Head shops are one of the remaining unique elements of retail in the western world. Specialising in the sale of smoking related paraphernalia, each store embodies its own sense of individuality foreign from the neon lights of the high street mega-stores. Originally used simply to define the operation of an actual store, the term ‘head shop’ now lends itself to Internet based companies practising the same ideal.
The history behind the head shop is a relatively short but charming tale. Originating in California, they began as a refuge to those disdained by society. Popular with the surf and skate scene that had started to dominate that zip-code, they offered relaxation, comfort and a place to purchase goods for activities they had become fond of. A very liberal creation, they became increasingly favoured by young adults of the college age, disillusioned by the heavy handed republican politics that their country had endured.
The success that head shops enjoyed in the American southwest provoked a worldwide explosion of ideal stretching to all areas of the western world, with many exponents of the original ideal still operating today. Unfortunately however, the time spent between 1960 and the present day has been fraught with controversy, with several authorities opposing the imposition of head shops, causing a decline in the number of high-street stores in many countries.
The products available at a head shop are very wide-ranging and unique. Although a lot of the stock is centred on the practice of smoking, and the different ways to experiment with that art, there are also a host of other attractions to occupy your attention when browsing the store. Playing cards, comics and even sexual enhancement aids are some of the products on offer.
However, as mentioned the primary basis of the head shop is an endless range of gear aimed at aiding smoking. This can range from the simplest of lighters to the most extravagant of water pipes, covering all tastes and requirements. Of course head shops will cater to the needs of all smokers, providing them with tools such as pipes, papers and lighter fluid, however it is the eccentricity of their products in which they excel.
