Cigar Sizes and Shapes

Cigar Shapes & Sizes

Cigars come in a variety of shapes and sizes, each with its own unique characteristics that can affect the flavor, burn, and overall smoking experience. While there is no standardized system for cigar sizes, most are measured by length and ring gauge, with the length being the distance from the head (the part that you put in your mouth) to the foot (the part that you light). The ring gauge, on the other hand, is the diameter of the cigar measured in 1/64ths of an inch.

illustration image of 18 different cigar sizes and shapes along with 7 different types of cigar wrappers

Popular Cigar Sizes and Taste Effects

One of the most popular cigar sizes is the Petit Corona, which measures around 4.5 inches in length with a ring gauge of 42-44. This size is perfect for a quick smoke and is a good choice for those new to cigars. The flavor of a Petit Corona is generally more concentrated than a larger cigar, as it has a faster, hotter burn.

The Corona is another popular size, measuring around 5.5 inches in length with a ring gauge of 42-44. This size is slightly larger than the Petit Corona and offers a more relaxed, leisurely smoke. The flavor of a Corona is typically more balanced and nuanced than a smaller cigar, as it has a cooler, slower burn.

The Robusto size is a bit larger than the Corona, measuring around 5 inches in length with a ring gauge of 50. This size is known for its full-bodied flavor and is a good choice for those who enjoy a strong, bold smoke. The flavor of a Robusto is typically more complex and robust than a smaller cigar, as it has a slower, cooler burn.

The Toro size is even larger, measuring around 6 inches in length with a ring gauge of 50-52. This size is known for its smooth, creamy smoke and is a good choice for those who enjoy a more relaxed, leisurely smoke. The flavor of a Toro is generally more balanced and nuanced than a smaller cigar, as it has a slower, cooler burn.

The Churchill size is even larger than the Toro, measuring around 7 inches in length with a ring gauge of 47-48. This size is named after Winston Churchill, who was known to be a fan of large cigars. The Churchill size is known for its smooth, creamy smoke and is a good choice for those who enjoy a more relaxed, leisurely smoke. The flavor of a Churchill is typically more balanced and nuanced than a smaller cigar, as it has a slower, cooler burn.

The Double Corona size is the largest of all, measuring around 7.5 inches in length with a ring gauge of 49-50. This size is known for its smooth, creamy smoke and is a good choice for those who enjoy a more relaxed, leisurely smoke. The flavor of a Double Corona is typically more balanced and nuanced than a smaller cigar, as it has a slower, cooler burn.

Odd Ball Cigar Sizes

In addition to these sizes, cigars also come in a variety of shapes. Some of the most common shapes include:

Parejo: The most common shape, with straight sides and a rounded head.
Torpedo: A pointed head with a bulge in the middle.
Pyramid: A pointed head that tapers to a narrow foot.
Perfecto: A tapered head and foot, with a bulge in the middle.
Culebras: Three thin cigars braided together.

The shape of a cigar can affect its burn and flavor, as the pointed head of a Torpedo or Pyramid allows for a more concentrated smoke, while the tapered head and foot of a Perfecto can offer a more balanced smoke. Ultimately, the choice of cigar size and shape is a personal choice and there is no perfect size.