Bongs and Water Pipes

If you’re just getting started on your cannabis journey, you’re most likely accustomed to basic tools like hand pipes. Although these pipes are great for beginners, they come with one key disadvantage: smaller, harsher hits. For those looking to upgrade, a water pipe is the natural next step.

Water pipes come in a wide variety of types. It’s crucial to understand the differences in order to find the perfect fit. In this guide, we’ll explore types of water pipes, bong features, and how to choose the right one for your smoking experience.

What’s a Water Pipe?

Water pipes—often called bongs—use water to filter and cool smoke. They provide smoother hits by reducing harshness and filtering contaminants. Variants like bubblers and dab rigs also fall under this category.

What to Consider When Buying a Water Pipe

Types of Bongs

Straight Tubes

These cylindrical bongs maintain a consistent shape from top to bottom. They're ideal for beginners and deliver straightforward functionality.

Beaker Bongs

Shaped like a laboratory beaker, these bongs have a wide base for better stability and larger water capacity.

Bubble Base

Featuring a rounded base, these bongs offer moderate stability. A mix between straight tubes and beakers.

Multi-Chamber (Recycler Bongs)

These bongs cycle smoke through water multiple times, enhancing filtration and cooling.

Percolator Bongs

Percolators break smoke into fine bubbles for better filtration, but they may increase cleaning complexity.

Key Bong Features

Downstem

Connects the bowl to the water chamber. Removable downstems are easier to clean.

Ice Catcher

Holds ice cubes in the neck of the bong to cool smoke before inhalation.

Splash Guard

Prevents water from reaching your mouth while smoking.

Ash Catcher

An accessory that prevents ash and resin from entering your water pipe.

Bowls

Choose a bowl size based on how much herb you smoke and the joint size of your bong. Most common: 14mm male/female joints.

Bong Materials

Glass

The cleanest and most flavorful option, but fragile and pricier. Great for connoisseurs.

Plastic or Acrylic

Affordable, colorful, and easy to clean. Good for casual smokers or travel use.

Wood

Unique and durable, but requires regular upkeep. Often made from bamboo or exotic hardwoods.

FAQs About Water Pipes

Glass vs. Silicone Bongs?

Glass offers flavor and aesthetic appeal, while silicone is shatterproof, cheaper, and easier to clean.

What is the Standard Bong Joint Size?

14mm is most common. Check whether your bong has a male or female joint before buying accessories.

How Do You Use a Bong?

Fill the base with water (just above the downstem).
Grind herb and pack the bowl.
Light the bowl and inhale slowly.
Pull out the bowl to clear the chamber.

Why Use a Bong?

Water pipes offer smoother, cooler hits. With added percolators or ice catchers, they reduce harshness and maximize flavor.

Choose between pyrex, soft glass, acrylic, ceramic, and silicone based on your lifestyle, budget, and preferences.

Heady Glass Bongs

These highly artistic, functional glass pieces are popular with collectors and enthusiasts. Browse our curated collection of affordable heady bongs and pipes.