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Choosing the right condom: Size charts, material options, and tips for proper use

Medically reviewed by Debra Sullivan, Ph.D., MSN, R.N., CNE, COI — Written by Jamie Eske — Updated on January 16, 2024

How to measure
Common brand sizing
Condom material
Tips for use
FAQ
Summary

Condoms come in many shapes and sizes. Finding the right condom sizing can be tricky, but doing so will help people to have a better and safer sex life.

Condom size is 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.

In this article, we look at how to choose the right condom based on penis length and girth, how to measure the penis, and other factors to consider when using condoms.

Condom size chart, and how to measure the penis

Condom sizes infographic — Image credit: Stephen Kelly, 2018

The first step to finding the best condom size is to measure the penis. To do this, a person can use a ruler, measuring tape, or piece of string. For the most accurate results, they should take the measurements while the penis is erect.

To take an accurate measurement of the penis and find the best condom fit, a person should measure the length from the base of the penis, where the penis meets the pelvis, to the end of the tip.

Then a person can measure girth using a piece of string or a flexible measuring tape. A person can wrap it around the thickest part of the penis, which is usually near the middle of the shaft. If using string, mark where the string crosses and measure the distance with a ruler.

Read on to learn more about average penis size.

Common condom brand sizing in the United States

There are many condoms to choose from, and most people should not have trouble finding a condom that fits. Manufacturers base condom sizes on both length and width measurements.

Most condoms are longer than they need to be. If a person finds that there is too much roll at the base, they may need a snugger fit. If there is no roll left, they will require a larger condom.

Girth is more important than length for condom fit, with girth being the thickest part of the erect penis.

Male condoms typically vary in length from roughly 170–220 millimeters (mm), or 6.7–8.7 inches (“), and in width from 40–60mm, or 1.6–2.4”.

There is no absolute rule for who should use the different condom sizes and sizes can vary by brand. But the following guidelines, which are in inches, may help:

a penis circumference, or girth, of less than 4.7″ needs a snug fit
a girth of 4.7–5.1″ needs a regular fit
a girth of 5.1–6″ needs a large fit

Condom companies do not always make their sizes readily available, and brand measurements vary between sources.

The following charts will give some information about the size and features of common U.S. condom brands in inches (“) and millimeters (mm), along with links to where you can buy them:

Snug fit

Brand	Features	Length	Width
LifeStyles Snugger Fit	Lubricated, special shape, reservoir tip, short and narrow fit	7″ / 178 mm	1.92″ / 49 mm
Beyond 7 with Aloe	Latex, water-based lubricant with aloe to prevent irritation	7.28″ / 185 mm	2″ / 50.80 mm
Glyde SlimFit	Latex, nontoxic, lubricated, tight and snug fit, certified ethical and vegan	6.70″ / 170 mm	1.93″ / 49 mm
Caution Wear Iron Grip Snugger Fit	Snug fit, smaller width, silicone-based lubricant, reservoir tip	7″ / 178 mm	1.92″ / 49 mm
Trojan ENZ	Latex, lubricated, straight-shape, tighter fit, reservoir tip	7.50″ / 190 mm	2″ / 50.80 mm

Standard fit

Brand	Features	Length	Width
Kimono MicroThin	Latex, ultrathin, unscented, straight-sided shape makes it easier to put on	7.48″ / 190 mm	2.05″ / 52 mm
Durex Invisible	Latex, lubricated, straight shape, ultrathin	7.50″ / 191 mm	2.04″ / 52 mm
Lifestyles Skyn	Made of polyisoprene, unscented, thin, lubricated	7.50″ / 190 mm	2.09″ / 53 mm
Crown Skinless Skin	Latex, lightly lubricated, ultrathin	7.50″ / 190 mm	2.05″ / 52 mm
Trojan Ultra Thin	Latex, lubricated, reservoir tip, thin	7.50″ / 190 mm	2.09″ / 53 mm

Large fit

Brand	Features	Length	Width
Trojan Magnum Ribbed	Latex, spiral ribbing for heightened stimulation, lubricated, reservoir tip	8.07″ / 205 mm	2.13″ / 54 mm
Trojan Magnum	Latex, tapered at the base, lubricated, reservoir tip	8.07″ / 205 mm	2.13″ / 54 mm
Lifestyles KYNG	Latex, lubricated, extra large	7.48″ / 190 mm	2.20″ / 56 mm
ONE Legend	Made of Sensatex (a form of latex), extra wide	8.89″ / 226 mm	2.30″ / 58.50 mm
Kimono Microthin Large	Latex, ultrathin, flared shape for extra headroom, regular base	7.68″ / 195 mm	2.05″ / 52 mm

Does condom material affect the best choice?

Not only do condoms come in various shapes and sizes, they also contain different materials, including latex, polyurethane, and lambskin.

While manufacturers use latex to make the vast majority of condoms, some brands offer nonlatex alternatives for people who do not like latex or have allergies.

