What is a Cock Ring?
A cock ring is a ring that is worn around the base of the penis, usually behind the testicles, primarily to slow the flow of blood out of the erect penis.
Cock rings can help to maintain an erection for a longer period of time, and for some guys can increase sensitivity to the penis. Rings can we worn just around the shaft of the penis, but are much more effective for maintaining erection when worn around both the shaft and testicles (with the ring as close to your body as possible).
Cock rings can be made from soft, flexible materials such as neoprene, silicone, rubber, or leather, as well as firm materials such as metal or wood. What material and shape any individual chooses will be based on their own personal preference-- some like wider rings, some like stretchy and small rings, others prefer metal, and so on.
In general, softer materials or rings with snaps or other quick release devices are more forgiving for the beginner. Harder, unyielding materials are best chosen in a size that fits closely to your anatomy. When choosing a very firm material such as metal, it is wise to measure your own size first and look for a ring that will fit you appropriately. See the section below on measuring for a cock ring for more information on how to do this!
The length of time you should wear a cock ring depends on the fit. Very tight rings should not be worn for more than 15–20 minutes at a time, while rings well-fitted to your anatomy can be worn for much longer.
If you choose a non-stretchy, seamless ring (a ring that doesn't have snaps or velcro, such as firm silicone or metal), put on the ring by placing one testicle first through the ring, followed by the second, followed last by the penis. Putting on a firm ring is best done while flaccid or only semi-erect. Adding lube can facilitate the process.
Remove a ring if you feel pain or numbness! If you are wearing a stretchy ring or a ring with snaps, removal is quite simple. If you are wearing a seamless ring, relax, slow down or stop the action until your erection goes down far enough to remove yourself (adding lube can also help to remove the ring). Cold water on the genitals can aid in this process if relaxation isn’t enough.
Cock rings can be a lot of fun and can enhance sexual experiences when used wisely. Experiment with a few types to see which is most comfortable for you!
How To Measure for a Cock Ring
1. Take a string and slip it behind your balls and tug it up around the top of your penis (where it meets your body). The string should be pulled snugly to get an accurate measurement, but not too tight.
2. Mark the string on both sides where it comes together at the top.
3. Remove the string and measure between the marks. This measurement will give you your circumference of your cock and balls (behind your scrotum).
4. Take your circumference measurement and divide by 3.14 (or "pi," for those who remember their geometry). This measurement will give you your diameter, which is how most cock rings are sized.
5. Repeat this process a few times to assure an accurate measurement.
6. When choosing an inflexible ring material such as metal, do not choose a diameter that is smaller than your physical measurement.
Sample measurements
Circumference: 5.5" = Diameter (ring size): 1.75"
Circumference: 5.75" = Diameter (ring size): 1.83"
Circumference: 6.00" = Diameter (ring size): 1.91"
Circumference: 6.25" = Diameter (ring size): 2"
Because cock ring diameter sizes are often measured in eights of an inch, you'll have to use your judgement if you fall between two measurements.
If you are unsure about your measurements, or are new to using cock rings, consider purchasing a ring with snaps or velcro, or a stretchy ring—not only can you adjust the size on such rings, you can easily take them off if you experience pain or discomfort.
Another possibility is to purchase a set of stretchy rings in various sizes, so that you can figure out what is the best fit through experimentation.