Smoking is one of the guilty pleasures some people resort to when they’re in need of a stress relief because it’s said to trigger the release of the “feel good” hormone, dopamine. Others like to light up a cigarette when they’re surrounded by their friends, so it can also have a social connotation. Whichever the reason, there’s an additional dose of pleasure from rolling your own cigarette.
The paper has a lot of say in this too, so if you want to count on the enjoyable experience you’re expecting, it’s best to look for quality rolling papers from some top-notch brands. Keep in mind, the choice of paper you opt for will influence the burn rate as much as the overall flavour.
How Do I Choose Rolling Papers?
As there are different options you’d come across at the trusted retailers and specialised shops, it’s important to focus on a few of the most crucial factors like material, size, flavour, and popular brand.
In terms of material choices, you’ve got:
- The standard – This is the wood pulp option which is made from wood fibres, chosen for the quick and even burn, as well as ease to roll it. While it does have a neutral taste, there can be some aftertaste.
- Rice paper – If you don’t mind its delicateness when handling it as it takes some patience and a bit of practice to get it right, it’s a great option for the slow burning and smooth smoking, plus the lesser ash amount as a result.
- Hemp paper – This is yet another slow-burning option of rolling papers that’s quickly become a popular one for the minimal taste impact.
- Specialty paper – If you’re looking for something more specialised and different, there are some brands that provide unique blends, textures, and burn characteristics by mixing different plants.
In terms of size choices, you’ve got:
- The single width – In general, this is a type of paper size known for being around 70 mm in length, and around 34-36 mm in width. It’s perfect for small cigarettes.
- The 1¼ – This option is known for being bigger than the single width as it can hold about 25% more tobacco. Its measurements are 76-78 mm in length, and 45-48 mm in width.
- The 1½’’ – If you want to roll a cigarette with a bigger diameter than that of the previous option, then you should get this paper that measures 76-78 mm in length and 60-62 mm in width.
- The double wide – If you need something for easy rolling, this is the go-to choice, measuring 79 mm in length, and double the width size of the single wide.
- The king size – Among the bigger options in the market, this is a rolling paper that measures 100-105 mm in length, and 55-60 mm in width.
- The king slim size – This lightweight and translucent choice differs from the other king size alternative in the fact its length is about 110 mm, and its width is 42-44 mm.
In terms of flavour choices, you’ve got:
A range of options, from berries and apple, grapes and pineapple, to peaches, cream, bubble gum, vanilla, and chocolate among others. There are various types available so you’ve got a lot to choose from to enhance your smoking experience.
In terms of popular brand choices, you’ve got:
- RAW – If you’re looking for a classic that’s got the approval for the natural and unrefined quality, then this is a brand to consider. Created from natural hemp without it being treated with any chemicals or even bleach, they’re a popular choice also for being thin and burning slowly and evenly. RAW’s papers are available in different sizes so you can find your perfect fit.
- Elements – Made from rice, the Elements’ papers are among the thinnest you can find in the market. The reason they’ve become so popular among all kinds of smokers is the almost tasteless smoking experience thanks to their thin characteristic. As such, they make for a smooth and easy smoke, and burn slowly and calmly. For an ash-free result, you should look through the Elements’ sugar gum line which is the brand’s specialty. When this cigarette paper burns, it caramelises, producing little to no ash, and a clean smoke throughout.
- Juicy Jay – If, on the contrary, you’re someone who’s after a bit of flavour boost, then be sure to browse through this brand’s paper products. Also crafted from quality hemp, you can count on a smooth burn. And, with every puff, you can enjoy a flavourful boost available in a range of options, without it being at the expense of the herbal taste.
- Bob Marley – Paying tribute to the legend, the papers from this brand are another exceptional choice as they make for a smooth and satisfyingly even burn. Made from natural materials, like acacia gum and hemp, they’re a great natural option that’s unbleached, dye-free, chlorine-free, GMO-free, and vegan.
