If you are shopping LifeStyles or SKYN condoms, the most important question is not which box looks best. It is which one actually fits your body and the kind of sex you want to have.
This refreshed LifeStyles and SKYN size chart focuses on the products people are most likely to actually buy now, with the dimensions, material, feel, and use case that matter most. Every product link below goes to Condomania. If you order there, try coupon code CONDOMMONOLOGUES for 10% off where applicable.
A good shortcut is to match the condom’s nominal width to the fit range you usually like:
49 mm: snug fit, usually better if standard condoms feel loose or bunchy.
52 to 54 mm: standard fit, where most people land.
56 mm: a noticeable step up for people who feel squeezed in standard condoms.
If you do not know your ideal width yet, do not guess. Use the calculator first, then double-check options in the full size chart.
Best SKYN condoms by fit and use case
Best for most people: SKYN Original
SKYN Original is still the best place to start if you want a latex-free condom that just works for standard sizing. At 53 mm, it fits the same broad range as many mainstream regular condoms, but the non-latex material feels softer than many people expect.
Best for sensitivity: SKYN Elite
SKYN Elite keeps the same 53 mm fit but trims down the barrier feel. If SKYN Original already fits you well and you want more sensation, this is the most logical upgrade.
Best for larger latex-free fit: SKYN Elite Large
SKYN Elite Large is one of the strongest options on the market for people who want more room without jumping straight to oversized novelty condoms. It is 56 mm wide and 220 mm long, so it is especially useful if standard non-latex condoms feel tight or too short.
Best for extra lubrication: SKYN Elite Extra Lubricated
SKYN Elite Extra Lubricated makes sense if you already like Elite but want less drag during longer sessions or more comfort during vaginal or anal sex. It is the same basic fit, just wetter out of the wrapper.
Best textured SKYN option: SKYN Extra Studded
SKYN Extra Studded is a useful pick if you like the softer SKYN material but want more texture than the standard line offers.
Best LifeStyles latex condoms by fit and use case
Best snug fit: LifeStyles Snugger Fit
LifeStyles Snugger Fit is the clear starting point if regular condoms slide, bunch, or feel insecure. At 49 mm, it is meaningfully narrower than the 53 mm mainstream standard.
Best standard latex option: LifeStyles Ultra Thin
LifeStyles Ultra Thin is the best standard latex pick here if you want a classic fit with less material between you and your partner. It is a strong comparison point against SKYN Elite if you are not specifically avoiding latex.
Best large latex option: LifeStyles Ultra Sensitive Titan
LifeStyles Ultra Sensitive Titan is the better pick when standard 53 mm condoms feel tight but you still care about thinner feel and easy availability in the LifeStyles line.
SKYN vs LifeStyles latex, which line is better?
If you need latex-free, SKYN is the obvious answer and the stronger product family overall. If you are fine with latex and want a lower-cost everyday option, the regular LifeStyles line still gives you useful choices in snug, standard, textured, and large fits.
For most shoppers, the real decision tree is simple:
The old problem with LifeStyles and SKYN shopping is that the lineup looks bigger than it really is. Once you sort by width and material, the choice gets much easier. Most people should start with SKYN Original or SKYN Elite at 53 mm, size up to SKYN Elite Large or Titan at 56 mm if standard fits feel tight, and move down to LifeStyles Snugger Fit if regular condoms feel too loose.
All product links above go to Condomania. Coupon code CONDOMMONOLOGUES may save you 10% off where applicable.
This site contains affiliate links. When you purchase products through these links, we may earn a commission at no additional cost to you.
This site contains affiliate links. When you purchase products through these links, we may earn a commission at no additional cost to you. These commissions help support our work in providing comprehensive sexual health information. We carefully select our affiliate partners and only recommend products we believe will be valuable to our readers. While we may receive compensation for purchases made through these links, this does not influence our reviews or recommendations. All opinions expressed are our own.
The world of non-latex condoms is a mysterious one. There aren’t many options. In another post we confirm that there is no such thing as flavored non-latex barriers. Also, most manufacturers do not make “special” sizes for non-latex. By special, I mean anything smaller or larger than 2.1″/53mm base wide and 7.5″/190mm long. Some brands offer sizing information on their packaging, such as Lifestyles’ SKYN and Glyde. But most remain vague.
Each of our size guides offers non-latex options (see our main condom chart or try our condom size calculator for a quicker search). We have consolidated that information into this post to make dimensions easier to find. This chart is organized by “Regular” and “Large”. There is no “small” or “snug” size non-latex. Scroll to the bottom for female condoms (sometimes called “internal condoms”) and sex dams.
Read more about the differences between polyisoprene and polyurethane.
(Some external links may be affiliate links that earn us a small commission but this information is not sponsored by any company. All opinions and advice are our own).
Non-Latex Regular
Trojan Supra BareSkin
Made of polyurethane. Trojan’s only non-latex male condom.
Classic straignt shape
Base width: 2.1″/53mm
Length: 7.9″ /200mm
This is the first ever LARGE polyisoprene condom.
It’s wider than most large condoms but not quite as long. Ideal for thicker than average men.
Base width: 2.2″/56mm
Length: 7.8″/200mm
Female Condoms
FC2 Female Condom
Latex free, made of nitrile synthetic rubber. Here is FC2 official site.
As of now, there is still a one-size-fits-all approach to female condoms.
Opening width: 3.0″ / 76mm
Length: 7.2″/ 185mm
Non-latex Sex Dams
Hot Dams!
Made of polyurethane. These are the only non-latex we could find. Do you know of other options (besides saran plastic wrap!).
No flavor added. Standard size.
6″ X 8″/152mm X 203mm
Dams and condoms are extra special when lubricant is involved. Don’t forget to use this essential item.
Confused about what condom width fits your penis girth? Simply divide you penis girth by 2.25 (penis girth/2.25 = condom width). Read how we got this formula.
