Your Guide to the Best Rolling Papers for Smoking Cannabis 

Finding the right rolling paper can make or break your smoking experience. These papers play a massive role in how you enjoy your cannabis. But where exactly do you start? There are so many options in the market! 

But, don’t you worry; we’ve got your back. In this article, discover the best rolling papers you can try and some tips and tricks on finding the type of paper you enjoy the most. Let’s start. 

What are Cannabis Rolling Papers?

Cannabis rolling papers are thin, lightweight sheets made from various plant-based materials like hemp, wood pulp, flax, or rice. These papers are specifically designed to roll joints (and don’t usually make good paper planes). 

Rolling papers are portable and offer an easy way to enjoy cannabis without relying on vapes or pipes. So, whether you’re a fan of quick, no-fuss smokes or take pride in the art of rolling, choosing the right rolling paper can greatly impact your session's smooth and enjoyable. 

The rolling papers you choose will have a substantial impact on your smoking experience. Sure, the strain matters too, but a good rolling paper can often enhance your smoke very subtly. Right from the taste to the burn time and potency, the rolling paper is important as poor-quality papers can put you off and leave a bad taste in your mouth, quite literally! 

If your joints don't burn properly or just taste too harsh, the culprit could be the rolling paper. We often look at the cultivation process with a magnifying lens but the importance of rolling papers is overlooked. In fact, you could be wasting a lot of cannabis just with the wrong type of rolling paper. In the following sections, we will go through the types of rolling papers and how you can choose the ones that suit you. 

Best Cannabis Rolling Papers

Without further ado, let’s dive into the best rolling papers that you can use for smoking cannabis. Remember, each one offers a unique experience, and since everyone’s preferences are different, you might find some that suit your taste more than others.

• Houseplant Rolling Papers and Tips

Houseplant rolling papers are easily one of the best ones you can use to smoke cannabis because they combine everything you’d love about smoking joints in a sleek package. These papers are made from unbleached thin rice paper, so they burn smoothly with a perfect balance of thickness and don’t stick to your lips — that’s a hassle-free experience. 

You may argue that they’ve copied the magnetic closure from Elements, but Houseplant takes it up a notch. This small but smart touch keeps the cover secure and prevents the top paper from curling or tearing when you stash it in your pocket (or socks). 

What’s more, these papers win extra style points by including a set of sturdy 170g craftliner paper tips with every pack. And at such a low cost, they are an excellent choice if you’re looking for simple, easy-to-roll papers that still feel a cut above the rest. 

• Smoking Rolling Papers

Smoking (the company, not the act) was founded in 1929 and has been a go-to brand for cannabis and tobacco smokers for generations. While they might be a bit pricier than some other brands, the quality easily justifies the cost. 

Smoking’s rolling papers are free from chemicals, additives, and artificial colors, so you get clean and pure smoke. The papers are also pretty eco-friendly and made with 100% hemp fibers and non-toxic gum from the Acacia plant. So, not only do you get a smooth smoke but it’s also an environmentally-friendly process. 

Their range of roller papers offers something for everyone. Smoking master is ultra-thin and slow-burning, Smoking Red is medium-weight and Smoking White is for a cigarette-like joint. You also get various sizes to choose from. 

• Shine 24K Gold Rolling Papers 

There’s only one reason why we love the Shine 24K Gold rolling papers — it’s what they represent. These ones are all about making a statement when you’re smoking cannabis. These gold rolling papers are flashy and scream luxury.

They are made with a hemp-blend base and an edible gold coating, so you don’t need to worry much about smoking toxic dyes. They are about as safe as any other rolling papers.

The gold coating doesn’t mess with the burn, either. These papers have a slow and even burn rate, making them perfect for special occasions. And don’t worry, the steep price tag will ensure you don’t rip them out every day and only reserve them for those special joints. 

But be warned: you’ll want to hand these over to someone with solid rolling skills to avoid wasting any of that precious gold. 

• OCB Roll Kit 

Even if you’re not a beginner, the OCB Roll Kit offers a convenient design for rolling on the go. The pack comes with thin, unbleached virgin papers that resist rips and punctures, along with natural fiber filter tips. 

But what really makes this kit shine is the fold-out rolling tray, which is a handy feature for rolling above ground or mastering your rolling skills. The tray is big enough to catch any loose material and the whole kit is still compact enough to fit in your pockets. It also comes with a twine-wrapped elastic band that keeps everything secure. 

