Shave Gear of the Year 2016!

[@wholeNwon]

For some reason, today one of your videos appeared among YT's suggestions for me. So, I watched it. As one who began shaving LONG before you were born, the renewed interest among men of your generation in techniques and products of the past is somewhat interesting. I see that some of the old skills and methods appear to have been lost and ease with which we can communicate these days has permitted other approaches to gain levels of acceptance that would not have been possible in the past. It seems that shared nostalgia is fun for young people, too. I could pass on suggestions from the two generations who taught me but why deprive you of the discovery process? However, in the past, at least here in the U.S., it was uncommon to use a separate bowl to create lather. In fact, a shaving bowl was something quite different (and useful). We swiped the wet brush over the soap puck in our mugs just enough to pick up an adequate amount in order to create lather when applied to the face, using friction between the beard and brush to do the job...much better than brush against fingers. A massively thick lather is entirely unnecessary. What counts is what's between the skin and razor and whether it's holding water against the hair. Once that's done, I squeeze the remaining lather from the brush back into the mug and cover it. That saves a large amount of soap and keeps the puck's surface soft. A single cake thus lasts a very long time when most if it isn't being flushed down the drain. In the winter, when our houses were colder than now, we would sometimes use shaving scuttles (actually argyles). I didn't like them because they could melt the soap. But the warm lather did feel good. Anyhow, have fun re-learning the past. When you teach your sons to shave you'll be giving them memories that they will treasure.

[@robertwhite2615]

wholeNwon )

[@tonymarinelli7303]

I must admit, Nick is the very reason I began wet shaving. Landing on his channel initially was a fluke, but he is tops. Man oh man do I love that Panterei Brush.

[@ScripturesSearching]

I'm brand new to wet shaving. I appreciate your videos so much!

[@xRedFlag]

Same here His reviews are spectacular ^^

[@KapinKrunch]

Sammy Sutton hes legit

[@darrenconn3847]

New as well. Purchased many of these products to start based on this vid. 1st shave wasn't that good. Followed up by one of my closest shaves and couldn't be happier thanks Nick!

[@barracudaswim]

Just started wet shaving and I have to say there is nothing like it!!!!! As a beginner I do have basic wet shave gear but I know that in time I will be upgrading - there is so much to learn.

[@omarab837]

I really like the way you get straight to the point in your videos. You're polite as well. I usually rock a "styled" beard and as you know with various different hair growths the shaving cream/soap/brush and razor can make a HUGE difference. You've helped me a lot in my research process to make my shave a good experience. Thank you Sir.

[@Saltydogg909]

as for brushes i have fallen in love with 26mm synthetic knot. its just the right size and i bought 3 in 2016 and one was from Maggard. a winner indeed.

[@null151]

Hey Nick, I bought the Pre de Provence No. 63 shaving soap and it is loose in the tin. How do I maintain the soap and keep it from getting gooey and slimy from water getting underneath the soap? Do I lather in the tin? Or out?any idea how to care for soap pucks like this? It smells amazing btw, you are 100% RIGHT!

[@inkythecattv5601]

Thank you! Purchased the Kent 5T , 7T and FOT. Never realized how crappy ACE combs were. These ROCK!

[@marcosjesusmendez9293]

Thank you Nick for all your loyal reviews and videos they mean a lot to me and I'm thankful for you for taking the time and making them for us happy new year buddy.

[@chrisryan8863]

Absolute awesome list Nick. So glad you highlighted Gondolier. That is not talked about much on you tube and it is an incredible scent and performer. The aftershave/cologne match to it is great too. Happy New Year. Chris in N.H.

[@madaw360]

New camera for christmas? Video looks sharper and more vivid

[@brianbliem1940]

+1 for gondolier, I can't get enough of that scent. Also love the Merkur and I have that same comb and stand haha. Great selections all around, glad to see you back with another video!

[@opichocal]

I bought the 34c because of your recommendation and love it. Been using it 6 months and prefer it to my straight razor.

[@neilfossati64]

Picked up the Merkur 34c for xmas based on your recommendation. It's my first safety razor and I really like it so far.

