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The Best Condoms for Every Nightstand

Here’s why the right condom can make sex better, plus five of our favorites

By Oscar Hartzog

Oscar Hartzog

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June 6, 2021

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Best-Condoms

Courtesy Champ

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Anyone who says they hate condoms is probably just using the wrong ones. The best condoms can maintain (or even boost) pleasure for both parties thanks to ultra-thin materials, ribbing and quality lubrication. This means effective heat transfer and stimulation — on top of protection from STIs and helping prevent pregnancies.

Part of the reason why so many people get used to bad condoms is a lack of discussion: sex still isn’t talked about as much as other activities. To remedy this (and hopefully make sex a little better), we’ve rounded up five of the best condoms to buy right now. Plus, these ship straight to your doorstep in discreet packaging, eliminating those awkward interactions at the drugstore.

What Are the Best Condoms?

Condoms are not a one-size-fits-all affair. With different materials, fits and textures, there’s a lot to consider when choosing the best condom for you and your partner’s preferences. Here are few things to think about while shopping.

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Material: Most condoms are made of rubber latex, but some are made of polyurethane or polyisoprene. Latex protection is great for most couples with excellent heat-transference, sensitivity and safety. However, latex can cause irritation if you or your partner has an allergy. Also, latex condoms require water or silicone-based lubes as oil-based products will compromise the material.

Polyurethane condoms are typically thinner and have better heat transference than latex. They also won’t cause irritation if you or your partner has a latex allergy. However, polyurethane doesn’t cope with friction as well as latex and therefore requires much more lubrication to avoid tears.

Polyisoprene is a lab-made material that’s basically latex without the allergens. Polyisoprene is also exceptionally soft and stretchy for a bare feeling and plenty of sensation.

Texture: Some condoms have ribbing or studs on the exterior. These are meant to increase stimulation for your partner, although not everyone likes the feeling.

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Lubrication: Almost all sheaths come lubricated to account for friction, but the amount of lube can differ. In our experience, more lube always lends more sensation, less friction and a better overall experience. Also check what kind of lube a condom comes with, as some brands skimp on lube with cheap stuff.

Fit: Condoms come in all shapes and sizes. A proper-fitting condom will make everything more comfortable and more pleasurable for both people involved.

1. LifeStyles Skyn Selection Condoms

BEST OVERALL

best condoms box skyn

Skyn condoms live up to their name. They boast an average size and a barely-there feel thanks to Skynfeel technology, a premium polyisoprene material designed by LifeStyles. They won’t irritate if you have any kind of latex allergy, and they work with all kinds of lubes. All of Skyn’s raincoats are high-quality and well-lubricated, but we especially like this variety pack. It comes with ten Original condoms, six Studded condoms for extra stimulation and eight Extra Lube condoms.

2. Champ Condoms

BEST LATEX CONDOMS

men's condoms high quality ribbed

Champ, a sexual wellness startup geared towards men, delivers premium bedroom goods right to your doorstep from their distribution center. That means less chance of expired or damaged goods raining on your parade. Champ’s condoms are made of high-quality latex for a soft, sensitive feel. The brand offers both ribbed and ultra-thin varieties — both of which are excellent. Champ also has a convenient subscription option that automatically delivers rubbers each month (or every two, three or four months).

Buy Champ Ribbed Condoms $16

3. Okamoto 004 Aloe Condoms

BEST THIN CONDOMS

thinnest condoms lubed

These aptly-named Okamoto 004s are some of the thinnest FDA-approved latex condoms on the market. That means you’ll get as much sensation and heat exchange as possible. The Okamotos also have a slightly smaller size if you’re looking for a snug fit. Plus, this Aloe variant of the 004s boasts a water-based, aloe-infused lubricant to soothe and prevent irritation in your partner’s privates.

Buy Okamoto 004 Aloe $24.97

4. Trojan Extended Climax Control Condoms

BEST CONDOMS FOR LASTING LONGER

best condoms long lasting

If you struggle with premature ejaculation (PE), try these Extended Climax Control condoms from Trojan. They incorporate a small amount of numbing agent, Benzocaine, in the lubricant on the inside of the condom (don’t worry, it’ll still feel great) to slightly reduce sensation and avoid early or unexpected climaxes. And because Benzocaine is only on the inside, your partner won’t feel any difference. PE aid aside, they’re still great rubbers with a silky exterior lube and a high-quality latex build.

Buy Trojan Extended Climax Control… $4.99

5. Lifestyles Skyn Elite Large Condoms

BEST LARGE CONDOMS

best condoms large skyn

While all condoms can technically fit all penises, they certainly can’t fit all penises comfortably. If you’re working with more girth than average, a larger condom is essential. We recommend these Skyn Elite Large condoms which boast the same soft polyisoprene build and premium lubricant as Skyn’s other rubbers, only built a little larger.

Buy LifeStyles Skyn Polyisoprene Large… $6.17

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