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

Featured imageUsing a cock ring correctly can make you feel like you have superhero powers, enabling you to hold a rock-hard erection in some memorable sex marathons. This sounds fantastic, but you should know a few things before plunging headfirst to avoid possible dangers and side effects. This guide will teach you the ins and outs of this fantastic sex toy, and most importantly, how to safely use them.

Key Takeaways
  • Cock rings can be a new world of fun for you and your partner. They are a fantastic way to have better, longer-lasting sex, making you harder and keeping you from ejaculating too fast. When the time comes to blast off, it will be more intense than usual due to being held back like an animal in a cage.
  • When choosing your cock ring, pay attention to the type, material, size, noise level, comfort, and special features such as app control and vibrations.
  • If you’re a beginner, we recommend using lots of lube and trying it solo first. Please put it on while in a flaccid or semi-erect state and stretch it so it’s positioned at the base without any skin getting wrinkled.

What Is a Cock Ring, and How Does it Work?

A cock ring is not merely an accessory to bring a bit of bling to your ding-a-ling. It’s a ring worn at the base of the penis and sometimes the scrotum achieving stronger, longer-lasting erections. They can make anal sex, oral sex, and vaginal sex more intense and delay male orgasms for heightened pleasure at the moment of release, accomplished by restricting the penis’s blood flow. You’re probably thinking, wait a minute; we need blood there to be hard, though. Well, c-rings allow the blood to flow into your penis freely but prohibit the blood from exiting your penis.

The Fifty Shades of Grey cock ring used on a dildo

What Do Cock Rings Feel Like?

Aside from the boost of confidence cock rings give you, they are not the most comfortable feeling at first. It’s like a tight-fitting condom with an enlarged band at the base of your penis. Luckily the width does not cut into the flesh the way the rubber band of a condom does but grasps you at the base instead of pinching. If a cock ring fits properly, it should be comfortable enough not to distract you once you are doing the deed.

Lovehoney Ignite used on a dildo

Who Are They For?

If erectile dysfunction does affect you, a cock ring could be a cheap and natural alternative to Viagra. But you should consult a doctor before using a cock ring if you are planning to use one to treat erectile dysfunction.

Not just for those with erectile difficulties, they can be used and enjoyed by any penis-owning adult. A cock ring can be a great way to enhance your love-making experience, as it can hold off ejaculation to give you a more intense orgasm. The same is true while masturbating. Also, these sex toys can be a great way to boost your confidence, relieving performance anxiety, as you will stay harder for longer.

Your partner will also love the benefits a cock ring can offer. It could be a game changer to your sex life if you have trouble staying fully erect the whole time or if certain sex positions take the wind out of your sails, even though you want to stay in that position.

What To Think About When Buying A Product

Choosing your first cock ring can be overwhelming, as there are thousands to choose from. We strongly recommend using a flexible, stretchy one for the first time, preferably made from silicone.

Below we will discuss the four main types of cock rings and suggest models worth exploring.

The Four Most Common Cock Rings

1. Adjustable Cock Rings

As the name says, you can adjust this style for the perfect fit.

There are a variety of adjustable designs, from velcro to clip systems to adding different-sized links. Adjustable rings fit around your penis and scrotum, and these are user-friendly and are an excellent first cock ring if you want one to fit around your balls.

Doc Johnson Adjustable Silicone Cock Ring Set – These are a set of two adjustable rings and can be worn at the same time or separately. One is for the base of your penis, while the other is for your balls and penis. With a sliding tab to adjust the fit, they will accommodate all penis owners by allowing you to control the tightness. At $24.99, they are a great beginner’s adjustable penis ring set.

2. Silicone Cock Rings

Silicone cock rings are the original, the one-size-fits-all for all occasions. They are made from a stretchy silicone ring, making them easier to put on than a condom. Typically these go around the base of your penis, but some do go around your testicles or have a butt plug for anal stimulation. Silicone models are beginner-friendly because they are simple to use, without any moving parts.

Fifty Shades of Grey A Perfect O Silicone and the box

The Fifty Shades of Grey Perfect O Silicone Cock Ring is excellent for both beginners and seasoned veterans. It is a stretchy donut-shaped ring designed to sit at the base of your penis. It only costs $15, making it a cheap option for your first try.

3. Solid Cock Rings

This style of erection ring is for experienced users only. Solid cock rings are often made from metal, which will show no mercy if you do not choose the exact size for your engorged penis; a correct fit is essential! This style generally fits around both your penis and balls.

Dominix Deluxe 1.9 inch Stainless Steel Donut Cock Ring  A donut for your penis, WAHOO! But you don’t want to bite into this one. This beast is made from solid steel and is for veteran users only. Metal cock rings can be warmed or cooled before use for added sensations. It costs $29.99.

