The Ultimate Guide to Choosing the Best Rolling Papers

Beginner’s guide on how to choose the best rolling papers

Rolling papers are an essential part of the smoking experience, but with so many options available, choosing the right one can be overwhelming. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned smoker, understanding the different types of rolling papers can help enhance your smoking session. In this guide, we’ll break down everything you need to know to make the best choice.

Types of Rolling Papers and Their Benefits

Rolling papers come in various materials, each offering a unique burn rate and flavour profile. Here are some of the most popular options:

• Rice Papers – Thin and slow-burning, rice papers offer a clean taste and minimal ash. They can be trickier to roll due to their smooth texture but are a favourite among experienced smokers.
• Hemp Papers – Made from natural hemp fibres, these papers are eco-friendly and provide a slightly sweet flavour. They tend to burn slower than standard wood pulp papers.
• Wood Pulp Papers – The most common type, wood pulp papers are easy to roll and come in bleached and unbleached varieties. They burn at a medium pace and are great for beginners.
• Flavoured Papers – Infused with fruity or sweet flavours, these papers add an extra element to your smoke. However, they may burn faster than other types.
• Smell Papers – Scented papers with matching tips in a scratch and sniff pack, adding a fun aroma to your rolling without changing the taste.

Choosing the Right Paper Size

Rolling papers come in different sizes, and picking the right one depends on your smoking preference:

• Regular 70 – The standard cigarette paper size measuring 68mm x 36mm, ideal for a quick solo smoke.
• Medium 1 ¼ Size – Slightly longer than a Regular 70 measuring 76mm x 44mm with the same width as a king size paper, better for sharing.
• XL Rolling Papers – Extra long 130mm papers with matching tips in the pack, perfect when you want a longer roll from a single paper.
• King Size – Longer, wider papers measuring 108mm x 44mm, perfect for sharing and for rolling wider.
• Rolls – Smoking paper rolls contain a single continuous paper leaf that measures 4m x 44mm, designed to be cut to size and perfect for extreme rolls.
• Pre-Rolled Cones – Perfect for those who struggle with rolling, these cones make preparation quick and easy and are typically king size.

Bleached vs. Unbleached Papers: Which is Better?

Bleached and unbleached rolling papers both have their advantages, and the choice between them often comes down to personal preference.

Bleached Papers

These papers undergo a whitening process to give them a consistent and smooth appearance. Many reputable brands use oxygen-based or chlorine-free bleaching methods, ensuring that the papers remain safe to use. Some smokers prefer bleached papers because they tend to have a uniform burn and a reliable texture, making them easier to roll.

Unbleached Papers

These papers retain their natural colour and skip the whitening process, which some smokers appreciate for its minimal processing. They may have a slightly different texture compared to bleached papers, but they perform just as well in terms of burn rate and quality.

Ultimately, both options are great, and the decision depends on whether you prefer a classic, uniform look and feel (bleached) or a more natural aesthetic (unbleached). The best way to decide is to try both and see which suits your rolling style and smoking preference.

Finding the Best Rolling Papers for Your Needs

If you prefer a slow, clean burn, rice or hemp papers are excellent choices. For ease of use, wood pulp papers are ideal, while flavoured papers are great for those looking to experiment. Trying different brands and materials will help you discover what works best for you.

No matter your preference, selecting the right rolling paper can make all the difference. Happy rolling!