Before we begin, let's get the statistics out of the way.

What: Lifestyles Skyn Male Condom
Material: Polyisoprene
Shape: Straight, with a reservoir tip
Width: 2.13 inches*
Length: 7.48 inches*
Thickness: 0.0028 inches*
Lubrication: Interior and Exterior, Water-based

*According to one source I found online; I couldn't find stats for Skyn on the Lifestyles website, so these measurements may be off by a ten-thousandth of an inch.

Alright, on to the good stuff!

My boyfriend and I are always trying out different condoms to find the “perfect condom” for us. Enter Lifestyles Skyn polyisoprene male condoms, not perfect, but not to be overlooked if you're searching for a non-latex animal-friendly alternative to noisy, inflexible Saran Wrap-like condoms.

Lifestyles are marketed as being “the closest thing to wearing nothing” which is not very accurate. It is the same thickness as standard condoms, which my partner could definitely attest to after using a few, but he did say that it felt slightly better. He said it felt softer than latex condoms, and after handling a condom myself I have to agree that it is a bit softer than other condoms, latex and polyurethane alike. We both agreed that the material is a lot stretchier than latex condoms, and in turn offered more security because we could engage in rougher activities without worrying about condom breakage. It stretches quite a bit length-wise, but there is not nearly as much give width-wise, so men with a larger than average girth may find the Skyn condoms to be too restrictive.

Another thing that we both noticed about these condoms: They have a peculiar scent. Upon opening the foil package our nostrils were flooded with a slightly unpleasant odor, but it quickly faded. During the act you will not notice the scent again... Unless the act is oral sex. While going down on my Skyn-sheathed partner I picked up on the polyisoprene scent again, but with a dollop of flavored lube you can cover the scent up. Since the condom has absolutely no taste, using a tasty lube makes giving oral more pleasant if you require a condom. When using lube with these condoms, remember that oil-based lubes are NOT compatible.

Perhaps the biggest selling point for those of you with a latex allergy is that these condoms are NOT latex, so rest assured that you can engage in safe sex without all the noise of a polyurethane condoms. You will have added protection against STI's/STD's, which lambskin condoms can't offer.



So, what have we learned about Lifestyles Skyn condoms?
-If you have a known or suspected latex allergy, they are a great alternative to polyurethane condoms.
-Skyn condoms are a bit softer than latex condoms, and much softer than polyurethane condoms.
-These condoms are more malleable than their non-latex counterparts and also conform to the body.
-The stretchiness of the condom makes these more durable than other condoms.
-While they don't feel like nothing is between you and your partner, they aren't bad; Sensitivity is muted, though not more so than a standard condom.
-Skyn condoms have no taste whatsoever, but a slightly unpleasant odor can be detected (and masked with lube).
-Clinically-tested Skyn condoms protect against pregnancy AND STDs, unlike lambskin condoms which only prevent pregnancies.
-As with all condoms, store these in a cool (room temperature) dry place.
-If the condom has expired (check the individual pack), feels brittle, looks damaged or is sticky DO NOT USE IT.