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Step 1
Material. Condoms can be latex or non-latex. The vast majority of condoms out there are latex. However, some people are allergic to latex, and that's where non-latex materials come in, like polyurethane and natural skin. "Natural skin"... what's that made of? Ready for the answer? Sheep intestines. Unless you're one of those allergic people, I'd stick with latex.
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Step 2
Lubrication. Most condoms aren't lubricated, since people either generate their own lubrication and/or use lotion. Some condoms do come with a thin lubricant applied. Do you need it? Probably not.
Some of the lubricated condoms have a spermicide: a chemical that inactivates or kills sperm. Why would you want this? Well, accidents do happen... but I don't know that I'd want to depend on the spermicide doing its job. I don't select condoms based on the presence of a spermicide, but you might feel a little safer with one. -
Step 3
Sensitivity. You've doubtless seen plenty of condoms that advertise how "sensitive" they are. What they're talking about is how thin they are. Condoms, in the old days, were like wearing balloons (or worse); the man wasn't going to feel a whole lot when using them.
Well, things have changed. Condoms can be very thin, yet remain strong. If you find standard condoms less than pleasurable, try one of the "sensitive" or "extra-sensitive" types.
On the other hand, if you need a little extra time, use a desensitizing condom that will lessen the sensation enough to keep you going. These types of condoms are often described as "extended pleasure" or "performance."
By the way, Japanese condom-makers are known for creating thin-but-strong condoms. Yes, Japan is at the leading edge of condom technology. -
Step 4
Shape. Condoms used to come in one shape: a torpedo. Now, there are condoms where the head is bigger and looser. The theory is that the looser material rubs back and forth and increases the sensation. Look for a label like "pleasure-enhancing."
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Step 5
Texture and touch. Instead of being smooth, these condoms have various ribs or bumps, supposedly to provide the other person with a little more sensation. If you want to try one of these out, not only will you have to decide how it feels to you, you'll have to see if your partner feels.
There are also condoms covered with a lubricant that gets warmer with friction! Now, I'd think there's plenty of heat generated the natural way, but if you're game, give one of these a try.
Finally, there are flavored condoms, where the flavor is put into the lubricant. These are for the ultra-safe-sex crowd, but I'm told that there's still a latex taste no matter what. Your call.
