Condom dimensions differ between manufacturers. Picking one that’s too tight or too loose can cause problems.
Does condom size matter?
Sex is more likely to be unpleasant if the condom doesn’t fit properly.
A condom that’s either too big or too small can slide off or rupture, which raises the chance of pregnancy or transmitting infections. It may also interfere with your ability to reach orgasm. That’s why it’s important to know your condom size for both safety and comfort.
Condom sizing isn’t standardized across brands, so a “regular” from one maker might be “large” for another. Once you know your penis measurements, though, finding the appropriate condom is straightforward. Here’s how to do it.
How to measure
To choose the right condom, you’ll need to measure your penis. Use a ruler or a flexible tape measure. Make sure your penis is erect when you take measurements.
Measuring while flaccid only captures the minimum size and could lead you to purchase a condom that’s too small.
You should record length, width, and girth to determine the best fit.
Note that girth is the circumference around your penis and width refers to its diameter. Measure twice to confirm accuracy.
To take measurements, follow these steps:
For length:
- Place a ruler or measuring tape at the base of your erect penis.
- Press the ruler into the pubic bone as far as you can; fat can obscure actual length.
- Measure from the base to the tip of the erect penis.
For girth:
- Use a piece of string or a flexible tape.
- Wrap the string or tape gently around the thickest area of the shaft.
- If you used string, mark where it meets and then measure that length with a ruler.
- If you used a flexible tape, note the reading where it completes the circle.
For width:
You can calculate width (diameter) the way you would for a circle: divide the girth by 3.14. The result is the approximate width.
Condom size chart
These measurements were gathered from product listings, consumer reviews, and online retailers, so they might not be perfectly exact.
Always check that a condom feels comfortable before relying on it.
Snugger fit
| Brand/Condom Name | Description/Style | Size: Length and Width |
|---|---|---|
| CautionWear Iron Grip | Narrow fit, silicone-based lubricant with reservoir tip | Length: 7”Width: 1.92” |
| GLYDE Slimfit | Vegan, non-toxic, chemical-free, ultra-thin | Length: 6.7”Width: 1.93” |
| Atlas True Fit | Contoured profile, silicone lubricant, reservoir tip | Length: 7.08”Width: 2.08” |
| CautionWear Black Ice | Ultra-thin, silicone-lubricated, reservoir tip, clear, parallel-sided | Length: 7.08”Width: 2.08” |
| CautionWear Wild Rose | Ribbed, parallel-sided, ultra-smooth, silicone-based lubricant | Length: 7.08”Width: 2.08” |
| CautionWear Classic | Plain, traditional shape, silicone lubricant, reservoir tip, parallel-sided | Length: 7.08”Width: 2.08” |
| GLYDE Slimfit Organic Strawberry Flavored | Vegan, non-toxic, chemical-free, ultra-thin, made with organic strawberry extract | Length: 6.7”Width: 1.93” |
| Sir Richard’s Ultra Thin | Sheer, clear natural latex, smooth, vegan, silky lubricant | Length: 7.08”Width: 2.08” |
| Sir Richard’s Pleasure Dots | Straight-sided, vegan, natural latex without spermicide, raised studs | Length: 7.08”Width: 2.08” |
Regular fit
| Brand/Condom Name | Description/Style | Size: Length and Width |
|---|---|---|
| Kimono MicroThin | Sheer, straight-sided, natural rubber latex | Length: 7.48”Width: 2.05” |
| Durex Extra Sensitive | Extra thin, highly sensitive, lubricated, reservoir tip, fitted shape | Length: 7.5” Width: 2.04” |
| Trojan Intense Ribbed Ultrasmooth | Ribbed, premium lubricant, reservoir end, bulb head | Length: 7.87” Width: 2.09” |
| Lifestyles Extra Strength | Thicker latex, lubricated, reservoir tip, sensitive | Length: 7.5” Width: 2.09” |
| Okamoto Crown | Lightly lubricated, natural rubber latex, ultra-thin | Length: 7.5” Width: 2.05” |
| Beyond Seven Studded | Gently studded, made with Sheerlon latex, lightly lubricated, ultra-thin, pale blue tint | Length: 7.28” Width: 2” |
| Beyond Seven with Aloe | Thin, soft, Sheerlon latex with water-based aloe lubricant | Length: 7.28” Width: 2” |
| Kimono Textured | Ribbed with raised dots, silicone-lubricated, ultra-thin | Length: 7.48” Width: 2.05” |
| Durex Avanti Bare Real Feel | Latex-free, ultra-thin, lubricated, reservoir tip, easy-on shape | Length: 7.5” Width: 2.13” |
| ONE Vanish Hyperthin | Very soft latex, lubricated, reservoir tip, 35% thinner than standard ONE | Length: 7.5” Width: 2.08” |
| L. Condoms Do {Each Other} Good | Ribbed, vegan-friendly, chemical-free, latex, lubricated | Length: 7.48” Width: 2.08” |
