Ribbed and Dotted Condoms

What is the purpose of ribbed and dotted condoms?

Many people see condoms as an annoying necessity. You don’t like them, but you need to use them because you don’t want to get any sexually transmitted infections whilst having occasional sex or to avoid leaving your partner pregnant.

But have you ever considered using condoms for fun? Or to increase sensations and offer your partner more powerful orgasms?

Ribbed and dotted condoms were created with this specific purpose in mind. The raised textures on the outside of the condom enhance vaginal stimulation and are a god-send for women who need more intense and careful stimulation.

Patterns and texture prominence can vary from condom to condom and from brand to brand, so finding the right ribbed or a dotted condom that provides the right sensations without causing irritation shouldn’t be too hard.

Do ribbed and dotted condoms work and make a difference?

In most cases, ribbed and dotted condoms really do make a difference. Designed to stimulate the vaginal walls in general and the G-spot in particular, they provide more intense stimulation and help most women reach climax faster.

Considering that around 30% of women are unable to orgasm from intercourse alone, ribbed and dotted condoms are worth trying at least once in a lifetime.

Before wondering which condoms to buy, though, you should also know that ribbed and dotted condoms aren’t for everyone.

Some women may find them uncomfortable. They are also not indicated for women suffering from vaginal dryness unless you use them with extra lubricant. In case of insufficient lubrication, both ribbed and dotted condoms can scratch the sensitive lining of the vagina and cause irritation or injuries. The same can happen if you use textured condoms for anal sex and don’t lubricate them sufficiently.

With this in mind, remember that if you want to make the most out of textured condoms, you should use them with a generous amount of condom-friendly lube.

Why use ribbed and dotted condoms if they could cause irritation?

Using generic, plain condoms can get boring, especially when you’re in a committed relationship and use condoms regularly. Ribbed and dotted condoms can spice things up, allowing you and your partner to explore new sides of your sexuality.

Textured condoms may also come in handy if your partner needs more intense stimulation. Sexual satisfaction contributes to a couple’s happiness and also helps build intimacy and confidence in both partners.

Ultimately, ribbed and dotted condoms, alongside coloured and flavoured condoms, can add variety to your intimate life and bring back the sparkle for couples who have started to grow apart after years of sharing a bed. After all, if you don’t like them, you can always go back to the generic, plain condoms.

Are ribbed condoms better, or should I get dotted condoms?

Textured condoms have been created differently for a reason – each pattern stimulates the vaginal walls and G-spot differently. We can’t say one type is better than the other; ultimately, it’s down to personal preference.

Ribbed condoms

Their texture consists of small raised ridges that run around the circumference of the condom. Most have straight ridges, although a few brands make condoms with undulating ribs. Some even have a narrowing ribbing effect that enhances pleasure for both partners, whilst a few models have a textured surface on both sides of the condom.

Ribbed condoms work by increasing friction and providing extra stimulation for your partner. At the same time, the wearer also feels intensified sensations, although some men may not find ribbed condoms comfortable precisely for this reason.

Patterns vary from ribs only on certain areas of the condom (such as near the base or near the head) to a ribbing effect all over the condom’s surface. Ribbed condoms are perfect for women who typically have satisfying sex and can reach orgasm from intercourse but would like to experiment with something new every now and then.

What are the downsides of ribbed condoms?

The only downside of ribbed condoms – and of all other textured condoms, as a matter of fact – is that they are more abrasive than smooth condoms. Those with sensitive skin might find that these condoms irritate them. Women, above all, can find ribbed condoms downright painful.

Because of this effect, ribbed condoms require extra lubrication. You should always use a water or silicone-based lube – check the condom packet to see what lubes you can use. Never use oil lubricants or Vaseline with latex or polyisoprene condoms, because they will damage the condom structure and might cause it to break.

Women suffering from vaginal dryness may also find it hard to use textured condoms. A specific, vaginal moisturiser might help. However, if you’re looking for extra stimulation or some texture to keep you distracted, you could try Lelo Hex.

Lelo Hex condoms come in two sizes, Original, which is a regular size, and Respect XL, which is a large condom.

These condoms aren’t textured condoms in the true meaning of the word. However, they have edges of each hexagon connecting to one another creates a sort of pattern that some men find stimulating whilst others claim it helps them delay ejaculation.

The texture is only present on the inside of the condom. Its outside is silky smooth and more than suitable to use with your partner if she has vaginal dryness or sensitive skin.

What brands make ribbed condoms?

Ribbed condoms come from the most popular and trusted brands. They are as safe to use and as effective as standard condoms, but keep in mind that most textured options are made of natural rubber latex. Thus, they are not suitable for people with latex allergies. That said, here are some of the most popular ribbed condoms you can get:

Durex Tickle Me

Ribbed and coral coloured, Durex Tickle Me is perhaps the most popular ribbed condom. With intensely raised ribs that run along the entire shaft of the condom, Durex Tickle Me enhances pleasure for both partners. This is one of the snugger condoms from the brand, with a nominal width of 53mm. The condom is 180mm long and has a flared head that ensures an anatomical fit.

