How to Size a Cock Ring? PRO TIPS from a Sex Toy Tester!

Featured imageCock rings are a brilliant tool that can be fun to use alone and with a partner. But using one that’s too tight can quickly turn fun into a nightmare, with the possibility of a trip to the ER! Yikes! To save your precious family jewels from discomfort or pain, we created a guide on how to measure for cock ring sizes to keep you safely standing at attention.

Key Takeaways
  1. You need either the penis circumference or the diameter when shopping for a cock ring.
  2. To get the circumference: Measure it at your erect penis base using a tape measure.
  3. To get the diameter: Divide the circumference by 3.14(Pi) or use an online converter.

Why proper cock ring sizing is important

Let’s begin by shedding some light on how a cock ring works to understand better the hazards that can occur from having an ill-fitting product.

A cock ring fits tightly around the base of the penis, restricting blood flow [1] (as I demonstrate on the dildo below) to help with Erectile Dysfunction (ED). While this may sound counterintuitive to achieving and maintaining an erection, a cock ring only restricts the flow of blood exiting the penis while still allowing new blood to enter, creating a one-directional flow of blood.

Me demonstrating how a cock ring looks on a dildo

You don’t need to be a scientist to see the problems that may occur from wearing one the wrong size. If it’s too big, it won’t do anything other than look like a piece of penile jewelry. However, if one is worn that is too small, you risk putting yourself and your penis in danger. This is especially important when using a DIY cock ring (which we NEVER recommend!)

If you wear one for too long or use one a bit small, it can result in irritated skin. However, the main danger of using a cock ring that is too small is having it become stuck on your penis for a prolonged time. As we discussed, they allow blood to enter your penis and trap it there. If you become too engorged and your cock ring is not soft and stretchy or just too tight, it’s most probable your romp in the hay will end with a trip to the hospital.

Fifty Shades of Grey A Perfect O Silicone Cock Ring used on a dildo

I have heard first-hand doctor accounts about having to cut penis rings off of patients, and even though they still have erections, they are no longer having fun. So measure up and wisely choose what is best for your situation.

Cock rings come in various materials, and we strongly suggest choosing a stretchy soft silicone model, to begin with, to avoid the above from happening. Fifty Shades Of Grey A Perfect O is a great beginner model. (review here.)

Me testing the flexibility

There are even adjustable ones with different ways of fastening them to allow easy application and removal. Some cock rings go only around the base of your shaft, while others go around your penis and scrotum, like Lovehoney Bed Ringer. (Review here.)

If you are new to penis rings, please do not try a rigid one for the first time. And if you ever desire to use a rigid one, follow our guide and measure twice before buying. Sizing correctly is essential!

Lovehoney Bed Ringer used on a dildo

How to Measure Yourself for a Cock Ring

Thankfully figuring out the size of the ring you need for your penis is easy and fun. I measured the length of my penis many times as a teenager, but the girth never crossed my mind. It’s time to pull those wieners out and give them a little tug making them nice and hard to find out what you’re working with.

Next, you will need either a soft tape measure, the type used for measuring fabric, or a ruler and a piece of string (fabric ribbon, etc.). Hopefully, you have decided whether your penis ring will go around just your penis or include your balls. Some men feel that having your balls through the ring helps to make your penis look bigger, and this is purely a personal preference.

Me demonstrating how to measure for a cock ring size on a dildo.

  1. Take your string or tape measure and wrap it around your erect penis. If your intended cock ring only goes around the penis, measure from where your ball bag meets the shaft. If you want one to go around the balls, you must wrap the string or measuring tape around your balls and to the base of your penis on top. You can see me demonstrate this step on a dildo in the image above.
  2. It should be a tight, snug fit but not painful or uncomfortable. You should be unable to fit a fingertip between the measurement tape and the penis skin. Pro Tip: Measure a second time with a flaccid penis where you can fit a fingertip and use the average of the two measurements.
  3. If you used a piece of string, measure the length of string it took for both ends to connect around your penis. If you used a tape measure, read the measurement.
  4. Not only are we measuring our penises like high school kids, but we will also do some high school math. Divide your measured number by 3.14(Pi), which gives you the diameter. You can also use this nifty converter or a cock ring sizes chart.
  5. You now have the actual measurement of the diameter of your penis.
  6. The diameter or circumference measurement determines the cock ring size you need. Remember, don’t lie; everyone in the ER will know your fibs!

Alternatives

As stated, there are other options besides the true-fit cock ring. For example, there are lasso cock rings which are probably the easiest to use (image below). The design is straightforward, and it is a cord you can adjust to your penis size. They can be worn around just the penis or the balls as well. A Lasso model could also be a good option for those who struggle to achieve the same erection consistently, providing you with an adjustable fit thanks to a sliding tab. The best adjustable cock ring we recommend is the Stay Hard Silicone Loop.

Stay Hard Silicone Loop

If you want something a little more solid that is easy to rig up around your balls, there are metal rings with detachable links (image below). You still need to figure out the diameter of your penis, but should anything go wrong, you can always open the link. One good metal cock ring we recommend is Ze Don Magnetic.

Ze Don Magnetic Cock Ring

Do you want even more options? We have many more cock ring reviews in this extensive guide.

Helpful Tips for Your First Time

  • Trim the bush. We strongly recommend shaving or trimming your pubic hair. Not only will this help show off your new penis and rock-hard erection, but it will also eliminate the chances of hairs being pulled.
  • Lube it up. As with most sex toys, lube is your friend. A water-based lube will help you get in and out of your penis ring.
  • Stretchy, experts would agree that a stretchy silicone product is a perfect beginner’s ring. One that you can stretch is easier to take on and off and is less likely to cause problems.
  • Soft is good. You don’t need to be fully erect to put it on. Experts advise putting it on while being semi-erect and allowing the full erection to take place with it on.
  • Stay safe. If you use a condom, only apply the condom after the cock ring is secured. You don’t want any friction that may damage the condom.
  • Take it easy. Never wear a penis ring for more than 20-30 minutes at a time. If you experience numbness and discomfort, or your penis starts changing colors, take it off immediately.
  • Removal, do not be afraid to stretch your cock ring to remove it if it is stretchable. Some lube can also aid with sliding it off. Take your time and slowly ease it off; the tugging part of your fun is over. Remove it immediately if you feel pain or numbness.
  • Please keep it clean; now that you have done the dirty, it’s time to clean up. Always wash yours after every use with a sex toy wash or mild antibacterial hand soap. Dry it and store it away in a safe dust free area.

You can read more on how to use a cock ring in this guide.

Primary Sources

1. Morales-Brown, L. What Is a Cock Ring, And How Do You Use It? Medical and Health Information. (N.D.).

2. L., G. Cock Rings: A Constricted History. Body Jewelry & Piercing Blog | The Chain Gang. (2022, February 7).

3. Larousse, J., & Sade, S. Penis Genius Mini Book. Fair Winds Press (MA). (2017).

Thanks for reading my guide on how to measure for a cock ring!

Tim

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Tim Larson
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