Flower remains the most common (and classic) way to enjoy cannabis, but vape products are a close second. Why? Well, when you consider all the benefits vaporizers offer—including portability, convenience, and other advantages over smoking—it shouldn’t be a surprise these products are so popular.
Plus, as demand for vapes grows, brands and hardware makers are rising to challenge by offering new and innovative products consumers have never seen before.
From enhanced digitization to more eco-friendly disposable options, there’s a lot to look forward to. Keep reading for some background on the evolution of vaping technology, along with an overview of the newest products and trends hitting dispensary shelves this year.
The Evolution Of Cannabis Vapes
Although vaporizer technology has taken off in the cannabis space, the hardware used in all vapes actually has its roots in e-cigarettes. Inventors like Herbert A. Gilbert and Hon Lik developed early iterations of vaping technology to offer a cleaner way for those interested in smoking nicotine.
In particular, Lik’s battery-operated, compact cartridge unit, introduced in 2003, was super convenient for consumers; hence, it sold well and made a big impression on the global audience. With the introduction of this first successful vaporizer, more customers started to look toward vapor as an alternative to traditional combustion — including cannabis fans.
Tank systems — which have larger batteries and refillable e-liquid “tanks” — and modified devices (or “mods”) soon emerged as popular options for vapers interested in increased power and customization. Joyetech introduced another innovation to the vaporizer market in the 2010s when they showcased 510 thread cartridges in disposable vaporizer units. To this day, 510 threads are the most widely used option for these popular portable vapes.
Although disposable vapes took off early on, more companies like Storz & Bickel, PAX, and Puffco introduced further customization and digitization to their models, giving cannabis consumers even greater flexibility and features. Today, consumers have access to a wide range of dry herb and liquid vaping options, including advanced features like temperature controls, connected mobile apps, and dab-friendly compartments.
5 Vape Trends In 2024
In 2024 you can expect to see some of the bigger trends we’ve seen in recent years continue to gain steam, while shifting consumer opinions and priorities will guide innovation and new offerings. What does this year have in store? Let’s break it down.
1. Strain-Specific Vapes
You may have a go-to flavor or strain, but, as they say, variety is the spice of life. Over the last few years, there has been an explosion in strain-specific vape pods and carts.
As cannabis scientists decode distinct terpene and cannabinoid combinations behind iconic strains, it’s getting easier to create precise, strain-specific experiences to suit even the most refined palate. As this technology advances, be prepared to see even more vapes tailored to taste like individual iconic strains you know and love, alongside lesser-known and rare strains that you might not be able to access in flower or other forms.
2. Solution-Specific Vapes
Related to the strain-specific movement, more people are seeking out vapes for specific purposes, functions, or uses. Vapes are no longer reserved for R&R; there are plenty of situations where you may pick up a particular cartridge—for a boost of energy before a workout, stress relief on the go, or extra focus when you need to get down to business.
As cannabis legalization grows and consumption continues to become more mainstream, you can expect to see more solution-specific vapes for things like sleep, meditation, or creativity.
3. Live Rosin Vapes
Although many manufacturers use chemical solvents like butane for the extraction of cannabinoids, terpenes, and other compounds to produce the concentrates in vape oils, some people prefer the flavor and experience that solventless extracts can provide.
One solventless option that has been growing in popularity over recent years is live rosin. What makes live rosin so unique? Well, unlike other cannabis concentrates, this product relies on heat and pressure to extract cannabinoids and terpenes from flash-frozen flower. As a bonus for all you flavor chasers, this extraction method preserves high-quality, just-harvested terpenes for a delicious vaping experience.
4. Eco-Friendly Disposable Vapes
Eco-consciousness is becoming an increasingly important concern in the cannabis vaping community, and popular vape brands are looking to make their products biodegradable and carbon-negative.
While there are no standardized sustainable features across vapes just yet, some brands are already experimenting with paper tubes and polylactic acid (PLA) shells to offer the best of both worlds—convenience plus less landfill waste. It’s a win-win for consumers and the planet, and you should expect to see more environmentally friendly options soon.
5. Wireless Charging Options
Anyone who’s used a portable vaporizer knows how annoying it can be when they need a charge. While it’s not the most challenging task to plug a vaporizer into a wall socket, wireless tech makes life much easier and charging way more convenient.
For vapers who want to move away from cables, it’s worth looking into new vape models with wireless charging options. Although this standard still isn’t the norm, you can expect to see this technology in more and more units going forward.
Explore the Best of Cannabis Vapes with Takoma
Vaping tech and culture are constantly evolving, and there’s no telling what innovation will create the next big wave. With customizability, personalization and convenience being at the forefront of trending vape experiences, you can expect to see the most popular vapes offering strain and solution-specific products, along with a shift toward more solventless and environmentally focused offerings.
As DC’s most trusted dispensary, Takoma offers a wide selection of great vapes from popular vape brands like Alternative Solutions, District Cannabis and Molecular Farms—you can even filter by effects like Calm or Happy (and more) when shopping our online menu. Or, stop by in person to chat with our team about what we’ve got in stock.
You can also check out our guide to cannabis vaporization to learn more about how vaping works and how it compares to other products like flower or edibles. We look forward to seeing you!