Durex is recruiting 50 condom testers across the UK in a bid to maximise sensation and increase sexual pleasure. The move comes following new research from the sexual wellbeing brand revealing that despite a 24% YOY rise in STIs in the UK, two thirds (62%) of sexually active UK singletons don’t or rarely use condoms, at a time where condom usage has never been more important.
According to the brand’s research, the average sexually active UK adult has had sex 94 times on average over the past year, rising to over 140 amongst 18–34-year-olds. Research also shows that the average sexually active singleton has had at least 4 sexual partners in the last year.
One in five (20%) sexually active UK men, and a fifth (19%) of all UK singletons claim their biggest barrier to condom usage is the perception that they reduce sensation.
Other barriers cited from sexually active UK singletons include the belief that condoms make sex less spontaneous (18%), and that they’re a ‘mood killer’ (11%).
When it comes to having sex with someone for the first time, one in five (18%) sexually active UK women said they would judge a partner if they didn’t offer or suggest using a condom. While a fifth (18%) of sexually active adults say nothing would stop them using a condom.
However, one in ten (10%) sexually active people actually prefer sex with a condom due to them making it ‘cleaner’ and avoiding mess, while a further one in ten claim that not wearing one reduces pleasure in the moment due to the worry of them or a partner having to ‘pull out’. Additionally, almost one in ten (7%) claims that thin condoms feel just as good as wearing no condom.
So confident that the Durex Nude condom will not reduce sexual pleasure, Durex is hiring 50 members of the British public to test and review them for £100.
Those wanting to apply can do so via the Durex UK Instagram @durex from Wednesday 13th September. Those selected will receive a package containing Durex Nude condoms, Durex lube and a measurement guide alongside a QR code, where they can leave their review of the range.
Nikki Hayward, category marketing manager for Durex comments: “At Durex, we know that pleasure is key when it comes to sex, which is why we’ve placed a great deal of focus on innovation, ensuring that our condoms increase the pleasure of sex, rather than inhibit it. After years of development, Nude, which is designed to feel it all is our thinnest condom yet, and comes in three fits to ensure there’s an option to suit everyone.
“We’re so confident that this condom will be a game changer when it comes to proving that condoms can actually make sex MORE enjoyable, that we’re putting our money where our mouth is, and recruiting our very own team of paid condom testers from across the UK, who we’re inviting to give honest and open reviews about their sexual experiences while using the Nude range.”