If you think we’ve missed a condom (or dam) or have questions please comment below. Follow us on Twitter – Facebook –G+ for updates.
This site contains affiliate links. When you purchase products through these links, we may earn a commission at no additional cost to you. These commissions help support our work in providing comprehensive sexual health information. We carefully select our affiliate partners and only recommend products we believe will be valuable to our readers. While we may receive compensation for purchases made through these links, this does not influence our reviews or recommendations. All opinions expressed are our own.
Do they exist? We’ve been asked this question a few times. It’s hard to believe that the condom market would overlook this specific and important need. Unfortunately, after deep digging we did not uncover a non-latex flavored condom or dam. So what’s the orally-minded to do?
**If you are surprised to hear that people do use protective barriers for oral sex than you need to read our post on why and how to protect yourself. Other trusted resources include Scarleteen and The Body. (Some external links are affiliates).
Skip to the end for more about flavored non-latex sex dams. No flavored non-latex male condoms were found. We searched over 20 condom retail sites, flipped through hundreds of flavored options paraben-free, sugar-free, vegan, organic fruit extracts but it seems non-latex also equals non-flavor. And ditch your resolve to find a dry, non-lubricated, non-latex barrier because those don’t exist either! (see plastic wrap below).
In general, the popular assumption must be that polyisoprene and polyurethane condoms aren’t manufactured with that latexy aftertaste and smell. So what’s the point of flavoring them? Personally, I have never smelled or tasted anything from standard lubricated polyisoprene condoms (so far I’ve only tried original Lifestyles Skyn). Others have stated that polyurethane also has no-to-little scent and taste. But everyone is different. If you do not like the scent and taste of non-latex we have two important suggestions for you.
Left with these non-latex limitation, here are two options (comment below if you have more ideas).
1) Add your own flavored lube.
Flavored lubricants come in all sorts of variety. Rain offers 8 flavored single packs. From Undercovercondoms.com
Think of non-latex as a clean plate that you can fill up with your personal buffet of hundreds of flavors and sensations. Literally hundreds. Flavored lubes are designed for oral sex. Yes, they are safe to ingest (you only need a drop or two). Plus, lube does more than just mask condom tastes nice. It greatly heightens sensation, body heat transfer and can be lots of fun. Experiment! However, you may be allergic to an ingredient such as glycerin or silicon, so check the content. Also, make sure your lube is compatible with polyisoprene or polyurethane barriers.
Here are some recommended flavored lubes from some of our Condom Monologuers. The Sexpert’s personal favorite is K-Y’s Your’s & Mine Kissables, strawberry & chocolate flavor. She also recommends any flavor of the Masque flavored gel strips that you put on your tongue before going down. Other condom monologuers love watermelon, sour apple and very berry. Writer Ams Sweiger also praises flavorless lubes- Ideally water-based, like Astoglide, because silicon can leave a funky aftertaste.
(But not the microwaveable kind! That has holes which STIs and viruses can pass through). Plastic wrap comes lube-free but is compatible with all types of lubricant (oil, silicon and water-based), and it’s the least expensive of prophylactics. You can also easily cut it to the exact size and shape needed. This is a good solution for latex sensitive people who like lubricants and want safer cunnilingus (vulva oral sex; “eating out”) and analigus (anal oral sex; “rimming”). However, plastic wrap is not really recommended for effective protection when giving head (fellatio; “blow job”). Also keep in mind that plastic wrap tears more easily than other non-latex options, so be a bit more tender.
The one flavored non-latex is…
Well, vulvas and buttholes- it’s the Hot Dam! Banana is it’s flavor. However, it looks as though the manufacturer has stopped producing this version as we can’t confirm any retail site with them currently in stock! In other words, Hot Dams are available, but not necessarily with flavor.
Help us update this post
Have you come across any non-latex flavored barriers? Do you have a favorite lubricant? Post a comment or ask question below.
This site contains affiliate links. When you purchase products through these links, we may earn a commission at no additional cost to you. These commissions help support our work in providing comprehensive sexual health information. We carefully select our affiliate partners and only recommend products we believe will be valuable to our readers. While we may receive compensation for purchases made through these links, this does not influence our reviews or recommendations. All opinions expressed are our own.
SKYN Originals have been around a while now and seeing as I am involved in a condom blog I thought it was about time I actually tried the non-latex offering. In fact, this is the first condom ever made from polyisoprene.
I knew before I tried SKYN that they had advertised as the first and that this material was not latex rubber. However, I did have to ask the question What the f**k is polyisoprene? As it turns out, it is pretty much just rubber. It has very similar chemical structure, however, it’s synthetic and derives from petroleum rather than tress. It’s close enough that it’s sometimes referred to as ‘synthetic natural rubber’.
Although very similar in structure to latex it’s a good alternative for those who have a latex allergy or if the smell and taste of latex repels you. However, it’s not so good if you are trying to ween off petroleum dependency.
SKYN is part of the Lifestyle’s range in the USA and it can be found licensed for sale pretty much across the world including other brands such as Mates in the UK.
Trying a new condom can be oddly nerve racking. A bad condom can break the moment which (of course) is much less of a problem than it actually breaking but still not the outcome one wants! Non-latex still hasn’t yet taken the mainstream market yet…perhaps because they are more expensive or because latex allergy is not very prominent. But one does not need allergies to enjoy these johnnies.
Here’s My Review
So unwrapping the SKYN, my partner and I were not totally sure what to expect.
The moment was pretty much anti-climatic. Tearing open the wrapper, like Charlie looking for the golden ticket, we found simply a condom- a humble, transparent, normal looking rubbery lubricated condom. The condom rolled on very well. No drama. No talking points!
From other reviews I’ve come across, I expected it to feel and sound like sandwich bag, but no. The condom felt great! If no one told me, I wouldn’t have been able to ousted it out as a latex imposter. As much as I could tell it felt the same as a perfectly fitting latex condom. If comparisons had to be drawn I would say it felt like regular Lifestyles Ultra Thin or Durex Love.
