Types

Size

Shishas range from compact travel models just over 20 cm high to floor models of 80 cm and more. Small models are easier to transport and to clean. Large models have a longer stem and a larger base.

Materials

• Stainless steel: stems made of stainless steel, often V2A, are common. The material is corrosion-resistant and easy to clean.
• Brass and chrome-plated metal: on classic, decorated models.
• Glass: the usual choice for the base. There are also bases made of acrylic, which break less easily.
• Plastic and silicone: on hoses, seals and some travel models.

Ports

Most shishas have one hose port. Models with two or more ports are intended for several hoses. Unused ports are sealed.

Systems in the stem

• Closed chamber: the base is sealed off from the stem so that the draw stays even.
• Diffuser: distributes the smoke in the water into many small bubbles and thus dampens the bubbling.
• Purge valve: lets stale smoke escape upwards out of the base.

Types of head

Classic heads are made of clay, ceramic or silicone and are heated with charcoal. This requires a heat management device or aluminium foil. There is a separate comparison of suitable charcoal at shishakohlevergleich.com. Electric heads heat without charcoal, see “Electric shisha head”.