Cannabis 101: How to Choose a Pre-Roll

By Alyssa Martinez @ItsMariaAlyssa

As the cannabis industry evolves, pre-rolls have become increasingly popular among both novice and experienced consumers. These ready-to-smoke joints offer convenience and consistency, but with so many options available, choosing the right pre-roll can be overwhelming. This guide will help you navigate the world of pre-rolls and find the perfect option for your needs.

Understanding Paper Types

The type of paper used in a pre-roll can significantly impact your smoking experience:

  1. Refined White Paper: Often referred to as “rice paper” (though it’s not made from rice), this classic option offers a clean, neutral taste. It’s ideal for those who want to experience the full flavor profile of their chosen cannabis strain without any additional flavors from the paper.
  2. Natural Brown Paper: Less refined than white paper, brown paper provides a slightly earthy taste and a slower burn. It’s a great choice for those who prefer a more rustic smoking experience.
  3. Organic Hemp Paper: Made from hemp fibers, these papers are environmentally friendly and offer a slow, even burn. They impart a subtle, natural flavor that complements many cannabis strains.
  4. Hemp Wraps: These thicker alternatives to traditional rolling papers provide a blunt-like experience without tobacco. Hemp wraps offer a slower burn and a distinct earthy flavor.

Selecting the Right Size

 Pre-rolls come in various sizes to suit different needs:

  1. Mini (0.25g – 0.35g): Perfect for quick, solo sessions or microdosing.
  2. Standard (0.5g – 0.7g): The most common size for solo sessions, ideal for individual use or sharing between two people.
  3. King Size (0.8g – 1.25g): Great for longer sessions or sharing among a small group.
  4. XL or Party Size (1.5g+): Designed for extended sessions or larger gatherings.

Consider your tolerance level and typical consumption habits when choosing between sizes of pre-rolls. Remember, you can always save part of a larger pre-roll for later if needed.

Factors to Consider

  1. Smoking Preference: Do you prefer a quick hit or a long, leisurely session? Thinner papers tend to burn faster, while thicker options like hemp wraps burn more slowly.
  2. Flavor Priority: If you want to taste the full flavor profile of your cannabis, opt for neutral papers like refined white. For those who enjoy the added flavor, consider hemp or flavored paper.
  3. Burn Rate: Thicker papers and larger pre-rolls generally burn more slowly. If you’re looking for a longer-lasting experience, consider these options.
  4. Environmental Concerns: If sustainability is important to you, look for pre-rolls made with organic hemp or other eco-friendly materials.
  5. Intended Use: Consider where and when you’ll be smoking. Smaller pre-rolls are more discreet and portable, while larger ones are better suited for social gatherings.
  6. Cannabis Content: Pay attention to the strain, THC/CBD content, and any added concentrates in the pre-roll. These factors will significantly impact your experience.
  7. Quality and Safety: Look for brands that use high-quality, lab-tested pre-rolls. Some rolling papers may contain harmful contaminants, so choose products from reputable sources that prioritize consumer safety.

Tips for Choosing Quality Pre-Rolls

  1. Check the packaging date to ensure freshness.
  2. Look for pre-rolls that feel firm and evenly packed.
  3. Avoid pre-rolls with visible stems or seeds.
  4. Consider the reputation of the brand and dispensary.
  5. Don’t be afraid to ask budtenders for recommendations based on your preferences.

Experimenting with Different Options

The best way to find your perfect pre-roll is through experimentation. Try different paper types, sizes, and cannabis strains to discover what works best for you. With the wide variety of pre-rolls available today, there’s something out there for every cannabis enthusiast.