Thanks, really appreciate your input. What brands would you say have a good reputation that I should look to pick up? Ive personally used SKYN brand before, but have no idea how good they are known to be.
Do you mean Skyns (brand) or Mates Skyns?
Mates are my preferred brand Mates Natural are impregnated with a slightly sweet lube (not sickly sweet), this eliminates any rubbery odours and tastes can be useful if expecting oral after intercourse.
I use Mates Skyns (can smell odd but some people like the better feel and these are suitable for anyone allergic to latex), Mates Conform are slightly slimmer/marginally smaller contoured fit, Mates King Size, Mates Skyns are also available in extra lubed and larger varieties.
It Mates made a small I would buy it but they do not so I use Pasante Trim. I also have Pasante Black Velvet just in case I come across a 'triangular' cock - very wide base, narrow head. I have not had chance to try these yet.
I have also tried Pasante Unique after seeing them recommended in a UKP post, Jury is out on these - application method is quite different and there isn't the surety of a ring at the base. Also these make a crinkling sound. I tend to only use these by request, and have a little chat about the usage.
The most important thing in my opinion is learn proper application, many people stretch the condom over the head and or do not leave a teat. Lubrication is important and avoid porn-star style bouncing, this is when the penis exits the vagina on each thrust. The reentry in my experience particularly when combined with lack of lube, and incorrect application is often a factor in splitting.
Hold the base of the condom when withdrawing (quite a few men just leap back), roll off from the base, knot and bin (I bag it first). Change the condom if you wish to continue intercourse after ejaculation. Continuing to thrust can allow semen to seep down and leak out under the ring.
Also be aware oils degrade latex condoms so avoid contact with massage oils, baby oil etc and always check the expiry dates. I think that is all for now.