Empty carton of 3 Durex 'Fetherlite' ultra fine lubricated condoms, with instruction leaflet, manufactured by SSL International plc, England, 2006

Part of a small personal collection of condoms and packaging dating from around the 1990s, this product is an example of the increased use of condoms internationally following the emergence of HIV and AIDS. Previously marketed as contraception, condom products diversified as they began to be targeted at a wider range of people, which led to new flavours, textures, and colours.

Ultra-fine condoms are made from thinner than normal latex and are designed to be more pleasurable to use. One reason often given for not wanting to use a condom during intercourse is because it reduces sensation and doesn’t feel as good. Thin feel condoms promote the message that you can enjoy sex while staying safe. In the mid 2000s non-latex condoms were introduced for people with latex allergies. These products are even thinner than fine latex condoms and are often marketed accordingly, with names such as ‘Real Feel’, ‘Skyn’ and ‘Sensiva’.