• Elements Ultra Thin Rice Papers 

Elements rolling papers are all about offering a clean burn with minimal ash, thanks to their unique blend of sugar and rice.  When you smoke them, the natural sugar gum caramelizes as it burns, improving your experience without interfering with the taste. 

The papers also burn pretty evenly, thanks to the watermarks that prevent running and sustain an even burn throughout the joint. 

These eco-friendly papers are made in Alcoy, a small region in the mountains north of Alicante, Spain — known as the birthplace of rolling papers. So, it’s no surprise that they are so good for smoking cannabis. 

• Blazy Susan Pink Rolling Papers 

Want a pop of color but find gold to be too gaudy? Pick Blazy Susan Pink rolling papers. They offer a unique style that will bring a laugh out of your friend but not make you feel like a mumble rapper. 

These papers are made from wood pulp and don’t bring any flavors that interfere with your smoke. They are also vegan and non-GMO, allowing you to roll with a clear conscience. And if you’re tired of tearing while rolling, don’t worry; Blazy Susans are pretty durable. 

• Zig-Zag Rolling Papers 

Zig-Zag rolling papers have long been a staple in the community, and for good reason. These iconic papers have earned legendary status among smokers, thanks in part to shoutouts from rappers like Ice Cube and Dr. Dre. 

These rolling papers are known for their thickness and are an excellent choice if you’re looking for something nostalgic or prefer the sturdiness of thick papers. 

Zig-Zag also offers hemp papers, which are ideal if you want a clean, healthy smoke that still preserves the flavors of your cannabis. Although, if we’re picking Zig-Zag, we’d always pick their old-school variety. 

How to Find the Best Rolling Paper for You?

As we mentioned earlier, picking the right rolling paper is a subjective process. Selecting the right rolling paper depends on a few personal factors, including your rolling skills, smoking preferences, and what you’re looking to get out of your smoking experience.

So, to make it easier for you, here are some things you need to look for. To start with, consider the following factors.

1. Type of Rolling Paper 

Do you prefer total control, or would you rather skip the rolling process? Loose-leaf papers give you the freedom to adjust the size and shape of your joint, while pre-rolled cones offer convenience for a quick and easy roll.

2. Material 

This is the biggest factor that affects your smoking experience. While we’ll go more into this in a bit, the TL;DR is that rolling papers are made of either hemp, rice, wood pulp, or flex, and each offers a different level of smoothness, burn rate, and flavor profile. 

3. Size 

Another key factor that will affect your smoking experience is the size of rolling papers, and what you ultimately choose to go with depends on your personal preference, environment, and how much cannabis you plan on consuming. You can get rolling papers in many different sizes, all the way from the tiny little compact ones for a single use to the large ones that make joints last for a long time — perfect for sharing with friends. Knowing the differences between sizes will help you choose the right one for each situation.

1. Standard or Single-Wide Rolling Papers

Standard rolling papers are the smallest that you can buy. They generally measure about 70mm in length and 35mm in width. These papers are ideal for rolling little joints, or “pinners.” If you're looking to consume only small quantities, go for single-wide papers. 

These are smaller in size and ideal if you smoke alone or want to save cannabis. However, the limited surface area can make them more difficult to roll, especially for beginners. They burn faster than larger papers, which could result in a shorter smoke session.

Pros

• Compact and discreet
• Uses less cannabis per joint
• Best for beginners needing a smaller, more user-friendly joint

Cons

• Burns quickly
• Harder to roll as they are small in size
• Not ideal for group smoking

2. 1¼ Papers

These are a good compromise between short and sweet and longer sessions. These are suitable for single use but even two people can share and get by easily. They are a little wider so you can fit in some extra cannabis to give you that wee bit longer smoke without going overboard.

Pros

• Flexibility and Scalability
• Rolls up easier than single-wide papers

Cons

• It can burn much faster than larger papers
• Not suited for large groups

3. 1½ Papers

These measure about 79mm long and 60mm wide and are just a tad larger than the one-and-a-quarter size. Since these papers are wider, you can pack more cannabis in your joints and enjoy a longer session. The broader width of the papers also makes them easier to roll and is appreciated by connoisseurs who like to roll slightly beefier joints.

1½ papers are usually thicker as it's designed to hold more cannabis, but they also burn slowly and evenly — simply perfect for those extended chilling sessions where you reminisce about your good ‘ol days with friends. 

