French Shishas

Getting to know French-style shishas

French-style pipes come from makers such as El Badia, Tsar, MS, Hooky and Quasar. Many share the same ideas: a click-lock base, a soft silicone hose and a diffuser you can change, so the draw can be light and quiet or more traditional.

Everyday models

• El Badia: everyday pipes such as the Fusion, C5 V2, C7 V2, Fantom, Onyx and Hexium, running from compact to tall. The Fusion comes with a Kaloud-compatible silicone phunnel bowl.
• Tsar: the H-One Evolution, for example, is 45cm of anodised aluminium with a 360° adjustable purge.
• MS: Magma models such as the 57cm Giga and the 66cm Titan each use a click system. The Giga also has a removable diffuser.

Statement pieces

• El-Badia Balian: 61cm, in handcrafted resin and stainless steel.
• HKY Steel X Orlinski: stands on a tripod and comes with two downstems, a light one for an easy draw and a heavy one for a more traditional feel. A Limited Edition signed by the artist was made in a run of 100.
• Quasar Arguile Lounge Edition: comes with a silicone hose and mouthpiece.

What to compare

Look at height first, then how the stem joins the base and whether the diffuser comes out. Check what is in the box too, as some pipes include a hose, tongs or a bowl and others do not.

Kits

Many models also come as kits. For example, the Fusion and C5 V2 kits add Narine coconut coal, an AMY Hot Pan heat manager, pre-poked foil, a 200g flavour and an X1 Coal Burner. Browse starter kits, or add a heat management device.

Questions

What is a click-lock base?

The stem clicks into the glass base instead of being pushed into a rubber grommet. It is quick to put together and take apart for cleaning.

What are the two downstems on the HKY Steel X Orlinski for?

The light downstem gives an easy, modern draw and the heavy one gives a more intense, traditional feel. You fit whichever you prefer.