Rubber 101: fit, shine and first gear

Rubber is the most sensory gear there is. It's tight, it's slick, it smells like nothing else, and it changes how you move and how you feel being touched. Men who get into it tend to stay into it.

It also has a learning curve. Latex is thin, it tears if you're careless, and it needs more care than leather or sportswear. Get a few basics right and a good piece will last you years.

Start small and get the size right

Your first piece should be simple. A latex T-shirt, a pair of shorts or a pair of gloves will teach you how rubber fits and feels for far less than a full catsuit. A singlet or a pair of briefs works too.

Latex is sized from body measurements. Your usual clothing size won't help much. Most makers publish a chart and ask for chest, waist, hips and sometimes height. Measure yourself properly with a tape, and if you fall between sizes, read the maker's advice. Many sell made-to-measure pieces for a small extra charge, and that is often worth it.

Thickness matters. Thinner latex stretches more, feels closer to skin and tears more easily. Thicker latex is sturdier, holds you in more and lasts longer. For a first piece, a middle thickness is a sensible choice.

Rubber isn't only latex. Some men prefer neoprene, which is warmer and tougher, or the sportswear side of the scene. Latex is where most people start.

Getting in: talc or dressing aid

Dry latex grips skin, so you need help getting into it.

• Talc is the traditional method. Dust the inside of the garment lightly and it slides on. Use unscented, keep it off your face and try not to breathe the dust in. It's messy and you'll need to wash it out afterwards.
• Dressing aid is a silicone-based lubricant made for latex. Rub a little on your skin or inside the garment and it slides on more easily, with less mess. Most rubber men switch to it after the first few tries.

Never use anything oil-based on latex. Body oil, petroleum jelly, massage oil and many lotions break latex down and weaken it for good. Take off rings and watches, trim your nails, and ease the rubber on with the pads of your fingers, never pinching with nails.

Shine

Latex out of the bag looks matte. The glossy look comes from a latex shine product, usually silicone-based, wiped or sprayed on and buffed with a soft cloth. A little goes a long way. Put your rubber on first, then shine it, so you don't slide around while dressing.

Heat and hydration

Latex doesn't breathe. Sweat has nowhere to go, and your body heat stays in. That's part of the appeal, and it's also the main risk.

Hoods and full enclosure make heat build faster, so build up to them slowly, and never wear a hood alone if it limits your breathing.

Care and storage

A little effort after each wear keeps rubber in good shape:

1. Wash it in lukewarm water with a mild soap or a latex wash, inside and out.
2. Dry it inside out first, then the right way out, hanging somewhere out of direct sunlight.
3. Store it in a dark, cool place. Sunlight and heat age latex quickly.
4. Keep it away from metal. Copper and brass stain latex, so watch jewelry, coins and some hardware.
5. Keep colors apart. Different colored latex can stain each other when stored touching. A light dusting of talc or a layer of cloth between pieces helps.

Repair kits exist for small tears. Patch it early, because a small split under stretch becomes a big one fast.

Latex allergy

Latex allergy is real, and it can be serious. Symptoms range from itchy, red skin to hives and swelling, and in some people a reaction can affect breathing. If you've ever reacted to latex gloves or condoms, talk to a doctor before you try latex clothing.

If you have trouble breathing or your face or throat swells, get the gear off and call emergency services.

Ask partners too. Before touching someone in latex gloves or rubber gear, check that he's fine with it. Non-latex options like neoprene and nitrile gloves work for men who can't wear rubber.

Find other rubber men

The Rubber & Latex circle is full of men sharing gear, fit tips and photos of their latest shine.

To find rubber nights and weekends near you, open the events calendar and use the Rubber scene chip. When winter comes, read gear care through winter.