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What are the best condoms? Our sex writers weigh in

Materials, size, spermicide: here's EYNTK

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We've come a long way when it comes to sexual health. Gone are the days of having only two condom brands to choose from, with products locked in plastic boxes that you have to sheepishly bring up to the counter. Safe sex is now, well, sexy, and there are a ton of cool brands to choose from.

A quick return to sex ed 101: condoms are one of the only contraceptive methods that will protect you against sexually transmitted infections (STIs). While hormonal contraception can prevent pregnancy, only barrier methods — like the male condoms reviewed here — will limit the sharing of conditions like chlamydia, gonorrhoea and HPV.

They're also great for protecting your delicate microbiome from bacterial imbalances. Both thrush and bacterial vaginosis (BV) can be caused by the mixing of your juices with someone else's.

As mentioned, there is plenty of choice when it comes to adult sleeping bags. But to save you time scrolling, our sex writers reveal the best on the market for 2024 — and some top tips for safe, satisfying sex.

The best condoms to shop now

  • 1
    Ultra Thin Condoms

    Best pH-friendly condom

    MyBliss Ultra Thin Condoms

    £12 at my-bliss.co.uk
    Read more
  • 2
    SKYN Non Latex Condoms

    Best all-rounder

    Mates SKYN Non Latex Condoms

    Read more
  • 3
    HEX Original Condoms

    Best for staying in place

    LELO HEX Original Condoms

    Read more
  • 4
    Extra Safe Latex Condoms

    Best for the safety conscious

    Durex Extra Safe Latex Condoms

    Read more
  • 5
    5 Senses Latex Condoms

    Best for mixing it up

    SKYN 5 Senses Latex Condoms

    Read more


What to consider when choosing a condom

Telling you to work out your personal preferences may seem like obvious advice, but every single one of us is different, and will desire different sizes, scents and/or textures.

However, one expert argues the most important thing to consider is your pH balance. CEO and Founder of MyBliss, Mo Carrier, says: “There are so many varieties of male condom — latex, non-latex, thick, ultra-thin, textured, flavoured, condoms with a water-based lubricant, condoms with a silicone oil lubricant and even ones that glow-in-the-dark.

“However, what I believe to be the most important is finding a product that is safe for vulvas and vaginas. Condoms are an internal use product, and even though a flavoured or scented condom sounds exciting, those are best used solely for oral sex."

Carrier continues: "Unnecessary chemicals like gluten, casein, glycerin, parabens, spermicide or fragrances can lead to vaginal irritation and even infections like thrush and UTIs."

She also shared her top tips for bringing up the subject with your partner, adding: “Many people feel embarrassed asking their partner to use a condom, especially if they’re on hormonal birth control.

"I suggest normalising condoms with your partner; have them permanently next to your bed or, if you’re staying at theirs, put your lube and condoms on his dresser before you get down to it."

The main types of condoms

First, let's all agree that sexual shame and judgement while shopping for condoms is no longer a thing. Rather, we should be celebrating people taking control of their playtime and, ultimately, pleasure.

Now that's out of the way, let's run through your oval options:

Latex

The standard type, made from the most common type of rubber. These tend to be slightly cheaper, widely available in stores like Boots or Superdrug, and are best paired with water-based lubricants to avoid tears.

Non-latex

If you weren't aware, latex allergies are fairly common, limiting your access to some rubbers. Two alternative materials often used are polyurethane and polyisoprene.

Textured

With ribs, dips and dots aplenty, textured condoms are all about maximising vaginal/anal stimulation. If you find additions on the outside of your condom, that's for the receiver's benefit. On the inside, that's for the wearer.

Flavoured

PSA: STIs like gonorrhoea, genital herpes and HPV can be caught and shared via oral sex. Therefore, it is recommended you wrap up before pleasuring your partner. Your options include fresh mint, sweet strawberry and indulgent chocolate.

Delay Condoms

Tailored to men and people with penises who may be struggling with premature ejaculation (PE), delay condoms are often lined with supercharged lubricant — popular choices include 5% benzocaine or 1% lidocaine — designed to numb the tip to reduce overstimulation.

Also falling into this category are extended pleasure condoms — slightly thicker sleeves that limit sensation — and mutual pleasure condoms that include the same desensitising lube, but also come with ribs and dots for the receiver's satisfaction.

The 12 best condoms for 2024

1
Best pH-friendly condom

MyBliss Ultra Thin Condoms

Ultra Thin Condoms
1
Best pH-friendly condom

MyBliss Ultra Thin Condoms

£12 at my-bliss.co.uk
Pros
  • They met the ultimate test: no tears or splits, even when used with acrylic claws
  • Scentless — and that lube isn't sticky
  • The 4-week subscription means you'll always be prepared
Cons
  • Not for sessions that involve silicone sex toys

These all-natural wrappers have been rumoured to be a personal favourite of one of our sex writers — and that's not just because they were designed by a woman for those with variable pH vaginas.

