New Year, New Strain: What to Try in 2026
A new year means new possibilities, new routines, and if you’re like us, new strains to explore...

New year, new routines… same love for good cannabis. As 2026 kicks off, vapes continue to be one of the most popular ways to enjoy cannabis in California, and for good reason. They’re convenient, discreet, flavorful, and easy to fit into everyday life, whether you’re easing back into work mode or planning your next weekend adventure.
At Metro Cannabis Dispensary, we’re seeing a clear trend heading into the new year: shoppers want quality, flavor, and reliability in their vapes. Not only that hits, but something that feels smooth, tastes great, and fits their vibe.
If you’re refreshing your stash or trying something new this January, here’s how to think about choosing the right vape to start 2026 on a high note.
The key to picking the right vape is knowing your vibe. Are you chasing bold, flavor-packed hits, looking for something smooth and dependable, or curious to explore new strains and formats? With so many options on the shelf, starting 2026 on a high note comes down to choosing a vape that fits seamlessly into your routine. Go for one that tastes great, delivers consistent hits, and feels easy to reach for whenever the moment calls for it.
Vapes are the definition of low-effort, high-reward. No rolling, no prep; just charge, inhale, and go. They’re especially popular at the start of the year because they’re:
• Easy to use
• Portable and discreet
• Consistent from puff to puff
• Available in a wide range of flavors and formats
Whether you’re into disposable all-in-ones or classic 510 cartridges, vapes make it simple to explore different strains and flavor profiles without committing to flower. Let’s take a look at some of the go-to vape styles and standout picks Metro shoppers are reaching for as they kick off 2026.
Distillate vapes remain a staple for a reason. They’re known for clean flavor, consistent performance, and straightforward experiences. Many distillate vapes lean into bold, fruit-forward or candy-inspired flavors, making them a great pick for anyone who prioritizes taste.
These are especially popular with people who want something dependable. No surprises, just smooth hits and familiar vibes.
Classics Distillate All-In-One | 1000mg THC
If you’re drawn to bright, flavor-forward distillate vapes, Citrus Haze by Sauce Essentials is a Metro favorite that checks all the right boxes. Often described as “sunshine in a bag,” this sativa-leaning classic delivers a lively citrus profile that feels fresh, uplifting, and full of energy.
Crafted from the genetics of Super Lemon Haze x Kosher Tangie #2, Citrus Haze brings layers of lemon and lime candy, juicy orange and tangerine, finished with a subtle hint of herbaceous spice. The flavor is bold without being overwhelming, making it a go-to for anyone who loves zesty, clean-tasting vapes.
With its energizing feel and unmistakable citrus taste, Citrus Haze fits perfectly into the distillate category: simple, reliable, and flavor-driven. If you’re starting 2026 with a focus on taste and ease, this one’s an easy win.
If you’re all about terpene expression, live resin and live rosin vapes are where things get exciting. These vapes are crafted to preserve the plant’s natural aroma and flavor, resulting in richer, more strain-specific profiles.
Live options are trending hard going into 2026, especially among shoppers who care less about flashy flavors and more about cannabis tasting like cannabis.
Live Resin All-In-One | 1g
For shoppers who lean toward rich, dessert-style flavors with a smooth, full-bodied feel, Blueberry Cookies by Turn is an easy standout. This indica-leaning live resin all-in-one delivers a layered flavor experience that feels indulgent without being overpowering.
Born from Blueberry Tahoe x Thin Mint GSC, this vape opens with sweet berry notes and subtle hints of earthy cherry. On the exhale, you’ll catch cozy flavors reminiscent of roasted nuts, mint, and fresh-baked blueberry treats, finished with a soft, buttery touch. The live resin format preserves those nuanced flavors, making each hit taste true to the strain.
If citrus and bright flavors aren’t your thing, Blueberry Cookies is the perfect counterbalance, comforting, flavorful, and ideal for winding down while keeping creativity flowing. It’s a solid pick when you want something cozy, familiar, and effortlessly enjoyable.
Disposable vapes continue to be a favorite for their convenience alone. Fully charged and ready to use, they’re perfect for travel, festivals, or anyone who doesn’t want to think about batteries or chargers.
In the new year, we’re seeing more people grab disposables as a way to sample new brands or flavors without committing to a cartridge.
Best for:
• Busy schedules
• Trying something new
• Keeping things simple
LIIIL STIIIZY All-In-One Pen | 0.5g
When it comes to effortless, pocket-ready convenience, Premium Jack by STIIIZY is a staple Metro shoppers keep coming back to. This sativa-leaning LIIIL STIIIZY All-In-One Pen packs a surprisingly big punch in a compact, disposable format. It is perfect for busy days, quick outings, or anytime you want something easy and reliable.
Premium Jack delivers a classic flavor profile with notes of pine, earthy sweetness, and subtle herbal tones, paired with a clear-headed, uplifting feel that keeps things light and energetic. Known for its smooth hits and consistent performance, this disposable is all about simplicity without sacrificing quality or flavor.
If you want a disposable that’s dependable, flavorful, and easy to grab on your way out the door, Premium Jack by STIIIZY is a no-brainer. It’s a great example of why disposables remain a top choice going into 2026. It is simple, effective, and always ready when you are.
As we move into the new year, a few flavor trends are standing out on Metro’s shelves:
• Citrus & tropical - bright, refreshing, and energizing
• Dessert-inspired - creamy, sweet, and nostalgic
• Classic strains - earthy, piney, and OG-leaning profiles
If you’re not sure what direction to go, starting with flavor is often the easiest way to find a vape you’ll actually enjoy.
Not sure where to start? Ask yourself a few quick questions:
• Do you want something discreet or something bold?
• Are you flavor-first or strain-first?
• Do you prefer disposables or cartridges?
Our Metro budtenders are always happy to help you narrow it down based on taste, lifestyle, and experience level.
The beginning of the year is the perfect time to refresh your routine and try something new, and vapes make that easy. Whether you’re chasing terpenes, leaning into flavor, or just want something reliable in your pocket, there’s a vape at Metro that fits your vibe.
Stop by Metro Cannabis Dispensary and let us help you kick off 2026 elevated, relaxed, and ready for whatever the year brings.
New year. New flavors. Same Metro energy.