Condoms have been around in one form or another for centuries, evolving from improvised coverings into rigorously tested medical devices. Below is a brisk but thorough tour through their origins, turning points, and modern innovations—followed by a quick review of five excellent options you can buy now.
Deep roots: the earliest sheaths
Long before modern manufacturing, people fashioned protective sheaths from whatever materials were available. In East Asia, historical records describe glans covers—devices that protected only the penis tip—made from oiled silk paper in China and from animal materials in Japan. European sources from the 1500s mention sheaths of animal membranes (intestines or bladder), a practice that would continue for centuries. Wikipedia
The Falloppio moment
The first unambiguous written description of a disease-prevention condom appears in 1564, when Italian physician Gabriele Falloppio recommended a linen sheath treated with chemicals to shield against syphilis. He even claimed to have tested it on more than a thousand men. Whether or not the trial met modern standards, Falloppio’s tract is a landmark: it established the condom as a prophylactic in European medical discourse. Wikipedia
From gut to rubber: the 18th–19th centuries
By the 1700s and 1800s, condoms—often still called “skins”—were widely sold in Europe and America, typically made from lamb or pig intestines. They were expensive, sometimes reusable, and tied at the base with a ribbon. Demand grew with the spread of venereal disease, especially syphilis, but supply and quality varied.
A true leap came in the 19th century with vulcanized rubber, pioneered by Charles Goodyear and Thomas Hancock. Vulcanization stabilized sticky raw rubber into a durable, elastic material, enabling the first rubber condoms. Early versions were thicker than today’s, but far more reliable and—crucially—amenable to industrial production. PMC
Law, morality, and marketing
In the United States, access to condoms was throttled by the Comstock Act of 1873, a federal law classifying contraceptives and even information about them as “obscene” and banning them from the mail. Many states passed their own restrictions, shaping how condoms were advertised (under euphemisms like “rubber goods”) and sold for decades. While enforcement was uneven, the law chilled open distribution until the mid-20th century, when court decisions and legislative changes relaxed prohibitions. PBS+2Wikipedia+2
The latex revolution (and mass adoption)
Around 1920, manufacturers perfected a way to make products from liquid latex—a water-based suspension that could be dipped and dried—ushering in thinner, smoother, and cheaper condoms without the flammability hazards of earlier solvent processes. By mid-century, latex condoms were standard, and quality control (including electronic testing) steadily improved. Wikipedia
The HIV/AIDS epidemic of the 1980s cemented condoms’ public-health role. Campaigns emphasized consistent use for STI prevention; today, laboratory and epidemiologic evidence shows that proper use of condoms is highly effective at reducing HIV transmission and many other STIs. CDC
Beyond latex: materials, fit, and the “internal” condom
Modern condoms come in several materials:
Natural rubber latex — the most common; strong, elastic, and inexpensive.
Polyisoprene — a synthetic, non-latex option for people with latex allergies; soft and stretchy with a “natural” feel.
Polyurethane — thin and hypoallergenic; less stretchy, but good heat transfer.
There’s also the internal condom (formerly called the female condom), a thin, pre-lubricated sheath inserted into the vagina (or used off-label for receptive anal sex). The current FC2 uses nitrile, is FDA-cleared, and offers a receptive-partner–controlled barrier that protects against pregnancy and STIs. FDA Access Data+1
Effectiveness tip: With typical (real-world) use, condoms are less effective than with perfect use largely due to user error. Health authorities stress correct, consistent use and pairing with another method if pregnancy prevention is critical. CDC
How to choose: thickness, texture, size, and lube
Thickness: “Ultra-thin” or “microthin” options aim to enhance sensation without compromising safety (all regulated condoms must meet stringent strength tests).
Texture/shape: Ribs, studs, flared tips, or ergonomic shapes can change sensation and fit.
Size: A better fit means fewer slips or breaks. Standard nominal width is often ~52–54 mm; brands also offer snug or larger sizes.
Lubrication: Most condoms are pre-lubed. If adding lube, choose water- or silicone-based with latex; avoid oil with latex (it degrades the material).
Allergies & ethics: Polyisoprene is a great non-latex choice. Vegan-certified or Fair Rubber–certified condoms exist for buyers who prioritize those standards.
