{{short description|Blowing vapor with an electronic cigarette}} {{Use mdy dates|date=July 2021}} [[File:Sub-ohm Vape E-Cig Cloud Chasing (26476242065).jpg|thumb|E-cigarette user blowing a cloud of aerosol (vapor).]] <!-- History and Prevalence and Recreational activity --> '''Cloud-chasing'''{{#tag:ref|'''Cloud-chasing''' is also variously known as '''cloud tricks''',<ref name=Rosselat2016/> '''competitive vaping''',<ref name=Hale-Stern2015>{{cite news|url=https://gizmodo.com/vaping-is-now-a-competitive-sport-called-cloud-chasing-1700005680|title=Vaping Now Has a Competitive Sport Called "Cloud Chasing"|author=Kaila Hale-Stern|publisher=Gizmodo|date=April 24, 2015}}</ref> '''extreme vaping''',<ref name=Harry2015/> '''power vaping''',<ref name=Harlay2016/> '''public vaping''',<ref name=Pearl2014/> '''stunt vaping''',<ref name=Kriegel2015>{{cite news|url=http://vaping360.com/cloud-chasing-101/|title=Cloud Chasing 101|author=Dave Kriegel|publisher=Vaping360|date=July 4, 2015}}</ref> '''sub-ohm vaping''',<ref name=Pearl2014>{{cite news|url=https://www.vice.com/read/our-e-cigarettes-are-going-to-melt-our-faces-and-burn-our-houses-down|title=Our E-Cigarettes Are Going to Melt Our Faces and Burn Our Houses Down|author=Mike Pearl|work=Vice|date=April 16, 2014}}</ref> or the '''"X Games" of vaping'''.<ref name=Larson2014/>|group=note}} is the activity of blowing large clouds of vapor using an electronic cigarette.<ref name=Mosbergen2014/> Using the devices for "cloud-chasing" began in the West Coast of the US.<ref name=Mosbergen2014/> The exact origins of the activity are unclear,<ref name=Mickle2015/> but most competitive e-cigarette users say that it started around 2012.<ref name=Raychaudhuri2016/> Competitive vaping is increasing in popularity internationally, spreading from the US and Canada to Indonesia.<ref name=Mickle2015/> Cloud-chasing is a recreational activity<ref name=Geller2015/> and a hobby.<ref name=Burn-Callander2015/>
<!-- Competitions and Usage --> Some cloud-chasers known as "professional vapers" take part in cloud-blowing contests in what is called a "cloud competition",<ref name=Mosbergen2014/> competing against one another to exhale the largest and most interesting clouds of vapor,<ref name=TheConversation2016>{{cite news|url=http://theconversation.com/electronic-cigarettes-could-have-a-huge-effect-on-public-health-58968|title=Electronic cigarettes could have a huge effect on public health|work=The Conversation US, Inc|date=June 20, 2016}}</ref> sometimes in shapes.<ref name=Malia2016/> Competitive vaping is attracting spectators, known as "cloud-gazers".<ref name=InfoTech2015/> There are rules and judges.<ref name=Randall2016/> Cloud-chasing integrates technique, air flow, and using the appropriate technology.<ref name=Sottile2014/> A handful of later-generation e-cigarettes are designed to create large plumes of vapor.<ref name=Bekiempis2015/> Most cloud-chasers do not use nicotine.<ref name=Merrill2014/> Many choose mixtures that are made without propylene glycol and nicotine, but use higher amounts of glycerin to produce larger plumes of vapor.<ref name=Burn-Callander2015/> The majority of vapers go for sub ohm tanks or rebuildable atomizers for producing more vapor.{{citation needed|date=August 2020}}
<!-- Debate and Related practices --> As vaping comes under increased scrutiny, some members of the vaping community have voiced their concerns about cloud-chasing, claiming the practice gives vapers a bad reputation when doing it in public.<ref name=Bekiempis2015/> Some vapers are concerned that the vaping competitions bring a stigma to vaping by making the activity appear more comparable to gaming activities.<ref name=Mickle2015/> Social media sites like YouTube can be used for demonstrating vape tricks.<ref name=TheMash2015/> There are vaping tricks competitions.<ref name=ES2016/> The participants are known as "vaping tricksters".<ref name=ES2016/>
== History ==
Electronic cigarettes gained popularity in the US in 2007.<ref name=Harry2015/> Using the devices for "cloud-chasing" began in the West Coast of the US.<ref name=Mosbergen2014/> The exact origins of the activity are unclear,<ref name=Mickle2015/> but most competitive e-cigarette users say that it started around 2012.<ref name=Raychaudhuri2016>{{cite news|url=http://www.laweekly.com/arts/cloud-chasing-competitive-vapers-make-smoke-into-sculptures-7539686|title=Cloud Chasing Competitive Vapers Make Smoke Into Sculptures|author=Disha Raychaudhuri|work=LA Weekly|date=October 28, 2016}}</ref> This activity appears to be the natural by-product of the growth of the vaping culture.<ref name=Gutierrez-2015>{{cite news|url=http://www.dailydot.com/unclick/actually-vaping-is-cool/|title=I went to a vape conference to mock it—then the vapers changed my mind|author=Jené Gutierrez|work=The Daily Dot|date=August 30, 2015}}</ref> "When automotive manufacturers first started out, they were not thinking about a sport to be called Formula One. You always have groups of people who are looking for excitement," Hon Lik said in respect to cloud-chasing in 2015.<ref name=Geller2015>{{cite news|url=http://in.reuters.com/article/ecigarettes-inventor-idINKBN0OP21J20150609|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20151227184750/http://in.reuters.com/article/ecigarettes-inventor-idINKBN0OP21J20150609|url-status=dead|archive-date=December 27, 2015|title=Interview: E-cigs a 'consumer-driven' revolution born from a bad dream|author=Martinne Geller|publisher=Reuters|date=June 9, 2015}}</ref>
