Cloud Chasing and Vaping Competitions

If you’ve been vaping for any time at all you’re bound to have heard of cloud chasing, the vaping phenomenon that’s swept the globe after rising to popularity in the US. It started to gain traction in the UK early last year and is set to be one of the biggest vaping trends of 2017.

Cloud chasing is seen by some as the more intimidating side of vaping that’s only accessible to those with years of vaping knowledge and unlimited budgets to spend on vaping equipment. While it’s true that most cloud chasers are veteran vapers, that doesn’t mean it’s something new vapers should be intimidated by. In fact, the cloud chasing community is an incredibly welcoming sub-genre of the larger vaping community and it can be a great place to connect with fellow vapers to get advice.

So what exactly is cloud chasing?

Extreme frisbee, cheese rolling, burger eating… anything in life can be turned into a competition and vaping is no exception. Cloud chasing boils down to one simple principle - create the biggest, densest cloud of vapour you can. Of course it’s more nuanced than that but that’s the general gist. Cloud chasers are those who partake in the activity but if you’d feel more comfortable observing from the sidelines then you’d be dubbed a cloud gazer.

While cloud chasing can be a lot of fun for those who enjoy it, it’s important to remember that the primary function of vaping is harm reduction. If you’re already a vaper who wants to try their hand at cloud chasing then do your research, educate yourself on the process and have fun. However, we certainly don’t recommend starting to vape just to give cloud chasing a go - it’s something that should only be carried out by existing vapers who have the knowledge and experience to engage safely in this activity.

What should I know before I start?

If you’re considering cloud chasing then we recommend speaking to an experienced cloud chaser to learn more about the science behind it. You’ll need dedicated vaping equipment to help you produce thick clouds of vapour so always speak to an expert who can give you the guidance and safety information you need before you get started.

Another thing to consider is the type of e-liquid you’ll need to use. Traditionally, high PG e-liquids produce better flavour and are favoured by those who favour taste over clouds, whereas high VG e-liquids might lack some flavour but are unparalleled in their vapour-producing abilities.

Something else to think about is where and when cloud chasing is appropriate. We touched on this in an earlier blog post that discussed vaping etiquette, but blowing huge clouds of vapour in an unsuspecting pedestrian’s face is only going to give vapers a bad name. Stick to cloud chasing when you’re with other vapers, at a cloud chasing competition or in your own home. Always think twice before cloud chasing in public spaces.

What about vaping competitions?

Over the years cloud chasing has transitioned from being a fun side element of vaping to its own competitive sport. Vaping competitions are part of vaping events all over the world and the prizes (everything from cash to sponsorships or vaping equipment) can be rather lucrative.

The entry requirements and classes vary from competition to competition: some classes require two vapers to stand back to back and blow clouds at the same time so the audience and judging panel can compare, other classes are focused on tricks and routines.

Oh, and if you’re looking for a tip to dominate in the next vaping competition you attend, you might want to borrow some tricks from this set up!

Where can I see cloud chasing?

There are vaping events, meet ups and competitions popping up all over the UK, so your best bet is to connect with a regional meet up group and keep an eye on event listings. UK Vapers has a fantastic regional forum where you can stay updated on any events that might be happening in your area, or even plan and promote your own event if you want to take the lead!

There are also a number of established vaping events that take place each year and you can find everything from competitions to cloud chasing demos and tutorials if you attend.

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While cloud chasing equipment isn’t something we specialise in at V2 Cigs UK, it’s certainly got our attention as a growing trend in the vaping community. We’re always on hand to answer any questions you have about cloud chasing or vaping in general, so please don’t hesitate to get in touch with our friendly team if you have any unanswered queries.