[@smackeysd]

Nick, thanks for posting this! I'm still using a lot of the products you chose last year and I love them! Looking forward to trying some of these out and another great year of shaving!

[@atb7606]

Thanks for your videos buddy they're really informative for newbies like myself.

[@theEagle325]

Nice video! The scent of PAA Gondolier is an exact copy of the Montblanc Legend (EDT).

[@rickdesko8916]

Thanks for the recap of 2016 gear. New to wet shaving and from your past videos I bought the 34c and Pre de Provence #63. Both are great recommendations and yes the Pre de Provence smells amazing.

[@kenhappen2u]

Nick , i really like your review style and soap reviews , i am no newbie and have many razors, brushes, soaps , blades , pre-shaves ; aftershaves etc, with that said .. This was a great video even though i am watching it almost a year later , By your recommendations and trusted picks .... i just ordered the Pomade: Suavecito, the Comb: Kent R7T, the Production Shaving Soap: Pre de Provence No. 63 & Artisan Shaving Soap: Phoenix Artisan Accoutrements Gondolier and the Cologne: Yves Saint Laurent L'Homme , Hope you keep doing what you been doing for the wet shaving community for many years to come . you will have this subscriber for the life of your channel .

[@scoutkbartholomew722]

I just switched from cartridge shaving so you have kind of become my virtual Yoda! There is just so much out there so I didn't know where to start. I bought the cheapest razor I could as I wasn't sure if I was going to stick with it and am now regretting that move. Now that I am nearing the end of my standing shaving gel, I am hunting for good creams/soaps. Thanks for your suggestions!

[@DescensionX]

Another great video, Nick! Hope to see a horsebrush review one day. Keeping my fingers crossed!

[@dannycnoble]

Nick, Been using a safety razor (that one with the pawn stars dude on it)and cremo creme for years. Then i stumbled on this video. So far i have ordered the perma sharps, phoenix shave soap (chocalte bourbin scent), snkae bit splash, stirling shave balm, maggort brush and the wcs shave stand. I chose the Edwin jagger over the merkur as at 6'6 my hands are big and I like the extra length of the Edwin jagger thanks for the videos.

[@salsaslinger7585]

Welcome Back Dr. Nick I hope your New Year was well.

[@hawkeye924]

God bless you and your favorites Nick.. Personally, I favor the Italian Proraso creams and soaps.. I enjoy the Aptiva after shave balm for scent and for comfort.. I know you highly praise the Merkur 34C however, myself I prefer the E. J.. "DE89". As far as Throat Cutters go I love the 5/8 BOKER and the 5/8 DOVO both made in SOLINGEN, GERMANY.. GOD BLESS and take good care of yourself.. BEST WISHED TO YOU & YOURS!!!

[@tonysurface1]

Merkur 34C is the best I've used. Great video Nick!

[@sfasr32t432tfg43etfg]

I agree on the perma-sharps. I bought 600 of them this year in two batches. I use them almost all the time.

[@mark.m2163]

Man I wait for this video every year And your 2014 setup got me started in wet shaving Thank you so much for your continued efforts that you put into this channel This is great ,

[@anthonyarmour3221]

yeah.. im new to DE wet shaving.. guess which razor I got from santa... thanks for the videos/advice nickshaves..

[@theJdominator]

Gondoiler was my first Paa soap, & the gondoiler aftershave is awesome too. Pair them both w/ Mont Blanc - Legend cologne smells just like the soap/aftershave. Great vid & Happy new year !

[@dominikrzepa6671]

Thank you Nick - I have been waiting for this video for a while and I'm so hyped I am the first viewer! Great to see you Champ! Happy New Year!!

[@nickshaves]

Thanks man!

[@SuperTheop]

Im also very pleased with the Perma-sharp - It has many smooth and comfortable shaves in one blade.

[@SuperStormyNormy]

Bought a Viking Godfather razor, love it. Snake Bite on the way, just got some Clubman stuff, well on my way.

[@eddyjimenez392]

thanx nick for another great vid, im from chicago as you were, and i always look for ward to ur vids, wish i could lather like you, but its a work in progress, keep it up best regards, Eddy!