== Health concerns == {{main|Vaping-associated pulmonary injury#Possible causes}} Glycerin was long thought to be a safe option. However, the carcinogen formaldehyde is known as a product of propylene glycol and glycerol vapor degradation.<ref>{{cite journal |last1=Lestari |first1=Kusuma S. |last2=Humairo |first2=Mika Vernicia |last3=Agustina |first3=Ukik |title=Formaldehyde Vapor Concentration in Electronic Cigarettes and Health Complaints of Electronic Cigarettes Smokers in Indonesia |journal=Journal of Environmental and Public Health |date=July 11, 2018 |volume=2018 |pages=1–6 |doi=10.1155/2018/9013430 |pmid=30105059 |pmc=6076960 |issn=1687-9805|doi-access=free }}</ref> == Prevalence ==
Social media does have a role in cloud-chasing.<ref name=Oscarson2017/> The traffic through social media can be significant.<ref name=Oscarson2017>{{cite news|url=http://insidepulse.com/2017/06/09/the-rising-popularity-of-the-sport-of-cloud-chasing/|title=The Rising Popularity of the Sport of Cloud Chasing|author=Phil Oscarson|publisher=Inside Pulse|date=June 9, 2017}}</ref> It was well publicized around 2014, when sites such as Mashable, Gizmodo, ''The Guardian'', and ''HuffPost'' ran featured articles on the activity.<ref name=Malia2016/> In 2015, competitive vaping began increasing in popularity internationally, spreading from the US and Canada to Indonesia.<ref name=Mickle2015/> Vaping contests are arranged in many vape trade shows internationally.<ref name=Rosselat2016>{{cite news|url=http://www.vapingpost.com/2016/05/17/cloud-tricks-among-youngs-a-new-socialization-of-vaping/|title=Cloud tricks among youngs: A new socialization of vaping|author=Simon Rosselat|publisher=Vaping Post|date=May 17, 2016}}</ref> Most cloud-chasers are male.<ref name=Shanahan2015>{{cite news|url=https://www.telegraph.co.uk/men/thinking-man/11555417/Vaping-its-like-smoking-only-more-manly.html|title=Vaping: it's like smoking, only more manly|author=Andrew Shanahan|work=The Daily Telegraph|date=April 23, 2015}}</ref> Most who compete in contests are men.<ref name=Gutierrez2015>{{cite news|url=http://www.dailydot.com/unclick/competitive-vaping-sport/|title=Of course vaping is now a professional sport|author=Jené Gutierrez|work=The Daily Dot|date=December 11, 2015}}</ref> Many cloud-chasers are young teens.<ref name=Collins2015>{{cite news|url=http://newsok.com/article/5457539|title=Teens and e-cigarettes: cool or calamity?|author=Lois M. Collins|work=The Oklahoman|agency=Deseret Digital Media|date=November 1, 2015}}</ref> In 2015, the competitions were becoming a routine event at local vape shops.<ref name=Mincer2015/> Many vape shops organize cloud-chasing events.<ref name=SussmanAllem2016>{{cite journal|last1=Sussman|first1=Steve|last2=Allem|first2=Jon-Patrick|last3=Garcia|first3=Jocelyn|last4=Unger|first4=Jennifer B.|last5=Cruz|first5=Tess Boley|last6=Garcia|first6=Robert|last7=Baezconde-Garbanati|first7=Lourdes|title=Who walks into vape shops in Southern California?: a naturalistic observation of customers|journal=Tobacco Induced Diseases|volume=14|issue=1|pages=18|year=2016|issn=1617-9625|doi=10.1186/s12971-016-0082-y|pmc=4880826|pmid=27231480 |doi-access=free }}</ref> Some vape shops believe it is overdoing it to organize cloud-chasing competitions at vape shops.<ref name=Harrison2015/> Some vape shops lets minors watch cloud-chasing competitions even though they are not allowed to compete in the contests.<ref name=JTS2015/> Cloud-chasing contests appear to be intended to bring in new shoppers and increase e-cigarette business.<ref name=Harrison2015>{{cite news|url=http://www.santafenewmexican.com/life/teen/though-unregulated-e-cigarette-culture-grows/article_f096a530-40f6-52d7-882e-bc4ec57be1aa.html|title=Though unregulated, e-cigarette culture grows|author=Eliza Harrison|work=The Santa Fe New Mexican|date=June 11, 2015}}</ref> Contests have also been held at local strip malls,<ref name=HGN2015>{{cite news|url=http://www.hngn.com/articles/86688/20150423/e-cigarette-vaping-become-competitive-sport.htm|title=E-Cigarette Vaping Has Become a Competitive Sport|publisher=Headlines & Global News|date=April 23, 2015}}</ref> such as in Texas<ref name=Masst2016>{{cite news|url=http://www.texasstandard.org/stories/hidden-in-the-haze-of-cloud-chasing-a-spirit-of-healthy-competition/|title=Hidden in the Haze of 'Cloud Chasing,' a Spirit of Healthy Competition|author=Jimmy Maas|publisher=Texas Standard|date=May 13, 2016}}</ref> and New Jersey.<ref name=McCarthy2015>{{cite news|url=http://www.nj.com/news/index.ssf/2015/04/competitive_vaping_yeah_thats_a_thing_now_and_its_come_to_nj.html|title=Competitive vaping? Yeah, that's a thing now, and it's come to N.J.|author=Craig McCarthy|publisher=NJ.com|date=April 22, 2015}}</ref> Since 2015, almost half of vaping trade show organizations promote contests such as cloud-chasing.<ref name=Williams2015>{{cite journal|last1=Williams|first1=Rebecca S|title=VapeCons: E-cigarette user conventions|journal=Journal of Public Health Policy|volume=36|issue=4|year=2015|pages=440–451|issn=0197-5897|doi=10.1057/jphp.2015.31|pmc=4641520|pmid=26424201}}</ref>
