Available in all shapes, sizes and materials, water pipes are usually much larger and less portable than a regular pipe. They stand vertically and hold water that smoke passes through to cool it off. Bongs typically cost more than other non-electronic types of cannabis consumption, but you typically get what you pay for and a great bong can give you the biggest and smoothest smoking experience possible.

A ceramic bong is similar to glass. It is handmade, usually cheaper and lacks complicated inner workings. It also lacks the transparency of the glass bong, meaning taking a toke can take some practice to achieve a smooth hit.

A plastic bong is cheap and tough, good for rowdy parties or traveling.

A silicone bong is the newest kind of bong on the market and the most indestructible. Those made out of the highest grade silicone can even be folded in half, once the glass downspout and bowl are removed. They come in several different sizes and colors, and often have a suction cup base so they can’t be tipped over. Some varieties even glow in the dark.

A wooden bong is rare, usually hand-made and very expensive. Because they are so rare they are a great conversation piece and can hide in plain sight. As a safety precaution, be sure to ask if the clear coat on the wood is non-toxic.

The history of the word 'Bong' has been attributed to the Thai word 'Baung,' meaning a cylindrical wooden tube, pipe or container cut from bamboo. However, other evidence exists that the practice and apparatus actually began in eastern Africa. In Ethiopia, also the birthplace of coffee, eleven pipes were found in caves and dated to between 1100 and 1400. When tested, researchers found the pipes were covered in cannabis residue.