The King of Cans: The History and Varieties of Beer Can Sizes
Introduction
The beer can has been the drinker’s choice for decades, with its durability, portability, and ease of storage making it the go-to choice for backyard barbecues, tailgating, and outdoor adventures. But have you ever stopped to think about the evolution of the beer can, and how it’s changed over the years? In this article, we’ll take a deep dive into the history and varieties of beer can sizes, from their inception to today.
Early days of the beer can
Beer was originally sold in glass bottles, but the development of the beer can in the 1930s changed everything. At first, cans were sold in a standard size of 12 ounces, and for many years, this was the only size available. Soon, however, manufacturers began to experiment with different sizes, and the rest is history.
The modern era of beer cans
Today, beer cans come in a variety of sizes, from the small “pony” cans you might find in a convenience store cooler to the massive 24-ounce “tall boy” cans that are the staple of many college parties. Here’s a rundown of some of the most common beer can sizes you’ll find on store shelves today:
Standard 12-ounce can
The classic 12-ounce beer can is still the most popular size in the United States, and for good reason. It’s the perfect size for a single serving of beer, and it fits comfortably in most koozies and cup holders. The standard 12-ounce can is also the easiest to find, with virtually every beer brand offering their product in this size.
Pony can
The pony can, also known as the “stubby” can, is a smaller version of the standard 12-ounce can. It’s typically used for lower-alcohol beers like light lagers and pilsners, and is popular with drinkers who want a quick and easy drink without committing to a full 12 ounces. Pony cans are also a great choice for parties or events where you want to offer a variety of beer options.
Tall boy can
The 24-ounce “tall boy” can is a recent addition to the beer can lineup, but it’s quickly become a favorite among younger drinkers. The tall boy offers more beer in a single can, making it ideal for sharing or for drinkers who want a little extra buzz. The large size also makes the tall boy perfect for outdoor events or other activities where you don’t want to constantly be getting up for refills.
Jumbo can
The jumbo can is the largest beer can available, with a capacity of 32 ounces or more. It’s typically used for malt liquor or higher-alcohol beers, and is popular with budget-conscious drinkers who want to get the most beer for their money. While the jumbo can isn’t as common as some of the other sizes on this list, it’s still a favorite among certain segments of the drinking population.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Are all beer cans the same size?
No, beer cans come in a variety of sizes, from 8 ounces to 32 ounces or more.
Q: What is the most popular beer can size?
The classic 12-ounce can is still the most popular size in the United States.
Q: What is a pony can?
A pony can is a smaller version of the standard 12-ounce can, typically used for lower-alcohol beers.
Q: What is a tall boy can?
A tall boy can is a 24-ounce beer can, ideal for sharing or for drinkers who want a little extra buzz.
Conclusion
The history and varieties of beer can sizes is a fascinating subject, and one that many beer drinkers don’t often think about. Whether you prefer a classic 12-ounce can or a larger, more potent jumbo can, there’s a beer can out there for everyone. So next time you crack open a cold one, take a moment to appreciate the engineering and innovation that went into creating the perfect beer can.