We love these little joy riders, but there are so many different types out there, so picking the one that's right for you can be confusing at times. To help out our penis possessing persons, we've put a few tips together for selecting your perfect condom companion.
Size
There are lots of condom sizes, but they vary between manufacturers. For example, Durex only makes three different sizes. Condom size is important, as research has shown that breakage rate increases if your penis is too large for the condom you're using. However, the rate of condom slippage has been found to not increase significantly in this same instance (Smith et al., 1998). To eradicate this problem, try a condom on to see how well it fits first, before using that particular size in practice. It should be snug (but not too tight), cover the entire penis, and leave a little room at the top for the ejaculate (''cum''/''come''). For most penises, standard-sized condoms should be fine, but if that's not the case, don't worry, just try a different size that's more appropriate for you.
Material
Most condoms are made out of latex, a naturally-occurring polymer. Latex is tough; if you wear a condom correctly, you’re very unlikely to contract an STI or risk pregnancy. However, some people are allergic to latex, so alternatives are available, e.g. polyurethane condoms*. Unfortunately, non-latex condoms won’t have any of the fun things below, and are often more expensive than latex condoms. Fortunately, young people can get any material condom for free with a c-card from a GP, or GUM clinic. There's definitely room for improvement in the non-latex area of the condom market, but rest assured that non-latex condoms still reduce STI and pregnancy risk, just as well as the latex lot. Latex-free dental dams are also available.
Flavour
When performing oral sex with a condom, which is recommended if you want to prevent STIs, you might want a flavoured condom to improve the taste. There's a huge range of flavours available; from cherry to chocolate, so choose what you enjoy.
Lubricant
Lubricated condoms are more common than unlubricated, and are better for two main reasons:
Friction between the penis and the condom is decreased so it’s less likely to break,
It’ll probably be more pleasurable for you and/or your partner.
If using extra lube, make sure it is water-based. Vaseline, lipstick, and other oil-based lubricants are a big no-no, and will degrade the condom.
Colour
Too many to mention! As with flavour, just chose what you like, as it makes no difference to the condom's STI or pregnancy risk reduction.
Other fun stuff
Walk into a pharmacy and you'll find all sorts of things like ribs, dots, warming lubricants etc. They all aim to improve pleasure on one or both sides of the condom. If you feel like using one, discuss it with your partner, and try it out if they’re into it as well.
Novelty
French ticklers and edible condoms may be great, but they don’t protect against STI or pregnancy risk. Only use these types of condoms if you are also using an additional form of contraception, and know you won’t get an STI from your partner (i.e. they should know their STI status, or those of any other partners they may have).
*Please don’t have sex with a latex condom if you’re allergic to latex! Ouch.
References
‘Does penis size influence condom slippage and breakage?’ (1998) International Journal of STD & AIDS, 9(8), pp. 444–447. doi: 10.1258/0956462981922593.