Pasante Passion

Formerly known as Pasante Ribbed, Pasante Passion is similar to Tickle Me. The condom features circular ridges that run across the entire length of the condom’s shaft. The size is also similar to Durex – 53mm of nominal width and 190mm of length. This condom has straight walls but it is still very comfortable to wear.

Vitalis Ribbed

This condom is similar to Pasante Passion, in that it has a straight wall and circular ribs along the shaft. The pattern is more concentrated in the central portion of the condom, though. Vitalis Ribbed has a nominal width of 52mm and is 180mm long.

Trojan Magnum Ribbed

This large condom features spiral ribbing at the tip and base, providing stimulation for her and him. Trojan Magnum Ribbed has a nominal width of 57mm at the base, 60mm at the head, and is 209mm long.

Trojan Ecstasy

Regular in size, Trojan Ecstasy has circular instead of spiral ribs, but the pattern is still concentrated in the two most sensitive areas – near the base for her and near the top for him. An unusual shape can also enhance pleasure for the wearer. This condom has a nominal width of 53mm at the base, but it’s 73mm wide from mid-shaft to the top, allowing for unrestricted movement and increased pleasure. This condom has deep ribs and is coated with an ultra-smooth lubricant on both sides to increase slickness and glide.

Trojan Ecstasy Double Pleasure

This condom has the same shape, size, and pattern as Trojan Ecstasy, but it is coated with a different type of lubricant on each side. The condom’s interior features an ultra-smooth lube that makes the condom very comfortable to wear. On the outside, the condom is coated with intensified, warming effect lubricant. This lube enhances blood flow to the lady parts, intensifying the sensations and increasing intimacy.

Dotted condoms

Their texture consists of a series of raised, circular dots displayed on the condom’s surface. Like ribbed condoms, dotted condoms may be textured only in certain areas (usually the middle of the condom’s shaft) or scattered all over the surface of the condom.

Dotted condoms also work by increasing friction, but the more prominent pattern adds more intense excitement. Some women may find the dotted pattern uncomfortable, and these condoms are more likely to irritate or cause injuries than ribbed condoms.

Do dotted condoms have any disadvantages?

Dotted condoms (alongside the ribbed and ribbed and dotted condom varieties) have only one downside – they can be irritating if you’re not using enough lubrication.

Vaginas are very sensitive, and while increased friction can help reach a vaginal orgasm, too much friction can cause genital chafing. The anus isn’t self-lubricating at all, so the irritating side effect may be even more common if you’re using dotted condoms during penetrative anal sex.

In most cases, the secret to pleasurable sex when using textured condoms is plenty of intimate lubricant. If you don’t want to keep reapplying, use a silicone-based lube. Silicone based lubricants last longer than their water-based counterparts and are compatible with condoms. You should avoid silicone lubricants, however, if you’re using the textured condoms with a silicone sex toy or if you’re prone to yeast infections or bacterial vaginosis.

What brands make dotted condoms?

Most brands make textured condoms, but your choices narrow down if you specifically want a dotted condom. Here are the most popular options.

ON

German condoms brand ON is one of the few companies that make dotted condoms. The ON Stimulation Condoms have a unique dotted texture designed for vaginal and G-spot stimulation on the outside, while the inside of the condom is smooth. Suitable for men who need a regular size condom, they have a nominal width of 54mm and are 185mm long. These condoms are thick enough (0.07mm) to allow for safe anal or vigorous vaginal sex. They’re made of natural rubber latex and come pre-lubricated with a silicone-based product.

Mates

Mates Orgazmax’s name says it all. These condoms are designed to help your partner reach a faster and more powerful climax. To do so, these condoms have large dots scattered along the entire condom shaft. An important difference between Mates Orgazmax and ON Stimulation is the presence of dots on both sides of the condom. In this way, the Orgazmax also stimulates the wearer. Slightly smaller than ON, these condoms have a nominal width of 53mm and are 185mm long. These condoms are made of natural rubber latex and come pre-lubricated with a silicone-based product. If you’ve never used textured condoms before or want to have multiple options available for a special night, the Mates Temptations pack includes two Orgazmax condoms alongside an assortment of flavoured, plain, and ultra-thin condoms. 

SKYN

The most popular brand of non-latex condoms proposes SKYN Intense Feel – condoms with intensely raised dots. Similar to ON Stimulation, the Intense Feel condoms only have dots on the outside of the condom and a smooth inside. They are ideal for men who want to increase pleasure for their partners but who don’t like the textured condoms themselves. These condoms are made of polyisoprene and are suitable for people allergic to latex. They are 153mm wide, 180mm long, and 0.065mm thick.

Ribbed and dotted condoms

Combining the best of both worlds, ribbed and dotted condoms usually have ridges at the condom extremities and dots in the middle, although pattern arrangements may vary from condom to condom. They are ideal for those who want to experiment with the most intense sensations a condom can give.

What brands make ribbed and dotted condoms?

