It is important to find the perfect condom that fits your size, just as you would when buying a pair of shoes. Condoms come in many shapes and sizes, so finding the perfect condom can be tricky, but doing so will help people to have a better and safer sex life. Choosing the perfect condom size is also essential for ensuring the condom is effective in preventing sexually transmitted infections (STIs) and pregnancy.

Condoms that are too small may break, and condoms that are too big can slip off the penis. Poor-fitting condoms can also feel uncomfortable during sex. Wearing an external condom that is too big can cause it to slip off, and wearing one that is too small can cause it to break. For the most comfort and protection, external condoms should be the proper size, and choosing the perfect condom is of fundamental importance.

Find the perfect condom size for your penis with these tips

perfect condom

The importance of choosing the right size

Condoms are designed to accommodate different penis sizes and will stretch to fit different lengths, leaving a little extra room at the tip to allow for ejaculation. However, certain condoms are best for particularly large or small penises. If a condom is too long however, it will roll up the shaft during intercourse, which may leave the condom hanging off the penis.

Not only does this make the condom ineffective but it can also ruin the moment when you have to stop and remove it. If a condom is too short, the ring which sits around the base of the condom could snap during intercourse, which can result in the condom being pulled off or tearing. Once again, this can result in the effectiveness of the condom being diminished and can increase the risk of STI transmission.

Take your measurements

To find the perfect condom for you, the first thing you need to do is to take your penis’ measurements. External condom sizes are determined by penis width and length. Your external condom size is based on the size of your erect penis. To find the length and width (girth) of your erect penis, you should hold one side of a ruler or tape measure on your pubic bone and measure to the tip of your penis.

To measure its width use a piece of string or a soft measuring tape and gently wrap it around the thickest part of your erect penis. Measure the length of the string or tape measure. Now you have a good idea of your penis size, and it’s time for the fun part (an erect penis is no longer needed). It is time to compare your penis size with the average penis size.

Typically, the average erection has a penis length of approximately 5.5 to 6.3 inches (139.7 to 160.02 mm) and has a girth ranging between 4.5 to 5.1 inches (114.3 to 129.54 mm). The average diameter (penis width) would equal out to about 1.4 to 1.6 inches (35.56 to 40.64 mm). If your penis measurements are close to these averages, then a standard size condom should provide you with the most accurate fit. Keep in mind that a condom should completely cover your penis and have some space at the tip to catch the ejaculate.

The different condom sizes

Condoms generally come in three sizes: snug, standard, and large. Snug and large condoms are often labelled clearly, while standard condoms often don’t mention sizing at all. It may be best to use condom width when comparing condom sizes. As a general guide, condoms with a width of 1.75 to 2 inches (44.45 to 50.8 mm) are typically considered standard, while those under 1.75 inches are categorized as snug and condoms over 2 inches are considered large.

Going by length may be confusing because different condom manufactures use slightly different measurements, so what one manufacturer calls large may actually be standard for another. Because of this, standard condoms may have a length between 7.25 to 7.8 inches (184.15 to 198.12 mm); snug condoms may have a length of 7 to 7.8 (177.8 to 198.12 mm); large condoms length ranges from 7.25 to 8.1 inches (184.15 to 205.74 mm).

Different perfect condom types

While knowing the size you need makes condom shopping a lot easier, there is still an overwhelming of condoms. The main decider here is condom material, which affects the feeling, effectiveness, and cost of any condom.

Latex condoms

Latex is the most common condom material and provides a strong, thin, effective barrier against mingling bodily fluids. However, latex does not transfer heat very well. Also, it goes without saying that anyone with a latex allergy should definitely pass on these condoms!

Polyurethane condoms

Polyurethane is a type of plastic, which makes it a great choice for anyone with a latex allergy. Polyurethane condoms are generally more expensive and looser-fitting than latex, but they offer better heat transfer and a thinner barrier.

Polyisoprene condoms

A type of natural rubber, polyisoprene condoms are similar to latex in feel — but won’t exacerbate any potential allergies. Thicker than polyurethane but softer than latex, polyisoprene condoms hit a great middle ground between durability and optimum sensation.

Lambskin condoms

Made from lamb intestines, lambskin condoms are thin, durable, great at heat transfer, and come in very large sizes. However, although lambskin condoms are made from natural materials, they are also expensive, and do not protect against STIs, making them a niche pick best for monogamous couples.