The definitive list of the best condoms for 2023

When it comes to sex, pleasure and safety are paramount. With plenty of options on the market, finding the best condoms to elevate sex can feel overwhelming. To help you in your search, start with checking two key things, as Lucy Rowett, Sex Coach at The Lowdown, explains: "When choosing condoms, make sure that you aren’t allergic to any of the materials– as some people have latex allergies– and make sure it is in date! Yes, condoms go out of date, and when they go it makes them more likely to rupture, so always check the expiry date on the packet before using."

We've researched condoms on the market that have innovative designs and cutting-edge materials that heighten sensitivity, including options for sensitive skin. You'll find different price points, as well as latex and non-latex varieties in our trusted guide. Our recommendations are based on expert opinions and have been tested by Mumsnet users themselves. Whether you're spicing things up in a long-term relationship or exploring preferences with a new partner, our list of the top condoms has you covered.

Keep reading to find our handpicked collection of the best condoms for sex. Don't forget to pick up some water-based lube or silicone-based lubricants! Here's our guide to the best lubes to help you. And for enhanced pleasure - whether solo or with a partner - here's our roundup of the best vibrators that Mumsnetters swear by.

Top five condoms at a glance

• Best ultra-thin: Durex Real Feel Condoms, £17

• Best extra safe: Durex Extra Safe Thick Condoms, £11

• Best for lasting longer: Durex Extended Pleasure Condoms, £13

• Best non-latex: Mates SKYN Original Condom, £11

• Best eco-friendly: XO High Sensation Condoms, £140

Read next: Find our guide to the best vibrators, according to Mumsnet users

Read next: Find the best lubes and lubricants for sex

How do you find the right type of condom for you?

Everyone has different needs. When searching for the perfect condom, it's crucial to consider factors like comfort, sensitivity, and personal preferences, plus whether you'll be using it with a partner or with sex toys.

Start by exploring the diverse range of types available, such as ultra-thin ones for enhanced sensation, ribbed or textured ones for added pleasure, or latex-free options for those with allergies. You can also try different sizes, such as snugger fit or larger sizes, to ensure a secure and comfortable fit. When testing your choice of protection, remember to pinch the different types you have to make sure they fit correctly.

Experimenting with various brands and materials, like latex, polyisoprene, or polyurethane, can help you find the best condoms for you and your partner.

Read next: Sex during pregnancy, a guide for expectant parents

What are the best overall condoms?

The most recognisable and long lasting brand is probably Durex. Durex offers a wide range of options, including ultra-thin ones for heightened sensitivity, ribbed or textured condoms for increased pleasure, and latex-free alternatives for those with allergies.

But when thinking about what to look for in a condom, you are really concerned about safety and pleasure - especially birth control and protection from STIs. People’s needs in the bedroom vary drastically, so, think about what’s important to you.

Which condom feels the best?

Based on our research, the most stimulating condoms were HANX, SKYN and RFSU True Feeling.

The truth is though, many people want different things. The best way to find the condom that feels the best is to figure out what you like, and try some different products. There are plenty of options on the market!

Are lambskin condoms effective?

Like latex condoms, lambskin condoms are 98% effective in preventing pregnancy if used correctly when you have sex. However, they are not effective at protecting against STIs. This is due to tiny, natural pores that are large enough for bacteria - like gonorrhoea, chlamydia and HIV - to pass through, but are too small for sperm to swim through.

Beyond this risk, lambskin condoms do offer some benefits. They're great for individuals who are allergic to latex, they have a more natural feel and a thinner texture than other external condom types. They can't be damaged by jelly or oil-based lubes, and they're biodegradable.

It's worth mentioning though, that they tend to be the most expensive external condoms to buy.

How do female condoms feel?

Made from soft, thin materials like polyurethane or nitrile, they are designed to provide a comfortable fit and allow for natural sensation. The inner ring of the female condom is inserted into the vagina, while the outer ring remains outside to provide stability and prevent the condom from slipping.

Users often report that female condoms offer a more natural and unrestricted feel compared to male condoms. Additionally, the external ring can provide gentle stimulation to the clitoral area during intercourse, enhancing pleasure for the woman.

How effective are condoms?

The best condoms, when used correctly and consistently, are highly effective in preventing pregnancy and reducing the risk of sexually transmitted infections (STIs). According to various studies and statistics, condoms have a high level of efficacy. When used consistently and correctly, they can have a pregnancy prevention rate of about 98% or higher. They create a barrier against STIs by preventing semen and other bodily fluids from entering the vagina, rectum, and mouth.

Read next: How soon after birth can you have sex? A guide

Where can I get free condoms?

People aged 13 and above may request free condoms from sexual health clinics across the UK. The NHS has a search function to help you find the one nearest to you.

How we chose our recommendations

Recommendations from real Mumsnet users

Mumsnetters have certainly put the best condom brands through their paces when in the bedroom, with many Mumsnet users sharing experiences (both good and bad) of the condoms they’ve personally tried and tested.

First up, we sought out the trusted opinions of Mumsnet users to get their feedback on their favourite condoms, as well as the brands that they have tried, rated, and would recommend to their friends.

We also looked out for any negative reviews, where Mumsetters highlighted products that they felt were poor quality, ineffective, broke, didn’t fit or simply failed to do the job.

Expert opinions

We then cross-checked our recommendations with the best condoms praised by sex experts to ensure we were bringing you the best products that are rated across the board.

Authentic consumer reviews

Finally, to bring you our definitive list of the best condoms, we thoroughly investigated genuine, in-depth customer reviews on retailer sites such as Ann Summers, Boots, Lovehoney, and Amazon, and independent sites to get broader consumer experiences regarding the products on our shortlist.

Why you should trust us

We work hard to provide unbiased, independent advice you can trust. We do sometimes earn revenue through affiliate (click-to-buy) links in our articles. This helps us fund more helpful reviews like this one.

About the expert

Lucy Rowett is a certified sexologist and sex coach who is passionate about helping women let go of sexual shame and hangups. She uses a combination of mind-body tools with evidence-based sexuality education. Her speciality is working with people who come from faith backgrounds who are struggling to let go of sexual shame and enjoy pleasurable relationships again.

About the author

Rebecca Roberts is a writer, editor, and content marketing expert hailing from Leeds. Here at Mumsnet, she commissions, writes, and edits to bring parents content designed to make life easier. After falling pregnant with DC2 when her first was just six months old, Rebecca knows all too well the importance of using a condom. Of course, while she wouldn’t change a thing, she’s also the first to admit that these days - condoms are a priority purchase for her and her DH. That’s why, when on the hunt for the best condom for you, you can trust her experience and advice when it comes to finding the right ones.

Beyond her role as an editor here at Mumsnet, Rebecca can be found balancing life as a working mum of two toddlers and when she’s not at her desk, you’ll likely find her at a local playgroup, in a nearby coffee shop, walking the dog, or hiding from her neighbour as she attempts to buy condoms during her weekly “Big Food Shop”.