Size wise it fit me great. The SKYN original is an average sized condom with a base width of 2.08”/53mm and a length: 7.5”/190mm. There is an XL and extra-lubricated version in the range so it may be worth picking up the multipack to get an idea of what works with you the best. In fact, this is the only non-latex XL condom available on the market!
SKYN say that their condom is softer and more flexible than regular latex. While I can’t for sure say that is the case, I can say after a few uses I have experienced no comfort problems, neither has my partner. They roll on easily, fit well and don’t inhibit feeling during sex. Perfectly satisfied.
I would say they are well worth a try!
Some external links are affiliate links that help us pay for this site. This is not a condom company endorsement. All opinions shared are the author’s own.
This site contains affiliate links. When you purchase products through these links, we may earn a commission at no additional cost to you. These commissions help support our work in providing comprehensive sexual health information. We carefully select our affiliate partners and only recommend products we believe will be valuable to our readers. While we may receive compensation for purchases made through these links, this does not influence our reviews or recommendations. All opinions expressed are our own.
A study published in June 2012 argues that penis shape and size must be taken more seriously by public health officials and activists who aim to increase consistent and correct condom use. Researchers Michael Reece and Debra Herbenick of Indiana University found a substantial percentage of men reported condoms being too tight, too loose, too short, too long, breakage, leakage…basically, general condom discomfort that can result in misuse or disuse, which translates into a serious public health issue.
The majority of condom products are fitted for “average” length at 6.4 inches when erect (see the Kinsey report and The Simple Truth about Erect Penis Size). However, as Reece and Herbenick found, length of the condom is not the greatest discomfort; rather, it is fitting around the head and shaft that scored highest among complaints, with penis base at a close second. For example, of those men who reported that condoms were too tight, 66% reported tightness around the base, 70.4% around the glans, and 73% around the shaft.
The study concludes that HIV and STI practitioners must get involved with condom manufacturers to ensure that condoms are consistent with men’s experiences of fitting and pleasure. Indeed, no matter what size, all men should have access to well-fitting condoms.
Quick Tip! The FC2 internal condom is one size fits all. Because it’s made to form to the inner walls of the receptive partner, penis size is irrelevant. This is a great solution for those fitting woes.
Sizing
To know which condom width fits, we recommend dividing penis circumference by 2.25.Here we explain where we got this formula.
Image from @TheyFitCondoms
Given the wide range of condoms on the market, prevention providers can play a valuable role in helping men to identify condoms that suit their size specificities, hence increasing the likelihood of consistent condom usage. For a large proportion of those who reported tightness around the glands (70%), for example, HIV and STI prevention providers may alleviate men’s perceptions that condoms all are too tight by recommending condoms that are designed with a more bulbous head to reduce constriction. As our chart shows below, Durex condoms and One Condoms tend to offer a greater variety in contoured shapes and head room.
Here we have organized a list of condoms according to the 4 “problem points” identified in Reece and Herbenick’s study. Under each complaint we provide a list of condoms by brand that may help alleviate discomfort.
Please note: External links may be affiliates that give us a small commission. This is not a company endorsement. Due to the fact that major North American brands are Durex, Trojan, Lifestyles, Beyond 7 and Caution Wear, our first aim is to gather these dimensions. We continue to update.
Slightly longer than regular condoms. Shaped with a secure fit in the middle and spacious head room.
Base width: 2.25″/ 56mm
Mid width: 2.28″/ 58mm
Head width: 2.4″/ 61mm
Length: 7.9″ / 200mm
Same length of regular condoms, but wider and large head with unique ribbed design.
Base width: 2.25″ / 56mm
Head width: 2.4″/ 62mm
Length: 7.4″/ 188mm
Ultra thin, vegan latex, larger condom.
A wider condom with regular length. Great option for shorter but larger headed guys (this is on the smaller end of Large-head condoms). Tapered flare shape that extends to a wide head.
Base width: 2.13″/ 54mm
Head width: 2.36″ / 60mm
Length: 7.5″ / 190mm
This is Caution Wear’s largest condom. Unlike other large condoms, this one is wider than regular condoms, but maintains the same 7.0″ regular length. Good for wider girth without the extra length. Straight shape.
Base width: 2.25″/56mm
Length: 7.0″/180mm
One of the longest and widest most famous condoms on the market. Made with an extra bulbous head and wider shaft width.
Base width: 2.3″/58mm
Head width: 2.7″/68.58mm!
Length: 8.3″/ 210mm
Tapered at the base for a secure fit and extends wider up the head for comfort. Suitable for guys who find standard condoms too short and too tight.
Base width: 2.13″/ 54mm
Head width: 2.5″/63.5mm
Length: 8.12″/206mm
Tapered at the base with spacious head for more comfort. Great choice if you need a larger condom but desire ultra thin latex.
Base width: 2.13″/ 54mm
Length: 8.12″/ 206mm
Uniquely large bulbous head and shaft for more freedom of movement. Ribbed on shaft.
Longer than regular condoms
Base width: 2.13″ / 54mm
Head width: 2.5″ / 64mm
Length: 8.1″ / 205mm
Tapered securely at the base with huge head space. Longer than most condoms. Tingling ginger lubricant (inside and out). Ribbed along shaft and head.
Base width: 2.0″/ 52mm
Head width: 2.5″/ 64mm
Length: 8.1″/ 205mm
Ribbed and studded for extra stimulation
Slightly wider contoured shape at base than regulars; fitted head without the extra length. More headroom.
Base width: 2.15”/ 54mm
Length: 7.9/200mm
First ever large-size polyisoprene condom.
Strong as latex but softer, more flexible material.
Ideal for people with latex allergy or sensitivity.
Wider base and shaft than the Magnum, but not quite as long. Slightly longer than average LifeStyle condoms. Straight classic shape. Ideal for thicker than average guys.
