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On the subject of condoms

AltimusMaximusAltimusMaximus Registered User new member
edited September 2010 in Help / Advice Forum
So, I've never really used one, and my ignorance on the subject is somewhat embarrassing. So, I'm sure there's lot's of advice that everyone here can give me on what to look for. I have two specific questions:
  1. Are there sizes or is it a one size fits all kind of deal (except for the magnums... which yeah, I'm not blessed like that).
  2. What brand is good, and what particular product from that brand do you guys recommend?

Is there anything else I should know?

Clarification: I'm a guy!

AltimusMaximus on
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Posts

  • HevachHevach Registered User regular
    edited September 2010
    There are a couple sizes, but don't think too much on it. They can be too big, but as for too small, they stretch ridiculously. You can take the normal ones and stretch it over a baseball bat. In college as part of a bizarre drunken stunt I wore two magnums as hip waders and stepped into the Flint River (where they quickly developed hundreds of small holes. They can stop AIDS, but nothing can protect you from the Saginaw Bay watershed). I've heard it said nobody actually needs magnums, their existence is more a matter of pride for the guys who can use them. I'm not sure it's entirely true, but considering how big a regular condom will stretch it's at least close enough.

    Personally, I prefer lifestyles over most of what I've tried. I've found trojans just uncomfortable going on and coming off, but a lot of it comes down to what feels best for you. Do what I did back in high school - go to the gas station and buy a few of those random single packages of different brands and try them out "solo" and see what feels best. For the most part you won't really notice much difference.

    Hevach on
  • EshEsh Tending bar. FFXIV. Motorcycles. Portland, ORRegistered User regular
    edited September 2010
    Unless you're tiny or overly large, you don't have anything to worry about.

    The major brands are all fine. Just pick one. Lubricated is usually a good idea.

    Problem solved.

    Esh on
  • ImprovoloneImprovolone Registered User regular
    edited September 2010
    While a normal condom can be stretched over a baseball bat, the pressure it would be exerting on the baseball bat would be enough to leave a very heavy dent if the bat were made of flesh.
    In other words, most guys who use Magnums do so because a normal condom (while it fits) causes varying degrees of discomfort caused by the pressure.

    Improvolone on
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  • NylonathetepNylonathetep Registered User regular
    edited September 2010
    Also follow the instruction on that package on how to put that thing on... especially the "leave some slack" part.

    Nylonathetep on
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  • adytumadytum The Inevitable Rise And FallRegistered User regular
    edited September 2010
    A good idea is to buy a "sampler pack."

    There are most certainly different sizes, and you won't know the difference until you've tried them. Too large and it'll work itself off; too small and it'll be very painful.

    adytum on
  • Matt_SMatt_S Registered User regular
    edited September 2010
    Pinch the tip while you're putting it on.

    Not doing so may create air bubbles, which definitely have the possibility of leading to a broken condom.

    Matt_S on
  • ImprovoloneImprovolone Registered User regular
    edited September 2010
    Buy on-line! Cheap and varied.

    Improvolone on
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  • Casually HardcoreCasually Hardcore Once an Asshole. Trying to be better. Registered User regular
    edited September 2010
    Take a TP cardboard tube and stick over your boner.

    If your boner can't make it through the tube, then you can use Magnums.

    Also note, this could be a 'frat myth' for all I know.

    Casually Hardcore on
  • adytumadytum The Inevitable Rise And FallRegistered User regular
    edited September 2010
    condomdepot is pretty awesome

    http://www.condomdepot.com/product/detail.cfm/pid/2474 for their sampler pack

    It's got a good selection, including some tighter-than-normal ones, and some much-larger-than-normal ones.

    You should be able to find something that fits.

    adytum on
  • FagatronFagatron Registered User regular
    edited September 2010
    Magnums aren't even that much bigger than a Large Trojan*, they're for dudes who, while above average, are still afraid their dick isn't big enough.

    You can definitely get condoms that are too small though, just because they'll stretch really big doesn't mean that they won't cause circulation issues if you try to put one on that's too small. Think tourniquet.

    Don't put too much thought into it. If you can't keep it up or it's uncomfortable go a size bigger.

    *I have tried both and they both fit comfortably.

    Fagatron on
  • BelruelBelruel NARUTO FUCKS Registered User regular
    edited September 2010
    I like lifestyles, not a big fan of trojan.

