Experts Say STIs Are Skyrocketing — Here Are the Best Condoms to Protect Yourself

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In the birth control universe, the humble condom sometimes doesn’t get the respect it deserves. Think about it: Condoms are cheap, you can get them easily and without a prescription, and unlike hormonal forms of birth control, you needn’t commit long-term. They are 98% effective at pregnancy prevention when used properly, according to the Cleveland Clinic. Also important, unlike pills or an IUD, condoms help you avoid sexually transmitted infections (STIs).

So it's weird that fewer people are using them. According to the most recent family planning data from the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services’ Office of Population Health, only 42% of men use condoms in the decade ending in 2021, as opposed to 75% in the previous decade. Not surprisingly, rates of STIs are becoming epidemic, according to the CDC. In just a year, (2020-2021), gonorrhea and chlamydia cases shot up 4%, and syphilis rates surged by almost 32% — and that was when we were staying home a lot due to COVID-19. And although HIV rates are declining worldwide, according to HIV.gov, women and girls made up 46% of all new cases in 2022. According to Cleveland Clinic, condoms can reduce the transmission of HIV by 71 to 80%. — especially important if you engage in higher risk activities, such as anal sex, says Joshua R. Gonzalez, MD, a urologist and sexual health expert practicing in Los Angeles.

So let’s embrace our little rubber buddy, even if you haven’t loved condoms in the past. A little trial and error will help you find one that's worth the brief break in the action to slip on. Below are high-quality, consumer-tested condoms that are easy to use and reasonably priced. “People should do whatever they can to stay safe," says Dr. Gonzalez.

ENZ Classic Reservoir End

Offering a smooth and soft feel, you can feel good knowing that Trojan's classic condoms will get the job done. They are straight-walled (no tapering) and get high marks for value, comfort and durability. Amazon reviewers note that they are very durable, but some say the lubrication dries on quickly.

Elite

Latex allergies are not uncommon, so a condom made of an alternative material – that still offers pregnancy and STI protection – is key. These thin, lubricated versions are made from polyisoprene, which are made from a synthetic material. These have no rubbery smell and users say they feel natural.

Non-Lubricated Condoms

Lube-free condoms are good for people who are using them for oral sex, or who just plain don’t like lube (although bear in mind that a good lube can help prevent condom breakage). The Lifestyles choice offers you 100 condoms in a pack, and even know they are a value size, reviewers say they are very durable.

Magnum Large Size Condoms

These lubricated condoms are larger than standard size with a wider shape, a tapered shaft so it grips at the bottom and a reservoir tip. Many reviewers rave about the comfortable fit with many saying they are snug without being too tight.

Custom Fit

As condom-wearers know, the fit is everything, and can sometimes make or break using one. The brand has three “snug” sizes for different widths and girths as well as three mid and three larger ones. To make sure you or your partner are using the right one, you can download the FitKit app or use a tape measure.

Extra Strength

Many people might not know this, but you should never double-up on condoms. Doing so can make them break easier due to the friction. So, if you need extra durability, these are for you. They are ideal for rougher sex, anal sex or if you or your partner want to last longer.

HEX Original

Even though they are thin, the weblike pattern design on the inside of these lubed condoms, the company claims, makes them safer. They grip the penis, but there’s no “thick” sensation, as one customer puts it. “It really does give the strength of a thicker condom, but feels like you're wearing something much lighter.”

Extra Large

No animal products are used, and reviewers say they love that these don’t smell or taste like condoms. Some reviewers with sensitive skin also note that unlike others, these condoms don't irritate their delicate areas. (Shown in XL because reviewers say they run small.)

Performax Intense

These latex condoms feature a “delay lubricant” (active ingredient: benzocaine) on the inside to help those wearing them last longer. One thing to keep in mind is that some reviewers say the lubricant might be too effective. They also have a ribbed and dotted texture that can add to the experience for the receiver.

Extra Lubricated

Extra silicone-based lube on the inside and outside of this condom is added for long-lasting slipperiness. This is ideal if you or your partner are experiencing vaginal dryness. Many reviewers say they fit great and they are "thin enough" for maximum pleasure.

Me & You Intense

Not only is this latex number dotted and ribbed, but it is lubricated with tingly water-based K-Y, for greater comfort and smoothness. Some didn’t like the minty scent that comes with them.

Pleasure Pack

If you want to mix it up, this box comes with four different types of condoms — Twisted (which has diagonal texturing); Her Pleasure, which has ribs and contours; Ultra Ribbed; and Warming, with a warming lubricant. All do the job, especially thanks to the reservoir tip, but just offer different ribs and shapes.

Tropical

Flavored condoms are not for everyone, but reviewers like these tutti-fruity variety pack, especially for oral sex. They work just like other condoms, and are easy to put on.

What to look for when buying condoms

There is some subjectivity when it comes to choosing the right condom and it may take some trial and error. Focus on these four key essentials:

✔️ The right material: If possible, go for one made of latex, which is considered the most durable. If you or your partner have a latex allergy, you can use a plastic-based condom, made of polyisoprene. You can also use a polyurethane condom–there are some great options for both materials from companies like Skyn and Durex. Never use a lambskin condom because bodily fluids can seep through those.

✔️ The right size: The condom you pick should be the right size to fit you or your partner comfortably, to avoid rippage and slippage and squeezing.

✔️ The right extras: Ribbed condoms are a personal preference, to add sensation for the person being penetrated. Dotted condoms do the job, too. Some find these don’t make a big difference, so you do you.

✔️ The right lube: Pre-lubricated condoms are super-convenient, but many need some extra lube applied to ensure extra safety as well as better ease of use: Lube reduces friction, which can help prevent breakage.

Do condoms expire?

The expiration date for condoms varies depending on the brand and when they were manufactured, but they do, indeed, expire. All condoms have the expiration date printed on the packaging, and you should not use them if they are expired. They will be less effective at preventing STIs and pregnancy.

How to prevent a condom from breaking

Condoms are around 98% effective in preventing pregnancy, if used as directed. To that end...

• NEVER use expired condoms, which can degrade over time – the date’s right there on the package.

• NEVER store condoms in temps higher than 100 degrees, or lower than 32 degrees (this can also cause them to break down).

• NEVER use your teeth to open the packet – that can tear the condom

• NEVER reuse a condom (yes, people do this).

• NEVER skip lubrication. “Using condoms along with water or silicone based lubricants may help lower condom failure rates,” Dr. Gonzalez points out. The exception: If you’re using it for oral sex.

• NEVER use olive oil, coconut oil, Vaseline, or any other oil with a latex condom, which can degrade the rubber.

Why Trust Good Housekeeping?

For sensitive stories that can directly impact readers' health, we send our articles out to be medically reviewed by an expert in the field.

The editor of this story, Stephanie Dolgoff, has been covering women's sexual health for decades at publications including Cosmo, Self and Glamour. She has broad and deep experience with interviewing medical professionals and translating their expertise into practical advice for women who strive to make the best choices for their health.

The writer, Lisa Mulcahy, is an internationally established health writer who has likewise has had years of experience with medical and lifestyle topics, and is well-versed in deciphering ingredient labels and researching how well health products live up to their claims.

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