Best Types of Rolling Papers

The Best Rolling Paper Isn't Always the Most Popular

One of the most common questions I hear at High Society Smoke Shop is, "What's the best rolling paper?"

The answer is usually not what people expect.

After years of helping customers choose rolling papers, I've found that there isn't one paper that's best for everyone. The best rolling paper is the one that matches your rolling style, your preferences, and your experience level.

Many people find a paper they like and stick with it for years without ever trying anything else. While there's nothing wrong with that, it often means they're missing out on papers they might enjoy even more.

If you're trying to decide which rolling paper is right for you, here's what I've learned from years behind the counter.

Hemp Rolling Papers

If I had to recommend one category of rolling papers to most customers, hemp papers would be near the top of the list.

Hemp papers tend to offer a great balance between durability, burn quality, and flavor. They're usually easier to work with than ultra-thin rice papers while still providing a clean smoking experience.

Some of the most popular hemp papers we sell are from brands like RAW, and hemp papers continue to be one of the most requested options in the shop.

Why People Like Hemp Papers

• Easy to roll

• Durable and less prone to tearing

• Minimal paper taste

• Consistent burn

• Good for both beginners and experienced rollers

Personally, my favorite rolling papers are Hempire. I've tried a lot of different papers over the years, and Hempire consistently provides the experience I look for.

Rice Rolling Papers

Rice papers have a loyal following, and for good reason.

Many smokers appreciate how thin they are and how little flavor they add to the smoking experience. For people who want the paper to stay out of the way and let the material speak for itself, rice papers can be a great choice.

However, there is a tradeoff that many online articles fail to mention.

The Downside of Rice Papers

Rice papers tend to be more delicate and can tear more easily during the rolling process.

I've seen plenty of customers buy rice papers because they heard they were the "best," only to become frustrated when they're harder to handle than expected.

If you're new to rolling, rice papers may require a little more patience and practice.

That doesn't mean they're bad. It just means they aren't always the best starting point.

Traditional Wood Pulp Papers

Wood pulp papers have been around for decades and remain popular with many smokers.

Brands like Zig-Zag continue to have a strong following, and it's not uncommon for customers to walk into the shop specifically asking for them by name.

Wood pulp papers are generally thicker than hemp or rice papers, making them easier to handle and more forgiving for beginners.

Why Some Smokers Prefer Wood Pulp Papers

• Durable construction

• Easy to roll

• Familiar feel

• Widely available

• Consistent performance

While I personally lean toward hemp and rice papers, there's a reason traditional papers have stood the test of time.

The Most Popular Rolling Paper Brands

When it comes to customer demand, two brands consistently stand out in our shop:

• RAW

• Zig-Zag

RAW has built a reputation for natural materials and a wide variety of paper options. Many customers who want hemp papers naturally gravitate toward RAW.

Zig-Zag remains one of the most recognizable names in rolling papers and continues to attract both longtime smokers and new customers alike.

The popularity of these brands isn't an accident. They've earned loyal followings over many years.

A Common Mistake I See Customers Make

One thing I've noticed over the years is that many people choose a paper once and never experiment again.

A customer might find a paper they like in their twenties and continue buying that same paper for the next decade without ever considering alternatives.

Sometimes I'll recommend a different paper based on what they're looking for, whether that's a cleaner taste, a slower burn, or an easier rolling experience. Quite often they're surprised by how much they enjoy something new.

The truth is that rolling papers are a lot like coffee, hot sauce, or craft beer. Personal preference matters.

The paper that works perfectly for one person may not be the best fit for someone else.

Which Rolling Paper Should You Choose?

If you're not sure where to start, here's my general advice:

• New rollers should consider hemp or traditional wood pulp papers.

• Experienced rollers who want the thinnest possible paper may enjoy rice papers.

• If durability is important, avoid ultra-thin papers.

• If you enjoy trying new products, don't be afraid to experiment with different materials and brands.

Most importantly, don't assume the most popular paper is automatically the best paper.

Final Thoughts

After years of helping customers choose rolling papers, I've found that the best paper comes down to personal preference more than anything else.

If you're looking for an easy recommendation, hemp papers are usually where I point people first. They offer a great balance of durability, flavor, and ease of use.

But whether you prefer RAW, Zig-Zag, Hempire, rice papers, hemp papers, or something else entirely, the best rolling paper is the one that gives you the experience you're looking for.

Sometimes the only way to find your favorite is to try something new. Let us know your favorite papers!