    I actually prefer non lubricated, and then using our own lube (read up on which kinds are safe with condoms, think water based, no oil based).

    as someone else mentioned, after you roll it down over the head, pinch the tip so the air comes out the bottom, then continue rolling.

    also, a small (small) drop of lube inside non-lubed condoms is recommended.

    Generally normal sized are very uncomfortable for my boyfriend, usable, but they cause pain, and a dark purple ring around the base, so we buy a size up from normal, but not magnum size. Start with normal size, and only change sizes if you are sure it is painful, not just uncomfortable. They will be uncomfortable.

    Belruel on
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  • FantasmaFantasma Registered User regular
    edited September 2010
    Hi,

    Try with normal size first, if those don't cover your penis entirely, consider the larger ones. I personally prefer Trojans and durex.

    Fantasma on
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  • FagatronFagatron Registered User regular
    edited September 2010
    Belruel wrote: »
    I like lifestyles, not a big fan of trojan.

    I actually prefer non lubricated, and then using our own lube (read up on which kinds are safe with condoms, think water based, no oil based).

    as someone else mentioned, after you roll it down over the head, pinch the tip so the air comes out the bottom, then continue rolling.

    also, a small (small) drop of lube inside non-lubed condoms is recommended.

    Generally normal sized are very uncomfortable for my boyfriend, usable, but they cause pain, and a dark purple ring around the base, so we buy a size up from normal, but not magnum size. Start with normal size, and only change sizes if you are sure it is painful, not just uncomfortable. They will be uncomfortable.

    It really shouldn't be any more uncomfortable than wearing a pair of rubber gloves, if it's uncomfortable you might think about going another size up. There always will be a loss of sensation though, birth control and monogamous sex is definitely preferable.

    Fagatron on
  • FagatronFagatron Registered User regular
    edited September 2010
    Fantasma wrote: »
    Hi,

    Try with normal size first, if those don't cover your penis entirely, consider the larger ones. I personally prefer Trojans and durex.

    The size issue is more of a problem of width than length, generally.

    Fagatron on
  • ImprovoloneImprovolone Registered User regular
    edited September 2010
    If a condom doesn't fully cover your penis, oh my god.

    Improvolone on
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  • admanbadmanb unionize your workplace Seattle, WARegistered User regular
    edited September 2010
    If a condom doesn't fully cover your baseball bat, oh my god.

    O_o

    Seriously...

    admanb on
  • FagatronFagatron Registered User regular
    edited September 2010
    If a condom doesn't fully cover your penis, oh my god.

    Well like, how not covering your penis are we talking here.

    When I wear one it goes almost down to the base.

    As long as it's over your urethra and a significant part of your shaft it's going to do it's job. No condom's going to protect against skin to skin diseases (Herpes, HPV), and as long as it's not so far off it's coming off when you're thrusting I don't see the problem.

    Fagatron on
  • Vater5BVater5B Registered User regular
    edited September 2010
    Fagatron wrote: »
    Fantasma wrote: »
    Hi,

    Try with normal size first, if those don't cover your penis entirely, consider the larger ones. I personally prefer Trojans and durex.

    The size issue is more of a problem of width than length, generally.

    I have a theory that Trojan makes their default smaller so as to inflate Magnum sales. Because it's been my experience that normal Trojans hurt, while other manufacturer's condoms are merely uncomfortable. Obviously, more men are going to buy from the company who says they are on the larger side.

    To the OP, if you are worried about normal condoms being too snug, Trojan makes a "2 Go" pack that only has two condoms in it, so you can buy some larger ones and not be at a huge loss if they are oversized.

    Vater5B on
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  • ceresceres When the last moon is cast over the last star of morning And the future has past without even a last desperate warningRegistered User, Moderator Mod Emeritus
    edited September 2010
    I actually think durex condoms are great. I've had several Trojans break, and had friends who had Lifestyles break (which is why I never bothered with them), but never seen a durex fail.

    I would buy some small packs of a few different brands and shop around if you're concerned about fit.

    ceres on
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  • InfidelInfidel Heretic Registered User regular
    edited September 2010
    I don't think it's been said yet? (surprising)

    Try them on solo to (a) make sure they're comfortable and (b) not have to worry about the embarrassment / pressure trying to put one on for the first time during sexy times.

    Infidel on
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  • CryogenCryogen Registered User regular
    edited September 2010
    Infidel wrote: »
    I don't think it's been said yet? (surprising)

    Try them on solo to (a) make sure they're comfortable and (b) not have to worry about the embarrassment / pressure trying to put one on for the first time during sexy times.

