Condoms by Size, Material & Style

Choose condoms by nominal width, material and fit rather than a generic size label. Check lubrication, texture, thickness, pack quantity, expiry date and lubricant compatibility, then follow the instructions supplied with the product.

How to choose the right condoms

Condom fit is determined mainly by nominal width, not by a broad small, regular or large label. Compare the millimetre width printed on the pack and use the manufacturer's sizing guidance. A condom that is too tight may feel uncomfortable, while one that is too loose may slip. Length, shape and reservoir-tip design can also differ between ranges.

Check whether the product is latex or non-latex, lubricated or unlubricated, smooth or textured, and review thickness, flavour and pack quantity where relevant. Always check the expiry date and package integrity before use, follow the enclosed instructions and use each condom once. Oil-based products can damage latex, so confirm lubricant compatibility for the specific condom material.

Browse Lubricants to compare compatible formulas, or see Oral Gels and Sprays for products intended for oral play.

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There are three main materials. Latex, the most common, is cheap, reliable and very elastic, but not for a latex allergy and not with oil-based lube. Polyurethane is thinner, transfers heat better and is compatible with oil-based lube, though pricier and less elastic. Polyisoprene is synthetic latex without the allergenic proteins, feeling like latex but safe for allergies, and not with oils. Lambskin feels natural but doesn't protect against STIs. For an allergy, choose polyisoprene or polyurethane.

Measure the penis when erect, on two dimensions. Length runs from base to tip, typically 14-20 cm. Girth, the more important one, is measured around the middle, typically 9-15 cm. Match them up: slim or snug for under 11 cm girth (nominal width under 52 mm), standard for 11-13 cm (52-54 mm), large or XL for 13-15 cm (56-60 mm). Too large a condom slips and too small a one squeezes and may break. Trusted brands like Trojan, MyOne and Glyde publish sizing charts.

Ultra-thin condoms are just as safe as standard ones. Scientifically, all CE-certified condoms pass the same strength tests, lab tests show a similar 0.4-2% failure rate, and thinness affects feel, not safety. Thicknesses range from standard 0.07 mm to thin 0.05 mm, ultra-thin 0.04 mm and super-thin 0.03 mm, with Okamoto and Sagami Original at 0.02 mm. For high STI or pregnancy risk, add extra contraception or use a standard one for peace of mind.

It matters a lot. Latex and polyisoprene last 3-5 years from manufacture, polyurethane 3 years and lambskin 1-2 years. Before use, check the date on the wrapper, that the packaging is intact with no air leaks, that there's no colour change or odour on opening and that it isn't dry or sticky. An expired condom turns brittle and is far more likely to break. Store them somewhere cool and dry, out of sunlight, never in a wallet or a hot car.

There are two options. With spermicide (nonoxynol-9) adds contraceptive action by damaging sperm, lasting a few minutes if it leaks. Without spermicide is the most common, adds no extra protection and is gentler on sensitive skin. The cautions matter: nonoxynol-9 can irritate the mucous membranes with frequent use and may raise the risk of HIV or STI transmission in high-risk contact. The WHO recommends against it for high HIV risk.