7 Types of Condoms You Need to Try

Want to broaden your condom horizons but don’t know where to start? We don’t blame you. When it comes to condoms, choice overload can make it hard to branch out. And if you don’t know what options are out there, trying out new condom types can feel like a swing and a miss.

That’s why we’ve curated the 7 must-try condom types that’ll help you bring more variety into the bedroom. 

Ribbed Condoms

You’re in for a bumpy ride…in the best way possible. Ribbed condoms have rows of small, raised ridges that run around the condom’s circumference. You’ll find a ton of variety within the ribbed condom category itself, with some having thicker or thinner ridges organized in different patterns. While the exact thickness and patterns of ribbed condoms can vary, they all fall under the “textured” condom type.

So why opt for a ribbed condom? Sensation is the name of the game. The ridges on these condoms add an interesting surface texture that can enhance pleasure inside and out. These ribs also intensify the friction caused by each movement. This means that—whether you’re wearing the condom or not—the ribs provide heightened sensations that both partners can feel.

To get the most out of your experience with ribbed condoms, always remember to go for a premium quality option. Esquire Magazine calls Champ’s Ribbed Condoms a “win-win” with an “almost-nothing-on natural feel.”

Ultra-Thin Condoms

If you want a barely-there feeling, ultra-thin condoms could become your new go-to’s. These condoms are created with thinner latex than others, helping you get even closer to your partner. This closeness means that heightened sensitivity is a built-in perk of using an ultra-thin condom.

A common question about ultra-thin condoms is whether or not they’re as safe as other condom types. If they’re so thin, does that mean they break more easily? The good news is that ultra-thin condoms are just as safe and effective as their thicker counterparts. The elasticity and strength of latex material are what create and maintain a protective barrier. Plus, ultra-thin condoms still go through the same rigorous testing as others to ensure their strength and safety.

To maximize safety and pleasure, going with a high-quality ultra-thin condom is a must. According to GQ, Champ’s Ultra-Thin Condoms feel “as close to skin-on-skin as you can get” and are “specially lubricated with non-sticky, natural-feeling medical-grade silicone lube.“

Studded Condoms

Another member of the textured condom family is the studded condom. Unlike its more well-known ribbed cousin, the studded condom has raised bumps all across its surface and is sometimes referred to as the “dotted” condom. These come in a variety of patterns, with some featuring concentrations of studs in specific places and others having a more even pattern.

If you or your partner are fans of texture, studded or dotted condoms offer the friction of a textured condom and a unique sensation. The dotted surface can heighten sensitivity for both partners. Plus, the spread out and varied patterns of these studs create unique pleasure points that change with each movement. 

Flavored Condoms

Let’s face it. The taste of latex isn’t exactly sexy. Fortunately, flavored condoms can help you and your partner have fun, flavorful fellatio. These condoms are great for couples who want to try something new, and for those who want to avoid contracting or spreading STDs and STIs during oral sex.

These condoms are covered in flavored lubricant which masks the unpleasant taste of latex. Even if you and your partner regularly have unprotected oral sex, introducing a flavored condom could be a game-changer in the oral arena.

Pro tip: Always remember to read the instructions on flavored condoms; some of them are only intended to be used orally and not for anal or vaginal sex. That’s because flavored condoms often contain sugar, which can cause infections and other genital health issues.

Internal Condoms

Also known as “female condoms,” internal condoms fit inside the vagina or anus and act as a barrier to keep sexual fluids from escaping. These condoms are larger than their external counterparts and come individually wrapped in separate packages. They have a smaller, internal ring and a larger, external one. These rings are soft and flexible so they can be easily inserted and removed.

You may be wondering why someone would opt to use an internal condom instead of an external one. A major perk of using an internal condom is convenience. They can reduce unwanted staining during period sex, and can be inserted before foreplay even starts for uninterrupted play. 

Like with any other piece of equipment, make sure you know how to use your internal condom. Since they are less common than external condoms, always get to know how to use, insert, and remove them correctly.

Long-Lasting Condoms

Looking to extend the action? Long-lasting condoms do just as their name suggests—they make it easier to last longer. Many long-lasting condoms are thicker than regular ones and are designed to reduce sensitivity during sex. Others are coated with an anesthetic like lidocaine or benzocaine to prolong intercourse.

There are many reasons why someone would want to use a long-lasting condom to delay orgasm. For those who suffer from premature ejaculation, long-lasting condoms are one of the most effective ways to last longer and extend the fun. These condoms can also help couples experiment with edging. By purposefully controlling and delaying orgasm, you and your partner can achieve even bigger Os. 

Non-Latex Condoms

Let’s look beyond the realm of latex and into the world of polyurethane, polyisoprene and lambskin. Non-latex condoms are great for those with latex sensitivities or allergies.

• Polyurethane - A water-resistant plastic that’s thin and transparent in condom form. These condoms are compatible with all lubes and acclimate to the user’s body temperature quickly, making things literally hotter. While they’re a good alternative, remember that polyurethane is less stretchy and more likely to break than latex.  
• Lambskin - These condoms are made from the intestinal lining of lambs. They’re great at transferring warmth and are biodegradable, making them a more eco-friendly option. However, keep in mind that the pores within lambskin condoms make them unable to protect against STDs or STIs. 
• Polyisoprene - A synthetic rubber made from the sap of the Hevea tree. Though these condoms are often a bit pricier than their latex counterparts, they are one of the strongest condom types available.

Ultimately, life’s too short to use so-so condoms. We hope you’ll get out there and explore. Here’s to a safe, fun journey into the wide world of condoms!