Something about
The
condom conundrum: We know we need to wear them, but finding the right
brand or fit can be tricky and can leave one feeling less than
enthusiastic about safer sex. But rather than avoiding them altogether,
some simple basics as to what to look for can help. Here's a wrap-up on
how to pick a condom that's best suited for your penis and how to reduce
technical difficulties so you can get your game on.
Man enough?
Studies have demonstrated that most condoms meet or pass minimum industry standards for durability. However, if you have concerns about durability, Durex brand condoms tend to be the "iron man" of condoms. The Durex Extra Sensitive Lubricated Latex brand has performed best in strength tests. (The next question is where do you sign up for these tests?) Price, thickness and country of manufacture make no difference in terms of durability. No matter what your brand, condoms are less likely to break if handled with care:
Use only water- or silicone-based lube.
Don't use past expiration date.
Avoid using scissors, knives or teeth to open the packet.
Open the packet before you start playing with lube.
Store in a cool, dry place.
During sex, make it a habit to check that the condom is still on and not broken. (This also gives the bottom -- whether you or him -- a breather!)
The long and short of it: Does size matter?
Unlike on many an online profile, a person should be honest when it comes to size. A condom that fits is less apt to break, less likely to interfere with erectile functioning, easier to put on and may enhance sensitivity. A few suggestions:
If regular condoms seem too loose or come off too easily, try a smaller size, such as Lifestyles Snugger Fit.
For the big guns (and you know you have one if a regular condom doesn't go on easily, pinches, keeps breaking, or is just plain uncomfortable), try Kimono MAXX, Trojan Magnum or Durex XXL. Condoms are supposed to be lifesavers, not torture devices that squeeze the life out of your erection. Larger condoms tend to be larger in width but not necessarily length. The actual difference between XL and XXL is pretty insignificant, so why not go for the XXL?
Try a few brands and sizes until you find one that works, and then buy in bulk!
Latex sucks (its taste does, anyway)
Here are tips for you extra-good kids who use condoms during oral sex:
If you don't like a penis that tastes like a tire at a monster truck rally, flavored condoms are available.Most of the flavoring is in the lube -- so after a few sucks, it's gone.
Try Kiss of Mint condoms, which are a dry condom with a mint-flavored powder. It can burn if you have chapped lips, but it actually does sustain its flavor and transfers to your mouth, so you give head and clean your breath at the same time! Chocolate is nice, but it's on a brown condom, which brings visual dissonance for many. Most flavors are reasonable imitations of what they claim to be. .
A flavored condom unrolled over the four fingers of a hand (not including the thumb) can allow for mouth exploration and flavor feeding.
Lips and mouth can react to latex, so make sure you don't have latex sensitivity before enjoying your snack.
Keep in mind that many gay guys are turned off by Skittle-colored condoms (aren't we fruity enough?)
For fun, try rolling the condom on your partner using your mouth. But be careful not to swallow it!
Hammer time
Let's face it: Part of the pleasure of anal sex is feeling what's going on. Decreased sensation is one of the most common excuses guys use for skipping condoms. Thinner condoms are available, and when used in combination with a few choice lubes (and tricks), they can increase sensation and sensitivity.
Try placing a little lube on your penis or on the inside of the condom before rolling one on.
Recommended lubricants are Liquid Silk (not sticky) and Wet Platinum (silicone based, still safe with latex, but doesn't dry easily and you don't need that much).
For a great thinner condom with excellent sensitivity, try Avanti condoms (by Durex). They're a bit pricey, but they're sleek, durable, and thin enough to allow heat to transfer; they're second-best to bare skin. This condom allows you to feel unique features of the anal walls or penis.
Ribbed and studded condoms can increase sensation for some guys; others don't really feel the difference. However, textured condoms aren't just for bottoms. Top guys, try turning the condom inside out so that the ribs or studs are against the shaft of the penis.
If allergic to latex, use polyurethane condoms.
Condoms for bottoms?
You don't really hear guys talking about these in the locker room yet, but female condoms, such as FC Female Condoms (aka Reality condoms), can be used for anal sex as well. Make sure you remove the inner ring before placing that end in your ass, and that the other end of the condom is hanging out. This can be a good choice for top guys who prefer not to wear condoms or have erectile challenges. It's surprising that these condoms haven't taken off among gay guys (different branding might help), but they're great for conducting heat and increasing sensitivity.
Final tip-off!
Did you know that since many condoms are wrapped in foil, they can actually set off security screening devices?
