Durex Ultra Thin Feel: The Best Ultra Thin Condoms for Real Sensation

Ever opened a box of condoms and thought, “Great, safe sex, but can I actually feel anything?” Yeah, you’re not alone. That’s pretty much why Durex Ultra Thin Feel exists. For years, plenty of us put up with clunky, thick condoms that kind of killed the mood. Not anymore. With newer tech and smarter materials, ultra thin condoms have stepped up the game. If you want more sensation and that barely-there feel, but still want reliable protection, Durex Ultra Thin Feel is worth your attention. Time to throw out the idea that safety always has to mean sacrificing pleasure.

Why Thin Matters: The Real History Behind Ultra Thin Condoms

Condoms didn’t start out sleek. Quite the opposite. The earliest ones, invented in the 16th century, were made from linen or animal intestines—a far cry from today’s latex wonders. In those early days, they were thick, uncomfortable, and sometimes even dangerous (vintage romance, ruining the mood since 1564). Fast-forward to the late 20th century, and latex became the gold standard, giving us better reliability and feel. But even then, a lot of brands stuck with thick latex, pushing the whole 'wrap it up, but enjoy less' mentality.

Durex, always known for innovation, began experimenting with thinner and thinner materials. Their Ultra Thin Feel line is the result of decades of R&D aimed at bringing you as close to skin-on-skin contact as possible, but with all the protection of a standard condom—0.055mm thick, to be exact, which is barely more than a human hair. Recent market figures show thin and 'sensitive' condoms now make up more than a quarter of all sales in countries like New Zealand and Australia, because people want that real, non-rubbery connection.

What sets Durex apart is their manufacturing. Every condom in the Ultra Thin Feel range is electronically tested (not just a few from every batch—every single one) to ensure strength and reliability. And get this: since 2020, their natural rubber latex has become even softer, giving a more flexible, second-skin fit. That’s not just advertising hype; actual customers, and independent testing, back that up. In effect, it's everything you want in a condom, minus the numbness.

Modern skin-safe lubes have also helped with ultra thin designs. Old rubbers sometimes snapped if they got too thin or too dry, but the special lubricants and improved latex mixes make breakage rare. Fun trivia: Durex boasts fewer than 2 breakages per every million condoms produced in 2023. For context, that’s safer odds than your toaster.

Still, some folks are hesitant to go thinner. It’s easy to assume a thinner condom equals bigger risks, but Durex Ultra Thin Feel is rated to the same international standards as thicker models. In practice, it handles everything a regular condom can handle—just with less material between you and your partner.

Breaking Down the Durex Ultra Thin Feel: Design, Fit, and Feel

The big selling point, obviously, is sensitivity. These condoms are made to be as unnoticeable as possible. How? They measure about 20% thinner than standard Durex lines, which usually land around 0.07mm—Ultra Thin Feels cut that down to 0.055mm. It may sound insignificant, but your skin knows the difference. Studies show that even a tiny reduction in barrier thickness helps transmit warmth and texture, so it’s closer to the real thing. Anyone who’s ever put up with that 'deadening' effect will instantly notice the upgrade.

Shape matters too. Durex Ultra Thin Feel condoms are straight-walled with a reservoir tip—simple, but specifically chosen. The straight wall means snugness without being restrictive, while the reservoir keeps things clean and safe at the end. They also have a nominal width of 56mm, making them roomy enough for most guys without feeling baggy. If you’re worried about fit, remember: too tight isn’t safer, it’s just more likely to break. On the flip side, too loose is a slip risk. This in-between size hits the sweet spot for most people (though you’ll always want to try a couple of brands to find your own perfect fit).

What about ingredients? No added fragrances, colors, or weird chemicals. It’s just high-quality natural rubber latex plus silicone-based lube. That’s actually big news if you or your partner have sensitive skin or allergies—latex can cause reactions for a tiny minority, but Durex's process minimizes protein residues that can trigger it. If you’re truly allergic (not just irritable), there are non-latex thin condoms like Durex Real Feel, but for most, Ultra Thin Feel is about as hypoallergenic as traditional latex gets.

Ease of use is another win. The slick lube makes them easy to roll on, even if your hands are shaky from excitement. Packaging is pretty discreet, and the seams are easy to grip and tear open—no wrestling with tiny packets in low light. Each condom is individually wrapped, with an expiry date printed on the foil. All the practical stuff you wish other brands didn’t overlook.

Real talk—these don't squeak or smell like a balloon. A subtle, neutral latex scent is normal (that’s unavoidable) but it's not overpowering. If you do want more variety, Durex also makes Ultra Thin with ribbing or extra lube, though the classic is the most popular for a reason.

The Big Benefits: Why Ultra Thin Means Better Sex

Most condom ads talk about protection, but let’s be honest—you’re buying these for the feeling. That’s because sensation is the first thing most people lose with a thick or poorly fitted condom. Durex Ultra Thin Feel gives you a level of contact that’s nearly as good as nothing at all, but without any of the stress or anxiety. That one change can flip the whole script on safe sex. Suddenly, it’s not just something you 'have to do'—it's something you want, because you barely notice it’s there.

This boost in sensation isn’t just a mood thing. There’s actually research showing that couples who use thin condoms are more likely to stick to safer sex, compared to those frustrated by thicker, numbing ones. One 2022 study tracked over 2,000 sexually active adults and found that switching to ultra thin condoms led to much higher rates of condom satisfaction—and fewer 'condomless' incidents (read: accidents you don’t want). The logic is simple: if it feels good, you’re more likely to use it, every time.

