RAW vs Elements: The Rolling Paper Showdown
RAW and Elements represent the two most popular premium rolling paper brands. What many don't realize is both are made by the same company - HBI International. So what actually makes them different? Let's break it down.
Brand Background
The HBI Connection
Both brands are produced by HBI International, founded by Josh Kesselman. RAW launched first, with Elements following as a distinct alternative with different materials and characteristics.
RAW Papers
- Launched: 2005
- Material: Unbleached, natural plant fibers
- Color: Light brown (natural)
- Philosophy: Pure, unrefined, natural
Elements Papers
- Launched: 2009
- Material: Rice and sugar
- Color: White (no chlorine bleach)
- Philosophy: Ultra-thin, clean burn
Material Comparison
RAW Materials
- Unbleached natural plant fibers
- Hemp and flax blend
- Natural gum (acacia)
- Unrefined texture
- Watermark pattern
Elements Materials
- Rice paper base
- Pressed sugar cane
- Acacia gum adhesive
- Ultra-smooth texture
- Magnetic closure (packs)
Rolling Experience
RAW Rolling Characteristics
- Grip: More textured, easier to hold
- Flexibility: Moderate, forgiving for beginners
- Tearing: Resistant to tears
- Stickiness: Gum strip adheres well
Elements Rolling Characteristics
- Grip: Smoother, requires more precision
- Flexibility: Very thin, needs careful handling
- Tearing: Can tear if handled roughly
- Stickiness: Excellent adhesion
Winner: RAW for Beginners, Elements for Experienced
RAW's texture is more forgiving; Elements requires skilled hands.
Burn Quality
RAW Burn
- Slow, even burn
- Minimal ash
- Light tan ash color
- Very slight natural taste
Elements Burn
- Even slower burn
- Almost no ash
- White/clear ash
- Essentially tasteless
Winner: Elements
Elements' rice paper produces cleaner burn with less interference.
Size Options
Both brands offer comprehensive size ranges:
| Size | RAW | Elements |
|---|---|---|
| Single Wide | ✓ | ✓ |
| 1 1/4 | ✓ | ✓ |
| 1 1/2 | ✓ | ✓ |
| King Size | ✓ | ✓ |
| King Size Slim | ✓ | ✓ |
| Pre-Rolled Cones | ✓ | ✓ |
| Rolls | ✓ | ✓ |
Price Comparison
Pricing is virtually identical:
- Standard packs: $2-4
- King Size: $3-5
- Cones (6-pack): $5-8
- Bulk options: Both offer similar deals
Product Lines
RAW Varieties
- Classic: Original unbleached
- Organic: Certified organic hemp
- Black: Double-pressed, ultra-thin
- Artesano: Papers + tips + tray
Elements Varieties
- Standard: Rice paper classic
- Artesano: Papers + tips + tray
- Connoisseur: Papers + tips
- Maestro: Pre-rolled cones
Environmental Considerations
RAW Sustainability
- Unbleached = fewer chemicals
- Hemp-based (renewable)
- Eco-friendly packaging initiatives
Elements Sustainability
- Rice paper is renewable
- Sugar cane = agricultural waste product
- Chlorine-free whitening process
Both brands emphasize sustainability; slight edge to RAW for unbleached approach.
Which Should You Choose?
Choose RAW If:
- You're newer to rolling
- You prefer natural, unbleached products
- You want more grip/texture
- The natural brown aesthetic appeals to you
- You value durability over thinness
Choose Elements If:
- You're an experienced roller
- You want the cleanest possible burn
- Zero paper taste is priority
- You prefer ultra-thin papers
- The clean white aesthetic appeals to you
The Verdict
For everyday use: RAW - More forgiving and versatile
For connoisseurs: Elements - Cleanest burn and taste
Best approach: Try both and keep your favorite stocked
Shop Rolling Papers
Smoke Shop Daddy carries full lines of both RAW and Elements papers, cones, and accessories. Our staff can help you find the perfect papers for your rolling style. We also carry tips, trays, and rolling machines from both brands.