Yep, these are 100% vegan and lined with organic, silicone-lube. Plus, gone are the days of struggling to tear open that (loud) foil wrapper; MyBliss opted for capsules that open with minimal effort.

At 0.045mm thick, they're ultra-thin, so no need to compromise on pleasure — and 100% biodegradable, for the eco-warriors out there.

TypeVegan latex
No. per pack12
2
Best all-rounder

Mates SKYN Non Latex Condoms

SKYN Non Latex Condoms
2
Best all-rounder

Mates SKYN Non Latex Condoms

Pros
  • Ultra-thin; we're talking 0.065mm
  • Electronically tested to meet International Safety and Reliability standards
Cons
  • You'll need to stick to water-based lube to avoid rips and tears

The hunt for the right condom is a bit like trying to find The One — it takes some trial and error, and requires serious patience. But to save you the effort, we've already tracked down a decent all-rounder.

These non-latex sleeves from SKYN have been (lovingly) crafted from ultra-thin polyisoprene, meaning they're super-soft to the touch and suitable for allergy sufferers.

And, like most on the market, these stretch to accommodate dongs up to seven inches long. Just make sure to leave a little space at the tip to avoid a split.

TypeNon-latex
No. per pack10
3
Best for staying in place

LELO HEX Original Condoms

On Sale
HEX Original Condoms
3
Best for staying in place

LELO HEX Original Condoms

Now 50% Off
Pros
  • Seriously secure fit
  • Neutralised scent, meaning plastic is off the menu
Cons
  • A tad more expensive

We all throw around the phrases 'cutting edge' and 'revolutionary', but Swedish sexual wellness purveyor LELO really has brought out something brand spanking new.

While (super) smooth on the outside, the inside of a HEX condom has been lined with 350 miniature hexagons. Yep, maths just got sexy. This structure not only boosts the sensations, but also allows for the transfer of body heat between you and your partner — oh, and holds it in place like a pro.

Ultra-thin, you'll feel every pulse and ripple while riding with one of these. Just pair with your favourite water-based lube for a slick ride to the finish line.

TypeLatex
No. per pack3
4
Best for the safety conscious

Durex Extra Safe Latex Condoms

Extra Safe Latex Condoms
4
Best for the safety conscious

Durex Extra Safe Latex Condoms

Pros
  • Budget-friendly, this pack works out to just £1.08 a wrapper
  • Super durable
Cons
  • Smell a tad plastic-y

If you're all about sex with a side of safety, these thicker, stronger rubbers have been designed to reassure even the most anxious of shaggers.

Yep, Durex has guaranteed these have been 100% electronically tested for your peace of mind. But, because your pleasure is the ultimate priority, the brand has also lined the inside with extra lube. Stun.

We will admit that they slightly dull the sensations, but not so much that you can't achieve the desired result. Trust us.

TypeExtra safe
No. per pack12
5
Best for mixing it up

SKYN 5 Senses Latex Condoms

On Sale
5 Senses Latex Condoms
5
Best for mixing it up

SKYN 5 Senses Latex Condoms

Now 16% Off
Pros
  • One for the latex avoiders, these are crafted from the brand's non-latex SKYNFEEL material
  • The Elite is a top contender for barely-there sensation
Cons
  • Just one of each

Variety is the spice of life and boy, do we like options. Unsurprisingly, that rule also applies in the bedroom. This pack of five from SKYN includes:

  • 1 × Intense Feel wave textured condom
  • 1 × Cocktail Club passion daiquiri-flavoured condom
  • 1 × Elite premium thin condom
  • 1 × Hot lubricated with 'warming gel'
  • 1 × Cool lubricated with 'cooling gel'

Essentially, keep your partner on his/her/their toes — or close your eyes and dive into a game of rubber roulette.

TypeVariety pack
No. per pack5
6
Best for a wide load

Durex Nude Ultra Thin Wide Fit Condoms

Nude Ultra Thin Wide Fit Condoms
6
Best for a wide load

Durex Nude Ultra Thin Wide Fit Condoms

Pros
  • True to size, just pick the right one (Close, Regular, Wide)
  • One review raved: "They make the whole experience feel much more intimate. As the name implies, it feels as if you're barely wearing anything"
Cons
  • Not especially heavy-duty

Unfortunately, most of us have heard the excuse that condoms 'don't fit'. To be clear, that's not a thing — they're just wearing the wrong-sized rubber.

Durex's new Nude range come in Close, Regular and Wide Fit, meaning your partner(s) with a penis is almost guaranteed to find one that hugs just right.

In terms of the condom itself, this is the brand's thinnest offering yet, and has been lined with silicone lube for added glide. You'll also be pleased to know they've tackled that plastic smell — in fact, these are barely noticeable...

