Cigar Shapes And Sizes
Ring Gauge
The thickness, or circumference, of a cigar is called the ring gauge and is expressed in 64ths of an inch. Most cigars fall in the 38 ring to 50 ring range.
Ring size will determine how much of the cigar's burning tip is exposed to air and how comfortable it feels in your mouth.
The fatter a cigar, the cooler and slower it will smoke.
One of the reasons torpedo or belicoso shaped cigars are quite popular. At the foot (burning end) of the cigar, they are thick for lots of air exposure. At the head (mouth end), they are tapered to a smaller circumference so it is much easier to "sip your smoke" from the end of the cigar.
What's right for you?
Ring gauge is all about preference and what feels comfortable to you. So try lots of sizes and see what you like!
It usually preferable to "sip" your premium cigar, rather than holding it between your teeth or lips, which can be difficult with larger gauges. This will also keep your cigar from becoming soggy. Holding a cigar in your mouth for long periods will cause you to salivate excessively and ruin a good smoke!
Length and Shape
There are lengths and ring gauges that have been matched for providing optimal smoking qualities and appearance. This has led to some standard cigar shapes.This being said, many brands make up their own names for cigar sizes. This gets confusing so if you pay attention to the ring gauge and length of your preferred cigars, you don't have to worry about knowing all the different names.
The following are some common shapes you are likely to come across:
Presidente
-so large they are almost novelty cigars but if they are well made can be a great smoke
-range from 52-64 ring by 8-10 inches long
-average smoke: 1-1/2 hours
Corona
-benchmark medium size for all cigar measurement
-42 ring by 5 1/2 inches long
-usually called by the manufacturers descriptive names (even before Covid)
-average smoke: 30 to 45 minutes
-named after Baron de Rothschild who loved the short cigars
-classic size is 50 ring by 4 1/2 inches long, variations are plenty but they are all characteristically wide for their length
-average smoke: 20 to 40 minutes
Belicoso
-has a pointed, tapered head that is difficult for the roller to accomplish
-range from 40-48 ring by 5-6 inches long
-average smoke: 30 to 50 minutes
Remember...everyone has their preference so be sure to try different shapes and sizes to find yours!