Put a Ring On It: 7 Steps to Buying a Cock Ring

The phrase "put a ring on it" wasn't coined to refer to cock rings - but we're ready to re-appropriate it for penises. Why should you put a (cock) ring on it? Well, cock rings are a highly under-appreciated sex toy. They're simple, but they can add serious intensity to intercourse (and other play!), they look hot (like, really hot) and they're simple and easy to use.

But with so many options out there, how are you supposed to know which ring to put on the penis in your life?

Here are seven steps to picking a cock ring. Take these steps as suggestions, or follow them all the way through. There's no wrong way to do it - it's all about your pleasure.

Decide on Stretch

Cock rings are available in all sorts of materials. Hard materials, like metal or wood, have absolutely no stretch to them and cock rings made of these materials can be more difficult for beginners to put on. That said, if you're looking for a sophisticated, serious look and are comfortable with the potential intensity, metal rings are where it's at. Since these rings don't stretch or change shape at all, you will need to choose a specific size to make sure they fit properly.

Rings made of other materials, like PVC, rubber and silicone, have more stretch and flexibility, making them easier to slide onto the penis. For beginners, a material that's stretchy is highly recommended

This three-piece silicone cock ring set from Loop provides some sizing options - and the option to wear more than one ring at a time. Available at The Enhanced Male.

Pick Your Tightness

Once you've picked your ideal material, you should consider the fit of the ring. Not all stretchy materials will provide the firmest grip. If you want a ring to fit tighter, you'll want to get it in a harder material. A tighter ring will lead to a firmer, longer-lasting erection and a more intense ejaculation, which can feel awesome!

Keep in mind that some guys find a tighter fit uncomfortable, while others enjoy it. To aid in selecting the perfect tightness, try reading a few sex toy reviews before making your purchase. (There are also adjustable cock rings, which allow you to choose the size that works best for you.)

Yeehaw! This lasso-style cock ring is totally adjustable! Available at The Enhanced Male. (Note that the product is made of surgical grade latex.)

Check for Texture

Cock rings can vary in texture. While some people claim they can't feel the texture of the material at all, others are driven wild by bumps or ridges or nubs. The texture may also determine the cock ring's appearance. Some rings are created to look like animals or other recognizable objects, while others may be decorated with simplistic or eye-catching designs. The design of the ring may determine the texture it will provide. Plus, a big part of a cock ring's appeal is the look. Not only will the penis look bigger, harder and more engorged, but you could choose to have an attractive looking ring to top it all off.

Good Vibrations

Many rings have a vibrator setting, which can feel amazing for all partners. Some cock rings include multiple vibrators, while others have only a single vibration source. The vibration controls will vary as well, with some cock rings including a single vibration setting and others having multiple or patterned settings. Some rings are equipped with a small flip switch, while others are controlled by push buttons. More expensive cock rings may be manipulated by a remote control or app. A vibrating cock ring can heighten the shared sexual experience during PinV intercourse because it stimulates the clitoris, something that intercourse doesn't do for most people.

This powerful vibrating cock ring can be controlled with an app. Available at The Enhanced Male.

Understand Battery Types

Cock rings that vibrate tend to come in four main varieties. The first is a disposable ring. The batteries in a disposable cock ring can't be switched out, so once the batteries die, the ring will need to be thrown away. The batteries in these disposable rings usually last between 30 minutes and an hour. Many of these rings are made from hard-to-clean materials and aren't really designed to be used after their batteries die - even if you planned on using them without the vibrations.

Another variety of cock ring is one that allows you to switch out the batteries. These rings often require watch batteries, and you can replace them once they die. In some cases this is easy to do while in others it may be difficult due to the small size of the ring.

A third variety is a cock ring that allows you to switch out the power source entirely. In these cases, you can replace the bullet vibrator that the cock ring came with. That way, if the vibrations seem too weak but you enjoy the design of the ring, you can just slip out the vibrating bullet and replace it with one that you prefer. This feature also makes it easier to change out the vibrator in the event that the the electrical system of the original vibrator malfunctions.

The final variety is the best option and is becoming increasingly common - rechargeable cock rings. Instead of using disposable batteries, these couples' rings are entirely rechargeable. You just plug them into a power source, and they'll charge up for your next use. This type of cock ring tends to be branded as a luxury sex toy and is usually made with premium materials.

Waterproof Considerations

If you want a cock ring that's easier to clean, or if you just want something to take in the shower with you, you'll want a waterproof sex toy. Waterproof cock rings are either made of materials that can safely get wet and aren't electronic, or are sealed to prevent water from getting into the electronics compartment. Either way, waterproof is typically the best way to go. Toys that are waterproof tend to be better quality, last longer and are easier to clean.

Seek Out Special Features

If you have specific fantasies you'd like to fulfill, it's worth seeing if there's a cock ring that matches your desires. Some cock rings include a small dildo that's attached to the ring for double penetration. Others may include two separate rings - one ring goes around the base of the shaft while the other ring encircles the very base of the penis, underneath the testicles, for additional restriction. Some rings also double as cages for chastity, while others are long and thin, covering the majority of the shaft to provide added texture during intercourse. Having trouble choosing? Some cock rings come in multi-packs so you can try out multiple types of rings with one purchase.

More rings, more fun? Try this kit from Loop, available at The Enhanced Male.

Now that you have a general idea about the many types of cock rings that are out there, you can start browsing with your partner to explore aspects that are important to both of you. Happy shopping!