The Art of
Condoms

So-called condom fatigue and blase attitudes toward sexual health have presented American rubber companies with their biggest challenge since Vaseline--namely: How to make the humble sheath fashionable again? Instead of finger-wagging and doom-mongering, the most progressive manufacturers are appealing to our finer senses, following Japan's lead (kitschy anime-inspired condom graphics are commonplace there) and rebranding prophylactics as desirable objets d'art. And we're not talking glow-in-the-dark latex or pina colada flavorings.

1 One condoms As a company catering directly to gays, One has fully embraced the possibilities of condom packaging, with more than 120 different designs, from urban themes to its popular Pride Pack, with 12 whimsical wrappers (including one featuring an image of Alexander the Great with the words "He was One"). One plans to launch a line of dental dams for the ladies in 2009. Available at OneCondoms.com; $13.49 for a dozen

2 "Election Protection" condoms When dating a Republican, whipping out an Obama condom could be a deal breaker. Better keep an emergency supply of McCain jimmy hats on hand. Also available are condom wrappers bearing portraits of Ronald Reagan, Hillary and Bill Clinton, George W. Bush, and Richard Nixon. Available at Condomania.com; $11.95 for a dozen

3 Ron English condoms Ron English's subversive art has graced album covers (the Dandy Warhols' Welcome to the Monkey House), films (Super Size Me), and now rubbers. English's creepy alien paintings may not be everyone's cup of tea in the bedroom, but you'll definitely score valuable points with the indie crowd. Available at Condomania.com; $11.95 for a dozen