Cock Rings

A cock ring does one simple thing: it slows the blood leaving the penis, so an erection stays firmer for longer and feels more sensitive. Worn at the base, or around penis and testicles together, it also makes orgasm feel stronger for many men. The difference between a ring you use every week and one that ends up in a drawer comes down to size, material and knowing how long to keep it on.

Stretchy, adjustable or solid

Stretchy rings in silicone or TPE are the place to start. They go on and off easily, forgive a wrong size, and cost little. Look for platinum silicone rather than jelly: it is non porous and cleans properly.

Adjustable rings with a lace, snap or hook close around any size and can be released in a second, which makes them the safest choice for a first try and the most practical for wearing around the testicles too.

Solid rings in steel or aluminium do not stretch at all. They feel heavier and colder, hold firmer, and are worn by men who already know their exact size. They go on before the erection, never after, and are not for beginners.

Getting the size right

For a solid ring, measure the circumference of the flaccid penis at the base, plus the testicles if the ring will go around both, and divide by 3.14 for the diameter. Most men fall between 45 and 55 millimetres for a penis only ring and 50 to 60 for penis and testicles. A ring should be snug when erect, never tight enough to pinch or leave the skin discoloured.

Stretchy rings come in one or two sizes and fit a wide range. If it is uncomfortable to roll on, it is too small.

Where to wear it

At the base of the shaft is the simplest position and the one that helps the erection most. Around penis and testicles together holds longer and tugs gently at the scrotum, which many men find intense. Behind the head, just below the glans, is an option with soft stretchy rings only and works as a sensation toy rather than an erection aid.

Put a stretchy ring on when half hard, with a drop of water based lubricant; a solid ring goes on soft, testicles first, one at a time.

Vibrating rings

A ring with a small motor on top turns into a couples toy: the bullet sits against the clitoris during penetration, and the buzz travels through the shaft as well. Look for a rechargeable model with a motor you can remove for cleaning, and at least three intensity levels. Single use vibrating rings with a watch battery are fine for a night and nothing more.

How long, and when to stop

Twenty to thirty minutes is the usual limit, and never fall asleep with one on. Take it off at once if the penis turns cold, purple or numb, or if it hurts. A stretchy or adjustable ring comes off in a second; a solid ring on a full erection needs cold water, patience and lubricant, which is the whole argument against them for a first purchase.

Men with blood clotting problems, nerve damage, sickle cell disease or on blood thinners should ask a doctor first.

Care

Wash with warm water and mild soap after every use. Silicone can be boiled or cleaned with a toy cleaner; TPE and jelly should be washed and dried thoroughly and replaced when they turn tacky or discoloured. Keep silicone and silicone lubricant apart, and store rings separately from other toys.

Frequently asked questions