Whether you are new to the vaping community or an experienced vaper looking to dive into the fascinating world of cloud chasing, you've come to the right place. This guide will cover everything you need to know about cloud chasing, from understanding what it is and how to get started, to the rising popularity of competitive vaping. So, grab your vape gear, and let's get started.

Cloud chasing is a practice where vapers use specific vaping equipment and techniques to produce large, dense clouds of vapour. This subculture has grown immensely within the vaping community and has even led to competitive events where participants showcase their cloud-producing skills.

Cloud chasing originated in the early 2010s in the United States and quickly spread globally. Enthusiasts began experimenting with different setups and techniques to see who could produce the most voluminous and impressive clouds. What started as a friendly challenge among peers has now evolved into a serious competitive sport, complete with organised events and substantial prizes.

To understand cloud chasing, it's essential to grasp the basics of how vaping works. At its core, vaping involves heating e-liquid to create vapour, which is then inhaled and exhaled. The density and size of the clouds depend on several factors, including the type of e-liquid, the power of the device, and the airflow settings.

E-Liquid Type

The e-liquid you choose plays a crucial role in cloud production. E-liquids are generally composed of Propylene Glycol (PG) and Vegetable Glycerin (VG), along with nicotine and flavourings. For cloud chasing, you'll want a high VG e-liquid, as VG is thicker and produces denser vapour. They are ideal for producing large clouds but may deliver less throat hit compared to high PG liquids.

Device Power

The power of your vaping device, measured in watts, directly impacts the amount of vapour produced. Cloud chasers often use high-wattage devices, which can heat the coil faster and to higher temperatures, thereby generating more vapour.

Airflow

Airflow control is another critical element in cloud chasing. More airflow allows for cooler vapour and bigger clouds. Most modern vaping devices come with adjustable airflow settings, giving you the flexibility to find your perfect cloud-chasing balance.

Now that you understand the basics, let's dive into how you can start cloud chasing. Follow these steps to begin your journey:

Step 1: Choose the Right Equipment

Mods: A powerful mod is essential for cloud chasing. Look for regulated mods with high wattage capabilities (at least 100W). Mechanical mods can also be used but require a thorough understanding of battery safety and Ohm's Law.

Tanks and RDAs: Sub-ohm tanks and rebuildable dripping atomizers (RDAs) are the go-to options for cloud chasers. Sub-ohm tanks have pre-built coils that are less than 1 ohm in resistance, allowing for higher wattage vaping and more vapour production. RDAs, on the other hand, require you to build your own coils and wick them, offering the most customization.

Step 2: Select High VG E-liquid

As mentioned earlier, high VG e-liquid is a must for cloud chasing. Aim for e-liquids with at least 70% VG to ensure you get those thick, dense clouds.

Step 3: Master Your Technique

Lung Inhaling: Cloud chasing involves direct lung inhales (DL), where you draw the vapour straight into your lungs rather than into your mouth first. This method allows you to inhale larger amounts of vapour, which translates into bigger clouds.

Controlled Exhales: To produce the best clouds, practice controlled, slow exhales. This allows the vapour to gather and form larger, denser clouds as it leaves your lips.

Airflow Adjustment: Experiment with your device’s airflow settings to find the sweet spot for cloud production. Fully open airflow lets in the most air, which helps cool the vapour and allows you to inhale more deeply.

Safety should always be your top priority when cloud chasing. High-wattage vaping and low resistance coils can pose risks if not handled correctly.

Battery Safety

Always use high-quality vape batteries that are suitable for high-wattage vaping. Ensure they are authentic and purchased from reputable vendors. Be aware of the battery's amp limit and never exceed it. Use a battery case to prevent accidental short circuits when not in use. Understanding Ohm’s Law is crucial if you're using mechanical mods or building your own coils. This law helps you calculate the relationship between resistance (ohms), voltage (volts), and current (amps) to ensure safe vaping practices.

Regular Maintenance

Regularly check and maintain your vaping equipment. Clean your coils and replace them when necessary. Inspect your batteries for any signs of damage, such as tears in the wrapping or dented terminals.

The thrill of producing massive clouds has led to the rise of competitive vaping, commonly known as "cloud comps." These events bring together cloud chasers from all over the world to compete in various categories, often judged by the size and density of their clouds.

There are different formats for cloud competitions:

●    Distance Contests: Participants stand at a specific distance and exhale their clouds, which are measured for how far they travel.

●    Density Contests: Judges evaluate the thickness and overall density of the vapour clouds.

●    Freestyle Contests: Vapers showcase their skills with tricks and artistic cloud formations, judged on creativity and execution.

Beyond the competition, cloud chasing events foster a sense of community among vapers. They provide a platform for enthusiasts to share tips, showcase new techniques, and enjoy a shared passion for vaping. As the popularity of cloud chasing has grown, so has the involvement of vape companies. Leading brands often sponsor events and individual cloud chasers, providing them with high-quality gear and e-liquids in return for promotion. This mutually beneficial relationship helps drive innovation in the industry and brings new products to the market.

Once you’ve mastered the basics, you might want to try some advanced techniques to up your cloud-chasing game.

Coil Building

Building your own coils can significantly impact your cloud production. Experiment with different wire types (such as Kanthal, Nichrome, or Stainless Steel) and coil configurations (like clapton, alien, or fused clapton) to find what works best for you.

Wicking

Proper wicking is crucial for preventing dry hits and ensuring consistent vapour production. Use high-quality cotton and ensure it's neither too tight nor too loose in the coil.

Temperature Control

Some advanced mods offer temperature control settings, allowing you to set and maintain a specific temperature for your coils. This can help prevent dry hits and burnt taste, providing a smoother vaping experience while producing large clouds.

Vaping Tricks

Mastering vaping tricks can add an artistic flair to your cloud chasing. Some popular tricks include:

O’s (Smoke Rings): Forming perfect rings of vapour that float elegantly through the air.

The Dragon: Simultaneously exhaling vapour from your nose and mouth, resembling a dragon’s breath.

French Inhale: Letting the vapour flow out of your mouth and inhaling it through your nose.

Practicing these tricks takes time and patience, but they can add a new level of enjoyment and skill to your cloud chasing. To find out more about stepping up your vaping game, check out our guide -  How to Do Vape Tricks

Cloud chasing is more than just producing large clouds of vapour; it's an engaging hobby that combines skill, technique, and community. With the right equipment, e-liquid, and practice, you can become a proficient cloud chaser and perhaps even compete in cloud competitions. Always prioritise safety, especially when dealing with high-wattage devices and custom coil builds. By following the guidelines and tips in this ultimate guide, you'll be well on your way to mastering the art of cloud chasing.

At Go Smoke Free, we have everything you need to start your cloud-chasing journey, from the perfect box mod devices to the best high-VG liquids and vaping accessories. Shop today for great value online prices and fast UK delivery. Happy vaping!