Stogie Commentary: International Pipe Smoking Day
17 Feb 2011
This Sunday is International Pipe Smoking Day, a day for celebrating the tradition of pipe smoking. If you haven’t tried a pipe, it’s a good time to see if you like it.
Unlike the love-hate relationship between cigar and cigarette smokers, pipe smokers are natural friends of cigar smokers, and not just because we frequent the same shops. Remember that the IPCPR, after all, represents both cigar and pipe retailers.
Like cigar smokers, and unlike cigarette smokers, pipes are a hobby, not a habit or an addiction. A pipe, like a cigar, is a great way to slow down the hectic pace of life and reflect on the past, present, and future.
Pipe smokers are often also similarly discriminated against, even among smokers. I’ve seen signs that read “No Cigars or Pipes” too many times to remember.
Personally, I’ve tried a pipe on a few occasions, and while I enjoyed it, ultimately it wasn’t for me. I can see the appeal, but the idea of constantly cleaning a pipe seems like a bit too much for me. I’ve also never smoked a pipe that has the complexity of a fine cigar. (But then, I’m an amateur when it comes to pipes.)
So don’t take my word for it. Many cigar smokers regularly enjoy pipes too. And with International Pipe Smoking Day on Sunday, what better time to give it a try?
photo credit: Flickr
Patrick Ashby
Co-Founder & Editor in Chief
Patrick Semmens
Co-Founder & Publisher
George Edmonson
Tampa Bureau Chief
Never smoked apipe before. Not sure I want to. Especially sincd a nice pipe costs $60.
@Todd: Although I wouldn't recommend smoking it in public, many tobacconists offer corn cob or briarwood pipes for under $15. This is a good way to try your hand at pipe smoking. Personally, I much prefer a nice cigar to a pipe, but I will occasionally light up my pipe if I don't have time for a longer smoke, or just want to feel more at ease with the amount of money I'm spending at my tobacconist.