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How to Measure Girth (paper‑strip method)

Girth—measured at the mid‑shaft—is the single biggest predictor of condom width (aka “nominal width”). Accuracy matters. Follow this simple method at full erection; if you’re nervous, repeat on 2–3 different days and use the average.

1. Cut a thin strip of paper 1–2 cm wide and at least 15 cm long. If you have a tailor’s soft tape, you can use that instead.
2. Wrap the strip snugly around the middle of the shaft (mid‑point between base and tip). Don’t press into the skin; just remove slack.
3. Mark where the paper overlaps. Keep the strip flat—no twisting.
4. Lay the strip flat against a ruler and read the overlap length in millimetres (mm). That number is your circumference (girth).
5. Enter it in the Calculator. If you’re unsure, take three readings and enter the average.

Common mistakes: measuring at the base only, using a metal tape (it kinks), pulling too tight, or using inches and converting incorrectly. If you only know inches, multiply by 25.4 to get mm.

This information is educational and not a medical diagnosis.

Nominal Width Explained (54–72 mm)

Condom boxes rarely print “girth.” Instead, they show a nominal width: the flat width of the condom when laid on a table. It’s roughly half the circumference of your shaft divided by π, but stretch and thickness complicate the math. That’s why our Calculator maps your measured girth to a recommended nominal width.

• 52–56 mm: regular/standard fit for average girths (about 110–125 mm).
• 58–60 mm: wide fit for above‑average girths (about 125–135 mm).
• 64–69 mm: extra‑wide for larger girths (about 135–150 mm).
• 72 mm and up: specialty XL for very large girths (>150 mm).

Why width matters: Too tight → hard to roll, uncomfortable, and more likely to tear. Too loose → slips, folds, or leaks. A good fit rolls on smoothly, hugs without pinching, and stays put during use.

Length note: Most condoms are “standard” length and fit the majority. If your measured length is ≥190 mm (7.5″), consider a “long” option. Length does not fix tightness—width does.

Snug vs Regular vs Wide vs XL

Think of fit as bands, not exact numbers. Each brand’s material and stretch vary a little, but these bands keep choices simple:

Our calculator uses your girth and a fit preference (Snug / Balanced / Roomy) to recommend a band. If you’re between sizes, buy a small pack first and test.

Latex‑Free Sizing (Polyisoprene)

If you or your partner has a latex sensitivity, polyisoprene and some other materials are excellent alternatives. They’re softer than polyurethane and closer to latex in stretch and feel.

• Sizing: The same nominal width rules apply. Use your measured girth and the Calculator to pick width; don’t size up “just because it’s non‑latex.”
• Feel: Polyisoprene is stretchy and comfortable; many find it comparable to latex.
• Lube: Stick to water‑based or silicone‑based lubricants unless the brand’s instructions say otherwise.

Label cues to look for: “latex‑free,” “polyisoprene,” or brand lines marketed for sensitivities. If you feel itchiness or irritation with latex, switch to polyisoprene and re‑test fit.

Why Condoms Break (fit mistakes)

Condoms are designed to be durable, but most failures trace back to fit and technique. Avoid these common errors:

1. Too tight: Rolling is difficult, ring marks appear, and the condom feels stretched to the limit. Choose a wider nominal width.
2. Too loose: Slippage, bunching, or the condom creeping off. Choose a narrower band or switch brands with less stretch.
3. Air trapped in the tip: Pinch the tip as you roll to leave space.
4. Wrong lubricant: Oil destroys latex. Use water‑based or silicone‑based lube; use more if there’s friction.
5. Expired or heat‑damaged: Don’t keep them in wallets or cars. Check dates and packaging.
6. Wrong size by length: If length is ≥190 mm (7.5″), try long versions so the ring sits comfortably at the base.

The fastest fix is to re‑measure with the printable ruler and enter numbers in the Calculator. A comfortable, correct width dramatically reduces breakage and slipping.