Five excellent condoms to consider right now
Below are strong, widely loved picks representing different needs and materials. (Availability varies by region; always check local listings.)
1) SKYN Original (polyisoprene, non-latex) — “closest to nothing” feel
Why it stands out: SKYN’s proprietary polyisoprene delivers a soft, elastic feel that many latex-sensitive users prefer. It’s a go-to “feels like skin” option with a standard nominal width (~53 mm), smooth texture, and light, long-lasting lube. If you or your partner have latex allergies or irritation, start here. Images above depict the common black-and-gold packaging.
Best for: Latex sensitivity, couples wanting a natural feel without switching to thinner (more delicate) latex.Considerations: Slightly less stretchy than premium latex in some hands; always use compatible lube.
2) Okamoto Crown “Skinless Skin” (latex) — cult-favorite thin classic
Why it stands out: Often nicknamed the “Purple Crown,” this Japanese latex condom has a long reputation for being silky and thin while maintaining reliability. It’s lightly lubricated, smooth, and tends to run toward a standard fit; many reviewers praise the balance of sensation and strength.
Best for: People who want a proven, thin latex classic with an ultra-smooth surface.Considerations: Latex sensitivity means you should look elsewhere.
3) Kimono MicroThin (latex) — ultra-thin with rigorous testing
Why it stands out: Kimono has specialized in thin condoms for decades. MicroThin models are among the thinnest widely sold in North America, and the brand touts multi-stage strength testing. Available in variants (e.g., MicroThin, MicroThin Plus, ribbed, assortment packs) and multiple sizes. The red “MicroThin” packaging is widely recognized.
Best for: Maximum sensitivity seekers who are comfortable with latex.Considerations: Ultra-thin latex can feel more delicate—use adequate lube and store carefully.
4) LELO HEX (latex) — engineered honeycomb structure
Why it stands out: HEX uses a hexagonal lattice bonded within the latex to distribute stress and help resist tearing, aiming for a combination of thinness and durability. It’s available in original and Respect XL sizes; the minimalist white packaging cues the brand’s design-forward ethos.
Best for: Curious tech-minded buyers who want thinness with a reinforced structure.Considerations: Premium pricing; still latex.
5) Trojan Magnum line (latex) — reliable larger-fit options
Why it stands out: For those who need more room, Magnum (and Magnum Thin, Magnum Ecstasy) offer larger nominal widths with the ubiquity and quality control of a household brand. If standard sizes feel tight or roll-up is difficult, upsizing dramatically improves comfort and reliability. The iconic black-and-gold box is hard to miss.
Best for: Users who consistently find standard condoms too tight and want a mainstream, widely available larger fit.Considerations: Larger condoms on smaller girths increase slippage risk—choose your size thoughtfully.
Sizing tip: If you’re between sizes or unsure, brands like myONE (custom widths/lengths) can be helpful, and many sites provide printable fit guides. (Selection varies by country.)
Quick care & use refresher (the difference between “okay” and “excellent” protection)
Even the best condom underperforms if used incorrectly. Public-health guidance emphasizes:
Check the date and foil integrity; avoid heat and friction during storage.
Open carefully (no teeth or sharp nails) and pinch the tip to leave a reservoir.
Roll down fully on an erect penis before any genital contact.
Use more (compatible) lube if it feels dry—friction is the enemy.
Hold the base on withdrawal and replace with a new condom for each act (and after switching orifices).
Don’t mix oils and latex. For latex condoms, stick to water- or silicone-based lubricants. CDC
The big picture: what condoms do uniquely well
Condoms are the only widely available method that simultaneously reduces the risk of pregnancy and many STIs, including HIV, when used consistently and correctly. That dual protection—plus accessibility, portability, and zero hormones—keeps them central to sexual health worldwide, even as long-acting contraception grows. CDC
Credits & further reading
For a concise historical sweep and key milestones (Falloppio, 19th-century rubber, 20th-century latex), see “History of condoms.” Wikipedia
On the Comstock era and shifting legal access in the U.S., see PBS’s overview and the Comstock Act entry. PBS+1
For evidence on STI/HIV prevention and best-practice use, see the CDC’s condom pages (2024 updates). CDC
On the FC2 internal condom (current U.S. standard), review the FDA’s summary. FDA Access Data
by Riva Gaël, Pinkdist Editorial Team