== Recreational activity == alt=E-cigarette user blowing a cloud of vapor.|thumb|left|E-cigarette user blowing a cloud of vapor. Vapers who enjoy blowing large plumes of vapor are known as cloud-chasers.<ref name=Sottile2014>{{cite news|url=https://www.theatlantic.com/health/archive/2014/10/the-right-to-vape/381145/|title=The Right to Vape|work=The Atlantic|author=Leah Sottile|date=October 8, 2014}}</ref> Cloud-chasing is a recreational activity<ref name=Geller2015/> and a hobby.<ref name=Burn-Callander2015/> It is popular with many e-cigarette users.<ref name=Spinfuel-2016>{{cite news|url=https://spinfuel.com/sub-plus-ohm-vaping/|title=Sub-Ohm – Plus-Ohm Vaping|author=Team Spinfuel|publisher=Spinfuel eMagazine|date=May 10, 2016}}</ref> There are extensive gatherings of e-cigarette users, known as "vape meets", where participants exchange devices and flavors.<ref name=Marshall2014>{{cite news|url=https://www.thrillist.com/entertainment/nation/tenthingsyoudidntknowaboutvaping|title=10 Things You Didn't Know About Vaping|author=John Marshall|publisher=Group Nine Media|date=October 30, 2014}}</ref> Where there are vape meets, e-cigarette users exhibit their customized mod devices.<ref name=Shaw2017>{{cite book|author=Barney Shaw|title=The Smell of Fresh Rain: The Unexpected Pleasures of our Most Elusive Sense|url=https://books.google.com/books?id=ndwnDwAAQBAJ&pg=PT113|date=September 7, 2017|publisher=Icon Books Limited|isbn=978-1-78578-114-8|pages=113–}}</ref> Vape meets are organized by people and businesses.<ref name=Chuang2013>{{cite news|url=http://www.nbcbayarea.com/news/local/Growing-Number-of-Youth-Smoking-Vaporizers-Alarms-Health-Officials-225916671.html|title=Growing Use of Vaporizers Alarms Health Officials|author=Stephanie Chuang|publisher=KNTV|date=October 1, 2013}}</ref> There are large, tiny, local, and national vape meets.<ref name=Desrosiers2014>{{cite news|url=https://spinfuel.com/malice-doll-national-vapers-club/|title=Malice Doll of the National Vapers Club|author=David Desrosiers|publisher=Spinfuel eMagazine|date=February 27, 2014}}</ref> Many vape meets include cloud-chasing contests and vaping tricks.<ref name=PepperLee2017/> Some cloud-chasers demonstrate their skill where anybody can notice.<ref name=Balen2014/> They use devices designed to produce larger amounts of vapor.<ref name=Balen2014/> There are hundreds of YouTube videos showing people engaging in blowing clouds of vapor using e-cigarettes.<ref name=Durnan2015>{{cite news|url=https://www.sudbury.com/local-news/after-the-smoke-clears-inside-vaping-culture-259597|title=After the smoke clears: Inside vaping culture|work=Sudbury.com|publisher=Laurentian Publishing|author=Matt Durnan|date=December 23, 2015}}</ref> YouTube is flooded with advice for creating large clouds of vapor.<ref name=Shaffer2015>{{cite news|url=http://www.newsobserver.com/news/local/news-columns-blogs/josh-shaffer/article22619763.html|title=Raleigh vapers to duel for the biggest cloud|work=The News & Observer|author=Josh Shaffer|date=May 29, 2015}}</ref>
Others have been known as "flavor aficionados" who seek the ideal e-liquid and can determine a liquid by its aroma.<ref name=Pacenti2017>{{cite news|url=http://www.grandhaventribune.com/Nation/2017/04/09/Is-vaping-hazardous-to-your-health-The-debate-rages.html|title=Is vaping hazardous to your health? The debate rages|work=Grand Haven Tribune|author=John Pacenti|date=April 9, 2017|access-date=June 3, 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190212130742/https://www.grandhaventribune.com/Nation/2017/04/09/Is-vaping-hazardous-to-your-health-The-debate-rages.html|archive-date=February 12, 2019|url-status=dead}}</ref> As e-cigarette use has increased, it has attracted many flavor aficionados in the US.<ref name=Williams-2015>{{cite news|url=http://www.ocregister.com/2015/09/15/the-vape-debate-is-it-good-or-bad-for-orange-county-to-be-the-silicon-valley-of-vaping/|title=The vape debate: Is it good or bad for Orange County to be the 'Silicon Valley' of vaping?|author=Lauren A. Williams|work=Orange County Register|date=September 15, 2015}}</ref> It is frequent to notice flavor aficionados put a small amount of e-liquid on their hand for a speedy taste test.<ref name=Padilla2016/> They assert to be capable of determining the difference between "gourmet" e-liquid and commercially promoted e-liquid.<ref name=Padilla2016/> Some flavor aficionados are okay with large clouds coupled with full flavor, while others think it is foolish.<ref name=Padilla2016>{{cite news|url=http://vaping360.com/vapers/|title=Stereotypical vapers: 10 types of vapers you probably know|author=Raymond Padilla|publisher=Vaping360|date=October 21, 2016}}</ref>
== Competitions == === Cloud-chasers === thumb|Cloud-chasers aim to exhale large or aesthetically interesting clouds of vapor Some cloud-chasers known as "professional vapers" take part in cloud-blowing contests in what is a called a "cloud competition",<ref name=Mosbergen2014>{{cite news|url=http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2014/08/05/cloud-chasing-vaping-competition_n_5652528.html|title=This Man Is An Athlete In The Sport Of 'Cloud Chasing'|author=Dominique Mosbergen|work=HuffPost|date=August 5, 2014}}</ref> competing against one another to exhale the largest and most interesting clouds of vapor,<ref name=TheConversation2016/> sometimes in shapes<ref name=Malia2016>{{cite news|url=http://www.huffingtonpost.co.uk/jess-melia/competitive-vaping_b_11405304.html|title=Yes, There is Such a Thing as Competitive Vaping|author=Jess Malia|work=HuffPost United Kingdom|date=August 12, 2016}}</ref> such as rings, balls, streams, or ripples,<ref name=Moore2016>{{cite news|url=http://www.free-times.com/cover/the-great-vape-debate-081716|title=The Great Vape Debate|author=Eva Moore|work=Free Times|agency=Evening Post Industries|date=August 17, 2016|access-date=August 26, 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160821104630/http://www.free-times.com/cover/the-great-vape-debate-081716|archive-date=August 21, 2016|url-status=dead}}</ref> or doing tricks like the French inhale.<ref name=Harris2015/> The French inhale is exhaling the vapor out of the mouth and inhaling it into the nose at the same time, forming a cloud over the upper lip.