Base width: 2.2”/ 56mm
Length: 7.9”/ 200mm
A large condom without over-sized headroom. Wider and longer than regular Lifestyles.
Contoured pleasure shape to secure fit around shaft.
Base width: 2.2”/56mm
Length: 8.26” /210mm
Exclusive over-sized head room, but with the average length.
Stimulates most sensitive areas for both partners
Base width: 2.05”/ 52mm
Head width: a huge 2.9″ / 74mm!
Length: 7.5”/190mm
Classic straight shape (no flare or bulbous head). Wider and longer than regular condoms.
Made of vegan latex.
Base width: 2.2″/ 56mm
Length: 8.0″/ 205mm
25% thinner than Trojan’s standard condom
Close comfort fit around the shaft. Has the same long length as Magnums with snug fit around the shaft and slightly less head room. Good if one is looking for longer length, but not wider width.
Base width: 2.13″/ 53mm
Length: 8.0″/ 203mm
Is wider and longer than regular condoms. Classic straight shape.
Made of Polyurethane, which is more soft and elastic than latex.
Base width: 2.2”/ 56mm
Length: 7.9”/200mm
Very long. Tapered at the base for secure fit, wide bulbous head.
Special tingling and warming lubricant on inside and outside.
Base width: 2.13″/ 54mm
Length: 8.13″/ 205mm
Dry condom. (Great for oral sex).
Classic straight shape. Longer than regular sizes with standard Trojan width.
Base width: 2.1″/53mm
Length: 8.0″/ 200mm
Trojan ENZ Spermicide Lubricant
The classic ENZ long condom also comes with spermicide lubricant (not for oral use).
Base width 2.1″/53mm
Length: 8.0″/ 200mm
Tapered at the base for a secure fit and extends wider up the head for comfort. Suitable for guys who find standard condoms too short and too tight.
Base width: 2.1″/53.34mm
Head width: 2.5″/63.5mm
Length: 8.12″/206mm
The largest condom made by Durex
Classic straight shape
Compared to Trojan Magnum XL, Durex XL is wider at the base and longer, but smaller head than Magnums.
Base width: 2.3”/58mm
Length: 8.3”/210.8mm
20% thinner than standard latex condoms
Unique easy-on design shape to roll on smooth.
Contoured at the head with a flare shape to the opening.
On the larger side of the regular condom sizes in both width and length.
Base width: 2.1”/54mm
Length: 7.9”/ 200mm
Durex’s thinnest latex condom
Longer than the average condom, with slightly snugger width at the base. Suitable for guys who are looking for more width without the extra length.
Base width: 2.0”/5.1mm
Length: 7.9”/200mm
First ever large-size polyisoprene condom.
Strong as latex but softer, more flexible material- the latest in condom technology.
Ideal for people with latex allergy or sensitivity
Wider base and shaft than the Magnum, but not quite as long. Slightly longer than average LifeStyle condoms. Ideal for broader, thicker than average guys.
Base width: 2.2”/55mm
Length: 7.8”/200mm
Popular contoured shape that flares wide at the head, tapered at the base for secure fit. Suitable for men between approximately 4.54″ and 4.72″ erect girth (slightly greater length is normal for thin condoms to prevent risk of breakage).
Base width: 2.1” / 53mm
Length: 7.8”/ 200mm
Wider and longer than regular Lifestyles condoms. Not quite as long as Trojan Magnums. Suitable to those fit in between regular and XL length.
Flare shape for wider end.
Base width: 2.2”/56mm
Length: 8.3”/210mm
Contoured shape for tapered fit around the base and shaft. Is one of the shortest condoms on the North American market.
Base width: 1.92”/49mm
Length: 6.7”/170mm
Extra ribbed, ultra studded, uniquely shaped.
Uniquely contoured at head for his pleasure (see image here)
Regular condom length but closer fitting shaft and head.
Base width: 1.93”/49mm
Length: 6.69”/ 170mm
Beyond Seven
All Beyond Seven Condoms, except Crown, are less than 7.5 inches long. They also offer some of the thinnest latex condoms on the market.
Beyond7 Ultra Thin Classic straight shape condom. Slightly shorter than standard regular condoms
Base width: 2.0”/51mm
Length: 7.2”/180mm
The thinnest condom makers offer studded condoms for those who love extra stimulation.
Studded along the shaft
Base width: 2.0”/51mm
Length: 7.2”/180mm
Special twisted shape and ribs for sensual friction
Regular length of Trojan condoms, but is 0.25” slimmer at the base than regular Trojan condoms for a snug grip round the shaft.
Base width: 1.75″/44mm
Length: 7.8″/198mm
Durex’s thinnest latex condom
Slightly snugger width and longer length than most regular sizes. Suitable for long and slender guys.
Base width: 2.0”/5.1mm
Length: 7.9”/200mm
Contoured shape for tapered fit around the base and shaft. Is one of the snuggest (and shortest) condoms on the North American market.
Base width: 1.92”/49mm
Length: 6.7”/170mm
This is The smallest condom on the North American market.
Unique shape hugs better around shaft and head
Base width: 1.77”/ 45mm
Head width: 1.92″/ 49mm
Length: 7.0”/ 180mm
Extra ribbed, ultra studded, uniquely shaped.
Uniquely contoured at head for his pleasure (see image here)
Regular condom length but closer fitting shaft and head.
Base width: 1.93”/49mm
Length: 6.69”/ 170mm
4X more lubricant than standard latex condoms.
Thinner than standard condoms with average length.
Base width: 1.9″/50mm
Length: 7.2″/185mm
All other Beyond7 condoms are approximately 2.0 inches base wide. Check out their condom size chart for more detailed measurements on all their products.
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This site contains affiliate links. When you purchase products through these links, we may earn a commission at no additional cost to you. These commissions help support our work in providing comprehensive sexual health information. We carefully select our affiliate partners and only recommend products we believe will be valuable to our readers. While we may receive compensation for purchases made through these links, this does not influence our reviews or recommendations. All opinions expressed are our own.
