Zip

A zip refers to a quantity of one ounce, or 28 grams, of cannabis flower. The zip is commonly used as a unit of measurement and shorthand for transactions within cannabis culture. Its prevalence emerges from the history of underground cannabis sales, where dealers never publicly state quantities.

The term zip comes from the resealable sandwich bags, or Ziploc bags, that were commonly used to transport a purchased ounce of flower. Saying “zip” conveyed the quantity without explicitly stating it. With cannabis legalization, zips remain a typical unit of sale, though the classic Ziploc bag is replaced by regulated packaging and limits.

Pricing for a zip varies based on quality, supply, location, and other factors. However, zips tend to range from $100 on the low end for shake, or up to $300+ for exotic top shelf flower. The appearance of a zip also varies with the density of buds in a given strain.