I'm curious what members feel is the most important factor in getting a really good shave. Please explain below if you'd like.
What is most important for a good shave?
- Thread starter Codfish
- Start date
I voted technique, but I will say that MWF allows me to have some errors in technique.
I voted other. I think there all users have a peak potential for technique and a better shave can only be a achieved through quality equipment. On the other hand, a person who hasn't reached their ideal technique can only be carried so far by quality equipment.
- Thread starter
- #6
I think this is a very good point. I was inclined toward technique (and answered that way), but you're right--once technique is refined, the differences in equipment make the biggest difference, IMO.
Cant have a well trained horse without a top notch saddle...
....every aspect is important
....every aspect is important
Both are important so I voted other and I agree with Gref here. Without technique it doesn't matter how good your stuff is but once you figured it out your gear can make a night and day difference. That doesn't mean your equipment has to be stellar or top-notch; some really cheap stuff works wonders but it will have to fit you. And to me that is the critical point here; shave with the tools that fit you at a certain point and move on when you out-grow them.
How can prep ever trump technique? If you have the most perfect conditions and have no idea how to use a DE well you'll end up with irritation, blood patches, pimples, cuts, nicks, razor burn etc but if you have terrible conditions and good technique you can usually narrow it down to slight irritation and not as close of a shave.
My vote in order is 1)Prep (other), 2)Technique, and 3)equipment.
1)Without any form of pre-shave prep (a simple wash and rinse for me) I would have a hard time getting the shave done without any form of irritation.
2)Without good Technique I would shave incorrectly and just shave with the safety bar or too rough and hurt myself (I have done both).
3)Having good equipment is always nice to have, but if I can't use it in the correct manner and my beard/face is not ready for the shave there is no point in having that $100+ razor.
btw, I too agree that Gref has a good point.
I vote technique. Prep is part of your technique, how you do everything, not just how you hold the blade. Without a good base you can't get anywhere and your face will suffer. Now there is the basics of equipment, you need a good lather and good shaver to make your shave work.
with a dull blade, nothing will help you. A sharp blade is the most critical aspect of the whole shebang.
The question is what is most important to a good shave. I struggle to think how technique is not the most important. I understand that prep is important, but it is as simple (for most) as showering or washing your face. Equipment - to me - is the least important aspect. With any competent equipment, anyone can get a great shave with the proper technique. 99% of shaving problems originate on the operator side of the razor handle.
- Thread starter
- #16
I am in complete agreement. In my view, good prep and enough experience to select the proper razor/blade combination that's likely to work for you are what's needed. Good prep is essential! I totally agree that "99% of shaving problems originate on the operator side of the razor handle."
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i chose technique, but i would have preferred it were combined with proper equipment for each person as i can get a good shave with most DE razors, but i get great shaves with a few razors and blades that just work better for me.
Technique is the equalizer. What I mean is, good technique will cover deficiencies in equipment and prep (up to a point, of course). Conversely, if your technique is lousy, great equipment and great prep won't get you home.
Did I mention that I voted Technique?
Did I mention that I voted Technique?
It is all about the technique. Sure good products allow for a better shave, but only if you have the technique right will you get the maximum benefit.
This is my go to answer when it comes to my other passions guitar playing and photography. You can have all of the best gear in the world, but get mediocre results if you have not honed your skills.
This is my go to answer when it comes to my other passions guitar playing and photography. You can have all of the best gear in the world, but get mediocre results if you have not honed your skills.
