Which Rolling Papers Are Best for Smooth Smoking? (RAW vs Elements vs Zig Zag)

The Ultimate Comparison Guide for Smooth, Clean & Flavorful Sessions

If you’re someone who cares about the quality of your smoke, then choosing the right rolling papers is just as important as choosing the right flower. A good rolling paper burns slowly, tastes clean, and compliments your smoking style—not fights it. But with so many brands in the market, most smokers end up asking the same question:

"Which rolling papers actually give the smoothest smoke—RAW, Elements, or Zig Zag?"

At Just Blaze Smoke Shop Pittsburgh, we meet countless customers who want smoother sessions, less harshness, fewer chemicals, and a consistent burn. So today, we’re breaking down the real differences between the three most popular rolling papers: RAW, Elements, and Zig Zag.

This guide will help you choose the right one based on flavor, burn speed, material, thickness, and overall smoking experience.

Why Rolling Papers Matter More Than You Think

Rolling papers influence:

• How fast your joint burns
  
• How smooth or harsh it feels
  
• Whether it canoes or burns evenly
  
• How much flavor of the flower you actually taste
  
• How often you need to relight
  

The wrong paper can ruin premium flower within minutes. The right paper makes even mid-grade feel smoother.

1. RAW Rolling Papers – The Natural Choice

RAW is easily the most loved name in rolling papers—and for good reason. Their papers are made with a classic, earthy look that smokers instantly recognize.

What RAW Is Known For

• Unrefined, natural papers
  
• No bleach, no chalk, no dyes
  
• Slow-burning & thin
  
• Signature criss-cross watermark that prevents runs
  

Material & Taste

RAW uses natural plant fibers, giving the smoke a clean, mildly earthy flavor. It doesn’t overpower the flower, but also doesn’t disappear completely.

Burn Quality

RAW papers burn:

• Slowly
  
• Evenly
  
• Cooler than most brands
  

The watermark system ensures the burn stays consistent—ideal for long sessions or sharing.

Who RAW Is Best For

RAW is perfect for:

• Smokers who prefer natural, additive-free papers
  
• People sensitive to chemical taste or harshness
  
• Anyone who wants smooth smoking with clean flavor
  

Popular RAW Options We Carry at Just Blaze PGH

• RAW Classic
  
• RAW Organic Hemp
  
• RAW Black (ultra-thin)
  
• RAW Cones (the easiest way to roll)
  

2. Elements Rolling Papers – Ultra Clean & Ashless

If you want the cleanest flavor and nearly zero ash, Elements is your brand.

What Makes Elements Stand Out

These papers are made from rice, which creates an incredibly smooth and clean smoke.

Material & Taste

• Rice paper = super thin, no aftertaste
  
• No chemicals
  
• No chlorine
  
• No artificial burn additives
  

This makes your flower taste 100% pure, with almost no paper flavor at all.

Burn Quality

Elements are famous for:

• Burning extremely slow
  
• Producing almost no ash
  
• Even burns with minimal canoeing
  

They also have a watermark pattern that helps prevent runs.

Who Elements Are Best For

Elements are ideal for:

• Smokers who want the smoothest, cleanest smoke possible
  
• Users who dislike paper taste
  
• People who want minimal ash
  
• Long-time smokers who like thin, precise rolls
  

Popular Elements Options at Just Blaze PGH

• Elements Ultra Thin
  
• Elements Rice Cones
  
• Elements King Size Slim
  

3. Zig Zag Rolling Papers – The Classic Icon

Zig Zag is one of the oldest and most recognizable brands. While not as thin or natural as RAW or Elements, Zig Zag has earned decades of trust.

What Zig Zag Is Known For

• Wide variety of materials
  
• Easy to roll
  
• Good for beginners
  
• Long-standing reputation
  

Zig Zag is often the first paper new smokers learn with.

Material & Taste

Zig Zag papers come in many types:

• White (classic pulp-based)
  
• Unbleached
  
• Hemp
  
• Ultra-thin
  

The taste varies depending on the line, but classic Zig Zags have a slightly richer paper taste compared to RAW or Elements.

Burn Quality

Zig Zags burn:

• Moderately slow
  
• Consistently
  
• Reliable for beginners
  

Their thickness makes them easier to handle, especially for newer rollers.

Who Zig Zag Is Best For

Zig Zag is ideal for:

• Beginners who want easier rolling
  
• People who like traditional-style joints
  
• Smokers who want stronger, more durable papers
  

Popular Zig Zag Options at Just Blaze

• Zig Zag Whites
  
• Zig Zag Unbleached
  
• Zig Zag Hemp
  
• Zig Zag Ultra-Thin
  

Head-to-Head Comparison: RAW vs Elements vs Zig Zag

 

Which Rolling Paper Should YOU Choose?

Your final choice depends on your smoking style:

Choose RAW if:

✔ You want natural, unrefined papers
✔ You prefer a slow, even burn
✔ You want a paper that enhances—not masks—your flower
✔ You enjoy smooth, consistent sessions

Great for daily smokers.

Choose Elements if:

✔ You want the cleanest-tasting smoke
✔ You prefer almost zero ash
✔ You like ultra-thin rice papers
✔ You want a premium, pure experience

Ideal for experienced smokers and flavor chasers.

Choose Zig Zag if:

✔ You’re new to rolling
✔ You want more structure in the paper
✔ You prefer traditional rolling papers
✔ You want an affordable, accessible option

Best for beginners or classic paper lovers.

Which Rolling Paper Is the Smoothest?

Elements usually win the crown for “smoothest smoke” because rice paper burns cooler and cleaner.

But many smokers say RAW Organic Hemp feels equally smooth while giving a more natural, earthy experience.

Latest Trends in Rolling Papers (2025 Smoking Trends)

1. Ultra-Thin Papers Are Taking Over

RAW Black and Elements Ultra-Thin are leading the trend. Smokers want less paper, more flavor.

2. Hemp Papers Are Becoming the Favorite

Eco-friendly & smoother than classic pulp papers.

3. Pre-Rolled Cones Dominating the Market

RAW and Elements cones are now preferred over hand-rolling for convenience and consistency.

4. Natural/Unbleached Papers Gaining Popularity

Smokers want fewer chemicals and more transparency.

5. Custom Flavored Papers Growing in Demand

Grape, mango, strawberry—fun options for casual users.

We keep all these trending picks in stock at Just Blaze PGH.

Final Verdict: RAW vs Elements vs Zig Zag — Which Should You Buy?

If your goal is smoothest smoke, choose Elements.
If you want natural and unrefined smoothness, choose RAW.
If you want easy rolling and classic feel, choose Zig Zag.

Each brand has its strengths—what matters is matching your paper to your smoking style.

Shop the Best Rolling Papers in Pittsburgh — Only at Just Blaze PGH

Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned smoker, we carry the full range of RAW, Elements, and Zig Zag products at:

Just Blaze Smoke Shop Pittsburgh
Your trusted destination for premium smoking accessories.

Visit our online store or stop by our shop to explore:

• Rolling papers
  
• Cones
  
• Grinders
  
• Dab rigs
  
• Vaporizers
  
• Lighters
  
• And more smoking essentials