<ref name=Harris2015>{{cite news|url=http://www.loudountimes.com/news/article/blowing_off_steam_loudoun_vape_culture_emerges_around_e_cig_businesses543|title=Blowing off steam: Loudoun vape culture emerges around e-cig businesses|author=Anna Harris|work=Loudoun Times-Mirror|agency=Virginia News Group newspaper|date=July 23, 2015}}</ref> Men and women participate in cloud competitions.<ref name=Sanchez2016>{{cite news|url=http://klaq.com/dope-or-dumb-competitive-vaping-is-apparently-a-thing/|title=Dope Or Dumb- Competitive Vaping Is Apparently A Thing|author=Lisa Sanchez|publisher=KLAQ El Paso|date=May 3, 2016}}</ref> Many teenagers participate in cloud competitions.<ref name=Ranosa2015>{{cite news|url=http://www.techtimes.com/articles/50313/20150503/what-lures-teens-into-using-e-cigarettes-smoke-tricks-here-are-some-examples-and-tutorials-videos.htm|title=What Lures Teens Into Using E-Cigarettes? Flavors And Smoke Tricks|author=Ted Ranosa|publisher=Tech Times|date=May 3, 2015}}</ref> Competitive vaping is attracting spectators, known as "cloud-gazers".<ref name=InfoTech2015>{{cite news|url=http://www.cinfotech.net/vaping-competitions-heat-up-with-the-help-of-sponsors-and-large-cash-prizes/|title=Vaping Competitions Heat Up with the Help of Sponsors and Large Cash Prizes|author=Info Tec Staff|publisher=Info Tech|date=April 27, 2015}}</ref>
=== Events ===
Two major cloud competitions in the US are the International Cloud Championships in California, and the World Series of Vape, in Las Vegas.<ref name=Haynes2015>{{cite news|url=https://www.theguardian.com/society/shortcuts/2015/apr/22/cloud-chasing-competitive-sport-blowing-vape-clouds|title=Daft vapers: the competitive world of e-cigarette smoking|author=Gavin Haynes|work=The Guardian|date=April 22, 2015}}</ref> The World Series of Cloud Chasing contest took place in the UK in 2016.<ref name=Chadwell-Singley2016>{{cite news|url=https://www.newsreview.com/reno/planet-of-the-vapes/content?oid=20614940|title=Planet of the vapes|author=Jeri Chadwell-Singley|work=News & Review|publisher=Chico Community Publishing, Inc.|date=April 14, 2016}}</ref> The Vape Capitol Cloud Championships is one of the largest cloud contests in the US.<ref name=Raychaudhuri2016/> There are also competitions in New Jersey, Illinois, New Mexico,<ref name=Mosbergen2014/> and at the Vaporium in New York.<ref name=Doward2016/> The Vape Olympics is an annual event that began 2015.<ref name=Lewczyk2015>{{cite news|url=http://flagpole.com/blogs/culture-briefs/posts/we-went-to-the-vape-olympics-so-you-didn-t-have-to|title=We Went to the Vape Olympics So You Didn't Have To|author=Maria Lewczyk|publisher=flagpole|date=September 8, 2016}}</ref> The Canadian Cloud Circuit began in Ontario, Canada in 2015.<ref name=Mclaren2015>{{cite news|url=http://torontoist.com/2016/08/toronto-vaping-darryl-mccoy/|title=We Went to Toronto's Vape Olympics, Which Might Be the Last of its Kind in Ontario|author=Erik Mclaren|work=Torontoist|date=August 25, 2016}}</ref> VapeShow Prague took place in the Czech Republic in 2017.<ref name=Vatroslawski2017>{{cite news|url=http://www.slavorum.org/czechs-are-going-crazy-for-vaping-at-awesome-vapeshow-in-prague/|title=Czechs Are Going Crazy For Vaping At Awesome 'VapeShow' In Prague|author=Wilk Vatroslawski|publisher=Slavorum|year=2017}}</ref> Some consider it to be a sport<ref name=Harry2015>{{cite news|url=http://pix11.com/2015/04/29/cloud-chasing-the-world-of-competitive-vaping/|title=Cloud chasing: The world of competitive 'vaping'|author=Ayana Harry|publisher=WPIX|date=April 29, 2015}}</ref> and it has gotten more formal over time.<ref name=p3432017>{{cite news|url=http://www.broowaha.com/articles/28998/-vaping-has-a-sport-and-its-called-cloud-chasing|title=Vaping Has a Sport, and It's Called "Cloud Chasing"|author=herbertp343|publisher=BrooWaha|date=April 20, 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170627071339/http://www.broowaha.com/articles/28998/-vaping-has-a-sport-and-its-called-cloud-chasing|archive-date=June 27, 2017|url-status=dead}}</ref> Competitors can win prize money typically in the range of $250 to $2,000.<ref name=Dupler2015>{{cite news|url=http://digg.com/2015/competitive-vaping|title=Competitive Vaping Is The Latest Extreme Sport And Other Facts|author=Samantha Dupler|publisher=Digg|date=April 23, 2015|access-date=June 20, 2015|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150620090933/http://digg.com/2015/competitive-vaping|archive-date=June 20, 2015|url-status=dead}}</ref> The World Vaping Championship has a total prize purse of $100,000.<ref name=LEP2016>{{cite news|url=http://www.lep.co.uk/news/morecambe-shop-sees-e-cigs-as-a-social-phenomenon-1-7915415|title=Morecambe shop sees e-cigs as a social phenomenon|work=Lancashire Evening Post|date=May 17, 2016}}</ref> Some regional contests offer cash winnings.<ref name=Mincer2015/> E-cigarette companies will frequently pay e-cigarette users who have demonstrated themselves makers of amazing clouds.<ref name=Gutierrez2015/> Tournaments are commonly sponsored by e-cigarette companies.<ref name=Juan2015>{{cite news|url=http://usa.chinadaily.com.cn/china/2015-10/13/content_22168370.htm|title=Tougher controls urged for e-cigarettes|author=Shan Juan, Wang Xiaodong|work=China Daily|date=October 13, 2015}}</ref> Some competitors are sponsored by e-cigarette companies.<ref name=InfoTech2015/> This counteracts travel and equipment expenses.<ref name=Mickle2015/> There are also teams.<ref name=Mickle2015/> Some sponsors are organizing teams.<ref name=Mickle2015/> A Competitive Vaping League is being developed.<ref name=Mickle2015/> Several vape shops in Dallas, North Carolina, Los Angeles, Canada, and Indonesia are beginning to host competitions in order to promote new e-liquid flavors.<ref name=HGN2015/>
