How to Use a Cock Ring: Sizing, Safety and Technique

A cock ring is a band worn around the base of the penis, or the penis and testicles, that slows blood flow out of the penis. The result is a firmer erection that lasts longer for many men. Vibrating rings add stimulation for a partner too.

They are among the most useful and cheapest toys, and they are safe when you follow a few rules.

What a Ring Does

• Firmness. It holds blood in the penis, which many men find helps hold an erection.
• Sensation. Pressure at the base can heighten sensitivity.
• Delay. Some men find it helps them last longer, though results vary.
• Partner stimulation. Vibrating rings put a motor against the clitoris.

A ring does not treat erectile dysfunction. If you struggle to get an erection at all, see a doctor.

Choose the Right Type

Start with a stretchy silicone ring. If you are unsure of the size, buy a set. Browse our penis rings or go straight to vibrating cock rings (from $20.00).

• 

  Best Starter Ring

  TitanMen Stretch-To-Fit Cock Ring

  TitanMen · $15.00

  Soft, stretchy and inexpensive. The easiest to put on and remove, which matters most for a first ring.

  Check Price at LuxuryToyX
• 

  Best Vibrating Ring

  Levelz Sealed Liquid Silicone Rechargeable Vibrating Cock Ring

  Levelz · $49.00

  A stretch ring with a small motor positioned for a partner. One of the best-selling couples toys.

  Check Price at LuxuryToyX
• 

  Best Adjustable

  Zero Tolerance Perfect Fit Rechargeable Vibrating Silicone Lasso Cockring

  Zero Tolerance · $48.00

  A fastening ring you can tighten or loosen to find the right fit without buying a set.

  Check Price at LuxuryToyX

Sizing

The ring should be snug, not tight. A good test: it should leave no deep dent after you remove it, and the skin below it should stay the same color as before.

1. Measure the circumference at the base of the penis with a soft tape, when erect.
2. Compare it to the ring's stated inner diameter.
3. Choose a ring that is slightly smaller than your measurement if it stretches, and slightly larger if it does not.

How to Put It On

1. Put it on before you are fully erect. It is much easier to fit.
2. Use water-based lube. Apply it to the penis and the ring.
3. Slide it to the base. Pull the testicles through one at a time if wearing it around both.
4. Check the fit. It should feel snug with no pain, numbness or color change.

Safety Rules

• Remove it after 20 to 30 minutes. Never leave a ring on longer.
• Never sleep in one.
• Take it off at the first sign of pain, numbness, coldness or a color change.
• Avoid rigid metal rings as a beginner. If swelling occurs, you cannot stretch them off.
• Talk to a doctor first if you take blood thinners or have a circulation condition.
• Keep scissors or a ring cutter nearby if you use a rigid ring.

If a ring will not come off, apply lube and work it slowly. If that fails after a few minutes, seek medical help.

Using One With a Partner

A vibrating ring is the easiest couples toy to start with. The ring goes on the base, and the vibrating bullet rests against her clitoris during penetration. It works in most positions where your bodies are close, such as missionary and spooning. See how to use sex toys with a partner and the best couples sex toys.

Care

Wash with warm water and mild soap or a toy cleaner. Let it dry fully. Silicone rings pair with water-based lube only. Read our lube guide.