Is herpes easily contracted, even if you are wearing the safest of condems?

Well, Condoms: Are helpful but it is possible that skin not covered by the condom could be effected by viral shedding. So, there aren't any full guarantees.

Herpes: Unfortunately most cases of herpes are caught in parts of our bodies that are not covered or protected by condoms. Oral herpes, found in 75% of us, are found on or near the mouths more than 90% of the time. "genital' herpes is found somewhere between the belly button and the thigh 95% of the time. Herpes is transmitted skin to skin usually. Condoms only protect if covering the infected skin.