However, those who enjoy small joints just before they get back to some creative work may not enjoy these as you'll have to stub the joints and relight them again later. If you detest doing that, well, you’ll simply have to throw away your joint and waste a lot of weed ultimately. 

Pros

• More weed per joint!
• Burns slower for a longer sesh
• Perfect for those who like a big joint — rolls easier.

Cons

• May be too large for solo use
• Costly if you don't smoke a whole joint

4. King-Size Rolling Papers

These are some of the biggest kinds of king-size rolling papers on the market, measuring about 100 to 110 mm long and 55mm wide. If you roll bigger joints — especially when you're with friends, of course — then these papers will suit your needs perfectly. King-size papers are usually found at social events, where more than one person is going to be smoking from the same joint.

Thanks to their size, you have a lot more surface area to work with, so they can be much easier to roll around filter tips. Naturally, you can pack more cannabis into the joint, meaning a slower and even burn. That said, king-size papers can be a bit of overkill for solo smokers or those looking for a quick hit as they burn much longer and take more weed to fill. So, use them only if you have a house party or some other event. 

Pros

• Perfect for longer sessions with friends 
• Best for those that love beefy joints
• Provides a slow, even burn

Cons

• Could waste a lot of weed if you can't finish the entire joint
• Can't be used if you want to smoke alone unless you can manage to smoke a large one

5. King-Size Slim Rolling Papers

Looking to go all out with a king-size joint sans the extra width? A King-Size Slim rolling paper is your answer. While these are usually the same length as king size (100-110mm), they are considerably slimmer in width, making a sleeker or thinner joint. This is particularly useful for individuals looking to get baked but don’t want to use a lot of weed you'd usually use in a full king-sized joint.

Since king-size slim papers burn for a longer time than standard 1¼ papers, they are ideal for personal use when you want a more prolonged smoke without smoking too much. They're also favored at parties by smokers who prefer the sleeker, slimmer design of less bulky joints. 

Pros

• Produces a thick smoke without wasting too much weed
• Sleek and stylish
• Burns slowly and evenly

Cons

• Slightly tough to roll as the width is narrow. 
• Needs accurate packing for a smooth and even burn

4. Burn Rate of Rolling Papers

Your smoking session is only as efficient and enjoyable as the burn rate of your rolling papers! If it burns too fast, you might end up wasting the rest of your Mary Jane and your hit is not as grand; on the contrary, slow-burning papers burn better and smoke better. Paper burn rate — the paper you use, how thick it is, and how tight your joint is rolled all play into this. Understanding how various factors affect the burn time will also help decide which papers are best for you. 

1. Fast-Burning Papers

Thicker papers that burn fast originate from sources like wood pulp. They are easier to roll with and can come in handy for a very quick session but they also have some cons. Sometimes, they burn unevenly, also known as the canoeing effect, meaning one end of your joint burns faster than the other. Needless to say, you may notice that your joint burns inefficiently, wasting a lot of weed and also diminishing the quality of your smoke in the process. 

In addition, you might find yourself having to relight the joint a lot or puff faster than you want just to keep it lit. They are easier for beginners to work with, but they also can produce a harsher and heavier smoke that worsens as you near the end of the joint.

Pros 

• User-friendly, great for those new to rolling
• Perfect for when you have little time to smoke
• Tolerates it even if you pack a bit unevenly 

Cons 

• Burns unevenly and thus wastes cannabis
• Requires frequent relighting
• May generate more of a pungent, spicier smoke
• Cuts the smoking time in half

2. Slow-Burning Papers

Slow-burning rolling papers are usually made of a thinner material (like hemp, rice, or flax) and they are often chosen by more advanced users who enjoy long smoking sessions. The paper is also designed to burn more slowly and evenly, offering a better experience while letting you take your time and not feel like you have to rush through a fast-burning joint. Using slow-burning papers also helps minimize the waste, as they burn more cannabis rather than just paper. 

The main benefit of using these slow-burning papers is that they give you a more chilled, long-lasting smoke. You won't have to relight frequently and the canoeing effect will be less too. The process of combustion is also slower, exposing your cannabis to a lower temperature for less time than regular papers would, resulting in a flavorful smoke as it retains more terpenes and cannabinoids. 

Also, these papers are notoriously thinner and lighter, meaning they can be a bit tougher to roll for the novice. They also need a good dense joint to keep an even burn, so this is another great reason for knowing how to pack your weed.