Condom Monologues is thrilled to announce that our Condom Size Chart is up-to-date! This is our most popular post so we think it crucial to keep it spick and span. It includes objective measurements researched by CM’s staff of all the latest condom products from North America’s top three brands: Trojan, Durex and LifeStyles. And we provide links to other works at CM depending on how in-depth you want to know your condom before using.
This is not a company endorsement. We do not cater support for one condom company over another. Instead we offer this as a map to help guide through the frustrating aisle of condoms where each product self-proclaims to be the “Thinnest”, “Most Sensitive”, “Ultra Pleasure” out there. We hope this size chart continues to help find suitable condoms and experience new pleasures.
This site contains affiliate links. When you purchase products through these links, we may earn a commission at no additional cost to you. These commissions help support our work in providing comprehensive sexual health information. We carefully select our affiliate partners and only recommend products we believe will be valuable to our readers. While we may receive compensation for purchases made through these links, this does not influence our reviews or recommendations. All opinions expressed are our own.
A site about condoms and condom stories is never complete, and neither is the lavish, outlandish history of the device. It’s history is full of insights into human character with all its flaws and foibles.
The invention of the latex condom is relatively new in modern history. However, the principle to protect against sexually transmitted diseases and infections (STIs) dates back to at least 1,000BC (Perera, 2004: 95). Ancient Egyptians were protecting themselves with linen sheaths from a parasitic disease known as Schistosomiasis. Anthropologists have also found evidence of female condoms to prevent pregnancy. The Petri Papyrus of 1850BC lists several female condoms, one of which was crocodile’s dung cut up on auyt-paste and inserted into the vagina. In fact, animal dung was used as a female contraceptive across many societies. The Aztec Badianus manuscript of 1552 explains, “and you shall put into the vulva the crushed herb of the calabash or cucurbita root and eagle’s excrement.” Dung stuffed linen aside, the one devise that could protect against both STDs and pregnancy wasn’t produced until 1855 during the industrial revolution and the advent of vulcanized rubber.
Of course, when safer sex first became a known practice in ancient societies, the scientific frameworks for understanding biology, medicine, sexuality, and public health were vastly different. Hippocrates, the father of western medicine once stated, “After coitus if the woman ought not to conceive, she makes it a custom for the semen to fall outside when she wishes this” (R.I.Chalmers, 1987)… pause … blink … isn’t this reminiscent of the 2012 Teaparty Candidate Todd Akin’s infamous statement that women’s bodies can prevent pregnancy in cases of “legitimate rape”?
Anyway, I’m not stating that the risks of unwanted pregnancies and transmitting or contracting STIs is significantly less in contemporary life because we may have greater public awareness and better medical technology. Rather it’s to recognize that health science and perceptions of “risks” and “healthy” sexuality are products of social contexts- its history and location, politics and economics- and therefore have a transformable quality. That’s what makes the story of the condom throughout human civilization so interesting; because, like a flirtatious cuttlefish, it morphs into so many different types, shapes, and sizes, not to mention the amount of knowledge, myth and stigma that have carried throughout its making.
Contraceptive Censorship
Just to mention a few effects of stigma: In 1873, the U.S. government illegalized the advertisement of any contraception. That same set of laws also allowed for the confiscation of condoms sent through the mail and banned the sale of any condoms in up to thirty states (Collier, 2007). Due to the belief that venereal disease was the price one paid for sinful choices, health experts from The American Social Hygiene Association objected to American soldiers being issued condoms- so during WWI they weren’t (Perera, 2004).
So what preceded the latex condom? As the most basic device for safe sex, different versions of the barrier method were utilized in most societies for millennium, and thus it is near impossible to account for all sexual practices, customs, beliefs, and attitudes. Here we take a glimpse into some western society habits in which the devise was made at the expense of sexual pleasure; almost all made with only hetero-male health and interests in mind; and certainly most practices kept in secrecy from public mind and records.
Medieval to Victorian, Dung to Intestine
The first western medical record of the condom is found in Gabriello Falloppio’s book on syphilis published in 1564 when the STD was a European epidemic. He details condoms that he made from linen sheaths dipped in salt and herbs and tied under the foreskin. Nothing in his records test comfort or sexual satisfaction, but we do know that animal intestines eventually became the superior condom material.
Users tended to hail from higher-income strata as condom were expensive and available only in boutique shops in the cities where seamstresses handmade each baudruches. Louis XVI could afford to have his animal-bowel condoms lined with velvet and silk. There were some available for those with less income if one was willing to buy second-hand. As Shyama Perera’s explains in her book Taking Precautions: An intimate history of birth control (2004), there was a “Miss Jenny” in 1820s London who hand-washed used condoms and resold them at a more affordable price.
The Rise of Rubber
By the 1850s, vulcanized rubber was invented and condoms started to roll out of factories. The process was labor intensive as each rubber condom was dipped in cement and then hand-shaped and smoothed by rubbing and trimming. It was also a major fire hazard because gasoline and benzene were used to suspend the rubber. Rubber condoms were reusable and had a shelf life of about 3 months making them more economical, but the “skin” condoms remained the preferred product for better comfort and sensitivity (keep in mind, lubricant wasn’t invented until 1957. Ouch!). Also, at this time, there were no standard quality control methods. According to condom historian, Aine Collier, some American factories sold their defective condoms at a cheaper price rather than discard them.
Another outcome of the Industrial Revolution was the beginning shifts of condoms away from a sign of wealth towards health. By WWI, the use of condoms was more prominent among European soldiers as the rate of STDs increased. Armed forces would distribute them for free to its members even in countries where condoms were illegal for the general population (the U.S. military did not catch on to condom sense until WWII).