TypeVariety pack
No. per pack5
7
Best vegan condom

Smile Makers Come Connected Ultra-Thin Vegan Condoms

Come Connected Ultra-Thin Vegan Condoms
7
Best vegan condom

Smile Makers Come Connected Ultra-Thin Vegan Condoms

Pros
  • 0.05mm thick, meaning you'll feel every thrust
  • 100% vegan — these don't use casein or any other animal product
Cons
  • One size fits most, but not all

We're with you; the fiddly foil packaging of most condoms is enough to make you drop the extra layer entirely. Luckily, Smile Makers went rogue, opting for cutesy buttercup covers instead.

But the Singaporean-based sexual wellness brand also got rid of all unnecessary fragrances, colours and flavours, offering a 100% natural option that shouldn't bring on another bout of BV.

TypeVegan latex
No. per pack10
8
Best for added sensation

Durex Intense Ribbed and Dotted Latex Condoms

Intense Ribbed and Dotted Latex Condoms
8
Best for added sensation

Durex Intense Ribbed and Dotted Latex Condoms

Pros
  • For those needing intense action down there
  • Fresh mint flavour to enhance oral sex
Cons
  • The focus here is on those with vulvas

If you're the type of lover who needs bells, whistles, frills and sex toys to get off (no judgement, it's no easy feat), then Durex has you covered. Literally.

Let's talk about that texture first. Lining the outside are a constellation of ribs and dots, resulting in extra stimulation for the receiver. Then there's the coating of Durex's Intense Orgasmic Gel that promises warming, cooling and tingling sensations during penetration.

So extra sensations and protection? Sold.

TypeTextured
No. per pack12
9
Best for premature ejaculation

Pasante Delay Latex Condoms

Delay Latex Condoms
9
Best for premature ejaculation

Pasante Delay Latex Condoms

Pros
  • The no. 1 recommended brand by the NHS
  • 70 microns thick — think added protection but still with some sensation
Cons
  • That packaging's not exactly subtle

A reminder that premature ejaculation — finishing well before you'd hoped or planned — is actually very common, and impacts 44% of UK relationships. Yeah, really.

Luckily, Pasante's budget wrappers have been stuffed with a super-infused lube to help slow your blow. Lidocaine is the secret ingredient; a local anaesthetic that's commonly used to ease discomfort during tattooing and piercing.

Plus, with 72 sleeves for £17, that works out at less than 24p a cover. Girl math says that's a steal.

TypeDelay
No, per pack72 (!!)
10
Best for cumming together

Durex Mutual Climax Latex Condoms

Mutual Climax Latex Condoms
10
Best for cumming together

Durex Mutual Climax Latex Condoms

Pros
  • Ribs and dips for added stimulation down there
  • One review raved: "These are the best condoms I've ever used, they genuinely add to the pleasure for both parties"
Cons
  • A slightly thicker option (0..07mm), but not by much

The solo orgasm is great and a fabulous way to end any sweaty sesh. But a mutual O that has you both shaking from the core? Now that's a party.

Another from the current condom market leaders Durex, these protectors come with a textured outer (ribs and dips aplenty), as well as a lube infused with benzocaine to help delay your penis-having partner's ejaculation by gently numbing their tip.

FYI, fans say these are a little snug on wider guys.

TypeDelay
No. per pack10
11
Best for natural fans

Hanx Ultra-Thin Vegan Condoms

Ultra-Thin Vegan Condoms
11
Best for natural fans

Hanx Ultra-Thin Vegan Condoms

Now 23% Off
Pros
  • Available in a standard and large size
  • You can subscribe for biweekly, monthly or three-monthly deliveries
Cons
  • We don't love that Simpson-yellow tinge

Yep, another 100% natural, vegan option that has been gynae-approved. Hanx's ultra-thin make up ensures you get protection and pleasure, while that clear design also ensures you can fully examine your chosen tool.

Available in a standard or large size and in packs of 3, 10, 30 or 50, with a discount the higher you go. Hurrah!

TypeVegan latex
No. per pack3, 10, 30 or 50
12
Best for matching your skin-tone

Roam Max Sensation Condoms

Max Sensation Condoms
12
Best for matching your skin-tone

Roam Max Sensation Condoms

Pros
  • Choose your fit: slim, regular or wide
  • Subscribe for a delivery to your door every 30 days — and £3 off every pack
  • Triple tested for durability
Cons
  • Just four shades - original latex, light brown, medium brown, dark brown

Roam's jumped on the ultra-thin, vegan hype, offering another condom that also skips the unnecessary chemicals. But what really sets the brand's rubbers apart is the fact they come in four skin-tone matching hues. Because, really, when does one-size (or shade) fit all?

Even better news: these covers come with 40% less packaging than traditional condoms. Sustainable and sexy!

Pair with the brand's bestselling Adaptogenic Lubricant — a posh way of saying it's infused with CBD for increased comfort — and cue the care-free action.

TypeUltra-thin, coloured
No. per pack12, 24, 36
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