The best tactics for choosing prophylactics

Condoms have been in use for over 500 years, with latex condoms first appearing in 1912. With such a noble history, its no surprise that there are many varieties to choose from in 2008. Condoms are generally considered the easiest and cheapest form of contraceptives among college students, though the gap between condoms and the No. 2 choice, birth control medication, is tightening. There are three main areas of condom-culture that yield opinions from condom users: styles and textures, brands and sizes. One female student I spoke to claimed that "most girls have a favorite - and not just a favorite brand. They have a specific favorite type, with all five adjectives or whatever. We're all picky, but you usually don't hear about it because it's too much work to find specific condoms when you're a dumb guy." Sadly, this seems to be true. Too many college students settle for the most accessible and cheapest options, but there is certainly something to be said for the upscale, fancy types as well. It's unfortunate that the size determination issue is not more frequently addressed. The vast majority of condoms are generally the same size, but Trojan makes Magnum and Magnum XL sizes, and Durex makes an XXL version. Magnum ones aren't that much longer than a regular condom, but they are wider. Magnum XL, however, increase both the length and diameter of the condom - 30 percent larger, according to their Web site. Durex's XL also increases both size and length.The differences which are often discussed, debated and sometimes argued about are the various brands. Nine out of the 11 people I spoke to mentioned their hatred for Lifestyles, unprompted. However, they are still used frequently, especially on college campuses, since they're cheap at drugstores and free at some clinics and in the dorms. The Durex-Trojan debate can get pretty hot. Everything from the shape to the chemical composition of lubrication is up for discussion. Of the same 11 people, five were for Durex, and another five for Trojan. One student struck out on a limb and expressed a preference for Kimono. And as the expert, I cast my vote vehemently for Durex, which leaves us with a clear cut victory over Trojan's supposed monopoly.The next issue that comes up are the styles. Ribbed? Studded? Twister? They all have fans, they all have enemies. Both Trojan and Durex have a variety of products, most available in either brand. Both studs and ribbing are popular, especially Durex's pleasuremax, which has both. Twisted styles are considered either painful or people's favorite; there doesn't seem to be a middle ground. One of the most popular types of non-textured condoms are those with warming lubricants. Thin or extra-thin condoms are also popular. However, these "plain" condoms raise some issues. "The non-textured ones dry really fast. They're also just not that interesting," said one student, outlining two very valid and concerning problems. The general consensus is to stay away from the "performance-enhancing" condoms which contain chemicals to lessen sensation so guys can last longer.One of the rarer issues you encounter, but still a valid one, is that of latex allergies. Your options are the natural condoms, which have higher risk rates for both diseases and pregnancy, or Polyurethane. However, the latter have very few fans - most girls or guys with latex allergies just find safe partners and rely on oral contraceptives. One student I spoke with, who is allergic to latex, said, "In general condoms have been a big headache. That in mind, I generally don't use condoms. Instead, I find a partner that I know that I can trust and go raw with, without worrying about diseases." Seems reasonable, and as long as you're safe, it can be done.Another student summed up the basic principle of condom selection pretty well: "A condom is a condom. I just figure if I'm gonna buy a box I might as well buy some that seem interesting."