What Is Cloud Chasing?

Cloud chasing is the practice of producing the largest, densest vapor clouds possible from a vape device. What began as friendly bragging rights among enthusiasts has evolved into a legitimate competitive subculture with organized events, dedicated hardware, and serious technique. If you've ever seen someone exhale a massive, billowing cloud at a vape shop or expo and thought "how do they do that?" — this guide is for you.

A Brief History of Competitive Vaping

The cloud chasing scene emerged organically in the early 2010s on the US West Coast, particularly in California and Washington. Vapers began gathering at local vape shops to informally compete, and the events quickly grew in popularity. By the mid-2010s, formal competitions were being held at major vape expos around the world, including events in the United States, the UK, Southeast Asia, and Australia.

Today, cloud competitions are a staple of large vaping conventions, drawing crowds and offering prizes ranging from merchandise to cash and sponsored hardware deals.

How Cloud Competitions Work

The format varies by event, but most cloud competitions follow a similar structure:

  1. Competitors prepare their builds: Each participant sets up their own device — typically a highly customized mechanical mod or regulated box mod with a rebuildable atomizer (RDA).
  2. Head-to-head format: Competitors often go head-to-head, each taking a single, sustained exhale measured by a panel of judges or a physical measuring board.
  3. Judging criteria: Cloud size (distance or density) is the primary metric. Some events also judge cloud shape or presentation.
  4. Advancement: Winners advance through elimination brackets until a champion is crowned.

The Gear Behind Massive Clouds

Cloud chasers use highly specialized equipment optimized for maximum vapor output:

  • Mechanical mods or high-powered box mods: Mechanical mods pass unregulated power directly from the battery to the coil, providing maximum output. They require a deep understanding of Ohm's Law and battery safety.
  • Rebuildable Dripping Atomizers (RDAs): Hand-built coils with minimal airflow restriction. Competitors build extremely low-resistance coils (sometimes sub-0.1 ohm) to maximize heat and vapor production.
  • High-VG e-liquids: Max VG (often 80/20 or 100% VG) is standard for cloud chasing. The thick VG produces dense, voluminous clouds.
  • Wide-bore drip tips: Larger openings allow more vapor to exit per exhale.

The Technique: It's Not Just About the Hardware

Even with the best gear, producing competition-worthy clouds requires practiced technique:

  • Lung capacity: Competitors develop controlled, deep lung inhales to maximize vapor intake.
  • Exhale control: A steady, controlled exhale creates a denser, more visible cloud than a sharp burst.
  • Body positioning: Many cloud chasers crouch or lean forward slightly to project the cloud further.
  • Pre-competition prep: Staying hydrated and avoiding dehydrating foods before competing helps maintain lung performance.

Cloud Chasing vs. Trick Vaping

Cloud chasing (pure size/distance) is often grouped with trick vaping, but they're distinct disciplines. Trick vaping focuses on shapes and manipulation — blowing O-rings, jellyfish, tornadoes, and ghost inhales. Many competitive vapers specialize in one or the other, though some events include both categories.

Getting Involved in the Scene

You don't need to compete to enjoy cloud chasing culture. Here's how to get involved at any level:

  • Follow vaping expos: Events like VapExpo, the Vape Jam, and various regional expos regularly host cloud competitions and are open to spectators.
  • Join online communities: Reddit communities, Discord servers, and Facebook groups dedicated to cloud chasing share builds, techniques, and event information.
  • Visit your local vape shop: Many independent vape shops host informal cloud nights or have staff who can guide you toward cloud-chasing hardware.
  • Practice safely: If you want to compete, learn about battery safety and Ohm's Law before building low-resistance coils. Mechanical mods are unforgiving of mistakes.

Is Cloud Chasing for Everyone?

Cloud chasing is an exciting niche, but it's not the right fit for every vaper. It requires advanced knowledge, specialized and often expensive equipment, and produces significantly more vapor than everyday vaping — which isn't always practical or welcome in public spaces. That said, as a spectator sport and community hobby, it's a fascinating corner of vaping culture that continues to grow worldwide.

Final Thoughts

Cloud competitions are the intersection of technology, community, and showmanship in the vaping world. Whether you aspire to compete or simply want to appreciate the craft, understanding the culture behind cloud chasing adds a whole new dimension to your appreciation of the vaping scene.