Most brands make ribbed and dotted condoms. Here are some of the most popular options:

Pasante Intensity

These natural rubber latex condoms have a nominal width of 52mm and are 190mm long. Like Pasante Passion, these condoms have a straight wall, but fit comfortably. The condoms have no flavour and are colourless and odourless.

EXS Ribbed and Dotted

Characterised by an anatomical fit, these condoms have a nominal width of 56mm and are 193mm long. Like Pasante Intensity, they’re made of natural rubber latex, are colourless and odourless. The anatomical fit is snugger at the base, but the condom has a flared head.

Durex Intense

With an anatomical fit, these condoms suit men who need a slightly larger condom. They have a nominal width of 56mm and are 195mm long. These condoms are made of natural rubber latex, have a clear colour and have a mint flavour. The mint lube delivers tingling sensations.

Durex Pleasure Me

Has the same size and design as Durex Intense, but it has no flavour. The condom is made of natural rubber latex.

Durex Mutual Climax

Another condom that has the same size and design as Intense and Pleasure Me, Durex Mutual Climax stands out due to its delay effect. The condom contains a drop of Benzocaine 5%, a mild anaesthetic that can help you postpone ejaculation until you bring your partner to climax. Durex Mutual Climax condoms are made of natural rubber latex.

Skins Dots & Ribs

Those who don’t like the smell of latex mind find Skins Dots & Ribs quite satisfying. This condom is not flavoured, but it is infused with a sweet vanilla scent. Suiting men who need a regular size condom, Skins Dots & Ribs has a nominal width of 54mm and is 180mm long.

What are the best condoms for sensations?

Do ribbed and dotted condoms offer the same protection?

Yes. Ribbed and dotted condoms offer the same protection as regular condoms. Because of their pattern, textured condoms are often slightly thicker than regular condoms, another factor that contributes to their effectiveness.

However, you must follow the same rules of buying and using the condom you’d follow with generic, smooth condoms.

• Make sure the condom fits you right: Most ribbed and dotted condoms are regular in size, which means they may not be suitable for you if you normally wear a smaller or larger size condom. Options vary from 52mm to 56mm in width and 180mm to 195mm in length, so most men won’t have issues finding a suitably textured condom. In the rare event you need a different size, and it is best to use alternative products, such as vibrating cock rings, to enhance stimulation and spice up your sex life.
• Pay attention when putting on the condom: Because all textured condoms have rougher patterns on the outside (designed to stimulate the vaginal walls), it is particularly important to put the condom on correctly. Like all condoms, textured condoms have the rim on the outside, so all you have to do is to unroll it a bit to figure out which is the right side up. Obviously, if you mistakenly rolled on the condom inside out, you must bin it and use a new condom.
• Use intimate lubricant: Ribbed and dotted condoms are designed to enhance friction, but that doesn’t mean you should overdo it. Pair your condoms with condom-friendly lube to ensure a smooth glide and prevent them from breaking or tearing during intercourse.
• Don’t use two condoms at the same time: If you normally wear a smaller size condom and couldn’t find a textured condom for your size, you may be tempted to roll on your standard condom and use a textured condom on top of it. However, you shouldn’t do it. The friction that is created between the two condoms increases the chances of condom breakage, leaving both you and your partner exposed to sexually transmitted infections and a higher risk of pregnancy.
• Don’t use textured condoms with massage oils or Vaseline: Like plain condoms, textured condoms are made of latex or latex-like materials that can be damaged by massage oils, body creams and lotions, Vaseline, and other skin care products containing oils or petroleum jelly.

Why do women need more stimulation to reach orgasm during intercourse?

Sex should be fun for both partners, but why do women need additional stimulation to reach climax? There are many theories and possible explanations, but it could all come down to evolution and biology.

From an evolutionary standpoint, men evolved to reach orgasm during intercourse fast because male orgasm is necessary for the perpetuation of our species. Women can’t reproduce without sperm which men provide through their semen during ejaculation.

Women don’t have to ejaculate to reproduce, and they don’t have to reach orgasm for the purpose. Whilst orgasm induces ovulation in most mammal females, ovulation is a spontaneous event in humans and is not related to intercourse. Thus, women don’t need an overly sensitive vaginal canal.

However, the clitoris and penis develop from the same structure in the womb and work similarly. That’s why most women can reach clitoral orgasm fairly easily, even though they never had a vaginal orgasm.

That said, most women claim that clitoral and vaginal stimulation is important in orgasm. Because female orgasm is complex, using dotted condoms to provide additional stimulation and increase vaginal pleasure is always a good idea.

Where to buy ribbed and dotted condoms?

You can buy ribbed and dotted condoms right here at Condoms.uk. Browse our range to find a variety of ribbed condoms, dotted condoms, extra dotted condoms, and any combination of patterns in a selection of sizes.

We only sell genuine condoms sourced directly from brands or their manufacturers here in the UK, so you can rest assured all condoms you get from us meet the quality and safety standards.

If you’re concerned about people finding out what you’ve been buying, know that we deliver all our products in discreet packaging.