Pros 

• This will make your smoking session last longer
• Minimizes weed waste with an even burn and slow, steady flame
• Offers smooth smoke with amazing flavor
• Don't have to relight frequently

Cons 

• As they are thin, it can be a little challenging to roll. 
• Must be packed properly to prevent uneven burning. 
• Better for longer sessions

5. Thickness 

Thinner papers deliver a more refined, smooth smoke, favored by seasoned smokers. In addition, thicker papers are easier to handle and ideal for beginners learning to roll.

The thickness of your rolling papers plays a role in enriching your smoking experience too. Not only does it affect the way the paper burns, but it also determines how much smoke is produced, not to mention the flavor.

The thickness of your paper will simply depend on what you prefer. Once you try a few types, you'll finally stumble upon what you like and you can take it from there. Let's discuss each type in detail. 

1. Thicker Rolling Papers

Beginners love thicker materials like classic wood pulp papers because they are so much easier to handle. They're strong, long-lasting papers that aren't easily ripped when you roll them, making them perfect for newbies. In addition, they are likely to burn faster and produce a thick smoke. 

One disadvantage of these papers is that they can give a harsher taste. Sometimes, the flavor of your weed can change a bit as these papers contain lots of material. You'll notice that such papers produce more ash as well.

Pros

• Easy to roll and user-friendly 
• More Durable, rips less
• Faster smoke as it burns more quickly. However, it's a disadvantage for those who want a slow session. 

Cons

• It offers a slightly harsher taste due to excess material
• Changes the flavor of your smoke at times
• Has the potential to waste some weed as it burns very quickly 

2. Ultra-Thin Rolling Papers

Ultra-thin rolling papers, often made from rice or hemp, are papers designed to be as thin as possible without losing their structural strength. Seasoned smokers prefer them as they offer smoother smoke while interfering less with the smoke itself.

Ultra-thin papers burn more slowly and evenly, so you don’t have to keep relighting your joints. This also means that you’ll consume more of your stuff this way and won’t waste much compared to thicker papers. Another advantage you should remember is that they don’t offer any flavor, so the taste of your weed will not be altered at all. There’s less paper to burn so you don’t lose flavor. As a result, you’ll enjoy the natural terpenes and cannabinoids of your strain.

Ultra-thin papers can be hard to roll, particularly for beginners, however. They can be sensitive, so they may tear, or get crumpled during rolling, so beginners may get frustrated. Also, remember that you should pack your stuff in a uniform, consistent manner for it to burn evenly. 

Pros

• Distributes heat evenly for a smooth clean hit with little harshness.
• Lets the natural taste of cannabis shine through.
• It burns slowly and extends the smoking session.
• Uses less paper to generate less waste.

Cons

• More difficult to roll with as they are delicate.
• Likely to get ripped, especially if you're a beginner
• Needs greater care with packing for a good burn

3. Medium Thickness Rolling Papers

Medium-thickness papers are best if you want easy-to-roll papers and appreciate the quality as well. These papers are thicker than ultra-thin types, and they’re not as harsh as thicker papers, so they strike a nice balance. The burn rate is moderate, making them a good choice for a quick session or a long, leisurely smoke. 

Pros

• Easier for a novice.
• Burning and smoke quality are balanced.

Disadvantages 

• May affect the taste of cannabis but in a more subtle way.
• Burns quicker than ultra-thin papers. 

Understanding Rolling Paper Material 

The material your rolling paper is made from plays a big role in both the burn quality and overall smoking experience. Let’s take a look at the most popular types of rolling papers.

1. Hemp Rolling Papers

These are a favorite among smokers for their natural and slow-burning qualities. They are made from hemp fibers, are eco-friendly and easy to work with, and provide a smooth, steady burn. 

They are thicker than rice papers but thinner than wood pulp, which means they are easy to use with a burn rate more similar to that of tobacco. They offer a gentle, earthy, and organic taste that works well with the flavor of marijuana. These are great for people who like a slow burn in their joints and don't like to keep lighting again and again.

Key Features:

• Made of all-natural hemp fibers
• Usually organic and or unbleached
• Burns slowly and evenly
• Adds a subtle earthy flavor
• Eco-friendly and Sustainable

2. Rice Rolling Papers 

If you want the purest taste of your cannabis, rice papers are the way to go. They are ultra-thin and made from rice straw, so they don’t interfere with the flavor at all. They are a bit delicate, though, so you may tear them if you don’t know what you are doing. 

