What Are The Best Condoms & Lubricants For Safety & Comfort?
In this guide
Choosing the right condoms and lubricants plays an important role in ensuring safety, comfort, and overall sexual well-being. With so many options available, it’s not always easy to know which products are best suited to your needs.
In this guide, we’ll explore the best condoms and lubricants for different needs, so you can choose the right products for both safety and comfort.
Top Picks in Seconds: Best Condoms & Lubricants
- Durex Extra Safe Condoms
- Durex Thin Feel Condoms
- Durex Intensity Condoms
- Durex Intense Regular Fit Condoms
- Durex Play Feel Lubricant
- Knect Water-Based Lubricant
- Pasante Gentle Light Lubricant
How Do Condoms Prevent Pregnancy?
Male Condoms
Male condoms are worn over the penis and act as a barrier method of contraception. They work by:
- Preventing sperm from entering the vagina
- Reducing the risk of fertilisation
- Providing protection against sexually transmitted infections (STIs)
When used correctly, they are 98% effective at preventing pregnancy.
Female Condoms
Female condoms (95% effective against pregnancy) are inserted into the vagina before intercourse and create a protective lining.
They work by:
- Blocking sperm from reaching the uterus
- Providing internal protection during sex
- Offering control to the person wearing them
By the way, if you’re interested in learning more about female contraception, see our helpful guides:
- What Is the Contraceptive Injection? [Everything You Should Know]
- What Is The Combined Contraceptive Pill? [Complete Guide]
- What Is Emergency Contraception & How Does It Work? [Full Guide]
- Can the Pill Make You Infertile? [What Science Says]
What Are The Main Types Of Condoms?
There are several types of condoms designed for different needs and preferences:
- Latex condoms (most common and effective)
- Non-latex condoms (ideal for sensitive skin or allergies)
- Thin or ultra-thin condoms (for enhanced sensation)
- Textured condoms (ribbed or dotted for stimulation)
- Delay condoms (help prolong performance)
- Flavoured condoms (often used for oral sex)
Best Condoms for Optimal Safety, Comfort & Pleasure
1. Durex Extra Safe Condoms
Designed with slightly thicker latex, these condoms offer enhanced protection and peace of mind.
They’re ideal for those who prioritise safety or want extra reassurance during sex. Despite being thicker, they still provide a comfortable fit and reliable performance.
Best for: Maximum safety and confidence
2. Durex Thin Feel Condoms
These ultra-thin condoms are designed to maximise sensitivity while still providing reliable protection. They’re a popular choice for those who want a more natural feel without compromising on safety.
Best for: Enhanced sensation and comfort
3. Durex Intensity Condoms
Durex Intensity Condoms are designed for a more natural, close-to-skin feel, thanks to their ultra-thin, non-latex construction.
Made from advanced nitrile material, they allow better heat transfer compared to traditional latex condoms, helping to enhance intimacy and connection.
They are also pre-lubricated for smoother use and shaped for comfort and security, making them a reliable option for both protection and sensation.
Best for: Natural sensation, enhanced intimacy, and people with latex allergies
4. Durex Intense Regular Fit Condoms
Durex Intense condoms feature a combination of ribs and dots, along with a stimulating gel designed to enhance sensation during sex.
The textured surface helps increase stimulation, while the warming and tingling gel adds an extra sensory element, creating a more intense experience for both partners.
With a regular fit and reliable latex construction, they offer a balance of comfort, pleasure, and protection.
Best for: Intense sensation, added stimulation, and enhanced experience
Read also: Your Guide to Durex Products - Safer, Better Sex.
What Are The Best Lubricants To Use With Condoms?
Using the right lubricant can improve comfort, reduce friction, and help prevent condom breakage. Here are some of the best lubricants, designed to enhance comfort and compatibility:
1. Durex Play Feel Lubricant
Durex Play Feel is a light, smooth water-based lubricant designed to enhance comfort and create a more sensual experience for both partners.
Its specially formulated blend helps improve glide and intensify touch, making intimacy feel more natural and enjoyable. It can also help ease vaginal dryness and reduce discomfort during sex.
The formula is non-greasy, non-staining, and water-soluble, meaning it’s easy to wash off and suitable for use with condoms. It can be used for vaginal, anal, and oral sex, making it a versatile choice for different needs.
Best for: Comfort, natural feel, individuals with vaginal dryness
2. Knect Water-Based Lubricant
A trusted, gentle water-based lubricant known for its smooth texture and skin-friendly formula.
It’s often recommended for sensitive skin, as it doesn’t contain perfumes, parabens, or flavourings, and can help with dryness or discomfort.
Best for: Sensitive skin, vaginal dryness, and everyday comfort, including postnatal use or menopause-related dryness
3. Pasante Gentle Light Lubricant
Pasante Gentle Light Lube is also a water-based lubricant that provides gentle, effective lubrication with a natural feel.
Its clear, odourless, and non-greasy formula helps reduce friction and ease vaginal dryness.
It’s 100% paraben-free, vegan-friendly, and safe to use with condoms, making it a practical option for regular use.
Best for: Gentle, everyday lubrication and sensitive skin
Best Condoms & Lubricants — Final Thoughts
Finding the right condoms and lubricants is about choosing products that suit your preferences while offering reliable protection and comfort.
With a better understanding of the options available, it becomes much easier to make confident, informed choices.
Explore our full range of condoms and contraceptives to find what you need and enjoy safe, comfortable protection every time!
FAQs
What are the best condom brands?
Some of the most popular and trusted condom brands include:
- Durex
- Trojan
- SKYN
- ONE
Do thicker condoms last longer?
Yes, thicker condoms can help you last longer in bed, as the extra material reduces sensitivity and delays ejaculation. That’s why thicker condoms are recommended for premature ejaculation.
Which condoms are best for sensitive skin?
Non-latex or hypoallergenic condoms are ideal if you have latex allergies or sensitive skin.
How much lubricant should I use?
Start with a small amount (around a pea-sized drop) and add more if needed. Using too little can increase friction, while too much may reduce sensation or make things feel overly slippery. It’s best to build up gradually until you find what feels comfortable for you.
Published 9th June 2026 by
Allan Green
Registered Pharmacist & Head of E-commerce
Allan has been a Registered Pharmacist for 25+ years
He specializes in Ecommerce and Over the Counter medicines.
He is a Registered Pharmacist, who studied at University of Bradford.
He has been with Weldricks since 2006, starting as a branch manager before moving into area management and deputy superintendent roles.
His current responsibilities include web development, marketing, content, customer service and web operations teams.