As someone who is very much a bottom—and as a certified educator in the sex education space—I’m confident in saying I know my lube. Like wine to a sommelier, I’ve tested lubes from tons of brands over more than a decade working in sex journalism. I’ve also spoken with experts extensively on the topic over the years. Based on my research, these lubes have stood out as the best out there. 

Before we slip in, here are some things you should know:

• Oil-based lubes are not compatible with condoms.
• Silicone-based lubes are not compatible with silicone-based sex toys.
• Silicone- and oil-based lubes are more likely to stain than water-based ones
• Water-based lubes don’t typically stay as slick as long as others, and may require more frequent application.
• Numbing lubes should be avoided as they can mask pain and injury.
• Each time you use a new lube, you should perform a patch test by rubbing a drop of lube on your hand to see how your skin will react.
   

Best Luxury Lube: Überlube

As a gay who appreciates good aesthetics (go figure), having Überlube on your nightstand is a statement in itself. The bottle is elegant and made of glass, and the lubricant inside is just as luxe. Überlube is unique in that they incorporate vitamin E into their formula, which leaves a distinctly soft and moisturized feel wherever it’s applied. For this reason and more (no irritating additives!) Überlube is a fantastic option for folks with sensitive skin and bodies who want to treat their holes like royalty.

Best Lube for Vaginal Sex: Sliquid Sassy

I called in a good friend of mine, Gabrielle Kassel (who is also a sex educator), for this one, and she swears by Sliquid Sassy. It is a thicker, longer-lasting, water-based lubricant that won’t require frequent re-applications, and is made with only five all-natural ingredients. Because it’s water-based, Sliquid Sassy pairs well with toys and won’t leave them all sticky. And given its thicker, pillowy texture, it’s a suitable option for anal sex as well (trust me, I’ve tried).

Best Lube for Anal Sex: Gun Oil’s Silicone Lube

When it comes to anal, longevity matters, and that’s where Gun Oil shines. This silicone-based lube is ultra slick, water-resistant and designed to last through the kind of extended sessions where water-based lubes tend to tap out. A little goes a long way, so you’re not constantly reapplying mid-thrust, and it won’t dry up the second friction kicks in. It’s hypoallergenic, latex-safe and silky without that tacky residue, making it a go-to for people who want smooth, worry-free glide from start to finish. 

Best Flavoured Lube: LubeLife’s Peaches & Cream Anal Delight

What I love most about LubeLife is their variety. They have every kind of lube imaginable, and their flavoured lubricants feature unique profiles that are as expansive as they are tasty. While my personal favourite is peaches and cream, the latest addition in their elaborate lineup, LubeLife also features fun flavours like strawberry, cotton candy, piña colada, sex on the beach and birthday cake. 

Best Lube for Travel: Pure for Men’s Silicone-Based Lube

If you’re looking to get lucky on vacation, both the water- and silicone-based lubricants from Pure for Men (suitable for all bodies) are solid choices. The bottles won’t get you stopped by airport security as they’re within the 100 ml liquid limit for carry-ons. What’s also great about these bottles is the tips fit nicely into your holes, meaning you can insert them and squeeze to lube up without getting your hands all slick or sticky.

Best Bang for Your Buck Lube: Swiss Navy’s Premium Water-Based Lubricant

When looking for a lube that stretches your dollar, Swiss Navy is a great choice. Their water-based formula runs just a couple bucks an ounce and still delivers a silky, condom- and toy-safe glide that cleans up fast. Their silicone lube is just as dependable, affordable and offers a long-lasting slickness. The brand proves you don’t need to splurge for a lube that performs like the best.

Best Oil-Based Lube: Pure for Men’s Coconut-Based Lube

I truly can’t say enough good things about this stuff—made with organic ingredients (coconut, beeswax, vanilla and fruit extract), this may be my favourite lube on the entire list. This lube requires minimal, if any, re-application and exceeded my expectations. I would recommend storing it in a cooler environment because when warm, it can become quite runny. If the lube gets too thick, just rub it in your hands to warm it up and it’ll smooth right out. 

Best Lube for Fisting: J-Lube

J-Lube has a cult following in kink and fisting circles, but it wasn’t originally designed for the bedroom: it was first developed as a veterinary product to help deliver calves. Sold as a powder you mix with water, a single bottle can whip up gallons of ultra-slick, long-lasting lube, making it insanely cost-effective. Despite its less-than-sexy start, the texture is smooth, stays wet for ages and outperforms most commercial lubes for deep play. With that being said, cleanup can be excessive because it’s made of long-chain polymers that tangle together, and water just smears it around. But if you’re ready for marathon sessions and want a lube with legendary status, J-Lube is the stuff of lore.