Ask anyone who has switched to Japanese condoms why they never went back, and you'll usually hear one word: thin. Okamoto has been making condoms in Japan since 1934, and its ultra-thin ranges, from the 0.03 mm latex 003 to the 0.01 mm polyurethane Zero One, have earned a cult following well beyond Japan.
Fun fact: Okamoto's Crown condoms were the top-selling condom at US retailer Rip n Roll for more than 20 years in a row. In this Okamoto condom review, we explain the differences between Okamoto's thickness numbers and materials, how the sizing really fits, what reviewers and buyers say (including the complaints), and which Okamoto suits you best.
Okamoto at a glance
| Okamoto at a glance | |
|---|---|
| Founded | 1934, in Japan |
| Materials | Sheerlon™ latex (003, Crown, Big Boy and more) and latex-free polyurethane (0.02 Hydro and 001 Zero One) |
| Thinnest options | 0.01 mm (001 Zero One), 0.02 mm (0.02 Hydro), 0.03 mm (003 series) |
| Standard size | Nominal width 52 ± 2 mm; length about 177 to 180 mm |
| Larger fit | Big Boy: 5 mm wider than Okamoto's standard |
| Quality | Made in Japan to ISO 4074 and electronically tested, according to product listings |
| At Pink Lifestyle | 19 Okamoto products in stock, from S$5.25 for a box of 3 |
What do Okamoto's numbers mean?
Okamoto names its premium ranges after their thickness in millimetres. Thinner means more sensation and better heat transfer, but each step down also changes the material and the feel.
001 Zero One: 0.01 mm polyurethane
The thinnest in Okamoto's line-up. Polyurethane transfers body heat quickly, so many users describe it as feeling like nothing is there. It's latex-free and the most expensive per condom.
0.02 Hydro: 0.02 mm polyurethane
Also latex-free, at a lower price than the Zero One. AllFromJapan notes Okamoto's even thickness from top to bottom, rather than the thicker edges of typical condoms.
003 series: 0.03 mm Sheerlon latex
Okamoto's ultra-thin latex range, with variations including Real Fit (contoured shape), Platinum, Aloe, Cool and Hyaluronic Acid. Latex stretches more than polyurethane, so it's more forgiving on fit.
The classics: Crown, Orchid, OK and textured
Everyday latex condoms at lower prices. Crown is famous for its pink tint and low smell; Harmony Vibra adds ribs; OK Extra Strong Dots adds texture.
A note on Okamoto sizing
Okamoto's standard condoms have a nominal width of about 52 mm, which many users describe as snug. On a Thai expat forum, one user found the 003 a little tight, while another said Japanese condoms reached only halfway on them. Even Okamoto's 001 Large drew comments on Walmart that it is "large for Japanese" rather than a true large.
- Standard feels tight? Try the Big Boy, which is 5 mm wider.
- Condoms slip off? The Smart Firmer Fit is designed for a snugger fit.
- Not sure? Buy a small 3- or 4-pack before committing to a larger box.
Okamoto condoms reviewed: the five to know
1. Okamoto 003 Real Fit: Best all-rounder
Okamoto's best-known ultra-thin latex condom, with an anatomically contoured shape for a more natural, secure feel. It's lightly lubricated and odour-free.
Key specs: 0.03 mm Sheerlon latex · Contoured Real Fit shape · Lightly lubricated · Odour-free
What reviewers say: AllFromJapan calls the Real Fit one of Japan's best-selling condoms, regarded by some as the best ever despite being 0.03 mm. On Flipkart, 54 of 84 ratings are five stars, with one buyer saying it felt better than any Durex thin condom. The complaints: some found the wrappers hard to open, and one buyer wanted more lubrication.
Love: ultra-thin, natural shape, no rubber smell, great value. Watch out: snug standard sizing; add lube if you like things slippery.
S$18.65View 003 Real Fit
2. Okamoto 001 Zero One: Thinnest Okamoto
At just 0.01 mm, the Zero One is the thinnest condom in Okamoto's range. It's made from polyurethane, so it's latex-free and transfers warmth almost instantly.
Key specs: 0.01 mm polyurethane · Latex-free · Lubricated · 2 per pack
What reviewers say: Buyers on Okamoto's own store say it feels like barely anything is there, though one noted it's a bit hard to put on because it's so thin. On Walmart, the large version averages 4.8 out of 5 from 26 ratings; one reviewer likened it to wearing a second skin but wished it were cheaper.
