Lube Sampler
Condoms 101 by Tom Todaro
So, you’re in the market for a condom. You head to one of the big chain drugstores — and, just like the deodorant aisle, there are simply way too many to choose from. And guess what: if you shop online, there are even more brands out there. How to decide? Welcome to Condoms 101: your introduction to the 21st-century world of condoms.
Material
Condoms come in two materials: latex and non-latex. The vast majority of condoms out there are latex. However, some people are allergic to latex, and that’s where non-latex materials, like polyurethane and natural skin, come in. “Natural skin”… what’s that made of? Ready for the answer? Sheep intestines. Unless you’re one of those allergic people, I’d stick with latex.
Lubrication
Most condoms aren’t lubricated, since people either generate their own lubrication and/or use a bottle of lotion. Some condoms do come with a thin lubricant applied. Do you need it? Most people, um, generate their own lubrication… and there are always lotions. But, the lubricated ones do have an audience.
Some of the lubed condoms have a spermicide: a chemical that inactivates or kills sperm. Why would you want this? Well, accidents do happen… but I don’t know that I’d want to depend on the spermicide doing its job. I don’t select condoms based on the presence of a spermicide, but you might feel a little safer with one.
Sensitivity
You’ve doubtless seen plenty of condoms that advertise how “sensitive” they are. What they’re talking about is how thin they are. Condoms, in the old days, were like wearing balloons (or worse); the man wasn’t going to feel a whole lot when using them. Well, things have changed. Condoms can be made very thin, but remain strong. If you’re a man who finds Regular Condoms less than pleasurable, try one of the “sensitive” or “extra-sensitive” types.
On the other hand, if you’re worrying about finishing too fast, you need a desensitizing condom that will lessen the sensation enough to keep you going. These types of condoms are often described as “extended pleasure” or “performance.”
By the way, Japanese condom-makers are known for creating thin-but-strong condoms. Yes, Japan is at the leading edge of condom technology.
Shape
Condoms used to come in one shape: a torpedo. Now, there are condoms where the head is bigger. The theory is that the looser material around the head rubs back and forth and increases the sensation. These are typically referred to as pleasure-enhancing. I’ve tried them, and I do like that there’s a little more room up there. I don’t have the sensation of being stuffed into a balloon.
Texture and touch
Instead of being smooth, these condoms have various ribs or bumps, supposedly to provide the other person with a little more sensation. If you want to try one of these out, not only will you have to decide how it feels to you, you’ll have to ask your partner for feedback.
There are also condoms covered with a lubricant that gets warmer with friction! Now, I’d think there’s plenty of heat generated the natural way, but if you’re game, give one of these a try.
Finally, there are Flavored Condoms, where the flavor is put into the lubricant. These are for the ultra-safe-sex crowd, but I’m told that there’s still a latex taste no matter what. Your call.
Size
Okay, some of you are a little larger than the rest of us. Well, there’s a condom out there for you, too. Usually, the name is the giveaway: the “magnum” or something along those lines. But be realistic: if you have a somewhat inflated view of how you stack up to the rest of the population, you might find these XXL sizes a little too roomy. Regular-sized condoms are perfectly fine for the vast majority of men.
Besides, there’s always custom-fit condoms. That’s right. Now, before you conjure up an image of heading to a store where the “tailor” is waiting with a tape measure, know that this simply involves you taking your own measurements and submitting them, typically on a Web retailer’s site. You’ll pay more for the privilege, of course, but if your size is unusual, or if you like the idea of a personalized condom, then why not?
And there you have it. Like everything else these days, condom shoppers are faced with a dizzying array of styles. Try different ones out. Some retailers sell sampler packs of assorted condoms for you to test-drive. Just think of all the fun you’ll have looking for that perfect condom! One of my favorite Web sites for purchasing condoms is Condomania. Check them out. They’ve been around a long time, their selection and prices are great, and everything is shipped in a discreet package. And they have some other fun products as well…
About the Author
Tom is a freelance writer located in New Jersey.
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December 31, 2011 12:30 pm 
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