=== Rules ===
There are rules and judges.<ref name=Randall2016/> A list of rules are explained on a number of websites.<ref name=Randall2016>{{cite news|url=http://www.uatrav.com/the_companion/article_5c57f356-ca0f-11e5-a75f-8368bdc2289b.html|title=Northwest Arkansas Vaping Scene Gains Popularity|author=Lauren Randall|publisher=The Arkansas Traveler|date=February 3, 2016}}</ref> Vapers compete by standing back-to-back when blowing the cloud of vapor.<ref name=Larson2014/> The clouds of vapor are evaluated on "girth, length, and overall size density".<ref name=Gutierrez2015/> The person who exhales the larger cloud of vapor moves on to the next meeting.<ref name=Larson2014>{{cite news|url=http://mashable.com/2014/08/02/x-games-vaping/#c9XVWUofhOq0|title=Behind the Scenes at the 'X Games' of Vaping|author=Eric Larson|publisher=Mashable|date=August 2, 2014}}</ref> The cloud of vapor is measured using a yardstick<ref name=Frieden2015>{{cite news|url=http://www.medpagetoday.com/PrimaryCare/Smoking/51422|title=Are E-Cigs a Gateway to Smoking?|author=Joyce Frieden|publisher=MedPage Today|date=May 8, 2015}}</ref> or by a ruler on the wall next to the competitor.<ref name=InfoTech2015/> In Plano, Texas in 2015, the cloud of vapor reached about 5 feet.<ref name=Mickle2015/> The cloud was measured at 6 feet from another vaper.<ref name=Mickle2015/> The judge Matt Maynard said, "There is a skill to being able to keep a ball of vapor together without it dissipating."<ref name=Mickle2015/>
== Usage == === Customization === [[File:E-Cigarette-Electronic Cigarette-E-Cigs-E-Liquid-Vaping-Cloud Chasing (16162730679).jpg|right|thumb|A customized mod e-cigarette device designed for cloud-chasing.|alt=A customized mod e-cigarette device designed for cloud-chasing.]] Cloud-chasing integrates technique, air flow, and using the appropriate technology.<ref name=Sottile2014/> A handful of later-generation e-cigarettes are designed to create large plumes of vapor.<ref name=Bekiempis2015/> The devices are customized.<ref name=Cabrera2014>{{cite news|url=http://www.dailyoffbeat.com/articles/1443/20140806/vaping-vaping-competition-vapers-vegetable-glycerol-liquid-nicotine-x-games-of-vaping-cloud-chasing-chris-wilson.htm|title=Vaping Becomes A Sport With Professional Vapers Puffing Giant Cloud Smoke|author=Cathy Cabrera|publisher=Daily OffBeat|date=August 6, 2014|url-status=dead|archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20150612124341/http://www.dailyoffbeat.com/articles/1443/20140806/vaping-vaping-competition-vapers-vegetable-glycerol-liquid-nicotine-x-games-of-vaping-cloud-chasing-chris-wilson.htm|archivedate=June 12, 2015}}</ref> Users experiment with numerous component combinations.<ref name=WM2016>{{cite news|url=http://get-a-wingman.com/e-cigarettes-and-vaping-a-healthier-alternative-to-smoking/|title=E-Cigarettes and Vaping, a Healthier Alternative to Smoking?|work=Wingman Magazine|publisher=Red Snapper Publishing GmbH|year=2016}}</ref> A growing subclass of e-cigarette enthusiasts called cloud-chasers assemble their atomizers in such a way that can produce extremely large amounts of vapor by using heating coils with a resistance of less than 1 ohm (Ω).<ref name=Plass2014>{{cite news|title=The Cloud Chasers|url=http://vapenewsmagazine.com/february-2014/vapeview-the-cloud-chasers|publisher=Vape Magazine|author=Mary Plass|date=January 29, 2014}}</ref>
E-cigarette blogs recommend various configurations of batteries and various kinds of e-liquid to generate the largest vapor or do the greatest tricks.<ref name=PepperLee2017/> Vapers on Reddit, vaping forums, and blogs have indicated there is a risk associated with modifying an e-cigarette to generate more vapor.<ref name=OttomanelliII2015>{{cite news|url=http://vapenewsmagazine.com/august-2015/vaping-loud-by-chasing-clouds|title=Vaping Loud by Chasing Clouds|author=Anthony J. Ottomanelli II|publisher=Vape Magazine|date=September 2, 2015}}</ref><ref>{{cite news |last1=Donald |first1=Mark |title=Tvape’s survey |url=https://tvape.com/blog/smoking-vs-vaporizing-consumer-survey-report/ |access-date=11 April 2024}}</ref> By using a coil with very low resistance, the batteries used can be stressed beyond the margins of what could be considered safe use.<ref name=Cooper2014/> This could present a risk of dangerous battery failures.<ref name=Cooper2014>{{cite news|url=https://www.engadget.com/2014/05/23/vaporizers-explainer/|title=What you need to know about vaporizers|author=Sean Cooper|publisher=Engadget|date=May 23, 2014}}</ref> If an unregulated mod is not set up correctly the battery could overheat.<ref name=Cranz2016/> "Unless you are an expert in electrical engineering it's probably better to stick to regulated mods," according to reporter Alex Cranz.<ref name=Cranz2016>{{cite news|url=https://gizmodo.com/gizmodos-ultimate-guide-to-vaping-1771859332|title=Gizmodo's Ultimate Guide to Vaping|author=Alex Cranz|publisher=Gizmodo|date=May 23, 2016}}</ref> A higher resistance above 0.1 ohms is recommended for onlookers and user safety.<ref name=Randall2016/>