    Truth. They are easy to use, but if you can take your time to read the directions, get a good look at the condom in good lighting, and put it on at your own pace, it will make it much easier when it comes to crunch time.

    Cryogen on
  • ShogunShogun Hair long; money long; me and broke wizards we don't get along Registered User regular
    edited September 2010
    Beyond 7.

    The name has nothing to do with the size of anyone's cock. These condoms are amazing. They are thinner, transfer heat better, and I have never ever broken one. I've broken trojans, durex, and especially lifestyles. Out of the latter three durex have held up the best.

    And then I discovered sheerlon. Japan knows whats up on many things. Condoms happen to be one of them.

    Shogun on
  • Zombie NirvanaZombie Nirvana Registered User regular
    edited September 2010
    Vater5B wrote: »
    Fagatron wrote: »
    Fantasma wrote: »
    Hi,

    Try with normal size first, if those don't cover your penis entirely, consider the larger ones. I personally prefer Trojans and durex.

    The size issue is more of a problem of width than length, generally.

    I have a theory that Trojan makes their default smaller so as to inflate Magnum sales. Because it's been my experience that normal Trojans hurt, while other manufacturer's condoms are merely uncomfortable. Obviously, more men are going to buy from the company who says they are on the larger side.

    To the OP, if you are worried about normal condoms being too snug, Trojan makes a "2 Go" pack that only has two condoms in it, so you can buy some larger ones and not be at a huge loss if they are oversized.

    I agree with your theory. I've got no problem with Durex but Trojans are uncomfortable.

    Zombie Nirvana on
  • ComahawkComahawk Registered User regular
    edited September 2010
    Durex Love are the best I have found.

    Trojan are shit, they break often.

    Comahawk on
  • Rear Admiral ChocoRear Admiral Choco I wanna be an owl, Jerry! Owl York CityRegistered User regular
    edited September 2010
    I don't know from experience about Trojans, but I've heard plenty of negatives against them.

    Durex on the other hand are pretty much my favourites. For your basic condom, Love is good, but their thin ones (Avanti Bare, I think?) are really nice too.

    Lifestyles I've tried as well. They feel more plastic-y to me for some reason and I just plain didn't enjoy them as much.

    If you're getting them from the drugstore, Durex will very likely be your best bet.

    Rear Admiral Choco on
  • urahonkyurahonky Cynical Old Man Registered User regular
    edited September 2010
    If you're buying these for you and your lady friend and not a "just in case" scenario, make sure you talk with the girl first. Some are more sensitive to certain brands than others. Especially if you go with the lubed ones.

    urahonky on
  • EggyToastEggyToast Jersey CityRegistered User regular
    edited September 2010
    A lot of the common drugstore brands in the US are surprisingly thick, which on top of reducing sensation will feel more restrictive. That's why a lot of people prefer Magnums or "large" size condoms -- that extra space gives them more of a slooshy feel, which increases friction. Unfortunately the friction is penis against condom, which can lead to the condom slipping off or such.

    The ultra-thin ones also have a lot of stretch to them so they tend to be very comfortable. You *want* a snug condom, because then you actually feel your partner.

    And just go to the base of the penis. Don't try to put your nuts in there.

    EggyToast on
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  • Aurora BorealisAurora Borealis runs and runs and runs away BrooklynRegistered User regular
    edited September 2010
    If you're using them with a partner who you plan to stick with for multiple sexytimes, it is good to get feedback from them too. For example, I'm not -allergic- to latex per se, but after using trojans for awhile I sure did feel rubbed raw. So the boy and I went out and got us a bunch of different kinds, and we had a lovely time trying them all out until we found a brand that felt good for both of us.

    Use 'em, get used to them. Nothing is a bigger turnoff than a boy that whines how he doesn't want to wear a condom coz they sooo uncomfortable, wah wah wah.

    My first boy friend had many faults, but bless his fleabitten little heart, one thing he did right was we used a condom every time. I got used to associating the condom with orgasmy sexytime and for years afterward, the sound and smell of that little package opening produced a rather exquisite palovian response. MMmmmmm... Good times!

    Aurora Borealis on
  • ComahawkComahawk Registered User regular
    edited September 2010
    It really comes down to personal preference. It took me a while to realize that Durex Love and Tropical are the only ones that work for me. I meant to elaborate on this earlier but didn't have time.