4. Vibrating Cock Rings

Vibrating rings are the most stimulating and usually the most expensive models out there. They typically have a vibrator built into or outside the ring to pleasure your cock and your partner’s clitoris. Some models even feature rabbit ears for extra clitoral stimulation. In contrast, others have vibrating pads that can massage your perineum, partner’s clit, or anus, depending on how you wear them.

Lovehoney Ignite 20 Function Vibrating Rabbit Love Ring
Lovehoney Bed Ringer Rechargeable Double Cock Ring – The Bed Ringer is a perfect beginner’s silicone vibrating cock ring at $49.99. It’s a double-ringed design, giving you one ring for your balls and another for your shaft. With a textured vibrating pad on top for your partner’s clit the Bed Ringer will knock your lady flat on her back every time.

Materials

Penis rings can come in a variety of materials. The most common are silicone and metal. They can also be made of leather, rigid plastic, and fabrics or strings. Be careful when using rigid versions, and ensure you have the correct fit; you don’t want to be a part of the story a doctor tells at a cocktail party.

Me testing Bed Ringer's flexibility

Settings

Vibrating cock rings often feature a variety of speeds and vibration patterns. Some companies have even added—app-enabled models, like We-Vibe Bond, where your partner can control the action directly from their phone. Shop around a little and see what’s best for you.

We-Vibe Bond with the remote control

Size

Size is an important consideration when choosing your very own cock ring. To find what width you need, you will need to know the diameter of your penis.

Here’s how:

  1. With a full erection, take a soft measuring tape and wrap it around the base of your penis or your penis and testicle, depending on how you plan to wear your cock ring. If you don’t have a measuring tape, you can use a string and measure the length necessary for it to rejoin itself.
  2.  Now it’s time to use that math you learned in school; divide this measurement by 3.14(Pi).
  3.  You now know the diameter of your penis, but this is no time to tell lies because an ill-fitting product will not do you any favors.

You can read more about cock ring sizing in this guide.

Design

There are two primary methods a cock ring can be fitted; either one that fits only around the base of your penis or one that fits your penis and testicles as well. Both these styles will have similar results, but some also prefer the feeling of their balls being part of the action.

Lovehoney Bed Ringer used on a dildo

The other significant difference is rounded cock rings like donuts or flat rings. The flat rings fit more securely and are less likely to move while in use, and the flat ones will also help to distribute pressure more evenly.

The last design variation is double-ringed cock rings. These have one ring for your penis and a separate ring for your balls. If you want one to fit around both your penis and balls, these are much easier to get on. A variation of this is double penetration cock rings used for double penetration.

Comfort

Undoubtedly the first time wearing a cock ring will feel weird, but it should never be painful. If you feel pain when using one, remove it immediately. While wearing one may feel awkward initially, it shouldn’t distract you from the task.

Lelo Tor 3 cock ring used on a dildo

Sound Level

Most models are pretty quiet. Of course, the non-vibrating ones are silent. The ones that vibrate do not make much noise, as small motors power them. There is no need to worry about roommates hearing it. And if you use one with your partner, it will be even quieter when squished between your bodies.

As a reference, I measured Lelo T0r 2 to 42 dB on the highest setting, which “is about the sound of a normal conversation. It is also the volume of a vacuum cleaner or a lawnmower”, according to this helpful website.

App/Remote Control

Technology in your man toys is always fun and even better in penis-owning sex toys. If you buy a vibrating cock ring, remote/app-controlled options are worth considering. Changing the settings mid-coitus on a penis ring is not the sexiest thing in the world and can take away from the moment as you pull away from your girl and start pressing buttons.

With remote/app control, this problem is eliminated. Now she can ride you like a bucking bronco, and it is as easy as a swipe of your finger on your phone to turn things up or down. A smartphone app is also great for discreet public play and long-distance couples.

Hot Octopuss Atom Plus Lux
The Hot Octopuss Atom Plus Lux is a great one to consider. It has its own remote, making it an excellent toy for some sneaky public fun vibrations under your balls to get things heated up. In the bedroom, flip it around to pleasure your girl’s clit. It is an adjustable fitting, creating more comfort, but you still need to take measurements before buying.

Budget

There truly is a cock ring for every budget. From struggling students to ballers who want to splash out. Your standard, basic model costs around $15 and will work fine to bring out the man in your manhood. On the opposite end of the spectrum, the sky’s the limit thanks to Bulgari’s gold and diamond-encrusted cock rings, costing $28,000.

Lelo Tor 3

More realistically would be Lelo’s Tor 3 at $159 (review here). It’s a luxury vibrating cock ring made from superfine silicone. It has a powerful little motor with 8 settings and complete control over the intensity. You will undoubtedly have a ton of fun with it, alone or with a partner.

Read Reviews

While we hope to have pointed you in a good general direction for what to buy, always read reviews and check measurements before purchasing. Doing homework before putting something on your penis is probably one assignment you don’t want to skip.

