West Coast vs. Hazy IPAs: What’s the Difference (and Which One’s for You?)

If you’ve ever stood in front of a tap list wondering whether to order a West Coast IPA or a Hazy IPA, you’re not alone. At O’so Brewing, we’re all about exploring the full spectrum of hop-forward beer—and that includes both of these iconic styles.

So, what’s the real difference between them? Let’s break it down.

🍋 The West Coast IPA: Crisp, Clear, and Hop-Forward

What it is:

Born out of California’s hop revolution in the ‘80s and ‘90s, the West Coast IPA is all about clarity, bitterness, and piney-citrusy hop flavor.

Flavor Profile:

• Dry finish

• Pronounced bitterness

• Notes of pine, resin, grapefruit, and citrus peel

• Crisp and clean—refreshing but assertive

Appearance:

• Crystal clear

• Golden to amber in color

  
  

Our Take:

We brew Lupulin Maximus with a focus on layered hop flavor and a clean malt backbone. It's the beer that made a generation fall in love with hops.

Perfect for: IPA traditionalists, bitterness seekers, and backyard BBQs

🍑 The Hazy IPA: Juicy, Smooth, and Low Bitterness

What it is:

Also known as New England IPA, the Hazy IPA gained steam in the 2010s with its juicy, soft, and fruit-forward profile—a huge contrast from its West Coast cousin.

Flavor Profile:

• Low bitterness

• Full, creamy mouthfeel

• Bursting with tropical fruit (mango, orange, peach)

• Often brewed with oats or wheat for texture

Appearance:

• Opaque and cloudy—like fresh-squeezed juice

• Pale yellow to golden-orange

  
  

Our Take:

Our Haze Positive is loaded with late-addition and dry hops, locking in juicy aromas without the bite. It’s a fan favorite for good reason.

Perfect for: Newer beer drinkers, brunch pairings, and summer afternoons

⚔️ The Face-Off: Hazy vs. West Coast

Feature	West Coast IPA	Hazy IPA
Clarity	Crystal clear	Hazy and opaque
Bitterness	High	Low to medium
Flavor Notes	Pine, resin, citrus peel	Mango, orange, peach
Mouthfeel	Dry and crisp	Soft and pillowy
Hop Technique	Early additions	Late and dry-hopped

🍻 So Which One’s Better?

That’s like asking if pizza or tacos are better (we say both). It really depends on your mood.

• Love a crisp, classic IPA with bold bitterness? Go West Coast.

• Craving something smooth, juicy, and low on bitterness? Grab a Hazy.

At O’so Brewing, we celebrate the full range of hop expression—so why not try both?

✨ Try Them Side-by-Side at Our Taproom in Plover, WI

We often have both styles on draft at our taproom. Ask for a side-by-side flight, and taste the difference for yourself.

🎯 Insider tip: Pair the West Coast with our Hot Hillbilly Pizza, and the Hazy with our Buffalo Chicken Pizza—thank us later.

📚 Want to Learn More?

Keep an eye out for more informational blog posts coming down the pipe.

Follow along at www.osobrewing.com/blog for more brews news, pairing ideas, and taproom updates.