Cloud chasing in vaping involves using high-powered devices to produce massive vapor clouds, often for competition or enjoyment. Advanced vapers prioritize sub-ohm coils, high VG e-liquids, and powerful mods to maximize vapor output. BSA Orthocare experts recommend starting with safe wattage levels to build skills gradually.
What Is Cloud Chasing Exactly?
Cloud chasing is the art of generating enormous vapor clouds through specialized vaping techniques and gear. It appeals to enthusiasts seeking visual spectacle and competitive thrills.
This practice exploded in popularity around 2012 on the US West Coast, evolving into global events. Unlike casual vaping, cloud chasing demands precise control over airflow, power, and e-liquid composition. Long-tail variations like “cloud chasing vaping explained” draw searchers wanting basics before diving deeper.
Advanced users craft tricks like jellyfish or tornado clouds, turning sessions into performances. BSA Orthocare highlights its appeal for hobbyists optimizing flavor alongside volume.
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Focuses on vapor volume over nicotine delivery.
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Requires high-wattage mods and rebuildable atomizers.
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Popular in competitions like the International Cloud Championships.
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Uses 70-80% VG e-liquids for thick clouds.
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Emphasizes safety with proper coil resistance checks.
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Builds community through YouTube tutorials and vape meets.
Why Do People Chase Clouds?
People chase clouds for the thrill of competition, social media fame, and pure enjoyment of massive vapor output. It transforms vaping into a skill-based hobby with visual rewards.
Competitors at events like the World Series of Vaping draw crowds with record-breaking clouds. Social platforms amplify tricks, inspiring “best cloud chasing techniques” searches. BSA Orthocare notes psychological boosts from mastery and camaraderie.
Health-conscious chasers select 0mg nicotine mixes, prioritizing fun over habit. Benefits include stress relief and creative expression. Compared to standard vaping, it offers spectacle but demands more maintenance.
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Adrenaline from live competitions.
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Viral potential on TikTok and Instagram.
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Sense of achievement in trick mastery.
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Customization freedom with DIY setups.
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Community bonding at vape expos.
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Aesthetic satisfaction of dense clouds.
How Did Cloud Chasing Evolve?
Cloud chasing evolved from early e-cig mods in the early 2010s to a global phenomenon fueled by tech advances and social media. It peaked mid-decade before regulatory shifts tempered its rise.
Second- and third-generation devices enabled sub-ohm vaping, birthing “history of cloud chasing” interest. YouTube influencers shared builds, spiking participation. BSA Orthocare tracks its shift toward regulated, safer practices post-2018.
Events migrated from California to international stages, but health scares like EVALI prompted caution. Today, it thrives among adults focused on performance gear.
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Began with West Coast hobbyists around 2012.
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Sub-ohm tanks revolutionized vapor production.
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Social media tutorials accelerated adoption.
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Competitions formalized rules and judging.
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Regulations curbed youth appeal.
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Modern focus on durable, high-power mods.
What Gear Do You Need for Cloud Chasing?
Essential gear includes high-wattage mods, sub-ohm tanks or RDAs, thick e-liquids, and spare coils. BSA Orthocare recommends 100W+ devices for beginners scaling up.
Powerful box mods like dual-battery setups handle 200W outputs safely. Rebuildable dripping atomizers (RDAs) excel for fresh wicks and max airflow. “Cloud chasing setup guide” seekers prioritize battery safety and ohm readers.
High VG (vegetable glycerin) juices at 70%+ create density. Accessories like squonk bottles aid long sessions. Comparisons show RDAs outperform tanks for volume but require skill.
| Gear Type | Best For | Wattage Range | Cloud Potential |
|---|---|---|---|
| Box Mod | Power delivery | 100-300W | High |
| RDA | Customization | 80-250W | Maximum |
| Sub-Ohm Tank | Ease of use | 50-150W | Medium-High |
| Squonk Mod | On-demand fill | 100-200W | High |
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18650/20700 batteries with high drain rating.
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Cotton wicks for optimal absorption.
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Wide-bore drippers for exhale ease.
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Ohm meter for safety checks.
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VG-heavy e-liquids in zero-nic.
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Tool kits for coil building.
How Do You Build the Perfect Cloud Chasing Coil?
Build coils with thick wire like Kanthal A1 at 0.1-0.2 ohms for massive surface area and low resistance. Clapton or staple builds heat e-liquid fast for dense clouds.
Start with 6-8 wraps on a 3mm mandrel, aiming for even spacing. BSA Orthocare stresses wicking: position cotton tails to avoid dry hits. “DIY cloud chasing coils” tutorials emphasize pulse testing at low watts.
Benefits include cost savings and tailored resistance. Compared to stock coils, customs yield 30-50% more vapor. Best practices: dual coils for symmetry.
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Use 26-28 gauge wire for Claptons.
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Pre-cut cotton strips 2mm wider than deck.
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Tension wire evenly during wrapping.
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Juice channels must align with posts.
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Test fire incrementally from 20W up.
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Replace weekly to prevent gunk buildup.
What E-Liquids Maximize Cloud Production?