Another often overlooked benefit: heat transfer. Your skin picks up on temperature, and ultra thin latex lets more body warmth through than heavy-duty barriers. That means a more natural, real shared experience, with less of that awkward, clinical vibe. If you’ve ever heard someone complain about sex with a condom feeling “cold and disconnecting,” try switching to ultra thin and see the difference.

Then there’s noise. Some thicker condoms can, honestly, make a squeaky, rubbery noise (weird, right?). Ultra Thin Feel, thanks to the fine latex and generous lube, is basically silent. That contributes to keeping you in the moment instead of giving everyone a fit of giggles.

Performance-wise, the thinness also means increased elasticity. This stops the condom from feeling tight or constrictive. So whether you’re going for a long session or a quickie, it molds better to your shape, moves with your body, and doesn’t cut off circulation. Guys who are particularly sensitive to 'tightness' love this, as the snug-but-stretchy fit is much more comfortable.

Tips for Getting the Best from Durex Ultra Thin Feel Condoms

So you’re sold on trying ultra thins, but want to avoid rookie mistakes? Here’s how to maximize both safety and fun:

• Durex Ultra Thin Feel comes pre-lubricated, but if you or your partner feel any drag, grab some extra lube (preferably silicone-based, but water-based works too). Never use oil-based stuff like baby oil or coconut oil, as it breaks down latex and causes splits.
• Check the expiry before use. Old condoms go brittle and lose strength. If it’s out of date, bin it and get a new pack. They're not worth the risk.
• Pinch the tip when putting it on. This leaves space for semen and avoids leaks—classic mistake if you forget.
• Only open the packet when you’re ready to roll, and tear carefully at the serrated edge. Ripping it open with teeth or scissors can damage the condom.
• If you notice any rips or holes as you unroll it, don’t risk it—grab another. Even a hairline tear is no-go.
• Fit is all about comfort. If Durex Ultra Thin feels too tight or loose, try their different sizes. Using the wrong size increases your breakage risk (that’s not a myth), so don’t be shy about finding your best fit.
• During sex, if you notice it slipping or feeling dry, pause and adjust. A few seconds now saves major stress later.
• After the fun, hold the rim during withdrawal to stop it sliding off, then tie it in a knot and wrap in tissue before binning. Don’t flush—it clogs pipes and plastics last a long time in the water supply.

Another tip: store your condoms somewhere cool, out of direct sunlight and not in your wallet. Wallets get hot, and the constant pressure can weaken latex over time. Keep your stash in a drawer or bedside table, ready to go.

If you’re in a steady relationship, talk openly about preferences. Some people like even more lube, ribbing, or warming sensations. Try out a couple of different Durex options and see what’s best for you as a couple. Ultra Thin is great for maximizing sensation, but it’s all about what feels right for you both.

And hey, if you’re new to buying condoms and feeling awkward, you can always order online. Most pharmacies or supermarkets in New Zealand sell Durex Ultra Thin Feel, and you’ll get them shipped to your door without side-eye from the cashier.

Common Myths and Honest Answers About Ultra Thin Condoms

Time to bust a few myths floating around about ultra thin condoms. First, the big one: do they break more easily? That old rumor won’t die, but the statistics say otherwise. As long as you use them correctly, thin condoms are just as strong as regular ones. That’s backed by every official safety body—the FDA, WHO, and the big manufacturers like Durex. They’re tested to handle at least 18 liters of air pressure before breaking. And Durex runs water leak tests and electronic checks on every unit. So you can chill about safety.

Second myth: “They don’t fit everybody.” In truth, the fit is similar to the rest of the Durex range. They’re not one-size-fits-all (nobody’s product is), but 56mm is the standard go-to for average-sized guys. If you need something bigger or smaller, Durex and other brands offer variety packs and slim or large sizes. Don’t just put up with discomfort; get what fits best.

Some people worry about allergies. As mentioned before, true latex allergies are rare but not unheard of. Most people who get a mild rash are reacting to chemical residues left in poorly washed latex—an issue Durex largely eliminates by extra rinsing. But if you or your partner has a known latex allergy, look for their non-latex Real Feel version (synthetic polyisoprene, similar thinness).

Myth: “They’re only for pros or experienced users.” No way. If anything, they’re easier for beginners because they go on smoothly and don’t feel intimidating. The neutral, clean design helps too.

Another common worry: “They don’t have as much lube, so they’ll dry out.” Nope. They actually feature a premium silicon lubricant, specifically picked to match the thin latex and give plenty of glide. If you’re into marathon sessions or want a super slippery feel, add your favorite water or silicone-based lube on top—just don’t use oil.

Heard someone claim thin condoms can’t be used for anal sex? Not true, either. As long as you add extra lube and handle with care (anal use puts more pressure on any condom), ultra thin options still pass all the official safety checks. Just use fresh condoms for every act, and change straight away if one rips.

Finally, a lot of guys assume thin condoms will make them orgasm faster. This varies by person—if you’re used to less sensitivity, a thin condom might feel different at first, but most guys actually appreciate feeling more, not less. If you want to last longer, practice, switch positions, or use a numbing lube, but don’t blame the condom’s thinness.

So, most of the doubts about Durex Ultra Thin Feel boil down to old misconceptions, not real issues. The best way to find out? Give it a go, see what feels best for your body and your partner’s, and don’t be scared to experiment till you’re both happy.