Introducing Trojan Latex
In 1920, Young Rubber Company, the makers of Trojan, was the first to manufacture a latex condom, which was a great improvement from the rubber condom because they were easier and far less of a fire hazard to produce. Latex is also thinner, smoother, and stronger with longer lasting shelf life then rubber. By 1932, Europe’s first latex condom, Durex, was manufactured on conveyor system assembly lines, making them far less labor intensive nor subject to human error.
Marie Stopes’s first health clinic in London did make condoms readily available and was the only outlet from which women could buy them. However, the clinic encouraged women to use female contraceptive techniques, such as the cervical cap, rather than rely on protection made for men.
Quality Control
Stigma around the use of contraceptives continued and disinformation meant that not everyone trusted condoms. Of course, the lack of quality control specifications didn’t help. Perera (2004) documents rumors stating that Catholic factory staff would deliberately poke holes in condoms. The introduction of electronic testing machines helped eradicate rumors. By 1957, the manufacturing process advanced to dramatically reduce the amount of defective rubber and latex, and also allow the first lubricated condom on the market. It wasn’t until the 1960s that most countries in Europe and North America established a certification of national standard specifications for condoms manufacturers to follow.
What were once common problems of slippage and breakage are virtually obsolete with contemporary production. Today, different studies on latex condom breakage tend to reflect a breakage rate of around .4%, or only 4 breaks in every 1,000 uses. Which means that if a condom breaks than it is highly likely caused by user-error rather than manufacturer issues.
The Discovery of AIDS and Height of Condom Use
With industrialization, condoms increasingly became relied upon. Yet it wasn’t until the 1980s and 90s when HIV/AIDS was first declared a pandemic, that condoms became fervently promoted by governments and health organizations. Within the first year of the UK campaign, condom sales increase by 20%. 1988 was the first time in condom history in which condoms were the most popular birth control choice for British married couples. In the U.S., condoms ranked third in popularity among married couples, and a strong second among single women following the Pill.
The Femidom
It was during the time of the first HIV/AIDS crisis that the female condom was manufactured on a large scale despite many experts’ false and damaging advice that women were at “low risk” of contracting HIV. The Femidom, or FC2, is far more advanced than lemon halves used by ancients and cervical caps promoted in the 1920, which do not protect against STDs/STIs. The FC2 is a device made of polyurethane that is inserted into the vagina with a wide base that sits on the outer parts of the vulva. Besides allowing females to be in control of condom use, another advantage of the FC2, is that it can be inserted for up to 8 hours before sex- so no intermission needed for application.
Contemporary Condom Conundrum
The twenty-first century condom is produced by a greater range of manufacturers, non-profit organizations, and government programs around the world. Thanks to modern technological innovation, condoms are far more comfortable, safer, stronger, and smoother then Greek goat’s bladders or oiled silk paper. Who knows what the next advancement will be. There are reports of spray-on condoms in the midst.
The promotion and availability of condoms has also dramatically improved. Nowadays, condoms are typically displayed in public restrooms, supermarkets and pharmacies, or bought in bulk online without age restriction or parental consent required. And they are affordable enough to not need rinsing and re-using!
Condoms have reached a status of “common sense” for many. An American-based 2010 study by the Alan Guttmacher Institute found that the condom is the most common protection used at first intercourse (females 68% and males 80%).
However, the same study found that as individuals continue to have sex, their use of condoms decreases as they get older. The rate of STDs/STIs is extremely high among American youth: One in two sexually active individuals will get a STD usually before the age of 25. According to the American Academy of Pediatrics and the Henry J. Kaiser Family Foundation, two-thirds of all individuals who become infected with STIs in the United States are younger than 25 years old! The reason for this is because young people simply are not using condoms and other barriers consistently or correctly to protect themselves and their partners.
Want to see a visual account of condom history? Here is a mini-documentary (7:47min.) by Trojan to commemorate Condom Month (February, of course), and posted by Queerty Online Mag.
…So the condom campaign continues. History never ends. For a more on problems with condom use, read here about the case to include more condoms in everyday popular culture.
This site contains affiliate links. When you purchase products through these links, we may earn a commission at no additional cost to you. These commissions help support our work in providing comprehensive sexual health information. We carefully select our affiliate partners and only recommend products we believe will be valuable to our readers. While we may receive compensation for purchases made through these links, this does not influence our reviews or recommendations. All opinions expressed are our own.
Condom Size Chart: Compare 158 Condoms by Width, Length, Shape & Material
Finding the right condom size matters more than most people think. A condom that fits well is more comfortable, more reliable, and more likely to actually get used. A condom that’s too tight can break or feel uncomfortable. Too loose, and it can slip off. Either way, the experience suffers — and so does safety.
This condom size chart covers 158 individual condoms available from Condomania, one of the most trusted independent condom retailers. Every product listed includes verified dimensions, material, shape, and a direct purchase link.
Bonus: if you’re ordering from Condomania, use coupon code CONDOMMONOLOGUES for 10% off where applicable.
Brand: Unique Condoms Width: 50 mm / 1.97 in Length: 6.29 in / 160 mm Thickness: 0.015 mm Notes: Lubricated, Ultra Thin, Vegan Buy at Condomania
How Condom Sizes Work
Most people think condom size is about length. It usually isn’t. In real life, the most important measurement for fit is nominal width — the flat width of the condom when laid flat, usually measured in millimeters.
Why does width matter so much? Because width determines how tight or loose the condom feels around your shaft. A condom that is only a few millimeters too small can feel uncomfortably tight. A condom that is a few millimeters too large can bunch up, slip, or feel insecure.
Length still matters, especially if you find condoms too short or if you have a lot of excess roll at the base. But for most people, girth fit matters more than length fit.
What is nominal width?
Nominal width is the standard sizing measure used to compare condoms. If you laid a condom flat and measured it straight across, that measurement would be its nominal width. That’s the number you see in millimeters, like 49 mm, 53 mm, 56 mm, or 60 mm.
