Disclaimer: The views of authors published on Creative Loafing Charlotte are their own and do not necessarily represent the views of Creative Loafing Charlotte. Our website services, content, and products are for informational purposes only. Creative Loafing does not provide medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Are Silicone Pipes Better Than Glass Pipes? | Hemp Express | Creative Loafing Charlotte
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Are Silicone Pipes Better Than Glass Pipes? 


Silicone pipes have really grown in popularity over the past few years, with many more designs and styles becoming available very recently. From spoon pipes and nectar collectors to bongs and bubblers, you can find just about any glass piece in silicone these days. Which is better though, glass or silicone? The answer is that it is completely up to you! Glass has its benefits - like better flavor and more intricate pieces - but so does silicone. Silicone is one of the most durable materials on the market. Glass and silicone also have their disadvantages. Each type of piece can be designed very well or poorly. It is important to shop around when looking for a new piece. Check for quality and remember that you get what you pay for. 

The Pros and Cons of Silicone Pipes versus Glass

Here are some quick pros and cons of silicone pipes compared to glass pipes:

Pros

Silicone Never Breaks

Silicone Never Breaks

Silicone is one of the most durable materials on the market. You can drop or knock over a silicone pipe and breathe easy knowing it won’t get damaged. The same cannot be said for glass, which will shatter or crack almost every time.

Easier To Clean

Silicone is a non-polar material meaning resin is unlikely to stick to it. Since the resin is less likely to stick to it than glass, it makes cleaning much easier. Also, many silicone pieces are actually dishwasher safe! Glass pipes are way too fragile to wash in a dishwasher.

Extremely Portable

Extremely Portable

A silicone piece is rugged and lightweight which is great for traveling, especially if you’re going to a friends house to watch stoner movies. Some styles are even collapsible or foldable, making them easy to store and take along with you. To take a glass piece with you, you’ll want to purchase padded storage cases. These cases can get pretty pricey and they don’t always protect your piece.

Affordable

Pieces made from silicone are usually way cheaper than their glass counterparts. You’ll generally spend 60% to 80% less on a silicone piece compared to a similar design in glass. Because you’re spending less and the pipe will not break, you’re making the most economic decision with silicone.

Cons

Lacking Aesthetics

Glass pieces are usually far more intricate and creative than silicone pieces. Glass pipes can be true works of art. Silicone pipes are fairly limited at the moment when it comes to color, looks and design. They are molded pieces as opposed to blown artistry.

Taste

Taste

Most people will tell you that smoking out of glass tastes better than silicone. Silicone can have a strange aftertaste, which can be off putting to some. Stale water will also cling to silicone, so be sure to keep your pieces clean for the best flavor.

Minimal Styles

There are some things that are just impossible to do with silicone right now. Percolators are a glass only feature. Silicone can only withstand heat up to 392°F (200°C). This means anything that gets torched will be glass only, like wax bangers and rig nails.

Heat Sensitive

As stated above, silicone has some heat limitations. Because of this, you’ll need to be careful with an open flame. You don’t want to put fire directly to your piece, it might melt! Be sure to use indirect heat on the piece, carefully edging your flame when smoking with a lighter. Using a hemp wick is a good option since there is no flame to worry about. 

Should I Buy a Silicone Pipe

While silicone will never fully replace glass, it is a fantastic option. If you’re considering getting a silicone piece or water pipe, shop around and try them out. They do the same job as a glass piece without the price tag. They are safe to use and very easy to clean. They are also great for traveling since they are incredibly durable and usually small or collapsible. Silicone will never break so you’ll never have to worry about you (or your buddies) dropping it. You can find an excellent selection at GlobalSmokeShop.com and get the answers to any questions you might have.



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