Latex condoms

Latex condoms are very flexible, thin sheaths. Latex is an effective barrier against sperm, bacteria, and viruses. However, latex does not transfer heat, which can reduce pleasurable sensations.

A person should avoid using oil or oil-based lubricants with a latex condom.

Oils will break down latex, which may cause the condom to tear. Water- or silicone-based lubricants are the best options when using a latex condom.

Polyurethane condoms

Polyurethane is a plastic material used in many contexts, from insulation to furniture and condoms. Polyurethane condoms are usually thinner than latex condoms, and they are better at transferring heat.

Polyurethane condoms provide effective barriers against HIV and bacterial STIs. However, polyurethane is less flexible than latex, which makes them slightly more fragile than latex condoms.

Polyisoprene condoms

Polyisoprene is very similar to latex, but it lacks the proteins that can sometimes cause allergic reactions. These condoms are slightly thicker than polyurethane, but they are softer and feel more natural than latex.

Lambskin condoms

Lambskin condoms do not contain lamb’s skin. Instead, lamb cecum, a part of the intestine, is the main constituent. The cecum is thin, durable, and good at transferring heat. Unfortunately, lambskin condoms may not protect against STIs or HIV.

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Tips on how to use a condom properly

Condoms are most effective when used correctly. Use the following advice on how to use a condom properly:

Check the expiration date on the package. A condom past its expiry date is less effective and more likely to break.
Make sure the condom is still intact. Condoms that people may store in wallets or purses can be damaged. Make sure the wrapper is intact. If the condom itself is torn or shows signs of damage, do not use it, and discard it immediately.
Carefully open the wrapper. Avoid using teeth or ripping the package forcefully, as this can tear the condom.
Make sure the rim is facing the outside so that it is possible to roll the condom over the penis.
Pinch the tip of the condom and place it on the head of the erect penis. Pinching the tip removes excess air and allows extra space at the top to collect semen.
Roll the condom down the shaft to the base of the penis.
If the condom does not have lubrication, apply a small amount of water- or silicon-based lubricant to the outside of the condom.
After ejaculation, hold the base of the condom while pulling out. Doing this will prevent it from falling off.
Carefully remove the condom, tie a knot at the open end, and throw it in the trash.

Frequently asked questions

What size condom do I need to fit a 7-inch penis?

A 7-inch long penis may need a snug fit or standard fit condom. However, a person should base their choice more on penis girth than length. People can use the tables above to find the right condom for their penis size.

How big is Magnum XL compared to Magnum?

Trojan Magnum XL and Magnum Large Size condoms both fit a penis length of 7.1–7.9 inches. The Magnum XL can accommodate a slightly bigger girth of 2.3 inches compared to 2.17 inches for the Magnum Large Size.

Summary

Choosing the right condom can be a difficult and even daunting task. Once people know the correct size for them, they can do a little research and find their preferred material and style.

Condoms are an essential part of good sexual health. They protect against the spread of both STIs and viral infections, such as Ebola and Zika. They can also prevent unplanned pregnancies.

Finding a condom that fits properly will help prevent pregnancy and protect against STIs. In addition, properly fitting condoms can also enhance the experience of sexual intercourse, making sex more comfortable and enjoyable.

Men's Health
Birth Control / Contraception
Sexual Health / STDs

How we reviewed this article:

SourcesMedical News Today has strict sourcing guidelines and relies on peer-reviewed studies, academic research institutions, and medical journals and associations. We only use quality, credible sources to ensure content accuracy and integrity. You can learn more about how we ensure our content is accurate and current by reading our editorial policy.

About birth control: Condoms. (2018, May)https://kidshealth.org/en/teens/contraception-condom.html?ref=search
Condom size chart. (2017, August 11)https://www.condom-sizes.org/condom-size-chart/condom-size-chart
Condoms and sexually transmitted diseases. (2018, January 8)https://www.fda.gov/forpatients/illness/hivaids/ucm126372.htm
Copen, C. E. (2017, August, 10). Condom use during sexual intercourse among women and men aged 15–44 in the United States: 2011-2015 National Survey of Family Growthhttps://www.cdc.gov/nchs/data/nhsr/nhsr105.pdf
Drai. (n.d.). How to pick the right-sized condomhttps://www.astroglide.com/blog/how-to-pick-the-right-sized-condom/
Male condom use. (2016, July, 6)https://www.cdc.gov/condomeffectiveness/male-condom-use.html
Marfatia, Y. S., Pandya, I., & Mehta, K. (2015, July–December). Condoms: Past, present, and future. Indian Journal of Sexually Transmitted Diseases and AIDS, 36(2), 133–139.https://www.cdc.gov/condomeffectiveness/male-condom-use.html

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Medically reviewed by Debra Sullivan, Ph.D., MSN, R.N., CNE, COI — Written by Jamie Eske — Updated on January 16, 2024

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