Introduction
Cock rings (or C-rings) are a sex shop staple, and if you visit you’re likely to see dozens of varieties on display - from simple silicone O rings to elaborately shaped, ergonomic and vibrating toys. But what are they actually for? If you’re curious about C-rings or want some tips to get started using them, read on!
Why Use a C-ring?
C-rings can help to create firmer & longer lasting erections and enhance sensation. To understand how they do this, we need to go over a little bit of anatomy: when you get an erection, extra blood enters the erectile tissues of the penis, making it hard. This blood enters through the center of the penis, and leaves through vessels that run closer to the skin. This means that by adding a little pressure around the outside of the penis, blood can still enter it easily but has a harder time leaving. The net effect is that there will be more blood in your erection than without a C-ring and the erection will feel firmer and fuller. Yeah, we know - it doesn’t sound sexy when phrased like that, but it can certainly feel sexy in practice!
Many people use C-rings for an assist when dealing with mild erectile dysfunction (ED). While they aren’t a cure for ED (and you should always get new ED symptoms checked out by a doctor as they can indicate an underlying medical issue), they can help turn an almost-there erection into something firmer. Some people also find that C-rings can help them delay their orgasm during sex, which may be desirable.
Types of C-ring
Style
Many rings are simple ‘O’s, like the Tantus SuperSoft Silicone C Ring. They are designed to go over either the dick or the balls (or both!) depending on size. If you are in a sex shop and see an O ring that looks way too wide to fit over a penis, like the FORTO F-64, it’s probably not designed for only the most well-endowed porn stars: it's meant to go around your dick and balls together.
Some rings have a figure-8 shape and are a two-in-one design like the FORTO F-22 Double C Ring. One ring of the figure-8 goes over your dick, and the other larger ring goes over your dick and balls. Great for a nice, snug sensation, and it makes your package look huge.
You can also find adjustable C-rings, like the lasso-style Nexus Forge. The moveable toggle means it’ll fit just about anyone! You may also see rings with snap closures - these are not as adjustable as toggle style rings, but do allow for some sizing flexibility.
Vibrating C-rings like the Hot Octopuss Atom add extra stimulation for both you and your partner. Turn your dick into a vibrator? Yes, please! Vibrations travel up the shaft of a hard penis, and the vibrating pad at the base gives direct clitoral stimulation.
Finally, some C-rings are designed to sit around the glans (head) of the penis. These are a bit more decorative in function as they don’t restrict blood flow as much as other styles. They can still enhance sensation for you and your partner.
Material
Silicone C-rings are typically flexible and stretchy, making them great for beginners as you figure out your size - no chance of getting stuck in it! Plus, silicone is body-safe (non-porous and non-toxic) and super easy to clean with soap and water or toy cleaner.
Metal C-rings look great and provide a more intense sensation due to their rigidity and weight - but since they are not flexible, you’ll need to select the correct size to ensure you don’t cut off circulation. Err on the side of trying a slightly larger size first and sizing down slowly. Like silicone, they are body-safe and easy to clean - just be sure to look for stainless steel.
Leather C-rings can provide a sensual feel when worn, and work especially well as decorative C-rings. Often they will have snap closures so they can accommodate a range of sizes. This also allows them to be worn on either the shaft or around the balls. However, leather is porous, so be sure to clean and dry a leather C-ring thoroughly after use and replace it if it starts to look or smell funky.
How to use a C-ring
When using a C-ring for the first time, you’re going to need to figure out your size. We recommend starting with an adjustable toggle C-ring or with a set of stretchy silicone C-rings so that you can safely experiment.
Apply a little lube to the ring (or your penis) when putting the ring on as this will make it slide on much more comfortably and avoid pinching. You can put a C-ring on a hard or a soft penis, although it's generally easier if you're not already hard.
Most people like to slide the ring right down to the base of the penis. This will give you the greatest firming effect and will be less intrusive during intercourse or any other type of play. You can also experiment with moving the ring to different points on the shaft, or incorporating a ring that goes over the balls.
You can wear more than one C-ring! Try putting one at the base of your shaft, and another larger one over the shaft and balls together. As long as there is no discomfort, it is safe to wear multiple C-rings at the same time.
Have fun! Experiment with sensation - how does stroking yourself feel different with a C-ring on? How does intercourse feel - for you and your partner?
It’s generally recommended not to wear C-rings for more than about 20-30 minutes, especially if you are erect for the entire time, so don’t overdo it. And if there’s any discomfort, remove the C-ring immediately. To make it easier to take off, use a little more lube.
Always thoroughly wash your C-ring after every use with soap and water or toy cleaner.
C-rings are among the best-selling items from sex shops as they are affordable, easy to use, and can enhance your sexual experience significantly. We’ve highlighted some of the main types of C-rings you’re likely to encounter and how to use them. We hope this gives you the information and confidence you need to try out your first C-ring and experience more pleasure!
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