Premium Condoms: Beyond Latex

When you think of condoms, there are certain words that come to mind – “safety,” “protection,” “prevention,” and maybe even “health” – but probably not “luxe” or “premium.” Let’s change that! Given all of the advancements in condom technology [LINK TO ARTICLE 4], there’s more to condoms than your average latex sheath, and we want you to get to know your non-latex options.

Latex-free: Not just for allergies!

For decades, latex was the “king” of condom materials and, aside from animal skin (which doesn’t prevent STIs!), there wasn’t really anything else on the market. That meant that people with latex allergies and sensitivities were out of luck. Fortunately, the condom market has evolved considerably and there are multiple options that are latex-free¹ and safe for everybody (and everybody) to use. Some of them are even considered luxurious and premium condoms!

One of the higher-end materials on the market today is polyisoprene, which is a fascinating material because of how latex-like it is but with the benefit of no skin irritation or allergy AND superior body heat transfer. It has become a favorite among all kinds of people – including those who don’t have a latex allergy at all.

Chemically, polyisoprene is similar to latex. It is a synthetic form of rubber that does not contain the proteins that trigger allergic reactions in people with latex allergies. Polyisoprene condoms tend to be soft, stretchy, durable, with a natural feel that users love.

The most popular polyisoprene condom on the market is Lifestyles SKYN, which not only gets consistently high ratings from customers, but also comes in a few different varieties that take the “premium condom” category to a higher level.

Here’s the breakdown:

• SKYN: This is the original and it is a standard-size polyisoprene condom.
• SKYN Elite: This is 15% thinner than the original, and described as “ultra-soft and “extra-sensitive.”
• SKYN Elite Large: This is the Elite version but in a larger size.
• SKYN Elite Extra Lube: This is the Elite version but with 40% more lubricant in the package.

SKYN isn’t the only polyisoprene game in town, however. Durex RealFeel condoms are also made with polyisoprene and engineered to feel more like a skin-on-skin experience. 

Another common non-latex option is polyurethane. Some users prefer this material because it is easier to find, very thin, and transfers heat exceptionally well. Others find it lacks the softness and stretch that they want from their condom and also fits a bit looser. It comes down to personal preference, as with most things having to do with sexuality. Polyurethane condoms like Trojan Supra Bareskin claim to provide a sensation more akin to not wearing a condom at all. 

As you can see, these non-latex options have gone above and beyond simply providing a basic condom option to fill the gap for those sensitive to latex. Non-latex condoms have become their own growing category and it’s one that is worth keeping an eye on!

Don’t Count Latex Out Though!

Latex can be just as luxe as non-latex, of course, and it has everything to do with the formulation and features.

ONE Vanish Hyperthin is the perfect example of a premium latex condom. Made with Sensatex Advanced Ultra-smooth latex – a true advancement in latex technology – they are significantly softer and 35% thinner than standard latex condoms. This makes for a more comfortable and intimate experience that allows partners to feel closer than ever. What’s more, they are triple tested for safety and reliability, premium lubricated for gliding comfort, and they feature a reservoir tip for additional protection.

Another stand-out are Durex Ultra Sensitive, Wink, and Okamoto 0.04 Zero Zero Four – all examples of thinner, more luxurious options available to latex condom lovers. If you are looking for a next-level condom experience and you are not allergic to latex, we absolutely recommend adding these latex options to your shopping cart to see what you and your partners enjoy the most.  

Are Premium Condoms Right for You?

There’s really only one way to find out – try them! Researching the options and comparing/contrasting their features is a great way to start, and while you can probably find them online, you may be able to find singles for sale at your local adult store. That way, you don’t have to commit to an entire box as you test out your options.

Some brands have assortment boxes, which also make it easy to test out new styles. SKYN, for example, offers their Selection box of non-latex options. Whatever you choose, be sure to pick up some premium lubricant, too – and make that it’s water-based or silicone-based, because oil-based isn’t compatible with latex or polyisoprene!

So while you probably will never associate premium or luxurious condoms with Rodeo Drive, you might think about them a little differently now that you can see the difference between your average drugstore condom and these higher-level condom brands. For as long as there are STIs and pregnancy to avoid, there will always be condoms of some kind, which means that condom innovation [LINK TO ARTICLE 4] and upgrades will also be part of the deal. And now you know what to look out for!

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References: ¹ https://health.clevelandclinic.org/have-a-latex-allergy-4-safe-condom-types-for-you/