As a rough guide:
Small / Snug = under 50 mm
Medium / Standard = 50–54 mm
Large = 55–57 mm
XL = 58 mm and up
Those categories are useful for browsing, but always remember that the exact millimeter width is more important than the marketing word on the box.
How to Measure for a Better Condom Fit
If you want a condom that actually feels right, measure first. You only really need two numbers:
Girth (circumference) — Wrap a soft tape measure or strip of paper around the thickest part of your erect penis.
Length — Measure from the base to the tip along the top side.
For condom fit, girth is the priority. If you know your circumference, you can estimate your ideal condom width much more accurately than by just guessing what sounds “normal” or “large.”
Quick rule of thumb
A lot of people use a simple fit shortcut: divide your erect girth by about 2.25. That gives you a rough target range for condom width.
Too tight — can feel restrictive, reduce sensation, and increase breakage risk.
Too loose — can slip, bunch, or feel less secure.
Good fit — feels comfortable, stays in place, and improves confidence.
If condoms have always felt annoying, there is a decent chance you simply haven’t been wearing the right size or shape.
Shape Matters Too
Fit isn’t only about width. Shape changes how a condom feels during sex.
Straight — same basic width from base to tip.
Flared — more room at the head, often more comfortable for people who feel constricted at the tip.
Contoured / Comfort Fit — shaped for a more anatomical fit.
Snug Fit — narrower overall for a tighter feel.
Pleasure Shaped — often textured or specially shaped for extra stimulation.
That’s why two condoms with the same nominal width can still feel different. One might feel perfect, and another might feel weird, even if the width number matches.
Condom Materials Explained
The chart includes multiple materials because not everyone wants or can use standard latex condoms.
Latex — the most common, stretchy, effective, and widely available.
Polyisoprene — latex-free, softer feel, popular in products like SKYN.
Polyurethane — thinner feel, less stretchy than latex.
Nitrile — newer non-latex option with good heat transfer.
Lambskin / natural membrane — very different feel, but not appropriate for STI protection.
Those pages go deeper on the specific shapes, materials, and quirks of each brand. They’re useful if you want to compare within one brand before trying something new.
No. “Standard” is not a strict technical size. Many standard condoms fall in the 52–54 mm range, but shape and length still vary.
Are Magnum condoms really huge?
Not always. Many condoms marketed as “large” are only slightly wider than standard condoms. That’s why exact width matters more than branding.
What if I need a smaller condom?
Look at products under 50 mm nominal width. You can also use the calculator and our fit guides to identify snugger options.
What if I need a non-latex large condom?
Use the chart filters to combine Large or XL with Non-Latex. That’s one of the quickest ways to find realistic options.
About This Chart
This chart is designed to make condom shopping less confusing and more useful. We combine brand information, retailer data, and independent fit-focused organization into a single searchable table.
All purchase links on this page go to Condomania. If you order there, remember to try coupon code CONDOMMONOLOGUES for 10% off where applicable.
This site contains affiliate links. When you purchase products through these links, we may earn a commission at no additional cost to you. These commissions help support our work in providing comprehensive sexual health information. We carefully select our affiliate partners and only recommend products we believe will be valuable to our readers. While we may receive compensation for purchases made through these links, this does not influence our reviews or recommendations. All opinions expressed are our own.
We’ve received requests for more info about condoms that are made specifically for oral sex, as well as other safer oral sex methods. Indeed, the know-how in this area is not as wide known as it should be. People are less likely to protect themselves during oral sex…even among those cautious sexers who use condoms consistently. Perhaps this is because some do not consider oral sex to be “real sex” and thus think it’s less risky. But the fact is that oral sex is sex (some prefer it to genital sex) and many diseases and infections you can catch or transmit through intercourse you can also get through oral sex, regardless of whether you swallow or not. As one of our readers pointed out, HPV (the most common STI in the USA today) is often transmitted during oral sex (these are some good sources for more info on HPV: HPV Awakening, Scarleteen, SEX,etc.). So in this post we go through safer oral sex practices and how to find the right method for yourself.
To reduce the risk of STIs, you can use latex or non-latex barriers. For fellatio (oral sex with penis) use a condom. For cunnilingus and analingus use dental dams, latex or nitrile gloves, or plastic wrap (but remember, not the microwaveable wrap!).
Fellatio and Condoms Options
A condom for safe oral sex can be perfectly satisfying should the right condom be used according to your tastes and needs. First of all, do not use condoms or lubricants made with spermicide, such as nonoxynol-9 which can numb your tongue. And do not use any condoms designed to “extend” male performance, such as Trojan’s Extended Pleasure, as these are made with not-so-tasty benzocaine that will leave an unpleasant sensation in your mouth. Choose condoms that are water-based (most condoms are) or choose a non-lubricated condom.
For those who do not like the taste of latex or have a latex allergy, there are many non-latex options on the market made of polyisoprene or polyurethane (lambskin does not protect against STIs so do not use them for oral sex!). These non-latex condoms are virtually odorless and tasteless. However, most non-latex are difficult to buy in stores or pharmacies; but online stocks are varied and plenty.
Flavored condoms or lubricants are also a good option. You can buy multipacks to determine your favorite flavor and there are usually small sample packs of lube available at sex-shops. But be sure to use a lubricant that is compatible with the condom material- oil-based lubes cannot be used with latex or polyisoprene. There are also flavored gel strips, like Masque, which simply dissolves on your tongue like a candy and the flavor lasts for up to 15 minutes.
Dental Dames and Barriers
If you are giving or receiving oral sex from mouth to vulva (outside of vagina) or mouth to anus there are various barrier methods to protect from STIs: Dental dams or making your own barrier from condoms, gloves, or plastic wrap.
