What’s the best cigar shape for someone just starting out? It sounds simple, but with so many options, figuring out where to start can be tricky. Different shapes provide different smoking experiences, so finding one that’s easy to handle and enjoyable is key
Let’s walk through the best cigar shapes for beginners. We’ll explain what makes each shape special, share tips for getting started, and recommend what we think is the ideal beginner shape!
Parejo: The Classic and Easy Starting Point
When people think of cigars, they typically picture a Parejo. This is the most common cigar shape—straight sides with a rounded cap—and it’s also the simplest to handle.
Why Parejos Are Perfect for Beginners
For cigar makers, blending and rolling Parejos is relatively straightforward. Once they’ve worked out the flavor for a specific size, they can easily scale it by adjusting the amount of tobacco used.
It’s similar to following a recipe—you reduce or increase the ingredients depending on how many servings you want. Smaller sizes like a Petit Corona use fewer leaves, while larger sizes like a Toro require more.
On the smoking side, Parejos are great because:
- They’re easy to cut, light, and smoke: Just clip the cap, toast the foot, and enjoy.
- They provide an even draw: The straight sides ensure consistent airflow and flavor throughout the cigar.
- There’s a wide variety: From short, quick smokes to longer ones, Parejos come in many sizes to suit different preferences.
For beginners, we recommend starting with a Corona or Petit Corona size Parejo. These smaller sizes are easier to manage and don’t require a long time commitment.
Torpedo: A Versatile and Customizable Shape
After trying a Parejo, a Torpedo is a great next step for beginners looking to explore different draw experiences. The Torpedo shape is similar to a Parejo in that it has straight sides, but what sets it apart is its sharply pointed cap. This unique feature allows you to control the size of the opening when you cut it.
Why Torpedos Are Great for Beginners
The pointed cap offers a subtle but interesting way to experiment with the cigar’s draw:
- Smaller opening for a tighter draw: If you cut off just the tip, you’ll get a smaller opening, resulting in a tighter, more concentrated draw. This can enhance the flavor and give a more focused smoking experience.
- Larger opening for a fuller draw: Cutting more of the cap creates a larger opening, allowing for more airflow and a bigger, cooler draw. This can mellow out the smoke and make it more enjoyable for beginners who prefer a smoother experience.
Another thing to keep in mind is the ring gauge. By adjusting how much of the pointed cap you cut, you’re essentially controlling how wide the cigar feels when you draw. If you prefer a smaller girth, cut only a little off the cap. If you want to experience a larger ring gauge, cut more to expose a wider opening.
This flexibility makes the Torpedo a great shape for beginners who want to play around with how different sizes and draws affect the flavor.
Piramide: A Longer Option with Similar Features
The Piramide is similar to the Torpedo but typically longer, with a more gradual taper toward the pointed cap. Like the Torpedo, it allows you to experiment with different draw options by adjusting how much of the cap you cut.
For beginners looking for a longer smoke, a Piramide offers the same versatility as a Torpedo with the added benefit of more smoking time.
Thinking About Cigar Sizes as a Beginner
When talking about cigar shapes, it’s important to mention vitolas, which refer to both the shape and size of a cigar. For beginners, shape is important because it determines how you cut and handle the cigar, but size can change how long you’re smoking and how intense the flavor feels.
If you’re new to cigars, it’s usually best to start with smaller ring gauges and shorter lengths. These provide a quicker, milder smoking experience, making them easier to manage. Some great beginner-friendly sizes include:
- Petit Corona – Shorter with a smaller ring gauge, perfect for quick smokes.
- Corona – Slightly longer but still easy to handle.
- Short Robusto – A shorter version of the popular Robusto, giving you a rich flavor in a smaller package.
Once you’re comfortable with smaller cigars, you can move up to larger ones like Robustos, Toros, or even Churchills if you’re ready for a longer, more relaxing smoke.
Our Final Recommendation
Of all the options we’ve shared, we recommend beginners start with a Parejo. It’s the easiest shape to cut, light, and enjoy, making it perfect for getting comfortable with cigar smoking. If you want to start experimenting, a Torpedo or Piramide is a great next step because they let you play around with different cuts and draw sizes.
Whatever shape and size you choose, remember—smoking cigars is about enjoying yourself. Start simple, try different options, and see what works best for you.
Happy smoking!
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About the Author:
The Atlantic Cigar Staff is a team of seasoned cigar aficionados with over 25 years of experience. As part of the Atlantic Cigar family for decades, our experts know cigars inside out. We share our passion for premium, handmade cigars with enthusiasts worldwide. Our friendly and knowledgeable team guides both seasoned smokers and curious newcomers to the perfect smoke. We're always eager to share our love of cigars with you.