"Which ice hose is best?" To answer that question, we compared the features and differences of three popular ice hoses.
- What is an Ice Hose?
- Types of Ice Hoses
- Comparison of 3 Recommended Ice Hoses
- Ice Hose How-To Video
- Ice Hose Comparison: Conclusion
The exhilaratingly cool draw that goes through your nose is what makes an "ice hose" so appealing. Due to its refreshing sensation, it's a popular item that many people can't do without, not just in summer but all year round.
In this article, we compare the following three ice hoses:
First, as basic knowledge, we will explain what ice hoses are and their types.
What is an ice hose?
An ice hose is an item that allows you to enjoy cool smoke by drawing smoke through a frozen cool pack inside the hose. Since the shisha smoke itself is cool, inhaling it provides a refreshing, chilling sensation. It's a popular item in summer, but many who enjoy the refreshing feel of menthol use it year-round.
Types of ice hoses
Generally, when people refer to an ice hose, the "Shuttle Ice Hose" shape is well-known, but there are various other types such as the compact "Mini Ice Hose" and the "Jewel Ice Hose" which is perfect for social media. Each differs in size, duration, and appearance, so you can choose one that suits your preference.
Click here for an article explaining the Shuttle Ice Hose
Click here for an article explaining the Jewel Hose
Comparison of 3 popular ice hoses
Here, we will compare popular ice hoses from Dr. Shisha's unique perspective! First, we've summarized the specifications in a comparison table.
| Size (cm) (Length x Mouthpiece x Connection) |
Cooling duration | Coolness level | Maintainability | |
| Shuttle Ice Hose | 34 x 1.2 x 1.5 | Approx. 90 mins | ◯ | ◎ |
| Mini Ice Hose | 21 x 1.2 x 2.4 | Approx. 60 mins | △ | ◎ |
| Jewel Ice Hose | 36 x 1.3 x 1.3 | Approx. 60 mins | ◎ | ◯ |
Size
Frankly speaking, the size (length) of the hose seems to affect the coolness of the smoke delivered. Therefore, an ice hose with a larger or longer coolant pack can produce cooler smoke.
Cooling duration
The duration of coolness seems to be related more to the size of the hose than its length. In fact, the Shuttle Ice Hose, which has the largest cool pack, boasts the longest duration, allowing you to fully enjoy its effects from the beginning to the end of your shisha session.
Coolness level
The coolness level indicates how intensely you can feel the cold sensation, and the Jewel Ice Hose felt the coldest. This is likely because its cooling area is the longest, and it chills the smoke pathway by enclosing it from the outside.
Maintainability
This probably goes to the Mini Ice Hose, which is compact and has separate cool packs and plastic containers. While the other two aren't difficult to handle, the Jewel Hose needs to be frozen whole, at 36cm, which takes up freezer space.
About versatility with pipes and hoses
An often-overlooked aspect is the versatility with pipe hoses. The three ice hoses we're comparing each have different attachment methods. Essentially, if the diameter of the ice hose's connection port matches the caliber of your existing hose, it can be used, but there are a few points to note.
For Shuttle Ice Hose
The connection port of the Shuttle Hose has a minimum size of 1.5 cm, which is inconvenient, so the mouthpiece (1.2 cm) is sometimes used as the connection port. It is attached by removing and replacing the tip (mouthpiece) of the pipe hose, but since the connection port of the Shuttle Hose expands from 1.2 cm, it may come off easily depending on the hose.
For Mini Ice Hose
The connection port of the mini hose is wide at 2.4 cm and is female-shaped. It can be attached by simply fitting a hose rubber gasket onto the tip (mouthpiece) of the pipe hose and inserting it. The rubber gasket provides a stable fit.
For Jewel Ice Hose
The Jewel Ice Hose has a 1.3cm connection port, and similar to the Shuttle Hose, it attaches by replacing the tip of the pipe hose. However, unlike the Shuttle Hose, its opening does not expand, so if the size matches, it can be securely attached to the pipe hose.
This hose and gasket work with all ice hoses.
*We recommend checking if it can be attached to your pipe.
This pipe is compatible with all ice hoses.
How to use an ice hose: Easy explanation video (1 minute 50 seconds)
This video will help you easily understand how to use an ice hose.
Ice hose comparison, conclusion
In conclusion, each has its pros and cons depending on what you're looking for. Therefore, we'll summarize the advantages, disadvantages, and overall assessment for each ice hose.
[Shuttle Ice Hose]
Pros: Considering shisha sessions last about 90 minutes, this is the only ice hose among the three that can be used from start to finish.
Cons: Depending on the hose connected to the pipe, the attachment may be slightly less stable compared to the other two. However, this does not impede its use. (Some hoses allow for a secure fit).
Overall: Despite concerns about attachment stability, considering factors like duration and coolness level, the Shuttle Ice Hose offers the best overall performance. If you're unsure, this is the one to choose.
[Mini Ice Hose]
Pros: Its compact size is undoubtedly its main appeal. You can cool the ice pack without taking up much freezer space. It still provides a good, cool draw.
Cons: Due to its small size, it naturally falls short in both duration and coolness level compared to the other two. This is a trade-off for its compactness.
Overall: If freezer space is an issue and you want to easily enjoy an ice hose, this is definitely the best choice. While slightly inferior in performance, if you haven't experienced others, you'll still sufficiently enjoy the cool smoke.
[Jewel Ice Hose]
Pros: Its sparkling, Instagrammable appearance and the super-chilled smoke generated by its cooling system. This is the only ice hose that combines these, making it truly unique.
Cons: Compared to the other two which have removable cool packs, freezing the entire 36cm unit in the freezer can be a bit cumbersome. Also, the main body has sponge parts, so cleaning requires a bit more care.
Overall: While the non-disassemblable size and duration are somewhat concerning, if you prioritize both appearance and a high level of coolness, the Jewel Hose would be the best choice. It's more of a "front-runner" type that delivers intense coolness for the first 30 minutes, then gradually tapers off.
