People who say condoms are all the same have either never used condoms or...no, actually, they've clearly never used condoms. Sure, there's something inherently similar - but take it from a girl who's used to having sex without a condom (don't judge! I'm in a long-term monogamous relationship!) and just recently brought condoms back After years of raiding her life: Not all condoms are created equal.
Let me start by saying that I didn't realize how expensive condoms had become. Back in my day, keep in mind that considering my long-term condom-free "day in my life" was around the early 2000s (aka my high school years), I certainly don't remember them costing more than $10 a pack !
I tested 7 different types of condoms in this test, all totaling less than $50 (thank god for the "pleasure pack.") Yes, in retrospect, it's a pretty good deal for safe and secure sex. Small price to pay. Not to mention, I've heard kids cost much more than that.
I mainly choose major brands, or whatever is available at the local Rite Aid - the really high-end varieties require a store clerk to open the plastic box for you. want to!
A higher price tag doesn't always mean better quality.
Ready to see how these bad boys stack up? Take a look at seven condoms, ranked from worst to best to worst, complete with my exact verbal reaction to trying each condom.
Happy hunting - er, hunchback!
7. Hyper-sensitive lifestyle
LifeStyles Ultra Sensitive, $11 (40ct), Amazon
"I felt like that thing was going to get ripped off at any moment."
Conclusion: They are skinny, I will say that. Plus, for the price, these are probably the best value of them all. Now, with that being said, they don't fit that well and are a little uncomfortable for the guy. It also doesn't stay in place very well and does rise a bit. Mood killer!
6. Durex Perfectax
Durex Performax Intense, $13 (50 ct), Amazon
"Dear God, make it stop."
Conclusion: Good news? These people do exactly what they advertise. Condoms contain a "numbing agent" that can delay men. bad news? It turned out it was hard for the guy to get off; and these condoms were very thick. After a sex marathon, long before I reached my peak, it started to hurt. These things are basically the equivalent of what college students call "Whiskey Dick." Ladies, you know what I'm talking about.
5. Trojan Ultra Ribbed
Trojan Ultra Ribbed, $14 (36ct), Amazon
"I was expecting more, um, sensations?"
Conclusion: So when I read Ultra Ribbed I had high expectations. It's in the name! But since the latex is so thick, this feeling is kept to a minimum for me. That's not to say I don't love spermicidal lubricants for all they do, they add to the smell of science projects when it comes to fighting disease. Lastly, these, um, irritate my skin a bit.
4. Ecstasy Trojan
Troy MDMA, $15 (26 ct), Amazon
"I think I need a shower."
Conclusion: Before starting this journey, I picked these as the winners. I've read some very high reviews claiming these are "spectacular" for entertainment. Well, I guess the cheese stands on its own (I am the cheese in this scene.) First of all, the smell of this one is very strong. In my opinion, the strongest of them all. Also, they were very greasy which was starting to annoy me a bit. There are some pros, though: the car is roomier and therefore allows for more activities, if you know what I mean.
3. Lifestyle SKYN
Lifestyle SKYN, $8 (24ct), Amazon
"I don't smell that disgusting smell!"
Conclusion: Plain and simple: This one seems to be the least "condom-like" of all the other condoms I've tried. It doesn't have that latex, spermicide smell that makes me think we're in a chemistry class. The reason is that it is made from polyisoprene, making it more flexible. Plus, it doesn't leave the chalky, weird residue that others often leave behind due to lack of lubrication, but it's still a little slippery, for lack of a better word—and it fits like a glove, too. Is this where there are no gloves, no love?
2. Troy her feelings
Trojan Her Sensations, $6 (12ct), Amazon
"Oh, yes, in."
Conclusion: The ribbing on the bottom of this condom is very strong but works well. However, I do feel like this will be hit or miss for some women. To me, let's just say it's a home run. It creates a lot of friction. The smell is definitely strong - Troy definitely wins for strongest smelling lubricant condom! - but they have extra room at the tip and are more comfortable overall. I also think these feel much thinner than other Trojans.
1. Twisted Trojan
Trojan Twisted, $6 (12ct), Amazon
"Whoa, weakling alert!"
Conclusion: This product wins the award for Biggest Surprise. Overall, this is a solid condom. So the "twist" in it actually stems from the fact that the condom has extra space at the tip, which is supposed to provide more pleasure. Indeed! Also, the condom itself has deep ribbing, but not too much. I didn't expect to get involved because, frankly, sometimes too many bells and whistles can work against you. But for me, this one strikes the best balance: it creates stimulating friction with the "twisted tip" but isn't too thick, and has just the right amount of long-lasting lube; which worked for both of us joy. One drawback: It doesn't stretch very well , so if you're on the larger side, he might complain that it's tight at the bottom.
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Image: Liz Newman
