Put a Ring On It: Cock Rings
Cock rings may look like just a snazzy accessory for the penis, but they actually serve a much greater purpose than just a fashion statement.
What is a cock ring?
They may come in many different shapes, styles, and materials, but for many, wearing a cock ring, or c-ring, around the base of the penis restricts blood flow, creating pressure and a sensation of fullness. The ring constricts the penis and keeps the blood inside; blood flow is what creates and sustains the erection. Wearing a ring should not be uncomfortable or hurt, though folks living with diabetes or a vascular or nerve disorder, should consult their healthcare professional before disrupting their blood flow.
Some may find that cock rings help to delay their orgasm, while others also report that they are more sensitive when wearing rings and orgasm more quickly. That's why we always recommend you try them out for solo play first to get a read of how they feel for you. If you are new to cock rings, try wearing them for 10-15 mins at a time as you get accustomed to the sensation.
Some folks enjoy wearing a ring during orgasm, while others prefer to take them off before trying to come. Rings with snaps or are stretchy are easier to take off with minimum interruption and let you experiment with comfort and sizing.
Common Cock Ring Styles
Traditionally, rings are wrapped around the whole cock-and-balls package, resting behind the scrotum, but some may prefer wearing their ring around the shaft only--and some are designed specifically to be worn this way. Here are some of the most popular styles of rings.
These can be worn behind the scrotum or in front. Some of them are snug enough to provide the squeezing sensation that makes cock rings popular, but others simply hold the vibrator in place, without much constriction. You can wear these toys during intercourse to stimulate your partner externally. Place the vibe on top of your penis for face-to-face positions and on the underside for rear entry. You can also wear these rings behind the scrotum with the vibrator underneath your testicles for extra sensation during solo sex or sex with a partner.
Vibrating rings can also turn any dildo or internal vibrator into your own customizable rabbit vibe! These also can slip easily over a couple fingers for any play where you are using your digits.
Using your new cock ring might take some getting used to, so explore what feels more comfortable to you. For stimulating a partner, try a slow grind rather than thrusting, since that will keep the vibrator in more constant contact with the clitoris.
Adjustable/Stretchy Rings
These are easy to use and a great starter ring. If adjustable with a snap, place the strap behind the scrotum and, adjusting for snugness and comfort, fasten over the top of the penis. For the bolo styles, simply insert the penis and testicles through the loop and pull the loose ends to tighten into place. Stretchy rubber rings are also really nice for beginners as they can be stretched over the penis to put on or remove quickly, though this style cannot be tightened or loosened once on. All three of these styles are quickly removable if sensations become too intense or you're just ready to take it off.
Non-Adjustable/Fixed Solid Rings
Rings like these are best for those who already have experience wearing cock rings. To put one on, start when the penis is soft. Tuck the testicles through the ring one at a time, then tuck the soft penis through and adjust. Some like to use a bit of lubricant to help this process, and some find it useful in removing the ring, too. To remove from a flaccid penis just reverse the order: "untuck" the penis first, then withdraw one testicle and then the other.
Some toys are designed to accommodate the penis and testicles separately. Generally, you put these on much in the same way the solid rings are used, but instead of putting everything through one single ring, there is an opening for testicles, and a separate but attached one for the shaft.
No matter what style you decide on, cock rings can be a fun and inexpensive addition into almost any type of play you already enjoy, like masturbation, oral sex, and of course other types of penetration. So whether you're looking to try something new with a partner or just a new way to enjoy your own body, let a cock ring be the nice little bow wrapped on your favorite package.