Cloud-chasers are not always interested in the nicotine released from the vapor.<ref name=Merrill2014/> Most cloud-chasers do not use nicotine.<ref name=Merrill2014>{{cite news|url=http://www.azcentral.com/story/money/business/2014/04/01/e-cigarette-smokers-are-chasing-clouds-lm-biz/7158733/|title=E-cigarette smokers are chasing clouds|author=Laurie Merrill|publisher=AZCentral|date=April 16, 2014}}</ref> Many choose mixtures that are made without propylene glycol and nicotine, but use higher amounts of glycerin to produce larger plumes of vapor.<ref name=Burn-Callander2015>{{cite news|url=https://www.telegraph.co.uk/finance/newsbysector/retailandconsumer/11583974/Are-you-a-vanilla-custard-cloud-chaser.html|title=Are you a vanilla custard cloud chaser?|author=Rebecca Burn-Callander|work=The Daily Telegraph|date=May 5, 2015}}</ref> Dripping, where the liquid is dripped directly onto the atomizer, seems to be the preferred option among vapers who take part in smoke tricks, including cloud-chasing.<ref name=Boyles2016>{{cite news|url=http://www.medpagetoday.com/Pulmonology/Smoking/62919|title=Survey: 'Dripping' Common Among Teen E-Cig Users|author=Salynn Boyles|publisher=MedPage Today|date=February 6, 2017}}</ref><ref>{{cite news |title=VNSN Quake Pro 14000 |url=https://buyvapes.co.uk/products/vnsn-quake-pro-14000 |access-date=24 August 2024}}</ref> Youth state that they do not use e-liquids containing nicotine while doing vaping tricks.<ref name=PepperLee2017/> Professor Fiona Measham, who led a smoking-related research project stated, "Among some more experienced vapers who prioritise competency in 'cloud chasing' skills, nicotine is actively avoided as it could disrupt their vaping 'performances', particularly given the quantities consumed".<ref name=Doward2016/> Vape shops in the US have held classes to teach users how to build an e-cigarette that can generate large clouds of vapor.<ref name=Merrill2014/>
=== Vapor production ===
The majority of vapers go for sub ohm tanks or rebuildable atomizers for producing more vapor.{{citation needed|date=August 2020}} Cig-a-likes generate considerably less vapor compared to customized mods.<ref name=Rosselat2016/> Customized mods generate considerably more vapor compared to basic 'eGo' type devices.<ref name=Tomlin2016>{{cite news|url=https://www.gizmodo.co.uk/2016/07/best-box-mods/|title=The Best Box Mods: Next-Level Vaping Beyond E Cigs|author=Jack Tomlin|publisher=Gizmodo|date=July 7, 2016}}</ref> A higher power setting by using a variable voltage device increases vapor volume.<ref name=DavidMason>{{cite news|url=https://vapeandjuice.co.uk/blogs/vape-advice/what-is-sub-ohm-vaping|title=What Is Sub Ohm Vaping|author=David Mason|publisher=Vape and Juice|date=September 5, 2020}}</ref> Increasing airflow over the coil increasing vapor output.{{citation needed|date=August 2020}} This requires an atomizer with an adjustable airflow.{{citation needed|date=August 2020}} For vapers using sub ohm tanks or rebuildables with plenty of airflow, inhaling kind of quickly gets better results from the airflow.{{citation needed|date=August 2020}} When the airflow is opened too much it creates thin and weak vapor.{{citation needed|date=August 2020}} The way the vaper inhales can affect the vapor being created.{{citation needed|date=August 2020}} Before exhaling cloud-chasers inhale directly into the lungs as opposed to mouth-to-lung inhaling by most vapers.<ref name=Harlay-2016>{{cite news|url=http://www.vapingpost.com/2016/09/21/expert-advice-operating-ecigs-at-high-power-poses-a-threat-to-health-too/|title=Expert advice: Power vapers should be careful with high power|author=Jérôme Harlay|publisher=Vaping Post|date=September 21, 2016}}</ref>
== Debate ==
As vaping comes under increased scrutiny, some members of the vaping community have voiced their concerns about cloud-chasing, claiming the practice gives vapers a bad reputation when doing it in public.<ref name=Bekiempis2015/> Long-term vapers maintain that some vaping newbies are making the industry's image look bad by exhaling large clouds in public.<ref name=Bekiempis2015/> Some vapers are concerned that the vaping competitions bring a stigma to vaping by making the activity appear more comparable to gaming activities.<ref name=Mickle2015/> Some vapers believe that cloud-chasers are partly responsible for the negative media attention.<ref name=Bekiempis2015>{{cite news|url=http://www.newsweek.com/veteran-e-cigarette-users-fret-cloud-chasers-give-them-bad-name-238978|title=Veteran E-Cigarette Users Fret 'Cloud Chasers' Give Them a Bad Name|author=Victoria Bekiempis|work=Newsweek|agency=Reuters|date=April 1, 2015}}</ref> Many vapers believe that cloud-chasers gives vaping a negative reputation, resulting in increased public opinion for regulation.<ref name=BabinHarris2015>{{cite book|author1=Barry J. Babin|author2=Eric Harris|title=CB7|url=https://books.google.com/books?id=RkV-BAAAQBAJ&pg=PT152|date=January 12, 2015|publisher=Cengage Learning|isbn=978-1-305-53397-4|page=139}}</ref> Selena Rockwell, working for the Council on Alcohol & Drug Abuse said "That's very concerning because it turns it more into a game."<ref name=Scully2016>{{cite news|url=https://www.noozhawk.com/article/health_e-cigarette_use_vaping_by_teenagers_a_growing_concern_20160228|title=As Vaping Use Grows Among Teens, Public Health Groups Try to Clear the Air on Dangers|author=Janene Scully|publisher=Noozhawk|date=February 28, 2016}}</ref> Cheryl Richter, the financial secretary of the National Vapers Club said that "it gives vaping a bad name, and we don't need negative publicity."<ref name=Mickle2015/> Though, cloud-chasers dismiss the naysayers.<ref name=Mickle2015>{{cite news|url=https://www.wsj.com/articles/take-a-deep-breath-if-you-want-to-try-competitive-vaping-1429646394|title=Take a Deep Breath if You Want to Try Competitive Vaping|last=Mickle|first=Tripp|work=The Wall Street Journal|date=April 22, 2015}}</ref>
