Leather Collar and Lead
Although we sell collars and leashes separately, there are some products that come with the two together. If you’re planning on some ‘obedient puppy and proud owner’ play then buying a matching set is ideal and saves a lot of hassle. The brilliant thing about buying a combined leash and collar, like the Bondage Boutique Intermediate Faux Leather Collar and Lead kit, is that you’re ready to play as soon as your parcel arrives!


Collar Materials

DOMINIX Deluxe Heavy Leather CollarLeather is a popular choice for collars because it’s durable, long-lasting and smells fantastic. A genuine leather collar like the DOMINIX Deluxe Heavy Leather Collar is perfect for anyone who loves the luxurious feel of leather against their skin.

However, some people find the stiffness of real leather quite claustrophobic. Similarly, if you’re vegan, then leather might be the biggest turn off possible. In that case, faux leather options like the Bondage Boutique Intermediate Faux Leather Collar and Lead are ideal.


How to Wear a Collar Safely

DOMINIX Deluxe Leather Handle Chain LeadOnce you have ordered your brilliant bondage collar, it’s time to fasten it correctly. Whether your collar uses Velcro, buckles or poppers, it’s important to ensure that it fits comfortably and safely.

Fasten your collar in front of a mirror or, better yet, get a partner to do it for you. Your head should be upright and facing forwards and your neck should be straight. Once you have wrapped it around, tighten the collar slowly, making sure that you can still breathe and swallow. When you think you have the tightness right, try to slip two fingers under the collar all the way around. If you are unable to do this, then your collar is too tight!

Never over-tighten a collar and make sure that you stop as soon as you feel any discomfort. It could just be the collar chafing, which can be resolved by applying a little moisturiser to the neck, or it could be indicative of something more serious.

Do not pull sharply on any collar or leash. Although you may think that your sub can handle it, a strong tug can cause serious damage and even lead to whiplash!

Always remember and use your safe word when needed. It could be the difference between a fabulous BDSM experience and a terrible one!


Why Buy Bondage?

You may be surprised by the price tags on some of the collars you find online compared to animal collars found in pet shops. Bear in mind that these bondage collars have been designed to be worn by humans, with your comfort and safety in mind. Bondage collars are designed to be tight but not too tight and, therefore, are only adjustable between certain sizes. You are much more likely to get the sizing wrong on an animal collar so it’s really not worth the risk. Bondage collars are designed to sit in a way that allows you to breathe comfortably and doesn’t stop you from swallowing. You can’t guarantee the same shaping and safety with an animal collar.


Need more help?

You can Contact Customer Care, who will be able to help you find the perfect bondage gear. You can send an email, telephone or live chat to an experienced advisor 24/7.

Contact Lovehoney Customer Care


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Written by Lovehoney. For collaborative posts between Lovehoney team members and guest authors
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Originally published on May 2, 2017. Updated on Aug 6, 2020
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