When you consider all the items in creation for use in sex, none are quite as versatile as condoms. They are equal parts birth control and pleasure device, and users have a wide range of opinion and personal preference about the variety of styles available.

Male condoms (the most common type of condom used) are typically made of latex, polyurethane (or recently, polyisoprene) or lambskin. The condom you use to protect yourself is a choice that requires you take a few things into consideration.

Latex condoms are perhaps the most common type available, and generally the least expensive — most of the popular commercial brands manufacture their condoms out of latex. There are some drawbacks, however: latex allergies are somewhat common, and the condoms require the use of only water-based lubrications, as oil- or silicone-based lubes cause the latex to deteriorate and ultimately tear.

Polyurethane condoms are also common, but are more open to use with lubes. Oil- and silicone-based lubricants aren't the most popular or widely recommended on the market, but they can last longer (in some cases, even in water) and have a characteristic feel all their own. Though less elastic (and hence, more prone to tearing or slipping off), they have been tested to be just as effective as latex in preventing pregnancy and infection. Since 2008, condoms have also been made synthetically using polyisoprene, which is synthetically close to latex but lacks the agent that people are allergic to.

Lambskin condoms are the only naturally composed option widely available on the market. They are made from sheep intestines. Aficionados point out that lambskin condoms are the most natural in feel, though experts are quick to warn that they are porous by nature: while they can prevent pregnancy by inhibiting semen from entering the uterus, they offer no protection against sexually transmitted infections.

In addition to having a variety of materials to choose from, some condom brands produce fancy styles to add new sensations to the world's favourite pastime. Here are some of the most popular styles and brands of condoms, with some review information taken from Amazon.com.

Studded
Durex Intense Sensations condoms have 500 tiny raised bumps on the outside, meant to provide pleasure for the receiver. Some users reported that these condoms felt very enjoyable for the receiver, while others said they did not feel anything different from a normal condom. LifeStyle Thryll condoms are similar, but have 100 raised bumps.

Shaped
Durex Pleasuremax condoms have raised bumps and ribs to provide an extra-intense feeling. They are thicker than regular condoms, however, which may decrease the feeling for the penetrator.

LifeStyles Pleasure Ribbed condoms are also slightly thicker than normal condoms to accommodate the ribbing, which provides sensations for both partners. Some penetrators reported decreased sensitivity due to the thickness of these condoms.

Trojan Twisted Pleasure condoms are a new twist on an old favourite. This condom has twisted ribbing at the closed end, which stimulates both partners at some of their most sensitive parts. These condoms are fairly popular and well-liked by many users, however some noted that they cannot really feel the twists in the condom.

Thin
Durex Sensi-thin condoms are some of the thinnest on the market, and some users report feeling like the condoms are barely there. These condoms are cut a little smaller than most, so for those who need a little extra head room, try Durex Extra Sensitive.

LifeStyles Skyn condoms are made of polyisoprene, which has a softer, more natural feel than latex. It was a favourite among users with latex allergies, but some found the lube didn't last very long, that the condom size was too small and that the reservoir at the end for sperm was too small.

Trojan Thintensity condoms are 40 per cent thinner than traditional condoms, and are meant to feel as natural as possible. Some users reported that these condoms break more easily than normal ones, which is a risk you may not want to take. Trojan Ultra Thin latex condoms may be a viable alternative for those who want a thin condom without worrying about breakage.

Special Lube
Durex Play Sensations are a whole box of fun! The box contains condoms with one of four types of lube — Warmer, Tingling, Flavour and Play Brand long-lasting lube — so you and your partner can try a new one every night. Some users may experience discomfort with the Warmer and Tingling lubes.

Trojan Fire and Ice condoms have warming lube on the inside and outside of the condom, providing tingling sensations for both partners. Some may find this thrilling, while others may be made uncomfortable by the sensations the lube causes. A variety of styles and shapes of Trojan condoms come with the Fire and Ice lube, so you can test them out to see which best fits you and your partner.

Trojan Her Pleasure Warming Sensations are ribbed and contoured specifically for a receptive partner's enjoyment. The warming lubricant is activated with body moisture, and it provides both partners with gentle, warm sensations. Some may find the contour of the condom to feel too loose, which may make some users worry the condom could slip off.

Extended Pleasure
Both Durex Performax and Trojan Extended Pleasure Climax Control condoms are meant to prolong sexual performance. The lube in both brands contains benzocaine, which numbs the area and delays male orgasm. Some users compared the numbing feeling to when a limb "falls asleep." While some may enjoy the numbing sensation, but others may feel uncomfortable and may actually find it difficult to climax using these condoms.

A world of condom styles and shapes — not to mention colours and flavours — is as close as the nearest drug store. Take time, experiment and see what works best for you and your partner. Happy humping!

For more information, visit durex.com, trojancondoms.com and lifestyles.com.