Some restaurants and bars have banned e-cigarette use.<ref name=Balen2014/> Others permit e-cigarette use but do not allow cloud-chasing.<ref name=Balen2014>{{cite news|url=http://guardianlv.com/2014/04/cloud-chasers-extreme-vapers/|title=Cloud Chasers: Extreme Vapers|publisher=Liberty Voice|author=Beth Balen|date=April 2, 2014}}</ref> Many vapers openly condemn the activity, saying that those who attempt to blow the large amount of vapor indoors will lead to those who are still doubtful about vaping to support restricting their use.<ref name=Malia2016/> In 2016 the US Department of Transportation prohibited vaping, including cloud-chasing, on commercial flights.<ref name=Rugg2016>{{cite news|url=https://www.inverse.com/article/12307-u-s-department-of-transportation-bans-vaping-on-all-commercial-flights|title= U.S. Department of Transportation Bans Vaping on All Commercial Flights|author=Peter Rugg|work=Inverse|date=March 3, 2016}}</ref>
== Related practices == === Vape tricks === thumb|alt=Vaping trick known as the smoke ring.|Vaping trick known as the smoke ring. thumb|alt=Vaping trick known as the dragon.|Vaping trick known as the dragon. The exhaling methods used to produce smoke rings while smoking can be employed to produce rings of aerosol while vaping.<ref name=SonejiBarrington-Trimis2017>{{cite journal|last1=Soneji|first1=Samir|last2=Barrington-Trimis|first2=Jessica L.|last3=Wills|first3=Thomas A.|last4=Leventhal|first4=Adam M.|last5=Unger|first5=Jennifer B.|last6=Gibson|first6=Laura A.|last7=Yang|first7=JaeWon|last8=Primack|first8=Brian A.|last9=Andrews|first9=Judy A.|last10=Miech|first10=Richard A.|last11=Spindle|first11=Tory R.|last12=Dick|first12=Danielle M.|author12-link=Danielle M. Dick|last13=Eissenberg|first13=Thomas|last14=Hornik|first14=Robert C.|last15=Dang|first15=Rui|last16=Sargent|first16=James D.|title=Association Between Initial Use of e-Cigarettes and Subsequent Cigarette Smoking Among Adolescents and Young Adults|journal=JAMA Pediatrics|volume=171|issue=8|pages=788–797|year=2017|issn=2168-6203|doi=10.1001/jamapediatrics.2017.1488|pmid=28654986|pmc=5656237}}</ref> Men and women use e-cigarettes to take part in various vape tricks.<ref name=Spinfuel2016>{{cite news|title=VGOD Trick Tank Review|url=https://spinfuel.com/vgod-trick-tank-review/|author=Team Spinfuel|publisher=Spinfuel eMagazine|date=August 27, 2016}}</ref>{{rp|M}}<ref name=Mellides2016>{{cite news|title=Vape Vixen – Amy Hanks: Vape Enthusiast And Friend To The Community|url=http://vapenewsmagazine.com/august-2016/vape-vixen-amy-hanks-vape-enthusiast-and-friend-to-the-community|author=Chris Mellides|publisher=Vape News Magazine|date=August 26, 2016}}</ref>{{rp|W}} Teenagers use e-cigarettes to take part in tricks like blowing O's,<ref name=Pannoni2014>{{cite news|url=https://www.usnews.com/education/blogs/high-school-notes/2014/05/26/teen-e-cigarette-use-a-growing-concern-for-parents-school-officials|title=Teen E-Cigarette Use a Growing Concern for Parents, School Officials|author=Alexandra Pannoni|work=U.S. News & World Report|date=May 26, 2014}}</ref> smoke rings,<ref name=BANG2014>{{cite news|url=http://www.eastbaytimes.com/2014/02/07/bay-area-school-districts-rewrite-tobacco-policies-to-counter-teen-e-cigarette-use/|title=Bay Area school districts rewrite tobacco policies to counter teen e-cigarette use|author=Bay Area News Group|work=Contra Costa Times|date=February 7, 2014}}</ref> tornado-like funnels,<ref name=JTS2015/> the dragon, and various other vape tricks.<ref name=Mincer2015>{{cite news|url=https://www.reuters.com/article/us-ecigarettes-teens-tricks-insight-idUSKBN0NM49020150501|title=As youth vaping rises, teens cite the allure of tricks|author=Jilian Mincer|publisher=Reuters|date=May 1, 2015}}</ref> Several young adults said that one of the reasons they vape is for doing tricks.<ref name=WagonerCornacchione2016>{{cite journal|last1=Wagoner|first1=Kimberly G.|last2=Cornacchione|first2=Jennifer|last3=Wiseman|first3=Kimberly D.|last4=Teal|first4=Randall|last5=Moracco|first5=Kathryn E.|last6=Sutfin|first6=Erin L.|title=E-cigarettes, Hookah Pens and Vapes: Adolescent and Young Adult Perceptions of Electronic Nicotine Delivery Systems: Table 1.|journal=Nicotine & Tobacco Research|volume=18|issue=10|year=2016|pages=2006–2012|issn=1462-2203|doi=10.1093/ntr/ntw095|pmc=5016844|pmid=27029821}}</ref> Doing tricks is one of the main reasons teens said they vape.<ref name=JTS2015>{{cite news|url=http://www.drugfree.org/news-service/vaping-tricks-increase-teens-attraction-e-cigarettes/|title=Vaping Tricks Increase Teens' Attraction to E-Cigarettes|author=Join Together Staff|publisher=Partnership for Drug-Free Kids|date=May 7, 2015}}</ref> The dragon is exhaling vapor out of the nose and mouth at the same time.<ref name=Harris2015/> Other tricks include the double lasso,<ref name=Gayomali2017>{{cite news|url=http://www.gq.com/story/vape-god|title=How the Internet Birthed a Young Vape God|author=Chris Gayomali|work=GQ|date=April 12, 2017}}</ref> jellyfish,{{citation needed|date=March 2021}} and the "Push the O" move.<ref name=Harris2015/> The double lasso begins with exhaling an O shape around a foot in diameter.<ref name=Gayomali2017/> Then a smaller, quicker O up to a size of a doughnut goes through the original O, followed by a smaller O is blown through the first two O's.<ref name=Gayomali2017/> The jellyfish is blowing smoke rings within smoke rings.{{citation needed|date=March 2021}} The "Push the O" move is exhaling a smoke ring and pushing it aside with their hands.<ref name=Harris2015/> E-cigarette users also form "vortexes" by tapping their devices to form sparkles.<ref name=Doward2016>{{cite news|url=https://www.theguardian.com/society/2016/may/14/vaping-not-nicotine-tricks-young-vapers|title=It's not nicotine, it's the smoke tricks young vapers love|author1=Jamie Doward|author2=Harriet Agerholm|work=The Guardian|date=May 14, 2016}}</ref> Another vaping trick is called "a waterfall".