Whether you’re new to the world of smoking accessories or a seasoned enthusiast, finding a reliable and well-stocked smoke shop can make all the difference. At 710 Pipes, we’ve proudly served Colorado’s smoking community for years, offering a curated selection of top-tier glass, vape products, and other essentials. In this guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know about smoke shops – what they are, how they’ve evolved, and how they differ from pipe shops.
What is a Smoke Shop?
A smoke shop is a retail store that sells products and accessories designed for smoking tobacco, legal herbs, or cannabis (in states where it is permitted). Common items include glass pipes, water pipes (also called bongs), rolling papers, vaporizers, hookahs, grinders, and other related gear. Many smoke shops also offer novelty items, apparel, and cleaning supplies for your gear.
Some smoke shops specialize in a particular niche, like American-made glass art, while others provide a wider variety of affordable, mass-produced smoking products. At 710 Pipes, we strive to offer the best of both worlds – combining artistry with accessibility.
The History of Smoke Shops
The origins of modern smoke shops in the United States date back to the late 1800s and early 1900s, when tobacconists began establishing retail storefronts in urban areas. These early shops focused on cigars, pipe tobacco, and smoking accessories. With the rise of tobacco culture in the early 20th century, such shops became a fixture in American cities and small towns alike.
However, smoke shops as we recognize them today – including those catering to cannabis consumers – started emerging more prominently after the counterculture movement of the 1960s and the cannabis decriminalization movements of the 1970s. The legal landscape shifted further following California’s 1996 decision to legalize medical marijuana, and retail smoke shops began expanding their inventory to include products for cannabis use in states with permissive laws.
With the 2012 legalization of recreational marijuana in Colorado and Washington, smoke shops grew rapidly in number and scope. This modern version of the smoke shop blends old-world craftsmanship with new-world innovation, now serving both tobacco and cannabis communities.
Typical Smoke Shop Products
- Glassware: From hand-blown chillums to scientific glass bongs, smoke shops carry a range of glass products to suit every style and budget.
- Vapes & E-Cigs: Disposable and refillable vapes, e-juices, and pod systems are available for those who prefer vaping to combustion.
- Concentrate Tools: Dab rigs, quartz bangers, carb caps, and torches are common for concentrate users.
- Rolling Supplies: Smoke shops often carry rolling papers, pre-rolled cones, grinders, and storage containers.
- Cleaning Supplies: Isopropyl alcohol, pipe cleaners, and cleaning solutions keep your pieces looking new and functioning well.
Choosing the Right Smoke Shop
Not all smoke shops are created equal. A great shop should offer a combination of:
- Product variety: A wide range of high-quality smoking and vaping accessories.
- Knowledgeable staff: Employees who can answer questions, make recommendations, and explain how different products work.
- Fair pricing: Competitive prices without sacrificing quality or authenticity.
- Clean environment: A well-organized, welcoming space for browsing and asking questions.
At 710 Pipes, we pride ourselves on meeting these standards every day. Whether you’re shopping in person or online, our team is here to help you find the perfect product for your needs.
Online vs. Physical Smoke Shops
The smoke shop experience has evolved significantly in recent decades, thanks in part to the rise of online retail. Online smoke shops first became available in the U.S. around the early 2000s, giving customers the convenience of browsing and ordering their favorite products from home. Today, many businesses – including 710 Pipes – offer both in-store and online options to suit different preferences.
While physical shops provide hands-on interaction and in-person expertise, online stores offer a wider selection and 24/7 access. Here’s a quick comparison of the two:
Explore Our Online Smoke Shop
Browse our online smoke shop to order all of the smoking devices & accessories you need – including bongs, vaporizers & more.| Aspect | Physical Smoke Shop | Online Smoke Shop |
|---|---|---|
| Shopping Experience | In-person browsing with product handling and staff assistance | Browse anytime from any location with internet access |
| Product Access | Immediate product pickup | Shipping to your door, often with expanded inventory |
| Expert Guidance | Face-to-face recommendations from experienced staff | Product descriptions, reviews, and live chat (if available) |
| Availability | Limited to store hours | 24/7 availability for browsing and ordering |
| Local Support | Supports your local community and businesses | Ideal for those without easy access to a nearby smoke shop |
Both formats offer unique advantages, and customers are encouraged to use whichever method best fits their lifestyle. At 710 Pipes, we’re proud to offer both options to make your experience as convenient and enjoyable as possible.
How Do “Smoke Shops” and “Pipe Shops” Compare?
Though the terms are often used interchangeably, there are subtle differences between smoke shops and pipe shops. A pipe shop traditionally refers to a store focused on tobacco pipes — including briar pipes, meerschaum pipes, and corn cob pipes — along with premium pipe tobacco, lighters, and humidors. These shops often attract customers interested in the ritual and craftsmanship of traditional pipe smoking.
In contrast, smoke shops generally offer a broader inventory that caters to both tobacco and cannabis users. You’ll find not only pipes and rolling supplies but also contemporary items like dab rigs, vape pens, concentrate accessories, and more. As smoking cultures evolve, many shops (like 710 Pipes) blend the two concepts, offering products for both traditional and modern preferences.
FAQs About Smoke Shops
Yes. In most states, including Colorado, you must be at least 21 years old to enter a smoke shop or purchase any smoking accessories.
Yes, the products sold at reputable smoke shops are legal to own and use for tobacco or legal herb consumption. However, laws may vary depending on your state, so it’s important to be aware of local regulations.
No. Smoke shops do not sell cannabis, even in states where it is legal. Instead, they sell the tools and accessories used for smoking or vaporizing it.
Due to health and hygiene regulations, most smoke shops – including 710 Pipes – cannot accept returns on used smoking accessories. Always ask about return policies before purchasing.
Bongs are typically used for smoking dry herbs, while dab rigs are designed for vaporizing concentrates. They often look similar but use different bowl types and heating methods.
Yes, many smoke shops stock American-made glass and accessories. At 710 Pipes, we feature locally blown glass pieces alongside other top-tier domestic brands.
Absolutely. Most modern smoke shops, including 710 Pipes, offer a full online store where you can browse and order from the comfort of home.
It depends. Low-cost products may be made with substandard materials. It’s always a good idea to ask the staff about product safety and material quality before purchasing.
Conclusion
Smoke shops play an essential role in modern smoking culture, offering both new and experienced consumers the tools they need to enjoy their favorite products safely and stylishly. Whether you’re a tobacco pipe traditionalist, a flower enthusiast, or a concentrate connoisseur, there’s something for you at a quality smoke shop.
At 710 Pipes, we’re proud to serve Colorado through our three physical locations – in Denver, Northglenn, and Broomfield – open seven days a week. Our online smoke shop is also stocked with hundreds of products, including American-made glass, vaporizers, grinders, and more. Whether you visit us in person or browse online, our team is ready to help you find your next favorite piece.