Skipping out of nowhere with T&H cream w/ Feather blade

[Ktracz]

I use a Merkur HD razor, and I've been going through a sampler pack of blades from WCS. I was using Col. Conk soap, Proraso Cream, Art of Shaving Cream, and Wilkinson and Sword Soap with all the blades to see what stuff works for me. I've tried Merkur, Dorco, Sharp, Crystal Platinum, and Personnas.

I've just ordered a sampler pack from Truefitt and Hill, and I really love the scents and the way they lather. The lather doesn't seem as "thick" and it looks more "smooth" on the brush. I was using the Personnas when they came in, and I noticed a little skipping, not a lot, on certain angles. I though it might have been the blade, as it was 3 days. (I shave everyday, WTG on my sideburns, chin and front of neck, and XTG on my cheeks, and sides of neck)

So I put in a new Feather blade in today to see how that would feel. I always start with the sideburns, and the blade skipped like crazy. I felt like the blade kept sticking to my face and then would jump. (no nicks, though)

I shave after a hot shower, and I think my face prep is fine. The only thing I think I might be doing wrong, is the lathering of the T&H cream, or the blade is just not for me.

Is the problem the blade? my technique? too much pressure on the razor? the lather? the cream?

If it's a lathering problem (too little/too much water/cream), let me know of any good techniques. With the T&H cream, I soaked the brush in hot water for a while, then squeeze excess water lightly, and put a little dollop of cream (2 pea sizes, maybe 1.5), and work a later in a mug. I had lather growing out of the mug, and it's pretty messy, but not very thick. I'm afraid of putting more lather, cause it'll be even more over flowing.

I've read some posts concerning this, but found there weren't what I was looking for.

What do you guys think? Any suggestions?

 

[uberculture]

Too many variables to be sure... I personally hate the Feather, and find it the most uncomfortable blade ever, but I'm a little weird. Try the feather with a cream you know works well, then the T&H with a blade you know works well. That's the only way you can isolate what's going on.

 

[jakespoppy]

Just my two cents, and yes, there are many variables, but for me, although I enjoy a nice, thick lather, sometimes I think the shave is actually easier, closer, and more problem-free if I use a lather that is not as thick (more water and thinner layer on the face). Keep in mind that as far as your razing skipping is concerned, the main purpose of the lather is to provide lubrication between the blade and your skin. It doesn't take a thick application to do that. I know, the lather has other benefits as well, skin conditioning, fragrance, etc., but for your specific question, you need to determine the consistency that best provides protective lubrication without interferring with the blade's contact with your whickers as close to the skin surface as is desired for a close shave.

 

[dchasef]

Razor skipping + Feathers = scary situation.
It sounds like your blade angle might also be part of the problem. For myself, I have found that the Feather can cut through just about anything smoothly, but the angle of the razor makes a huge difference in how effectively it can perform. Also, I have had a couple of defective/blunt Feathers in the past. You might want to try a different Feather to see if you just happened to pick up a dud. Hope this helps!