A dental dam is a thin rectangle-shaped sheet used for cunnilingus or analingus to protect against sexually transmitted infections during oral sex. Like condoms, dental dams are typically made with latex, polyurethane or polyisoprene. There are flavored dams, colored dams, dams that you hold in place, and non-slip no-hold dams. Unfortunately, dental dams are not as readily accessible in pharmacies and retail stores. This is part of an all too common and dangerous oversight in safe sex inventory. Often female safe sex products or non-penetrative sex products are placed secondary to condoms and are not as easily accessible. This is another advantage to shopping online. Sexual health clinics, such as Planned Parenthood also supply dental dams.
If you and/or your partner are concerned that oral sex will not feel as amazing with a protective barrier, take some advise from Heather Corinna at Scarleteen.com, and put a few drops (not too many!) of lubricant on the genitals of the receiver before putting on the barrier. This will keep the material from sticking and will increase sensitivity and sensation immensely.
Check out this pamphlet for more information about STIs and diseases that the dental dam protects against.
If you find dental dams too tricky to get a hold of or not the right material/shape for you, you should try making a barrier just for you or your partner using a condom or glove.
These are some excellent sources for step-by-step instructions on how to make a dental dam from condoms or gloves: YouShouldKnow.ca, STD.about.com, PAMF.org.
Hopefully this information will help you receive and perform safer oral sex. If you have any further questions or even some extra tips / experiences to share then please leave a comment below.
This site contains affiliate links. When you purchase products through these links, we may earn a commission at no additional cost to you. These commissions help support our work in providing comprehensive sexual health information. We carefully select our affiliate partners and only recommend products we believe will be valuable to our readers. While we may receive compensation for purchases made through these links, this does not influence our reviews or recommendations. All opinions expressed are our own.
Options for non-latex condoms today are increasing and more people are choosing non-latex condoms regardless of latex allergies. This is basically because the latest non-latex options are made of material that is softer, thinner, more elastic than latex rubber. In this post, we explain basic facts about non-latex condoms, such as what the differences are between polyisoprene and polyurethane, and what are the advantages and disadvantages of different non-latex options. All condoms, except Lambskin, have the advantage of protecting against both sexually transmitted infections and unwanted pregnancy. Condoms do not require clinical visits, they do not alter hormones nor have physical side effects. Non-latex condoms are a key solution for those who are sensitive to latex. Options include lambskin, polyurethane and polyisoprene condoms, AT-10 synthetic resin and synthetic nitrile rubber. Lambskin condoms, also known as “natural skin” or “sheepskin”, are one of the oldest methods of birth control. They are made of a thin layer of cecum which is part of the sheep’s intestine. The organic matter provides such intimate sensation that many users consider them the closest thing to not wearing a condom. Lambskin condoms are effective at preventing pregnancy. However, they do not prevent against sexually transmitted bacteria or viral infections, including herpes and HIV. Now that there are other latex alternatives, lambskin may decline in popularity as other non-latex options- like polyurethane and polyisoprene- do provide protection against STIs and pregnancy.
They are expensive; approximately $3.00 each compared to the average Trojan latex condom cost of 0.50 each.
Trojan is the only manufacturer of lambskin condoms in North America.
They are not vegan
The first FDA approved polyurethane condom was Durex Avanti in the 1990s. Compared to latex, polyurethane condoms are thinner and do not have a scent. While very durable, polyurethane is less elastic and snug fitting than latex, making the risk of slippage or breakage higher. Thus lubrication (oil, silicone, or water-base) is highly recommended for penetrative sex. In 2009, Durex started manufacturing polyisoprene condoms instead of polyurethane, now called Avanti Bare Real Feel. Today, Trojan SUPRA is the most popular polyurethane condom on the North American market.
Benefits of Polyurethane
Thinner and less odor than latex
Transmits body heat very well
Can be used with oil, silicon and water-based lubricants
They cost more than latex condoms, but are cheaper than lambskin
Ideal for those who prefer less tight, less body forming fit.
Disadvantages of Polyurethane
They are less elastic and are loose fitting compared to latex, thus increasing the risk of malfunction if no lubricant is used.
They are not biodegradable
Not easily accessible in all drugstores or supermarkets
Polyisoprene came on the market in 2008 by LifeStyles SKYN product line, and soon after Durex re-manufactured Avanti Bare Real Feel with the new material. It is a natural rubber that is chemically similar to latex, but without the latex allergens. In comparison to polyurethane condoms, polyisoprene is softer, more supple and form fitting, and slightly thicker (similar thickness to standard latex). To date, polyisoprene condoms are sold in North America by LifeStyles and Durex.
Advantages of Polyisoprene
Softer, more elastic and form-fitting than both latex and polyurethane.
They transmit heat better than latex
They are cheaper than polyurethane condoms, but not as cheap as latex.
Disadvantages of Polyiosprene
Not biodegradable
Cannot be used with oil-based lubricants
Not made in both male and female form.
Not as readily available in stores; easier to find and buy online.
Nitrile Rubber: FC2 is the most common female condom globally and the only female condom available in North America. In 2009, FC2 began manufacturing with nitrile rubber, which offers the same benefits and protection as polyurethane, but is less expensive to produce. It is also softer and more supple than polyurethane.
Benefits of Nitrile Rubber
Hypo-allergenic
Protects against STIs and pregnancy
Significantly less expensive than other female condoms
Softer, more form-fitting, and supple than polyurethane.
Can use oil, silicon and oil-base lubricants
Disadvantages of Nitrile Rubber
Not biodegradable
2X more expensive than male condoms
Not easily accessible in drugstores and supermarkets
This is a post that will be updated. If you know of other non-latex condom options, please let us know. And don’t be shy to ask any questions or leave comments here.
This site contains affiliate links. When you purchase products through these links, we may earn a commission at no additional cost to you. These commissions help support our work in providing comprehensive sexual health information. We carefully select our affiliate partners and only recommend products we believe will be valuable to our readers. While we may receive compensation for purchases made through these links, this does not influence our reviews or recommendations. All opinions expressed are our own.