Looking for a radically clean smoking experience? Rice papers may be just for you! Made using rice fibers, they are flavorless and burn twice as slowly as wood pulp, leaving you to enjoy a slower, longer session. Also, these papers look cool, thanks to their semi-translucent nature. However, their thin design can make them somewhat trickier to roll for newbies. 

Key Features:

• Ultra-thin and light
• Good slow-burning for a long smoking session
• Offers a flavourless clean experience
• Difficult to roll because they are fragile

3. Wood Pulp Papers 

This is a classic option as they are widely available but they aren’t the best — they burn fast and may leave a slightly harsh taste. They’re still pretty convenient for on-the-go rolling, though. 

These are the most commonly used rolling papers. Beginners love them as they are thicker and easier to roll compared to other types. 

However, these papers burn slightly quicker than other rolling papers, so don't go for them if you're looking for something that provides a slow smoking session. 

That said, their thick texture provides an even burn. You can practice with these at first and then move on to others. Remember that some wood pulp papers can alter the taste of your cannabis, resulting in a faint wood or paper-like flavor.

Key Features:

• Good for people who think rolling can be complicated
• Burns relatively fast
• May alter the flavor profile of weed slightly
• Available in both bleached and unbleached options

4. Flax Papers

The lightest rolling paper of all, flax offers a sustainable alternative to wood pulp papers. Designed to be moderately thin, flax papers, made from flax fibers, boast an excellent balance of functionality and even burn. Their medium gauge ensures that they are sturdy enough to last, and still provide a great deal of smoke. 

In addition, flax papers let the joint burn very slowly to deliver the ultimate satisfaction. And, since they have a neutral flavor, they don’t interfere with the taste of cannabis at all. 

However, they aren’t as easily available as wood pulp or hemp papers. But for those keen on more high-quality and natural rolling papers without taste, flax is a recommended pick.

Key Features:

• Slow, even burn that strikes a balance between fast-burning and ultra-slow papers
• Flavor-neutral and lets the taste of cannabis shine through
• Eco-friendly and sustainable
• Thick enough to be durable and roll easily
• Less readily available than easier-to-find papers of a similar price range

5. Flavored Rolling Papers

 If you want to add some more variety rather than just smoking regular cannabis, flavored rolling papers could be an option. Typically, they are available in flavors like fruit, mint, or even chocolate. Thus, when you use a fruit-flavored paper with a fruity strain, the results can be much more nuanced and you’ll probably enjoy it. 

That said, some users state that the flavoring is too artificial and distracts from the natural taste of their cannabis. In addition, they ignite quicker than unflavored ones because of the extra components included. Therefore, if you really want to try them, purchase just a couple, try them out, and see if you like them before buying a bunch. 

Key Features:

• Comes in many different flavors (fruity, sweet, minty, etc)
• If you have lots of buds of just one strain, experimenting with these flavored papers may provide a fresh experience. 
• Burns quicker than average papers

6. Transparent Rolling Papers

Crafted out of plant-based cellulose, transparent rolling papers can be a pretty unconventional and striking choice for all smokers. These transparent papers allow you to see the herb as it burns slowly but surely. Also, the flavor of your smoke will be true to form as transparent papers are flavorless. They do burn slowly so you don’t have to worry about the joint melting away quicker than you can smoke it. Most users enjoy these papers, but they can be a little tricky for beginners. 

Key Features:

• Plant-based natural cellulose
• Totally transparent, providing a cool visual experience
• Clean burn with no flavors added

By understanding these materials and choosing them based on your preferences, you can sweeten your cannabis experience and enjoy a smoother, more tailored smoke. There may be hundreds of rolling papers in the market but the best one is what you enjoy the most. 

Summary: Your Guide to the Best Rolling Papers for Smoking Cannabis 

Ultimately, the best rolling paper is the one that suits your personal smoking style and improves your cannabis experience. Whether you’re drawn to eco-friendly hemp, luxurious gold, or ultra-thin rice papers, there’s a perfect option for everyone.
With this guide, you’re now equipped to make an informed choice and enjoy smoother, more satisfying sessions. Rolling papers are a dime a dozen, but a good rolling paper makes all the difference. Time to roll some joints now, isn’t it?