Love: the closest to bare-skin feel, latex-free. Watch out: the priciest per condom, and polyurethane is less stretchy, so fit matters.
S$13.40View 001 Zero One
3. Okamoto 0.02 Hydro: Best latex-free value
A polyurethane condom at 0.02 mm, latex-free and odour-free, at a lower price per condom than the Zero One. A great choice for latex allergies or anyone who wants better heat transfer.
Key specs: 0.02 mm polyurethane · Latex-free · ISO 4074 · 3 or 8 per pack
What reviewers say: AllFromJapan reports the 0.02 sells more than the 0.01 in Japan because it's better value and still feels great, praising Okamoto's even thickness technology.
Love: latex-free, ultra-thin, better value than 001. Watch out: like all polyurethane condoms, it's less forgiving on fit.
S$23.55View 0.02 Hydro
4. Okamoto Crown: The classic everyday condom
Pink-tinted, famously low on latex smell, and one of the most affordable Okamoto condoms. Crown has been an everyday favourite for decades.
Key specs: Sheerlon latex · Pink tint · Reservoir tip · 52 ± 2 mm width
What reviewers say: Rip n Roll says Crown was its best-selling condom for 20 years in a row, with customers praising its silky feel, strength and low latex odour. Pink Lifestyle's listing notes Crown was voted World's Best Condom for 10 consecutive years by Condom Depot.
Love: great value, low smell, thin yet strong. Watch out: not as thin as the 003 or polyurethane ranges.
S$11.65View Crown
5. Okamoto Big Boy: Best roomier fit
Okamoto's answer to its snug sizing. Big Boy is 5 mm wider than standard while staying thin, so it's more comfortable for anyone who finds regular condoms tight.
Key specs: Sheerlon latex · 5 mm wider than standard · No latex smell · 8 per pack
What reviewers say: Savvy Tokyo points to Okamoto's larger options as the go-to in Japan for people who need more room, and the most common Okamoto complaint we found online is condoms feeling too tight.
Love: comfortable wider fit without a thicker feel. Watch out: if you're average size, it may feel loose; stick to the 003.
S$11.65View Big Boy
The full Okamoto range
| Condom | Type | Best for | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| 001 Zero One | 0.01 mm polyurethane | Thinnest feel, latex allergy | S$13.40 (2) |
| 0.02 Hydro | 0.02 mm polyurethane | Latex-free value | S$9.60 (3) / S$23.55 (8) |
| 003 Real Fit | 0.03 mm latex, contoured | All-rounder | S$8.90 (4) / S$18.65 (10) |
| 003 Platinum | 0.03 mm latex | Trying the 003 series | S$7.80 (4) |
| 003 Aloe | 0.03 mm latex, aloe lube | Sensitive skin | S$19.05 (10) |
| 003 Cool | 0.03 mm latex, cooling | A cooling sensation | S$19.05 (10) |
| 003 Hyaluronic Acid | 0.03 mm latex, moisturising | Extra moisture | S$19.05 (10) |
| Crown | Latex, pink tint | Everyday value | S$5.25 (3) / S$11.65 (12) |
| Orchid | Ultra-thin latex | Thin on a budget | S$11.65 (12) |
| OK Ultra Thin | Ultra-thin latex | Sensitivity | S$12.65 (10) |
| Sensation | Latex | Everyday use | S$11.65 (12) |
| Harmony Vibra | Ribbed latex | Extra texture | S$11.65 (12) |
| OK Extra Strong Dots | Dotted latex | Texture and strength | S$12.90 (10) |
| Big Boy | Latex, 5 mm wider | Roomier fit | S$11.65 (8) |
| Smart Firmer Fit | Latex, snug fit | Slimmer fit | S$12.90 |
Prices and stock are correct at the time of writing. The 003 Aloe 4-pack was out of stock when we checked.
What reviewers and buyers say about Okamoto
- Rip n Roll (US condom retailer): made Crown its top seller for 20 years running and says its reviews consistently praise the thinness, strength and low latex smell. Read the review.
- Savvy Tokyo: describes Okamoto as having the most comprehensive condom range in Japan, and its couple-tested reviews include Okamoto's playful Rilakkuma condoms. Read the guide.
- AllFromJapan: ranks the Zero One, 0.02 and 003 Real Fit among Japan's best condoms, with one reviewer preferring Okamoto to rival brand Sagami. Read the ranking.
- Buyers on Flipkart and Walmart: praise the second-skin feel of the 003 Real Fit and 001, with complaints about price, hard-to-open wrappers and sizes that run small. Flipkart · Walmart.
