Cock rings: how do they work?

Put a ring on it...

Have you heard of cock rings? These little toys are classics, yet they rarely get the credit they deserve. How do you use them? What do they feel like? What can you do with them? Let's take a look!

What is a cock ring?

A cock ring is simply a silicone ring a few centimetres in diameter. Behind its simple, classic appearance lies a seriously effective pleasure tool! Cock rings come in three varieties: classic, vibrating and double rings.

How do they work, and what do they feel like?

A cock ring goes around the base of the penis. During an erection, the ring applies pressure and restricts blood flow out of the penis. This can make the penis more sensitive to pleasure and help an erection last longer. Put like that, it might sound a bit clinical, but I promise it doesn't hurt — it just feels good! Pair it with masturbation, oral sex or penetration and things really heat up! As well as adding pleasure, a cock ring makes the penis look bigger, which can be a real turn-on.

How to use cock rings safely

First, get a ring that fits. It may sound obvious, but the ring's diameter needs to suit your penis: one that's too big won't give you much sensation, while one that's too small could cut off circulation completely, which can be dangerous. Luckily, they're often sold in packs of different sizes! Put it on before you're fully erect to avoid hurting yourself. A drop of lube can help stop it pulling on your skin as you slide it over your penis. Position it straight around the base. If you're worried it'll feel too tight, choose an adjustable cock ring for greater comfort.

How do you take it off? Easy. When you're done, simply wait for your erection to subside. Once your penis is soft, gently remove the ring. A little lube can help here too if needed.

After use, don't forget to clean it thoroughly. Even though it's not an insertable sex toy, disinfecting it after every use is essential!

Cock rings: how do you choose one?

As mentioned above, start by choosing the right size. Diameters generally range from 2 to 5 centimetres.

Next, choose the type of ring you want:

• A simple ring: ideal for a first try, a simple ring like this adjustable one lets you explore the sensation without getting overwhelmed. Straightforward and effective, it's also budget-friendly. Use it during masturbation or penetration to enjoy it together!
• A vibrating ring: Great for use together, vibrating rings can stimulate your partner during penetration. Most have a small vibrating section that rests against your partner's clitoris or the base of their anus. For more all-over vibrations, choose a fully vibrating cock ring, such as the Hiö, so your partner can feel plenty of buzz.

• Double rings: These have two loops: one goes around the penis and the other around the base of the testicles. Vibrating or not, they can delay ejaculation further by putting pressure on the vas deferens (the tube sperm travels through!). For a non-vibrating version, we recommend the Hector double cock ring.

• If you're after a thrill, you can opt for app-controlled cock rings that can be operated remotely!

There you go — now you know all about these magical little rings. Have fun with them!

See you soon 💜