Condom sizes

What size condom do I need?[back to top]

Condoms come in various shapes and sizes. For fitting purposes we can classify condoms into 3 buckets: small condoms, standard condoms, and large condoms.
According to various studies, the average erect penis length is about 6 inches. Anywhere from 5 inches to 7 inches is a common erect penis length. The average girth (circumference) of an erect penis is about 4.5 inches. Anywhere from 4 inches to 5 inches is a common girth for an erect penis.
The measurements below should help you determine what condom size to use.
Small condoms – under 5 inches long, or under 4 inches girth
Standard condoms – between 5-7 inches long, or 4-5 inches girth
Large condoms – over 7 inches long, or over 5 inches girth

For complete information visit our Condom Size page.

My boyfriend is too big, he complains of the condom being too tight, what do you recommend?[back to top]

It sometimes takes some trial and error before finding the right condom. Some people prefer a loose fit around the head of the penis, while others prefer the ring base width of the condom to be more relaxed. If your boyfriend is concerned about the tightness at the head of the penis, he should look for a condom that is “convex shaped” meaning it is wider at the top and more narrow at the base.
If his concern is the ring of the condom being too tight, he should look for a condom that is thin and not too long. Unrolling the condom completely will allow the ring to stretch more and reduce the pinch at the base of his penis.

For more information on condom sizes, visit our condom size information page.

Are Kimono condoms a little on the smaller size as compared to the average American condom?[back to top]

Kimono condoms are made to fit the average American penis size and are comparable in size to those of other US condom manufacturers. Please note Kimono condoms come in various shapes, some shapes may feel more snug than others. For a comparison of various condom sizes see our condom size chart.

The ring of a condom is too tight and leaves a mark on the base of my penis, what can I do?[back to top]

To maximize the condoms rings width, you should unroll the condom completely. The ring will be wider and feel more flexible. If a condom is too long to unroll completely, it may be helpful to leave extra room at the head of the condom. However, as with any condom, you should make sure there is no air trapped in the condom.

What is the average width of a condom?[back to top]

There is a range of condom widths in the US market. View a comparison of condom sizes.

Condom effectiveness

Can I wear two condoms at the same time for extra protection?[back to top]

There are no studies to indicate that using two condoms provides extra protection.

How effective are condoms against pregnancy?[back to top]

When used correctly all the time and every time you have sex condoms are said to be 98% effective in preventing pregnancy. When not used correctly all time and every time you have sex condoms are said to be 85% effective at preventing pregnancy. Visit our condom effectiveness page for more information.

Are thin condoms just as effective as regular thickness condoms?[back to top]

Yes, thin latex condoms offer the same protection against pregnancy and STI/STDs as other condoms. Known for their sheer thinness, Kimono condoms must pass a series of tests for strength and reliability. Kimono condoms not only meet, but exceed all US and International Standards for strength and reliability. Complete factory testing, independent laboratory analysis, and regular FDA inspections form a comprehensive Quality Assurance Program designed to assure maximum protection and product quality. Learn more about Japanese condoms.

Lubricant on condoms

During sex my condom gets very dry. I have to reapply lubricant over and over again. Is this normal?[back to top]

Kimono condoms contain silicon lubricant that is paraben & glycerin free! Except for one style, MicroThin Plus Aqualube which contains Aqualube water based personal lubricant. While nearly all condoms are pre lubricated, it is normal for people to apply additional lubricant on a condom. While this is more of a personal preference, there are many factors that may increase the need for lubricant. Heat and friction will cause lubricant to dissipate or get absorbed into the skin. If you find that you are applying lubricant frequently and it is interrupting your sexual experience, it may be helpful to try a new lubricant. Remember, only water-based and silicone lubricants are safe with natural latex condoms. Try silky smooth Aqua Lube water based lubricant with your condoms.

What brands of lubricant can I use with condoms?[back to top]

There are many brands of lubricants available. The question should really be--which TYPE? Only water based and silicone lubricants should be used with natural latex condoms. Other lubricants such as Vaseline, massage oil, or lotion cause natural latex condoms to deteriorate quickly and put you at risk for condom breakage. Water-based lubricants are popular because they feel very natural and light and can be easier to wash off. Lubricants reduce friction and stress on a condom which may decrease the chance of breakage.

Can I put lubricant inside the condom?[back to top]

It is OK to add lubricant inside the condom. Some men say adding lubricant inside the condom makes it more pleasurable. You should be careful not to add too much lubricant inside the condom which may cause the condom to slip off during sex.

Storing your condoms - in the car, in your wallet

If I leave condoms in my car on a hot day will they still be effective?[back to top]

Condoms should be stored at room temperature. If the condom has been exposed to a temperature above 100 degrees Fahrenheit it should be discarded. 

Can I keep a condom in my wallet or will that damage the condom?[back to top]

There are no studies that indicate keeping a condom in your wallet will damage the condom. However condoms should be kept at room temperature and in a dry place. Exposing condoms to high temperatures including body temperature, will deteriorate the condom. Condoms are sealed in their wrapper; if the condom wrapper is pierced or ripped the condom should be discarded.

Condom expiration dates

How long do condoms last before they expire?[back to top]

Each condom manufacturer must determine the shelf life for their condoms. Kimono condoms have a shelf life of 5 years from the date of manufacture. Some condom such as spermicidally lubricated condoms may have a shorter shelf life.

Can I use a condom if it has expired?[back to top]

You should always use unexpired condoms, however using an expired condom better than no condom at all.

If a condom expires in 05/2014, when was it made?[back to top]

Each manufacturer determines the shelf life of their condoms and must support this with evidence reviewed by the FDA. Kimono condoms have a 5 year life. If the expiration date is 05/2014, simply subtract 5 years and you will have the approximate date and month of manufacture (i.e. 05/2009). Other manufacturers may have a different code for expressing when a condom was manufactured.

Can you tell when a condom was sold or bought based on the LOT number or expiration date?[back to top]

We are unable to determine when a specific condom was purchased. Kimono condoms have a 5 year shelf life, so we can approximate the time they made their way into the market by subtracting 5 from the expiration year.

Condom ingredients - allergic reactions, sensitivities

Why are condoms made of different materials? Are some better than others?[back to top]

Most condoms are made of natural latex; however because of latex allergies, alternative materials are also used to make condoms including polyurethane and polyisoprene. All condoms must pass a series of safety tests before they can be sold in the US.

My girlfriend is allergic to latex. Are there condoms that are latex free?[back to top]

There are some people (less than 1% of the general population) that are allergic to natural latex. Yes, there are condoms made of other materials such as polyisoprene, polyurethane, and animal skin. These condoms are commonly referred to as “non-latex condoms”. Please note animal skin condoms do not offer STI/disease protection.

Are Kimono Condoms Vegan friendly?[back to top]

Yes Kimono condoms are Vegan friendly - no animal or milk proteins.

Do Kimono condoms contain the spermicide Nonoxynol-9? [back to top]

No, Kimono condoms do not contain any form of spermicide. In October 2002 Kimono was the first brand of condoms to remove nonoxynol 9 from condoms. Kimono voluntarily destroyed over 1,000,000 spermicidally lubricated condoms after studies suggested nonoxynol 9 on condoms may increase the risk of HIV transmission among people who are at higher risk for the disease. Nonoxynol 9, as used in several OTC vaginal contraceptives remains an important safe, effective, non hormonal birth control option for monogamous couples who are not at risk for HIV/AIDS.