Cite this Response
Alice! Health Promotion. "How do I know what condom size to buy?." Go Ask Alice!, Columbia University, 19 May. 2025, https://goaskalice.columbia.edu/answered-questions/how-do-i-know-what-condom-size-buy. Accessed 24, May. 2025.
Alice! Health Promotion. (2025, May 19). How do I know what condom size to buy?. Go Ask Alice!, https://goaskalice.columbia.edu/answered-questions/how-do-i-know-what-condom-size-buy.
Dear Alice,
In my shopping and looking for condoms, I NEVER come across a formal size chart. I have been told that I was "endowed" and that I need to look toward larger sized models, but all I ever see is "snug fit," "large," and "extra large," etc. How big is big? It would be most helpful if I knew what I was buying before I actually bought it. Do you know of the sizes of some popular condoms, or of a size chart resource?
Thanks,
Endowed
Dear Alice,
I have just started sleeping with my girlfriend and I was a virgin previously. Unfortunately, a slight problem has interfered... I tried to use a condom the first time (a free one from Health Services) and it was too small on me. I only rolled up about 3/4 of the way and was *very* uncomfortable. Is there any specific brand that I could use that would be more comfortable?
— Trying to be safe????
Dear Endowed and Trying to be safe????,
Finding the right fit isn’t just a problem for Goldilocks—it can be just as tricky when it comes to condoms. Though there is some variation in size from brand to brand, the good news is there’s a standardized size chart that can make your search for a well-fitted condom easier. Rather than worrying about how big is big, using this sizing information to find your best fit is the first step in feeling confident and staying safe. Read on for more information about standard condom sizes, how to measure your penis, and the importance of a good condom fit.
What are standard condom sizes?
External condoms tend to come in a few standard sizes. These are:
- Small, which can also be called close-fit, snug, slender, or slim condoms.
- Regular, also known as medium, standard, typical, classic, or average condoms.
- Large or magnum condoms.
- Extra-large condoms.
List from VeryWellHealth
These size categories correspond to standardized width and length measurements. However, some measurements from brand to brand may differ so it’s best to read the fine print!
How can you figure out your penis size measurements?
The best way to get a sense of what size condom to buy is to first figure out your penis measurements.
There are two types of measurements you need—length and width. Using a flexible measuring tape, measure the length of your erect penis from the point where it meets your pelvis to the tip. You can measure the width of your penis by wrapping the tape measurer around the thickest part of your penis shaft and divide the value by 3.14.
Why is it important to have a condom that fits?
A good fit can't be underestimated—a condom that’s too loose can slip off during sex and a condom that's too tight can result in tears or breaks because of the extra friction. A poorly fitting condom can undermine its effectiveness in preventing sexually transmitted infections (STIs) and unplanned pregnancy. It can also interfere with pleasure and sensation for both you and your partner during sex.
If you feel that a condom doesn’t fit right, it’s better to make an adjustment before getting hot and heavy. The kind of discomfort you feel can help you figure out what size condom you need. If the condom feels loose or slips off, you might need a smaller size. But if it doesn’t roll down all the way or there’s no space at the tip, a larger size could work better.
It might take a few tries before you find the condom that fits you best, so don’t be afraid to shop around. Pharmacies and supermarkets generally carry different sizes of condoms, though they might not have the widest range. If you find that your local store doesn’t carry your size, you might try a sex shop or online distributers.
Good luck finding your perfect (condom) match!