<ref name=LeeHart2017/> This trick involves exhaling the vapor out of the mouth and then inhaling it in through the nose.<ref name=LeeHart2017>{{cite journal|last1=Lee|first1=Alexander|last2=Hart|first2=Joy|last3=Sears|first3=Clara|last4=Walker|first4=Kandi|last5=Siu|first5=Allison|last6=Smith|first6=Courteney|title=A picture is worth a thousand words: Electronic cigarette content on Instagram and Pinterest|journal=Tobacco Prevention & Cessation|volume=3|issue=July|year=2017|issn=2459-3087|doi=10.18332/tpc/74709|pmc=5555611|pmid=28815224}}</ref> Most vaping tricks are carried out using devices with large batteries.<ref name=PepperLee2017>{{cite journal|last1=Pepper|first1=Jessica K.|last2=Lee|first2=Youn Ok|last3=Watson|first3=Kimberly A.|last4=Kim|first4=Annice E.|last5=Nonnemaker|first5=James M.|last6=Farrelly|first6=Matthew C.|title=Risk Factors for Youth E-Cigarette "Vape Trick" Behavior|journal=Journal of Adolescent Health|volume=61|issue=5|pages=599–605|year=2017|issn=1054-139X|doi=10.1016/j.jadohealth.2017.05.010|pmid=28712592}}</ref>
=== Prevalence ===
Vaping tricks performed by tricksters are publicized via social media, vape meets, and other places.<ref name=Harlay2016>{{cite news|url=https://www.vapingpost.com/2016/10/06/popularity-of-subohm-kits-drags-juice-sales-to-low-nicotine-strength/|title=Popularity of subohm kits drags juice sales to low nicotine strength|author=Jérôme Harlay|publisher=Vaping Post|date=October 6, 2016}}</ref> There are a number of YouTube videos showing people engaging in vape tricks using e-cigarettes.<ref name=Ranosa2015/> Social media sites like Instagram can be used for showing off vape tricks.<ref name=TheMash2015>{{cite news|url=http://www.huffingtonpost.com/the-mash/vape-culture-attracts-tee_b_8215340.html|title=Vape Culture Attracts Teens, Poses Harmful Risks|author=The Mash|work=HuffPost|date=September 29, 2015}}</ref> One of the more alluring features about vaping was cloud-chasing among Instagram users.<ref name=Allem2018>{{cite news|url=http://theconversation.com/is-juul-making-it-easy-for-kids-to-vape-in-school-new-study-suggests-yes-98987|title=Is Juul making it easy for kids to vape in school? New study suggests yes|author=Jon-Patrick Allem|work=The Conversation|date=June 29, 2018}}</ref> Teenagers are being taught vaping tricks from one another.<ref name=Mincer2015/> Students put videos on social media that show them performing tricks using e-cigarettes.<ref>{{cite news|url=https://www.nytimes.com/2018/04/24/health/fda-e-cigarettes-minors-juul.html|title=F.D.A. Cracks Down on 'Juuling' Among Teenagers|work=The New York Times|author=Kate Zernike |date=April 24, 2018}}</ref> Adolescents eagerly check out e-cigarettes on social media and YouTube where they find out about vaping tricks, among other things.<ref name=Modesto-LoweAlvarado2017>{{cite journal|last1=Modesto-Lowe|first1=Vania|last2=Alvarado|first2=Camille|title=E-cigs . . . Are They Cool? Talking to Teens About E-Cigarettes|journal=Clinical Pediatrics|volume=56|issue=10|year=2017|pages=947–952|issn=0009-9228|doi=10.1177/0009922817705188|pmid=28443340|s2cid=44423931}}</ref> The increase in popularity with vape tricks is attributed to many e-cigarette users in Southern California who posted their tricks on social media online.<ref name=Raychaudhuri2016/>
=== Competitions ===
There are vaping tricks competitions.<ref name=ES2016/> The participants are known as "vaping tricksters".<ref name=ES2016>{{cite news|title=Watch the UK's most impressive VAPER show off his skills|url=http://www.expressandstar.com/news/local-news/2016/05/16/watch-the-uks-most-impressive-vaper-show-off-his-skills/terry-dickens-in-action/|publisher=Express & Star|date=May 16, 2016}}</ref> There are several different types of trickster; the most common names being the Bender, the Runner, and the Spammer.<ref name=Raychaudhuri2016/> Benders stay put in one place and use their body parts to transform the vape they exhale into various shapes.<ref name=Raychaudhuri2016/> Runners typically do not stay put, and move in the direction of the vapor to form various shapes.<ref name=Raychaudhuri2016/> Spammers specialize in creating multiple O's.<ref name=Raychaudhuri2016/> The League of Clouds event is an online vaping trick contest that took place in 2016.<ref name=Raychaudhuri2016/> The contestants at a place they prefer were livestreaming their actions on camera at a specified time, while judges at different places made their ruling online.<ref name=Raychaudhuri2016/> In April 2017 Austin Lawrence, also known as "The Vape God",<ref name=Purdom2017>{{cite news|url=http://www.avclub.com/article/get-know-worlds-greatest-vaper-253688|title=Get to know the world's greatest vaper|author=Clayton Purdom|work=The A.V. Club|agency=The Onion|date=April 13, 2017}}</ref> created "some of the most insane and complicated smoke rings ever captured on film", according to Maxim.<ref name=Freeman2017>{{cite news|url=http://www.maxim.com/news/vape-god-2017-4|title=How This 21 Year Old Became Instagram's Millennial 'Vape God' and Started Smoking Up With Drake|author=Thomas Freeman|work=Maxim|date=April 14, 2017}}</ref> Titus Edwards is known in the vaping community as Vape King for his vaping cloud skills, according to ''FLUX''.<ref name=Wang2019/> His signature maneuver is the jellyfish.<ref name=Wang2019>{{cite news|url=https://www.fluxmagazine.com/coolest-vape-tricksters/|title=A history of the coolest vape tricksters|author=Alexa Wang|work=FLUX|date=May 8, 2019}}</ref> Vaping tricksters have been sponsored by e-liquid brands.<ref name=Harlay2016/>
== Notes == {{reflist|group=note}}
== References == {{reflist}}
{{Electronic cigarettes}}
Category:Aerosols Category:Electronic cigarettes