I recommend reading our comprehensive cock ring guide for more reviews and tips.

How To Use A Cock Ring Safely?

A basic silicone model is a terrific first cock ring for anyone, so we will start our guide here.

  1. Wash it – you should always wash any new sex toy before using it for the first time, and cock rings are no different. Remember, a clean wiener is a happy wiener.
  2. Manscaping- this is important and not merely for aesthetic reasons of showing off your new penis jewelry. You will want to either trim or shave your pubic to avoid it getting pulled on or ripped out by the ring while in action.
  3. Try it solo– why not test the waters and have a wank while wearing it before diving into action with a partner. This way, you will focus entirely on the fit, any discomforts, and what sensations to expect. You will also be less flustered while putting it on for the first time, ensuring you do it correctly.
  4. Lube up – lube is always your friend in the bedroom. Apply water-based lube to the inside of the ring and your penis. You will be grateful for extra help as you slide this tight-fitting ring down your shaft.
  5. Putting it on – You can put your cock ring on when flaccid or with a semi-erect penis. Experts recommend putting the cock ring on with a semi-erect penis to achieve the best results, ensuring maximum blood flow to the penis. Putting it on fully erect is more complicated and may not be possible for some rings/men.
  6. Stretching – Don’t be afraid to stretch them. Stretching it open and getting it one inch away from the base is the best. You can now slide it to the bottom without any wrinkled skin or pubic hair trapped for a proper fit.
  7. Around the balls – Stretch it even more if you want to get the ring around both your penis and balls. The best way to do this is by stretching it a lot. If you have a double-ringed toy, put it on the penis first, then stretch the second ring around the balls.
  8. When using a condom with a cock ring – If you use a condom, always put it on after the cock ring. Be wary of any friction between the two to avoid ruptures.
  9. Have fun, but don’t overdo it – You should only wear a cock ring for a maximum of 20-30 minutes at a time. Take it off immediately if you see your penis changing colors, going numb, or other oddities. These breaks can be a great time to go down on your girl or get creative in different ways.
  10. Pump it up – If you use a penis pump to help achieve an erection, always use the penis pump first. Get yourself semi-erect, and then put the ring on. Do not use the penis pump with the ring on; this can be dangerous!
  11. Aquatic Play – If you have a fully waterproof cock ring, you can bring it into the shower or bathtub for wet shower play!
  12. Taking it off – Some tight rings, like Lelo Tor 3, can be a bit challenging to take off. But I found that using some lube was a good hack. In addition, please be patient; gently give the ring a little stretch and ease your way out. Some high-end products, like We-Vibe Bond, have a quick-release system that makes the taking-off process a breeze.
  13. Keep it Clean – Wash the ring thoroughly after every use. You don’t want bacteria building up and causing problems for you or your partner.

Other Pro and Safety Tips

Like all things in life, nothing is risk-free.

  1. Ensure you have a properly fitting cock ring before using it to avoid dangers.
  2. Always measure first and ease into it. Your erect penis can become trapped as the blood can not be released.
  3. Remember, a snug fit is a good fit. If you try going tighter, ensure you first experiment with soft, stretchy rings for easy removal.
  4. Do not wear a cock ring for any longer than 20-30 minutes at a time, as this can cause damage to your family jewels.
  5. If your penis becomes swollen, numb, or changes color, remove it immediately. Contact your healthcare professional if the conditions persist.

Consult a doctor before using a cock ring if you match any of the following criteria:

  • Have erectile dysfunction
  • Use blood-thinning medication
  • Have existing penile injuries
  • Have diabetes
  • Any blood or nerve disease
  • Have a cardiovascular disorder
  • Experience soreness in the genital region.
  • Any other medical condition.

Aftercare and Maintenance

Always wash your cock ring after each use, especially with a partner. You can wash them with a sex toy wash or anti-bacterial hand soap. Before storing, ensure it is thoroughly dry to prevent mold or other fungi. Store in a clean, dry cotton bag or storage container.

Cleaning Sex Toys In The Sink

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Do cock rings hurt?

A cock ring should never hurt, it may feel odd at first, but the pain should not be one of the new sensations. If you experience pain while wearing one, remove it immediately. Try using a different size or style of ring. If it continues to hurt, this may be a sign of a more serious medical problem, and you should see your healthcare provider.

How Tight Should A Cock Ring Be?

It should be tight enough to stay on your penis and maintain your erection but not so tight that you feel any pain.

Can I use a condom with cock rings?

Yes, you absolutely can use a condom with a cock ring. Put the cock ring on first, then the condom. Be careful of friction between the two, and continue to check for any condom damage during intercourse.

Are cock rings safe?

Used correctly, cock rings are safe for most people, so long as you take standard safety precautions. Because of how the toy fits, you should always be aware of the potential risks and avoid misusing the product. Always consult your doctor for further info.

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

Tim

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Tim Larson
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