By Skyler Blair

Daily Titan Executive Editor

There are some things that are perfectly acceptable to “go cheap” on and there are some that are obviously not.

When it comes to purchases from the 99 Cents Only Stores, it’s important to understand that the super market chain still has to follow laws that ensure their products are safe and dependable even if they are offered at, what seems like, a ridiculously low price.

Quality over quantity is not an excuse in this case, because even though you can get a pack of 12 condoms for 99 cents every condom still must hold up to standards of safety and durability. Regardless of price, they get the job done.

It’s an issue of self-assurance. One may feel that by paying more for a product they are getting a better quality and any smart advertising campaign will try to persuade buyers that the price they are paying is for better quality and trust in a brand.

For a consumer to build brand loyalty they need to try a product and see if it works for them. Unfortunately, with condoms, one bad test run can spell bad consequences (it doesn’t fit, too thin, etc.) this should not be the case with price because all condoms, regardless of price, must have the same quality standard.

It is perfectly acceptable to “take a walk on the wild side” and try the top-of-the-line condoms, which by all means could be justifiably worth paying top-dollar.

But the reality is that your standard condom – no bells and whistles attached – is just latex rubber. The same material is used in gloves to keep surgeons’ hands clean when operating.

The latex in the gloves, like condoms, can be purchased for a dollar and you can get hundreds. I would argue that if they are safe to buy in bulk when used for surgical procedures they should be safe to buy in bulk to cover your schlong.

There were not always rules governing condoms and their quality. But this has changed and the way they are manufactured and dispersed to the masses is closely monitored.

Current regulations in the U.S. start with good manufacturing practices (GMP) rules, which are standards for factories that make drugs and other products that play a role in preventing disease, including condoms. These are universal and apply to all brands, from Trojans to Durex and the 99 Cent Store brand equally.

The World Health Organization also has international parameters for condoms including: the maximum number of condoms that can be defective in each batch, accreditation for laboratories that test condoms, procedures for the tests and materials, shelf life and stability.

If you find yourself in a situation where a 99 Cent Store condom is your only option and you are still uneasy just remember the motto, “when in doubt, always pull out.”

By Simon Liang

Daily Titan Asst. Sports Editor

Even with the struggling economy we should not overlook the use of contraceptives in our daily lives. Although many of us are penny-pinching and trying to cut costs, we cannot make the mistake of purchasing condoms at the 99 Cents Only Store.

Sure, these condoms give us the low-price guarantee we are searching for, but we will be disappointed with its quality. Just like with clothes, food, etc., when you purchase products of less quality you notice the difference.

I did my own hands-on research today and compared it to a popular brand, Trojan.

Just by feeling the texture of the condom you notice the difference in durability.

It depends on how you use condoms, so the results may vary. However, if it were up to me, I would not take the risk with something as unpredictable as the consequences of sexual intercourse.

It is better to be safe than sorry. Shelling out more money for brands you trust is not a bad investment.

Buying a pack of 99 cent condoms might help your finances but spending just a little bit more money would not hurt, especially when your health and well-being is actively involved. When your 99 cent condom breaks, you will definitely be wishing you opted for the name brand.

I’m not saying the name-brand condoms won’t break either, but I have more faith in Trojan Man than a pack of bootleg condoms that is cheaper than a gallon of gas.

Plus, the name-brand condoms have all the bells and whistles if you and your partner want to spice things up.

I’m talking about flavored, his pleasure, her pleasure, ultra thin, ribbed, extra large – you name it, they got it.

If you stick with the 99 cent condoms, your sex life’s potential has not been fully realized.

Like the old adage says, “You get what you pay for.” When you buy high-quality items, you’re usually not dissatisfied because you know you are getting a good product.

Just because something is cheap doesn’t mean it will satisfy your needs.

There are still cheaper alternatives than buying condoms at your local CVS or Wal-Mart.

Colleges and universities give out name-brand condoms for a low price, and you can also go to Planned Parenthood for the same solution.

If these places wanted to, they could have purchased the 99 cent condoms to distribute as well; so if they can’t trust them, then why should we?

You cannot compromise protection if you want to protect yourself from STDs, HIV and lessen your chance of impregnating someone; you need to be well equipped. Brand-name condoms: Quality you can trust – and feel.