In today’s legal cannabis industry, cultivators and producers are constantly working on new ways to enhance the smoking experience. Take Snow Caps and Snowballs as examples. While these names might evoke images of chocolate candies or wintertime fun, they refer to very different—and very potent—products in the cannabis world. These concentrated cannabis flowers are coated in crushed THC-A diamonds to bring all of your favorite strains above the summit of Mount Everest.
But what exactly makes Snow Caps and Snowballs unique, especially compared to the OG MoonRocks? While there are a lot of similarities between Snow Caps, Snowballs, and MoonRocks, it’s essential to consider the distinctions before deciding which one to light up.
What Are Snow Caps?
When you see “Snow Caps” on a cannabis dispensary’s menu, think “sprinkled.” The best way to distinguish this premium cannabis bud from other flower is to focus on the light layer of crushed THC-A diamonds that covers each Snow Cap nug.
Generally, Snow Caps start with a super sticky flower lightly coated with a dusting of crushed high-potency THC-A diamonds, and it may have a bit of kief as a final flourish. However, the key feature on every Snow Cap is that shiny white “sprinkling” of THC-A diamonds, which both adds exceptional potency and makes it resemble the namesake candies.
As a brief review for those who aren’t familiar with how cannabinoids work, THC-A is the “acidic” precursor form to the psychoactive THC. In this acidic state, cannabinoids don’t share the same chemical structure we’re more familiar with, and they don’t have the same effect on the endocannabinoid system (ECS) if ingested on their own.
If you were to take a THC-A supplement, you wouldn’t even feel “high.” It’s only after a cannabinoid like THC-A hits heat that it changes its structure to THC and gives users those distinctive psychoactive effects. So, even though the THC-A doesn’t have an impact on its own, you’ll feel the power of a Snow Cap after putting it in a bong, dab rig, or joint.
What Are Snowballs?
We’ll be honest, Snowballs are pretty much the same thing as Snow Caps except for one crucial detail: They’re more intense.
Generally, what separates a Snow Cap from a Snowball on dispensary shelves is how much of those THC-A diamonds and kief powder is on the final product. You shouldn’t see a “sprinkling” or “dusting” of concentrate on a bonafide Snowball. Instead, these premium products should have extra weight and higher average potency scores on their lab reports.
But since the distinctions between Snow Caps and Snowballs aren’t well defined—especially in cannabis marketing—don’t always assume Snowballs are the more potent product. For the most accurate information on how a cannabis concentrate will feel, pay careful attention to the third-party lab results and compare the THC levels.
Snow Caps and Snowballs vs MoonRocks: What’s the Difference?
By now, MoonRocks have become well-known with fans from coast to coast. Initially launched on the West Coast, these cannabis buds are soaked in a liquid concentrate (typically hash oil) that’s then coated with a generous amount of kief. While MoonRocks may look “snowy” in some strains, they’re better known for their dense and “rock-like” consistency.
MoonRocks also tend to have higher average potency scores versus Snow Caps due to their thicker layer of kief and the inclusion of a sticky concentrate. So, even though MoonRocks are more popular and accessible in dispensaries, they tend to be messier to work with and better suited for more experienced users. If people are just getting started with high-intensity cannabis concentrates, it’s often better to start searching for Snow Caps, as they tend to be slightly lower in potency.
Want more? Check out our full guide to MoonRocks.
How to Smoke Snow Caps & Snowballs
Another thing Snow Caps and Snowballs have in common with MoonRocks is they can be a bit tricky (and messy) to use. If you’ve never smoked concentrate-enhanced cannabis flower before, you may feel puzzled about how to smoke these dense nugs. While they might be a little messier and harder to handle, the good news is you can smoke or vape these concentrated buds much like you would other inhalable cannabis products.
Use a Bong
For an even smoother experience, try smoking Snow Caps or Snowballs in a bong. The water filtration helps cool down the smoke, which makes it a more enjoyable experience for those prone to coughing fits.
Smoke in a Pipe or Bowl
You could also break the Snow Cap or Snowball into smaller pieces and place it in a pipe or bowl. Light it up like a regular flower, but be prepared for a more substantial hit.
Roll Into a Joint
If you prefer joints, you can also break up your Snow Cap or Snowball and mix it with regular cannabis flower to roll a joint. This is a simple way to add some extra potency and flavor to an otherwise traditional smoke.
Vaporize
For the cleanest and smoothest experience, consider using a vaporizer. Break up the Snow Cap or Snowball and place it in the vaporizer’s chamber to experience the full flavor without any harshness.
Grab Your Snowy Strains At Exclusive
Snow Caps and Snowballs are both fun ways to add some extra potency to your cannabis experience. Just remember that these are a lot more potent than your average flower and best for experienced consumers.
Like MoonRocks, you should know your THC tolerance level before grabbing your first frost-covered flower. Take care to only use a small amount of your Snow Cap and Snowball on the first try, and always verify the THC levels on official third-party lab reports so you know what you’re getting.
If you’re ready to start experimenting with Snow Caps or Snowballs, Exclusive is the place to be. All of our Michigan-based dispensaries have the freshest selection of concentrates like Snow Caps, Snowballs, and MoonRocks. And don’t worry if you’re not interested in blasting away with these potent products yet, we carry an unbeatable selection including premium flower, edibles, concentrates, and so much more.
Want to learn more about cannabis concentrates? Check out our Beginner’s Guide to Concentrates.