Dr. Omar Minwalla is a licensed clinical psychologist whose private practice specializes in adolescent sexual-gender identity development, transgender dynamics, fetishes and BDSM. He conducts sexual health seminars for men who have sex with men.
Man enough?Studies have demonstrated that most condoms meet or pass minimum industry standards for durability. However, if you have concerns about durability, Durex brand condoms tend to be the "iron man" of condoms. The Durex Extra Sensitive Lubricated Latex brand has performed best in strength tests. (The next question is where do you sign up for these tests?) Price, thickness and country of manufacture make no difference in terms of durability. No matter what your brand, condoms are less likely to break if handled with care:
Use only water- or silicone-based lube.
Don't use past expiration date.
Avoid using scissors, knives or teeth to open the packet.
Open the packet before you start playing with lube.
Store in a cool, dry place.
During sex, make it a habit to check that the condom is still on and not broken. (This also gives the bottom -- whether you or him -- a breather!)
The long and short of it: Does size matter?
Unlike on many an online profile, a person should be honest when it comes to size. A condom that fits is less apt to break, less likely to interfere with erectile functioning, easier to put on and may enhance sensitivity. A few suggestions:
If regular condoms seem too loose or come off too easily, try a smaller size, such as Lifestyles Snugger Fit.
For the big guns (and you know you have one if a regular condom doesn't go on easily, pinches, keeps breaking, or is just plain uncomfortable), try Kimono MAXX, Trojan Magnum or Durex XXL. Condoms are supposed to be lifesavers, not torture devices that squeeze the life out of your erection. Larger condoms tend to be larger in width but not necessarily length. The actual difference between XL and XXL is pretty insignificant, so why not go for the XXL?
Try a few brands and sizes until you find one that works, and then buy in bulk!
Latex sucks (its taste does, anyway)
Here are tips for you extra-good kids who use condoms during oral sex:
If you don't like a penis that tastes like a tire at a monster truck rally, flavored condoms are available.Most of the flavoring is in the lube -- so after a few sucks, it's gone.
Try Kiss of Mint condoms, which are a dry condom with a mint-flavored powder. It can burn if you have chapped lips, but it actually does sustain its flavor and transfers to your mouth, so you give head and clean your breath at the same time! Chocolate is nice, but it's on a brown condom, which brings visual dissonance for many. Most flavors are reasonable imitations of what they claim to be. .
A flavored condom unrolled over the four fingers of a hand (not including the thumb) can allow for mouth exploration and flavor feeding.
Lips and mouth can react to latex, so make sure you don't have latex sensitivity before enjoying your snack.
Keep in mind that many gay guys are turned off by Skittle-colored condoms (aren't we fruity enough?)
For fun, try rolling the condom on your partner using your mouth. But be careful not to swallow it!
Hammer time
Let's face it: Part of the pleasure of anal sex is feeling what's going on. Decreased sensation is one of the most common excuses guys use for skipping condoms. Thinner condoms are available, and when used in combination with a few choice lubes (and tricks), they can increase sensation and sensitivity.
Try placing a little lube on your penis or on the inside of the condom before rolling one on.
Recommended lubricants are Liquid Silk (not sticky) and Wet Platinum (silicone based, still safe with latex, but doesn't dry easily and you don't need that much).
For a great thinner condom with excellent sensitivity, try Avanti condoms (by Durex). They're a bit pricey, but they're sleek, durable, and thin enough to allow heat to transfer; they're second-best to bare skin. This condom allows you to feel unique features of the anal walls or penis.
Ribbed and studded condoms can increase sensation for some guys; others don't really feel the difference. However, textured condoms aren't just for bottoms. Top guys, try turning the condom inside out so that the ribs or studs are against the shaft of the penis.
If allergic to latex, use polyurethane condoms.
Condoms for bottoms?
You don't really hear guys talking about these in the locker room yet, but female condoms, such as FC Female Condoms (aka Reality condoms), can be used for anal sex as well. Make sure you remove the inner ring before placing that end in your ass, and that the other end of the condom is hanging out. This can be a good choice for top guys who prefer not to wear condoms or have erectile challenges. It's surprising that these condoms haven't taken off among gay guys (different branding might help), but they're great for conducting heat and increasing sensitivity.
Final tip-off!
Did you know that since many condoms are wrapped in foil, they can actually set off security screening devices?
Dr. Omar Minwalla is a licensed clinical psychologist whose private practice specializes in adolescent sexual-gender identity development, transgender dynamics, fetishes and BDSM. He conducts sexual health seminars for men who have sex with men.
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