Foot
The foot of a cigar is the open end that you light—the opposite of the head. It’s where the wrapper, binder, and filler are exposed, allowing the smoker to inspect the tobacco, smell the blend before lighting, and ignite the cigar evenly. The construction and condition of the foot have a direct impact on the ease of lighting, burn quality, and initial flavor delivery.
Key Characteristics
- Location: Bottom/open end of the cigar
- Function: Ignition point; reveals blend structure
- Visual Clues: Offers insight into filler type, bunching technique, and humidity level
- Flavor Role: Dictates the first impressions and initial burn experience
Citation: Cigar Aficionado – Anatomy of a Cigar
Types of Foot Designs
| Type | Description | Common In |
| Standard Foot | Open end; filler, binder, and wrapper visible | Most Parejo cigars |
| Closed Foot | Wrapper leaf folded over the foot; creates a wrapper-forward light | Boutique and limited editions |
| Tapered Foot | Narrowed or pinched; requires more careful toasting | Perfectos, some Figurados |
| Shaggy Foot | Wrapper ends before filler; filler sticks out from the end | Artistic or experimental cigars |
Why the Foot Matters
- Lighting Surface: The shape and tightness of the foot influence how easily and evenly the cigar lights
- Flavor Start: Initial puffs are shaped by how the foot is constructed
- Filler Arrangement: A well-packed foot burns straight and evenly
- Inspection Point: Before lighting, the foot offers a glimpse into tobacco color, moisture, and density
If a cigar’s foot is too loose or uneven, it may lead to problems like canoeing, hot spots, or uneven burn lines.
How to Light the Foot Properly
- Toast the foot: Use a lighter or match to warm the tobacco without drawing
- Rotate the cigar: Ensure the entire circumference of the foot is evenly heated
- Begin puffing slowly while continuing to rotate
- Check for an even burn line before settling into your smoke
Photo by Mohd Jon Ramlan on Unsplash
Common Lighting Mistakes at the Foot
- Charring one side causes uneven burns and draw issues
- Over-toasting can create bitterness in the first third
- Lighting too quickly may tunnel the filler and lead to relighting problems
- Under-lighting results in canoeing or incomplete combustion
Proper foot lighting ensures an even start and a stable smoke throughout the cigar.
Related Glossary Terms
Summary
The foot is where every cigar begins—literally and experientially. From inspecting the filler arrangement to lighting the first flame, what happens at the foot sets the tone for the entire cigar. Mastering the art of lighting and understanding the structure of the foot can dramatically improve your smoking experience.