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Understanding Cigar Sizes and Shapes: What Do They Mean?

Jan 21, 2025 | Cigar 101

If you’re new to the world of cigars, you’ve probably come across terms like robusto, toro, and Churchill, and wondered—what do they mean? Cigar sizes and shapes play a big role in your smoking experience, affecting everything from the draw to the burn time and flavor intensity. Understanding these differences can help you choose the perfect cigar for any occasion.

Let’s break it down in a simple, beginner-friendly way so you can feel confident next time you walk into a humidor.

Cigar Size: The Basics

A cigar’s size is determined by two measurements:

  1. Length: Measured in inches, it affects the smoking time.
  2. Ring Gauge: A measure of the cigar’s diameter in 64ths of an inch. For example, a cigar with a 50 ring gauge is 50/64 of an inch thick.

Generally, longer cigars provide a longer smoking experience, while thicker cigars tend to burn cooler and offer a fuller draw.

Popular Cigar Sizes

Here are a few of the most common cigar sizes and what you can expect from each:

1. Robusto

  • Size: Typically around 5 inches long with a 48-52 ring gauge.
  • Smoking Time: 30-45 minutes.
  • Profile: A great balance of flavor and time, making it a favorite among beginners and seasoned smokers alike. Ideal for a short yet fulfilling smoke.

2. Toro

  • Size: Around 6 inches long with a 46-50 ring gauge.
  • Smoking Time: 45 minutes to an hour.
  • Profile: Offers a slightly longer smoking experience than a robusto with a smooth and even burn, perfect for savoring the cigar’s complexity.

3. Churchill

  • Size: Around 7 inches long with a 47-50 ring gauge.
  • Smoking Time: 1 to 1.5 hours.
  • Profile: Named after Winston Churchill, this classic size provides a long, luxurious smoking experience with evolving flavors from start to finish.

4. Corona

  • Size: Around 5.5 to 6 inches long with a 42-44 ring gauge.
  • Smoking Time: 30-40 minutes.
  • Profile: A traditional favorite, coronas offer a more focused and refined smoking experience with a quicker burn.

5. Lancero

  • Size: Around 7.5 inches long with a 34-38 ring gauge.
  • Smoking Time: 45 minutes to an hour.
  • Profile: Lanceros are long and thin, allowing the wrapper’s flavors to shine. They require a careful and slow smoking technique to prevent overheating.

6. Gordo

  • Size: Around 6 inches long with a 60 ring gauge (or larger).
  • Smoking Time: 1 to 1.5 hours.
  • Profile: Also known as “fat cigars,” Gordos offer a large, cool draw with rich, full-bodied flavors—perfect for those who enjoy a big, bold smoke.

Cigar Shapes (Vitolas): Parejos vs. Figurados

Cigars come in two primary shape categories: Parejos and Figurados.

1. Parejos (Straight-Sided Cigars)

  • These cigars have straight sides and a rounded cap, making them easy to cut and light.
  • Common examples include robusto, toro, corona, and Churchill.
  • Ideal for beginners due to their even burn and straightforward draw.

2. Figurados (Shaped Cigars)

  • These cigars feature a variety of unique shapes, such as tapered or bulbous ends.
  • Examples include:
    • Torpedo: A pointed head that concentrates the smoke for a rich flavor experience.
    • Pyramid: A wide foot that narrows to a pointed head, allowing for gradual flavor intensification.
    • Perfecto: Tapered at both ends, often with a thicker middle for a complex smoking experience.
  • Figurados can provide unique flavor changes and draw experiences but may require more skill to smoke evenly.

Choosing the Right Size and Shape for You

So, how do you decide which cigar size and shape is right for you? Consider the following:

  • Time Available: If you have a short break, go for a robusto or corona. If you have an hour or more, try a Churchill or toro.
  • Flavor Preference: Larger ring gauges (like gordos) tend to produce a cooler, fuller smoke, while smaller gauges (like lanceros) highlight the wrapper’s flavors.
  • Experience Level: Parejos are beginner-friendly, while figurados can offer a more adventurous smoking experience.

Final Thoughts

Understanding cigar sizes and shapes is key to enjoying the smoking experience that best fits your lifestyle and preferences. Whether you’re looking for a quick, flavorful break or a long, luxurious smoke, knowing the difference between a robusto, toro, or Churchill can help you choose with confidence.

Next time you visit your local cigar shop, try experimenting with different sizes and shapes to find your perfect match.

Happy smoking!