Carabiners connect, rings gather and Swivel allow rotation. Component
| Bauteil | Function and selection |
|---|---|
| Karabiner | Detachable connection; observe shape, closure and approved load direction. |
| Bondage ring | Bring several ropes together at one point; compare size, surface and product specifications. |
| Swivel | Allow rotation; check suitability and the manufacturer’s load specifications. |
Ropes alone are entirely sufficient for many ties. For suspensions, redirects or different attachment points, however, carabiners, bondage rings or a Swivel often come into play. Each of these aids serves a different purpose, and not every component that looks sturdy is automatically suitable for loads.
A carabiner creates a detachable connection between ropes, rings or a suitable attachment point. This is particularly useful in Shibari and suspensions because connections can be made and released quickly. Carabiners can also serve as redirect points.
Decorative, keyring or basic hardware-store carabiners should not be used for loaded applications. Clear load ratings, suitable construction and a secure closure are essential.
Aluminium carabiner
In short: aluminium is lighter, steel more substantial. A component is suitable when its construction and load ratings match the application.
A bondage ring provides plenty of space to bring several ropes or connectors together at one point. It can serve as an attachment or redirect point and helps keep ropes organised.
A smoothly finished surface without sharp edges or burrs is important. Bondage rings are available in stainless steel, aluminium and wood, among other materials.
Stainless steel rings are strong, durable and very smooth when properly finished. Ropes can run well over the surface, although larger solid stainless steel rings are noticeably heavier.
Aluminium rings are considerably lighter than comparable stainless steel rings. Whether an aluminium ring is suitable for a particular application is determined by its construction, finish and stated load ratings, not its weight.
Wooden rings have a completely different look and feel and, for many people, pair especially well with jute and flax. Our wooden rings are always built around a solid steel core. The wood forms the outer surface, while the load-bearing structure sits inside.
Intensive use can cause small notches and signs of wear in the wood. Such minor marks are normal and are not a problem with our rings; over time, they simply give the ring additional character.
However, you cannot assume that any wooden or decorative ring has the same construction. For loaded applications, it must always be clear how the ring is built and what it is intended for.
Stainless steel, aluminium and wood feel different and have different material properties. The key question is therefore not which material is supposedly better, but whether the particular ring is suitable for the intended use.
A Swivel sits between the attachment point and the tie, allowing free rotation. This lets the person and the tie rotate without the ropes or suspension twisting further and further together.
A Swivel is not needed for ordinary floor bondage. For suitable suspensions, however, it can be a useful addition. Here too, load capacity and intended use must match.
Before using carabiners, bondage rings and Swivels, check what each component was designed for and which load ratings apply. Carabiners, for example, are generally designed to be loaded while closed and along their intended major axis.
Especially for suspensions, choose components based on whether they are suitable for the relevant load, not whether they merely look sturdy.
All components should also be checked regularly for visible damage, deformation, sharp areas, a properly functioning closure and free rotation, as applicable.
Für viele Fesselungen: gar nichts davon. Ein gutes Seil funktioniert auch ganz wunderbar ohne einen halben Baumarkt am Gürtel. 🙂
Karabiner verbinden, Ringe bündeln und verteilen, Swivel ermöglichen Drehung. Welche Hardware beim Bondage oder Shibari sinnvoll ist, hängt immer davon ab, was man damit vorhat.
Compare products and their specifications:
The specifications and usage instructions for the particular product are decisive. Also see: Check ropes for wear and Choosing rescue tools.