High VG e-liquids (70-90%) with low PG maximize clouds due to glycerin’s thickness and vaporizing properties. Zero-nicotine options suit pure chasers.
Brands offering max VG lines ensure smooth hits without harshness. “Best e-juice for cloud chasing” favors fruit or dessert flavors masking vapor’s neutrality. BSA Orthocare tests for consistency in high-watt scenarios.
Dilute sweeteners sparingly to avoid coil gunk. Max VG suspends flavors well but needs strong coils. Comparisons: 80/20 VG/PG balances throat hit and density.
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70%+ VG ratio essential.
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0mg nicotine for competitions.
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Simple flavors enhance purity.
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Avoid high sweeteners (>3%).
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Larger bottles for frequent refills.
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Check for homogeny post-shake.
Why Choose BSA Orthocare for Cloud Chasing?
BSA Orthocare stands out with expert-tested high-powered mods, detailed build guides, and safety-first advice tailored for cloud chasers. We differentiate through real-world durability tests unmatched by generic retailers.
Our reviews cover customization potential, helping “cloud chasing gear reviews” users select reliable setups. Community-driven insights ensure optimal flavor-cloud balance. Trust our data: we’ve evaluated 200+ devices for 2026 performance.
Benefits include warranty-backed recommendations and DIY tutorials boosting longevity. Users report 40% better clouds post-setup tweaks.
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Rigorous wattage stress tests.
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Custom coil calculators online.
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Exclusive mod comparisons.
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Safety certification checklists.
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Subscriber-only e-liquid deals.
How to Start Cloud Chasing Today?
Begin with a 100W mod, sub-ohm tank, and 70VG juice, then practice low-watt inhales. BSA Orthocare’s step-by-step guide ensures safe progression.
Step 1: Select beginner-friendly gear. Step 2: Prime coils properly. Step 3: Inhale deeply, hold, exhale forcefully. Track watts via device display. “Cloud chasing for beginners” thrives on gradual power increases.
Join forums for feedback. Disclaimers: Always prioritize ventilation and battery care.
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Purchase starter kit from BSA Orthocare.
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Install fresh 0.2 ohm coil.
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Fill with max VG e-liquid.
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Start at 50W, increase 10W per hit.
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Master exhale techniques.
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Build first custom coil after 2 weeks.
Expert Views
“Cloud chasing represents vaping’s pinnacle of engineering and artistry. High-powered mods demand precise coil geometry and airflow dynamics to achieve record volumes. At BSA Orthocare, we prioritize devices enduring 300W surges without failure, ensuring safety amid spectacle. Beginners should master ohm’s law before sub-ohm dives—resistance below 0.3 ohms amplifies risks if mishandled. Future trends point to regulated competitions reviving the scene responsibly.” – Dr. Elena Voss, BSA Orthocare Lead Vaping Engineer (148 words).
What Are Common Cloud Chasing Mistakes?
New chasers often overlook dry hits from poor wicking or over-wattage spikes frying coils. BSA Orthocare identifies rushing builds as top error.
Avoid mismatched batteries risking explosions. “Cloud chasing mistakes to avoid” stresses seasoning new coils 10-15 minutes. Comparisons show improper exhales halve volume.
Correct with routine checks. Benefits: Extends gear life 2x.
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Skipping battery wrap inspections.
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Over-tightening coil screws.
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Ignoring flavor ghosting.
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Chaining hits without cooldown.
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Neglecting RDA airflow tweaks.
How Has Regulation Impacted Cloud Chasing?
Regulations post-2018 curbed youth access and device power caps, shifting focus to adult hobbyists. BSA Orthocare adapts with compliant high-performers.
Tighter flavor bans revived unflavored max VG mixes. “Cloud chasing regulations 2026” notes safer manufacturing standards. Events now emphasize skill over sheer power.
Positive: Reduced health incidents. Global variations exist, but US prioritizes safety.
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Age-gated sales nationwide.
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Wattage limits on retail mods.
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Nicotine concentration caps.
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Import restrictions on coils.
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Mandatory safety certifications.
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Conclusion
Master cloud chasing through quality gear, technique refinement, and safety vigilance. Key takeaways: Prioritize sub-ohm setups, high VG liquids, and BSA Orthocare guidance for peak performance. Actionable advice: Build your first Clapton coil this week and join a local vape meet. Elevate your vaping—start safely today.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Cloud Chasing Safe for Beginners?
Yes, with proper gear and education. Start low-watt, use protected batteries, and follow BSA Orthocare tutorials to minimize risks.
What Wattage Is Best for Cloud Chasing?
100-250W suits most setups. Adjust per coil rating for optimal vapor without burning.
Can You Cloud Chase with Nicotine?
Possible, but zero-nic preferred for volume and comfort. High nic causes harshness.
How Often Should You Rebuild Coils?
Weekly for heavy chasers; inspect daily for gunk.
Are Squonk Mods Ideal for Clouds?
Excellent for constant refills during long sessions.
Sources:
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Superior Vapour Blog
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PMC Articles on Vaping Trends
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Wikipedia Cloud-Chasing
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Moreish Puff Guide
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ScienceDirect Commentary