Small Shishas
How to choose a small shisha
A small shisha takes less space on the table, packs away easily and needs less water to fill. Small pipes run from very compact models to ones just under the height of a medium shisha, so start with how much room you have.
By height and build
- Very compact: the El-Badia Z1 Hookah, for example, is 34cm tall, with a stainless steel stem that clicks into the glass base, so there is no grommet to push and pull.
- Around 45 to 50cm: pipes such as the El-Badia Fantom Hookah (48cm, aluminium stem, diffuser to soften the bubbling) or the Solari Hookah in its Primadonna size (45cm).
- Glass and clever details: the Dschinni Pico Hookah has a click system and closed chamber system, while the Hoob Mars Mini Pro Hookah adds an adjustable diffuser, a magnetic hose connector and a vase with a threaded connection.
- Made to grow: Japona describe the Satoshi Black Hookah - Gold Edition as a compact pipe you can upgrade later.
What comes in the box
Small pipes vary a lot in what is included, so read the contents before you choose. The El-Badia Fusion Hookah, for example, includes a silicone hose, a spring, tongs and a silicone phunnel bowl that suits Kaloud-style heat management. The Starbuzz Mini USA Hookah comes with its hose, phunnel bowl, clear base and a mini tong. Sets such as the Kaloud Krysalis Calix Set With Lotus III pair a portable hookah with a bowl, adapter and heat management device.
Starting from nothing? Bundles such as the Fusion Hookah Starter Kit add coals and a flavour, and you will find more under starter kits. For the very smallest pipes, look at portable shishas; for a little more height, see medium shishas.
Questions
Does a small shisha smoke differently from a tall one?
A shorter stem gives the smoke less distance to travel, so it can feel a little warmer. A diffuser, like the one in the El-Badia Fantom, softens the bubbling.
Can I use my own bowl on a small shisha?
Often yes. Pipes such as the El-Badia Fantom and El-Badia Z1 have a universal bowl connection.