[Review] Captain’s Choice Copper Lather Bowl: A Game Changer for Lathering

[chugmo]

The design of the Captain’s Choice Copper Lather Bowl is outstanding. It fits comfortably in the hand and isn’t slippery during use. The lack of aggressive ridges means you don’t have to worry about damaging brush fibers, and it quickly produces a well-hydrated lather. I also appreciate the durable material—no concerns about dropping or breaking it. Plus, the handmade artisan aesthetic gives it a handsome, unique appeal.

I’ve noticed a lot of debate between face lathering and bowl lathering. I used to be firmly in the face lathering camp, but after hearing so much praise for the Captain’s Choice bowl, I gave it a try. After a couple of weeks, here are my findings:

Bowl lathering ensures proper hydration and consistent lather development. It’s less messy and more controlled. In a way, bowl lathering feels like the start of the lathering process, which you finish on your face—essentially combining both techniques. Surprisingly, I’ve found it to be quicker than face lathering alone, with more consistent results.

In short, the Captain’s Choice bowl is a beautifully crafted, ‘buy-it-for-life’ tool that has truly elevated my lathering routine. Highly recommended!

 

[johnnylighton]

Great—and accurate—review, chugmo! I have the Obsidian version, which is the CC heavyweight copper bowl with a dark finish. One thing I would add is that you can float it in a sink with hot water for 30 seconds before you shave (I will have just gotten out of the shower, so I wet my face and brush my hair during that time), then the lather you make will be nice and warm.

 

[chugmo]

Great—and accurate—review, chugmo! I have the Obsidian version, which is the CC heavyweight copper bowl with a dark finish. One thing I would add is that you can float it in a sink with hot water for 30 seconds before you shave (I will have just gotten out of the shower, so I wet my face and brush my hair during that time), then the lather you make will be nice and warm.

I'll give the heat soak method a try!!

 

[Mthammer11]

@chugmo , your lathering journey/description EXACTLY parallels mine. I have been an avid and sometimes outspoken face-latherer, and thought I would always be. Fairly recently, after seeing some amazing lather photos on B&B, I decided to give it a shot and Voila! I completely agree that it’s the best of both worlds - starting the process in the bowl and then finishing on the face. Now to look into one of these CC bowls…

 

[Hairy Callahan]

If you get one of these, you'll wonder how you ever lived without one.

 

[stowaway_44]

I as well started off with only face lathering, then came the Captain's Choice bowl I bought a few years back as kind of a birthday present to myself. Wow! What a gamechanger for sure. Now my lathers are consistent every time, regardless of the soap or cream I'm using. I add a little water as a go along and it always comes out perfect. No more of that "cakey" feeling I used to get when I face lathered. I now own 2, the copper and the cobalt. Probably the best investment I ever made in my wet shaving experience.

 

[stowaway_44]

If you get one of these, you'll wonder how you ever lived without one.

I absolutely agree!

 

[bbobbdd]

When you ordered, (Captain's Choice bowl), did you order original or heavy duty and why.......happy with decision?

Thanks folks!

 

[Hairy Callahan]

Heavy all the way. Very happy with this wonderful bowl.

 

[Camspapa]

Agree with all of the above. Friday’s mail brought mine(heavy duty) and I’ve used it twice with great results - Trumper’s GFT Cream/Vulfix 2235 super badger. I’ve got a number of bowls but have always gone back to palm lathering after a brief time. I think this one is going to stick.

 

[Chuckaluck]

I'll give the heat soak method a try!!

I keep the bowl floating in the sink between passes. The lather stays nice and warm. Love this bowl!

 

[LexLexington]

I wish he'd make these bowls a little bigger. More like 5.5 or 6 inches in diameter and another couple of centimeters in height. I'd buy one if it was offered.

 

[DesertIguana]

The Copper Bowl is very good looking.

 

[Jonn]

I have the obsidian one, as well as a ceramic. They are both fantastic. I am currently enjoying the ceramic one more, but that could change at any moment.