Glass bongs, or water pipes, have been an integral tool for smoking enthusiasts for decades. They are designed to offer a smoother, more relaxed, and cleaner smoking experience compared to using roll-up paper or other smoking methods. Over the years, the design and functionality of glass bongs have evolved significantly, thanks to advancements in technology and innovation in the industry. Today, glass bongs come in various shapes, sizes, colors, and features, catering to smokers’ diverse needs. This article explores some of the latest trends and innovations in the glass bong industry and community that offer new designs, functions, or experiences.
The Different Shapes and Sizes of Glass Bongs
Glass bongs have evolved significantly since the emergence of the paraphernalia industry, as new technology and innovative designs impact their production. Today, consumers can choose from various glass bongs in different shapes, sizes, and styles. This long-standing tradition of smoking herb dates back to many years ago, when old dried-up corncobs and gourds were used to smoke tobacco. People started creating various smoking instruments using hay stems, bamboo, and metal as time passed. However, the glass bongs we know today emerged in the early 1970s following the explosion of the hippie culture in America. At first, glass bongs were cylindrical shapes with rubber mouthpieces and carburetors. They were quite primitive and lacked intricate, artistic designs. However, over the years, the industry has come a long way with new technology and modern techniques leading to sophisticated and complex designs, complete with intricate percolation systems, splash guards, and ice notches. All these factors combine to offer a satisfying smoking experience for the user while maximizing the effects of herb.
The production of glass bongs has come to a point where artisans, designers, and engineers are pushing the boundaries of what can be done with glass as a material. This has led to an impressive array of contemporary designs, where glass blowers use color techniques, shaping, and molding, to make functional art pieces. Furthermore, creating diverse glass bongs has enabled the industry to cater to smokers with different preferences and needs. From small, handheld pipes with fewer features to complex water pipes with intricate structures and percolators, the industry has evolved to cater to a broad spectrum of smokers.
The Innovations Transforming the Glass Bong Industry
While the traditional designs of glass bongs have remained popular, innovations have revolutionized the industry. For example, the emergence of silicone bongs creates an alternative to durable and travel-friendly glass. Silicone bongs are flexible, easy to clean, and resistant to breakage. They also come in various colors and shapes that appeal to different tastes. Another innovation is the introduction of glass ice molds that add a new level of precision for the ice pinch in bongs. Ice pinches are indentations in the neck of the bong that allow users to place ice cubes inside for extra cooling. However, regular ice cubes can melt quickly and cause water spillage or clogging. Glass ice molds are specially designed to fit perfectly into the ice pinch and last longer than regular ice cubes.
Innovations in glassmaking techniques have also resulted in new bong materials, such as opaque, colored glass. This type of glass allows for intricate designs, patterns, and colors to be incorporated into bongs, making them functional and aesthetic. Some examples of this technique are fume work, sandblasting, and glass fusing. Fume work involves applying a thin layer of metal vapor onto clear glass using a torch flame. This creates a metallic sheen that changes color depending on the light source and angle. Sandblasting involves blasting sand particles onto glass using high pressure air. This creates a frosted or etched effect that can be used for logos or patterns. Glass fusing involves melting pieces of colored glass together using high temperatures. This creates a seamless blend of colors that can be used for artistic effects.
The Best Bongs of Summer 2023
With so many options available in the market today, it can be hard to choose the best bong for your needs. To help you out, we have compiled a list of some of the best bongs of summer 2023 based on quality, design, functionality, and price.
| Brand | Model | Description | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| Medicali Glass | Showerhead Perc Beaker Ice Bong | A collector’s item that features a showerhead percolator, ice notches, and a 45 cm height. Made with high-quality borosilicate glass and a modern flame factory in Southern California. | $199.99 |
| LA Pipes | Beaker Ice Bong with Double Showerhead Percolator | A best choice bong that features two percolators, ice notches, and a 40 cm height. Made with durable 5 mm borosilicate glass and a sleek design. | $149.99 |
| Glasscity | Limited Edition Beaker Ice Bong | A bargain choice bong that features ice notches and a 40 cm height. Made with cobalt blue glass and a simple design. | $99.99 |
| Jerome Baker Designs | Mini Mothership Glass Bubble Base Bong | A collector’s choice bong that features a bubble base, a 25 cm height, and a unique design. Handmade with the highest graded quality 5 mm borosilicate glass and formed with bubble shapes and amazing color combinations. | $249.99 |
If you are looking for a new bong to enjoy your herb or tobacco this summer, you can’t go wrong with any of these options. They are all available online at
Grasscity.com
, the world’s largest online headshop. Order yours today and get ready for a smooth and satisfying smoking experience!