- Forum users: a long-running expat forum thread praises the 003's feel but warns that Japanese condoms can feel tight.
- Reddit and YouTube: we didn't find sources reliable enough to quote, so we've relied on named publications, retailers and verified buyers.
The consensus: buyers love Okamoto for how thin and natural its condoms feel and for the lack of rubbery smell. The trade-offs are snug sizing, higher prices for the ultra-thin ranges, and polyurethane condoms that take a little more care to put on.
Which Okamoto should you buy?
| If you want... | Choose | Why |
|---|---|---|
| The thinnest feel | 001 Zero One | 0.01 mm polyurethane, Okamoto's thinnest |
| Latex-free on a budget | 0.02 Hydro | Polyurethane at a lower price per condom |
| An ultra-thin all-rounder | 003 Real Fit | 0.03 mm latex with a natural contoured shape |
| Everyday value | Crown | Thin, low-smell and from S$5.25 |
| More room | Big Boy | 5 mm wider than standard |
| Extra texture | Harmony Vibra or Extra Strong Dots | Ribbed or dotted for added friction |
Pros and cons
Pros
- Some of the thinnest condoms available, down to 0.01 mm
- Latex-free polyurethane options
- Very little rubbery latex smell
- Huge range of shapes, textures and lubricants
- Made in Japan and electronically tested
- Affordable everyday options from S$5.25
Cons
- Standard sizes run snug
- Ultra-thin ranges cost more per condom
- Polyurethane is harder to put on and less stretchy
- Some buyers find the wrappers hard to open
- Lighter lubrication on some models
How to use Okamoto condoms safely
- Check the expiry date and that the wrapper isn't damaged.
- Open carefully with your fingers, never teeth or scissors. Ultra-thin condoms tear more easily.
- Check it's the right way up so the rim unrolls downwards.
- Pinch the tip to remove air, then roll it all the way to the base.
- Add a little water-based or silicone-based lube if you want more glide; avoid oil-based lube with latex.
- Hold the base when withdrawing, and use a new condom every time.
- Store condoms somewhere cool and dry, not in a wallet or car where heat and friction can damage them.
The verdict: are Okamoto condoms worth it?
Yes. Okamoto combines Japanese manufacturing with genuinely thin designs and almost none of the rubbery smell that puts people off condoms. The 003 Real Fit is the best place to start, the 0.02 Hydro and 001 Zero One are excellent latex-free upgrades, and Crown remains one of the best-value everyday condoms you can buy.
Just remember that Okamoto's standard sizing is snug. If regular condoms already feel tight, go straight to the Big Boy.
Our top pick: Okamoto 003 Real Fit
From S$8.90
Shop Okamoto CondomsFrequently asked questions
Are Okamoto condoms good?
Yes. Okamoto is a Japanese brand making condoms since 1934, known for ultra-thin designs down to 0.01 mm, low latex smell and electronic testing. Reviewers consistently praise how natural they feel.
What's the difference between Okamoto 001, 002 and 003?
The numbers refer to thickness. The 001 Zero One is 0.01 mm polyurethane, the 0.02 Hydro is 0.02 mm polyurethane, and the 003 series is 0.03 mm latex. Thinner condoms feel more natural but cost more.
Which Okamoto condom is the thinnest?
The Okamoto 001 Zero One, at 0.01 mm.
Are Okamoto condoms latex-free?
The 001 Zero One and 0.02 Hydro are polyurethane and latex-free. Most other Okamoto condoms, including the 003 series, Crown and Big Boy, are latex.
Do Okamoto condoms run small?
Many users find Okamoto's standard size (about 52 mm wide) snug. If standard condoms feel tight, try the Okamoto Big Boy, which is 5 mm wider.
What lube can I use with Okamoto condoms?
Water-based or silicone-based lube. Avoid oil-based lubricants with latex condoms, and always follow the instructions on your pack.
Is Okamoto better than Durex?
It depends on what you value. Okamoto is known for ultra-thin designs and low latex smell, while Durex offers a wide range including delay and textured options. Many buyers who try Okamoto's thinnest ranges prefer the feel.
Where can I buy Okamoto condoms in Singapore?
Pink Lifestyle stocks 19 Okamoto products from S$5.25, with plain packaging, discreet billing and free same-day delivery on orders over S$80.
This article is for general information and isn't medical advice. Prices and stock are correct at the time of writing and may change.