| Trojan Her Pleasure Sensations | Flared design, ribbed and contoured, silky lubricant, reservoir tip | Length: 7.9” Width: 2.10” |
| Lifestyles Turbo | Lubricated inside and out, reservoir tip, flared form, latex | Length: 7.5” Width: 2.10” |
| L. Condoms Classic | Vegan-friendly, chemical-free, latex, lubricated | Length: 7.48” Width: 2.08” |
Larger fit
| Brand/Condom Name | Description/Style | Size: Length and Width |
|---|---|---|
| Trojan Magnum | Tapered base, reservoir tip, silky lubricant, latex | Length: 8.07”Width: 2.13” |
| Lifestyles KYNG Gold | Flared profile with reservoir tip, low odor, special lubrication | Length: 7.87” Width: 2” |
| Durex XXL | Natural rubber latex, lubricated, reservoir tip, minimal latex smell, pleasant scent | Length: 8.46” Width: 2.24” |
| Sir Richard’s Extra Large | Straight-sided, lubricated, chemical-free, natural latex, vegan-friendly | Length: 7.28” Width: 2.20” |
| Trojan Magnum Ribbed | Spiral ribs at base and tip, tapered base, silky lubricant, reservoir tip, latex | Length: 8.07” Width: 2.13 |
| Kimono Maxx | More headroom, thin, contoured with reservoir tip | Length: 7.68” Width: 2.05” |
| L. Large Condoms | Vegan-friendly, chemical-free, latex, lubricated, extended bulb | Length: 7.48” Width: 2.20” |
| Lifestyles SKYN Large | Latex-free, soft, ultra-smooth lubricant, straight shape with reservoir end | Length: 7.87” Width: 2.20” |
How to put a condom on correctly
Picking the proper size won’t help if you don’t apply it correctly. Incorrect application increases the chance the condom will tear or come off, reducing its effectiveness against pregnancy and STIs.
Follow these steps to put on a condom properly:
- Check the expiration date. Expired condoms are less reliable and more prone to failure as the material degrades.
- Inspect for damage. Condoms carried in wallets or purses may be compressed or folded, which can weaken them.
- Open the packaging carefully. Don’t use your teeth, which could rip the condom.
- Place the condom on the tip of your erect penis. Pinch the tip to expel air and leave a reservoir.
- Unroll the condom down to the base of the penis, making sure it isn’t inside out.
- If the condom lacks lubrication, add a water-based lube. Avoid oil-based lubricants as they can degrade the condom.
- After ejaculation, hold the condom at the base while withdrawing to prevent slippage.
- Remove, tie a knot in the used condom, wrap it in tissue, and dispose of it in the trash.
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What if the condom is too small or too big?
Wearing a well-fitting condom improves protection against pregnancy and STIs. Most condoms suit the average penis, so if your erect length is slightly over 5 inches, a “snug” style may still work well.
Don’t pick a condom based solely on length. Width and girth matter most when selecting a condom.
Comfort is key: a condom that’s too narrow can pinch at the tip and risk tearing. One that’s too loose at the tip or base may not be effective and could slip off.
Does the condom material matter?
Condoms are produced in various materials. Most are latex, but there are non-latex options for people with allergies or different preferences.
Common materials include:
- Polyurethane. A plastic alternative to latex, polyurethane is thinner and transfers heat better than latex.
- Polyisoprene. The closest substitute to latex without the allergenic chemicals. It’s thicker than polyurethane but feels softer and less rubbery. Polyisoprene usually stretches more than polyurethane.
- Lambskin. One of the oldest materials, made from the cecum (a membrane from sheep intestines). It’s thin, strong, biodegradable, and conducts heat well, but it does not protect against STIs.
What about internal condoms?
Internal (or female) condoms offer similar protection against pregnancy and STIs as external condoms. They’re typically made from synthetic latex and come pre-lubricated with silicone-based lube.
Unlike external condoms, internal condoms are generally one size meant to fit most vaginal canals. You can obtain them at many clinics or buy them online.
Avoid using internal and external condoms together. The friction can cause tearing or make them adhere and slip off.
The bottom line
Choosing the right condom can seem daunting, but it doesn’t need to be. Once you measure your penis, selecting the appropriate condom becomes easy.
A good fit not only reduces the risk of pregnancy and infection but also increases comfort and can improve orgasm. Record your measurements and start shopping for the best match.



















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