Anyone coming to the Rizla brand for the first time is faced with a wall of coloured packs and an obvious question: what changes from one to the next? Rizla is one of the oldest and most recognisable rolling paper brands, and its colour code lets you tell each variety apart at a glance. This guide sums up what each colour indicates and how it fits in with the other options on the market.
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Why Rizla uses colours
The colour of the pack works as a quick label. Each shade corresponds to a range with its own characteristics in terms of thickness, paper type and format. Bear in mind that colours can vary slightly depending on the country and the period, so the most reliable approach is always to read the description on the pack or on the product page. You can see the whole range in the Rizla+ papers category.
What each colour means
Red Rizla: the classic
This is the most traditional and best-known variety. It is a medium-thickness paper, regarded as a versatile, everyday option for anyone who rolls their own regularly. It is usually the starting point for comparing with the rest.
Blue Rizla: thinner than standard
Blue is associated with a thinner, lighter paper, with a slower burn and a less noticeable feel between the fingers. It is practical for those who prefer a more discreet roll.
Green Rizla: a middle ground
Green sits in a medium-to-thin range. It is usually described as a balanced option, a paper that is easy to handle when rolling and not too noticeable when smoking.
Silver Rizla: the ultra-thin range
Silver is the benchmark of the brand’s thinnest line. As it is a very thin paper, it takes a steadier hand when rolling, but it gives a very light roll. It is usually the choice of those who already have experience with other papers.
Indicative comparison table
| Colour | Approximate thickness | Rolling feel | Usage profile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Red | Medium | Firm and easy to handle | General use |
| Green | Medium-thin | Balanced | Those after something lighter than red |
| Blue | Thin | Smooth and light | Discreet roll |
| Silver | Ultra-thin | Delicate, takes practice | Experienced users |
The figures are indicative: actual behaviour also depends on the format (short, king size, with or without gum) and on the moisture of the tobacco.
How thickness affects rolling
- Handling: a thicker paper is more forgiving of mistakes; an ultra-thin one tears or creases more easily.
- Burn: thickness and composition affect the speed at which the paper burns.
- Perceived taste: the thinner the paper, the less presence it has in the mouth, depending on each person’s preference.
- Format: king size papers let you roll a larger amount, while short ones are more compact.
Extras: filters and roach tips
Those who roll with Rizla often pair the paper with cardboard tips so the cigarette is firmer and more comfortable to hold. Rizla+ filters are a common choice for staying within the same brand.
Comparison with other brands
Rizla is not the only option. Other brands offer similar ranges, with their own colour codes and formats:
- OCB papers: a widely available brand with varieties of different thicknesses and materials, including fibres such as cotton or hemp paper in some ranges.
- Smoking papers: another historic brand, with ranges covering everything from standard paper to the thinnest.
If you want to see the full picture, the general rolling papers category brings together all brands and formats for comparison.
How to choose your colour
If you don’t know where to start, red is the most usual reference for getting familiar with rolling. After that you can try green or blue if you want something thinner, and leave silver until you have mastered the technique. In the end, the choice is a matter of personal preference in handling and feel, and no colour is absolutely better than another.
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Frequently asked questions
What is the difference between red and blue Rizla?
Red is the classic medium-thickness paper, while blue is thinner and lighter. The main change is the feel when rolling and smoking.
Which is the thinnest Rizla?
The silver range is the brand's thinnest. Being ultra-thin, it takes a little more practice to roll.
Which Rizla is best for learning to roll?
Red is usually taken as the reference because it is easy to handle, although it is a matter of personal preference.
Are Rizla colours the same in every country?
Not always. They can vary depending on the market and the period, so it is worth checking the description on the pack.
Which brands are equivalent to Rizla?
OCB and Smoking are two common alternatives with ranges of similar thicknesses.