    Basically, some types of condoms work great for some guys, others not so much. For me, anything but those two types does not work, at least in my experience. You will likely find different types of condoms that you absolutely hate, and some you find feel amazing. My recommendation against trojan comes from lots of friends of myself and the wife, who are now parents thanks to their overwhelming effectiveness. I recommend Durex simply because they have types that work for me, and they have an absolutely huge selection. This combined with large multi-sampler packs, you really can't go wrong with them.

    As for lifestyles, I had no real success with them, they didn't break, we just didn't care for them.

    Comahawk on
  • BelruelBelruel NARUTO FUCKS Registered User regular
    edited September 2010
    also, some people are allergic to the spermicidal lube some condoms have by default. Just something to keep in mind if it burns, or the lady says it burns.

    Belruel on
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  • BeastehBeasteh THAT WOULD NOT KILL DRACULARegistered User regular
    edited September 2010
    durex sensitive are what i always use

    absolutely 0 complaints

    Beasteh on
  • RUNN1NGMANRUNN1NGMAN Registered User regular
    edited September 2010
    Belruel wrote: »
    also, some people are allergic to the spermicidal lube some condoms have by default. Just something to keep in mind if it burns, or the lady says it burns.

    Also read the fine print on the spermicidal ones--they usually say use once a day. If you end up using multiple ones they will cause some serious irritation.

    RUNN1NGMAN on
  • RikushixRikushix VancouverRegistered User regular
    edited September 2010
    My girlfriend has said that she's twice had a trojan condom break on her (in a past relationship) and she's somewhat scared to use them again. I've used both trojan and durex; no complaints, but I tend to prefer durex. I definitely enjoy the warming sensation/tingling sensation pleasuremax line.

    Rikushix on
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  • badger2dbadger2d San FranciscoRegistered User regular
    edited September 2010
    The first time I ever bought condoms, I bought non-lubed because I thought that having them pre-lubed was like, extra, not really necessary.

    ...ouch.

    The one saving grace to that embarrassing story was that it wasn't entirely my fuckup alone, the gf and I had shopped together and we were both total sex newbs. Only took a bit of pain to lead to lots of laughter at our obvious stupidity, and another trip to the store...but definitely not the same store, no way we were letting the same clerk see how dumb we were.

    badger2d on
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  • flowerhoneyflowerhoney Registered User regular
    edited September 2010
    Okay no one has said this, but kimonos are absolutely my favorite and I'm not even a dude

    they dont have a lot of lube on them (which I personally like, I think lubbed condoms have this really weird smell) and they're also very very thin. My boyfriend and I have found them to reliable to the max

    flowerhoney on
  • ComahawkComahawk Registered User regular
    edited September 2010
    Okay no one has said this, but kimonos are absolutely my favorite and I'm not even a dude

    they dont have a lot of lube on them (which I personally like, I think lubbed condoms have this really weird smell) and they're also very very thin. My boyfriend and I have found them to reliable to the max

    I forgot the name of these, which is why I never mentioned them. I found them incredibly uncomfortable, so another point of it comes to personal preference. On the other hand, I have heard a lot of people say they like them.

    Comahawk on
  • Simjanes2kSimjanes2k Registered User regular
    edited September 2010
    I liked Durex when I used them. Five-year relationship for the win!

    From what I recall as a lad, just having something called "her pleasure" or something will be enough to impress a potential suitor on occasion, but dont expect ribs or gels to make a real difference. Definitely get something with lube though, that is very noticeable.

    Simjanes2k on
  • adytumadytum The Inevitable Rise And FallRegistered User regular
    edited September 2010
    Actually Kimono's are around the same thickness as other brands.

    They're also really small.

    Skinless Skin are the really thin ones.

    They're also really small.

    edit- something something Japanese condoms

    adytum on
  • UnderwhelmingUnderwhelming myMomIsTheJam July 13, 2013 Registered User regular
    edited September 2010
    I like Durex or Lifestyles.

    I second the "try them solo, first" motion. (Or third, forth, fifth, whatever)

    Underwhelming on
  • UnderwhelmingUnderwhelming myMomIsTheJam July 13, 2013 Registered User regular
    edited September 2010
    Oh, also, I recommend keepin' it simple at first. Just regular condoms.

    I've been with two girls that said the ones with spermicidal lube irritated their skin. I don't know how common that is, but the spermicide only helps prevent pregnancy by an insignificant amount compared to base condom protection, imo.

    Underwhelming on
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