One of the most essential steps to using condoms correctly is choosing the right condom size. Wearing an external condom that is too big can cause it to slip off, and wearing one that is too small can cause it to break. For maximum protection against sexually transmitted infections (STIs) and pregnancy, you need a condom that fits securely and comfortably.

There are plenty of condom size charts out there that offer a selection of sizes to choose from, but, to make the right choice, you need to do more than “eyeball it.” You need to take the proper measurements of your penis.

This article discusses how to choose the right condom size. It also covers some design features you may consider, such as condom materials, shapes, and lubrication.

Taking Your Measurements

External condom sizes are determined by the width and length of an erect penis. Once you have achieved an erection, here is the simplest way to obtain the precise measurements:

  • For length: Hold one side of a ruler or tape measure on your pubic bone (the forward-facing bone in the center of your pelvis) and measure to the tip of your penis.
  • For width (girth): Use a piece of string or a soft measuring tape and gently wrap it around the thickest part of your erect penis. Measure the length of the string or tape measure.

Once you have these two measurements, check different brands to choose an external condom that most closely matches your erect penis size.

External Condom Sizes

External condom manufacturers use slightly different terms to describe external condom size. This can make selecting the right size a challenge. One brand may call an external condom “large,” while another may label a condom of the same measurements as “standard.”

Here are some general guidelines to help you make the right choice.

External Condom Width

External condom width is important because it affects how well the condom stays on. If it is too tight, it can be uncomfortable and easily break. If too loose, it can slip off inside the vagina or rectum, and you may not even notice.

For external condom width, use these general guides:

  • Standard external condoms have a width of 1.75 inches to 2 inches.Snug external condoms have a width of under 1.75 inches.Large external condoms have a width of over 2 inches.

External Condom Length

Length is also important because the external condom should cover your whole penis and leave enough space at the tip to collect any semen that you ejaculate.

For external condom length, use these general guides:

  • Standard external condoms have a length of 7.25 inches to 7.8 inches.Snug external condoms have a length of 7 inches to 7.8 inches.Large external condoms have a length of 7.25 inches to 8.1 inches.

External Condom Types

After you have selected a few external condom brands that are suitable for your penis size, you may need to purchase a few to try on. This will give you a chance to know which external condoms give you the best mix of fit, comfort, and sensitivity.

When comparing external condom brands, check the package or manufacturer’s website to see if there is a reference guide outlining what the different sizes are in inches. This will help you select the best-fitting option.

Whatever size you ultimately pick, never let ego or insecurity about penis size prevent you from getting the external condom that’s right for you.

Besides size, there are a few other external condom features that you might want to consider.

  • Material: External condom materials include latex, polyurethane, polyisoprene, and lambskin. You may find it useful to try several external condoms made of different materials so that you can select the one that is most comfortable.
  • Design: External condoms are available in different textures and shapes, and you may have a preference for one of these more than others.
  • Built-in lubrication: Many external condom brands, such as Trojan Double Ecstasy Condoms and LifeStyles Turbo Condoms, use lubricants. These materials may heighten sensitivity and pleasure for you and/or your partner.

You can also use a personal lubricant on an external condom to improve the sensation and comfort of your partner. Simply apply a lubricant, like Astroglide or K-Y Jelly, to the outside of the external condom after you have put it on.

Be careful not to use too much lubricant, as this can cause the external condom to slip off.

Summary

Once you know the length and width of your penis, you can select a properly sized external condom that is comfortable and offers full protection. Since external condom size descriptions can vary from brand to brand, you may want to buy several types of external condoms to compare how well they fit.

Silicone vs. Oil-Based Lubricants

Silicone-based lubricants tend to stay slippery for longer than water-based ones. Though oil-based lubricants are also slippery, they can degrade latex and should not be used on latex condoms as this can them to burst.

Frequently Asked Questions

  • What is the average external condom size?
  • Regular condoms generally are 6.5–8 inches long and about 2 inches wide. External condoms are medical devices regulated by the Food and Drug Administration, so they must meet certain international standards.
  • Are external condoms one-size-fits-all?
  • Not really, because penises come in such a wide range of lengths and widths. In a study of more than 1,600 men, for example, penis length ranged from around 1.5 inches to a little over 10 inches. Circumference ranged from a bit more than 1 inch to about 7.5 inches.
  • What can happen if an external condom isn’t the right size?
  • It can break or slip, increasing the risk of infection and pregnancy. In one study, for example, the risk of a standard external condom breaking increased by 50% to 100% for each additional centimeter of penis circumference. An external condom that’s too big may be more likely to slip.
  • Do I need to use a condom when using a sex toy?
  • It is best to put a condom over any sex toy that enters the anus or vagina and is shared with someone else. Penetrative sex toys can transmit infections. Measure the toy’s length and width, then match it to the right size condom.

Regular condoms generally are 6.5–8 inches long and about 2 inches wide. External condoms are medical devices regulated by the Food and Drug Administration, so they must meet certain international standards.

Not really, because penises come in such a wide range of lengths and widths. In a study of more than 1,600 men, for example, penis length ranged from around 1.5 inches to a little over 10 inches. Circumference ranged from a bit more than 1 inch to about 7.5 inches.

It can break or slip, increasing the risk of infection and pregnancy. In one study, for example, the risk of a standard external condom breaking increased by 50% to 100% for each additional centimeter of penis circumference. An external condom that’s too big may be more likely to slip.

It is best to put a condom over any sex toy that enters the anus or vagina and is shared with someone else. Penetrative sex toys can transmit infections. Measure the toy’s length and width, then match it to the right size condom.