Head shops, also known as smoke shops, have been around since the 1960s and 70s, when the counterculture movement was at its height. These shops typically sell items related to cannabis culture, such as rolling papers, pipes, and other smoking accessories. However, the term “head shop” actually originated from the 1960s slang term “head,” which was used to refer to a person who used drugs, particularly LSD.

In the early days, head shops were often associated with hippie culture and the underground drug scene. They were often raided by police and faced legal challenges, as drug paraphernalia was illegal to sell. However, as attitudes towards drugs began to shift and laws changed, head shops became more mainstream.

Today, head shops can be found in many cities around the world, but Boulder, Colorado is known for having a particularly high concentration of great head shops. This is due to a combination of factors, including the city’s progressive attitudes towards drug policy, its large student population, and its proximity to the legal cannabis industry in nearby states.

Boulder is home to the University of Colorado, which has a large student population. Many of these students are interested in cannabis culture and are looking for places to buy smoking accessories. In addition, Boulder has a reputation for being a liberal and progressive city, which has led to more lenient drug policies and a greater acceptance of cannabis culture.

Furthermore, Boulder is located near several states where cannabis is legal. This has created a thriving legal cannabis industry in the region, which has in turn created a demand for smoking accessories and other related items.

Another factor contributing to Boulder’s vibrant head shop scene is the city’s history of activism and advocacy. Over the years, Boulder has been home to many groups and organizations that have worked to change drug policies and promote cannabis legalization. This activism has helped to create a culture that is supportive of cannabis use and has led to a proliferation of head shops and other cannabis-related businesses in the city.

In conclusion, head shops have a long and interesting history, and have played an important role in the development of cannabis culture. Boulder’s many great head shops can be attributed to a combination of factors, including the city’s progressive attitudes towards drug policy, its large student population, its proximity to the legal cannabis industry, and its history of activism and advocacy. Whether you’re a cannabis enthusiast or simply interested in the culture, Boulder’s head shops are definitely worth a visit.

Rocketman Boulder is the highest rated Head shop in Boulder, Colorado, according to the most recent Yelp reviews.

 

photos via Rocketman Boulder