Oct
Wetshaving
Many of you folks that know me probably will not be too surprised with this, but my recent interest is traditional wetshaving. Until a couple months ago, my exclusive means of shaving was an electric Norelco razor. It has always given me pretty good shaves, and the convenience of shaving in the car was ideal. However, on a recent trip to the in-laws (5 hours from home) I forgot to take my shaver with me. I was going to be there for several days and decided I did not want to go without shaving.
So it was off to the drug stores to pick up a razor and a can of Barbasol (since the support both my morning radio shows, Mike & Mike on ESPN Radio and Bill Bennet. I selected the 5-blade Gillette Fusion as my instrument of choice. I lathered up and had my first shave with a “real” razor. I enjoyed it and since then I have been shaving with the Fusion most mornings (except when I am running late).
More research has revealed there is a groundswell of folks that are ditching the multiblade and disposable razors and going back the the double-edged safety razors. This is the type of razor your father or grandfather would have used. They are purchasing either vintage razors or the are buying new ones from a few companies overseas. In addition, they are fully preparing their faces pre-shave using a nice shaving brush and higher quality shaving soaps or creams rather than aerosols.
Being the traditionalist that I am, this really piqued my interest. I had to give it a try. So I posted some comments at one of the best resources for wetshavers, Badger & Blade. I was also able to pick up a couple vintage Gillette razors from another forum member. They should be here the first of next week, and I am eagerly awaiting them. I am also going to pick up an inexpensive shaving brush and soap to give it a try. If things go well, I will ask for or purchase a nicer Badger shaving brush at some point. I have also gotten some good pointers from another B&B member, Mantic59, and his excellent YouTube channel.
This should save me money on blades and also provide a throwback to the past. From what I have read, you can get a much nicer shave with some practice. Mrs. Thomas is a bit skeptical at the moment, but hopefully all goes well. Eric at Straight White Guy states that chivalry is gone. This, in addition to my wearing bow ties, etc. is my effort to at least bring a little bit of it back.
I have been wet shaving for about 2 years now and I love it. Not only saves money but gives a closer shave for me at least. Once you get used to the technique (don’t press down, don’t even try to slide in one direction) its great – the syptic pen is a great tool too while learning. Cheers and enjoy the new world!
October 17th, 2009 at 8:22 amIn order to feel good, look good and there is no way better than to wet shave. Wet shaving is a way of life and has transformed a dreaded routine into a ritual I look forward to every day. For the complete line of wet shaving items, check out http://fendrihan.com
December 12th, 2009 at 2:45 am