[@KapinKrunch]

I have the maggards synthetic brush I use it everyday and love it. I even bought one for my dad. I currently use a merkur slant but I will look into an old Gillette. thanks for all the videos man you really helped me a lot when I first got into wet shaving over a year ago.

[@ajay60610]

You use what on your hands as you are shaving [to prevent slippage]...thanks

[@breakingcymbalsstudios6738]

Nick! Where have you been!? I made it a custom to shave only when a new video of "Nick Shaves" come out. It's been awhile since you made one because I now have a full beard with dreadlocks and I think a squirrel moved into the right side of my face it's a great place for him to burrow.

[@rb6120]

I absolutely love the perma-sharp blades!! Thx for the vid.

[@loug.512]

Great video! I just got one of those Maggard synthetic brushes yesterday as well. Works great for all the reasons you described, and at under $12, what a great price point!

[@nathanaeljohn7891]

Welcome back Nick! I bought a Gillette SuperSpeed from Delta Echo based on your recommendation earlier in the year.

[@nickshaves]

Thanks man! I hope you like the razor

[@robdob6012]

nick shaves is PAA just Synergy rebranded?

[@leveluplifestyle5727]

RobdoB 601 PAA is a couple Douglas and Fran Synergy was a soap made by Douglas to bring people back to his blog where as PAA is more focused on soaps as the product. They also have an off shoot from PAA called Crown King simpler soaps than PAA made to be mass produced for chain stores.

[@antonioadama1286]

Hey NIck, I'm new to wet shaving and I know for most people the best route is to order shaving soap samples as opposed to ordering the whole puck. Do you think you might be able to make a video on how to use the samples or what would be the best way? I know you don't really use samples based off of the videos I've seen you make but if it's something you can make that would be really cool. I appreciate your videos and it really brought out my enthusiasm for learning how to wet shave. Believe it or not you're the main reason that I started getting into it. Continue the great work man.

[@rpinarreta]

Use the Merkur 34c to finish off my D.E. blade when it feels no longer sharp on my regular non slant D.E. razors. Definitely prefer the shorter lighter handle version. Another great review.

[@Danmandingo]

*Ahhh I've been WAITING for this video.* *:D*

[@nickshaves]

Me too! Glad I finally had the time to make it

[@bbbvvhk]

Danmandingo. me too

[@KapinKrunch]

Danmandingo same I love these shave gear videos, they are basically a pre made wish list...lol

[@SoundPerformer95]

Yesss! You're back, and with an annual update! Day made.

[@TheBradleyd1146]

34C is my go to as well. But when I have more facial hair I gotta say Maggard's MR5 with V3 head really gives a great shave.

[@smarte861]

I agree with your assessment of the Semogue 1305. I've used that one and the Semogue 2000 and there is a difference between the quality of the hair. The 1305 just seems to fluff into a better brush than the bristles of the 2000. I was wondering if the Semogue 1800 is the same knot as used in the 1305 (looks the same on line). If so it gets you away from the ugly factor of the 1305 with the same quality knot.

[@3_Sword_Zoro]

you should try the switchback 400 synthetic. it is pretty nice. it has 2 knots. one with backbone and one without much.

[@Ksamp313]

I bought Perma-Sharp blades on your recommendation from another one of your videos and they are really good blades. My go-to blades from now on (along with Astra SPs)

[@davethebarber62920]

Great video,. The synthetic brushes are so much better than they use to be, and at a good price too.

[@skdesign98]

Great video Nick! Absolutely love Snake Bite!! Its amazing!!

[@borbetomagus]

Thanks for this 'Gear of the Year' video. While the Merkur 34C HD is an excellent safety razor for beginners, it's too bad more video reviewers don't recognize the long-term value (and utility) of adjustable razors. The Merkur Progress shaves very smoothly from very mild aggressiveness to a moderately aggressive shave, but the recently released Parker Variant improves many issues bothering Merkur Progress owners (handle, adjustment knob, balance, lather drainage holes). The Parker Variant adjustable safety razor would seem to be a better recommendation for new wet-shavers since it will grow with your skill-level and shaving needs. Hopefully you get a chance to review the adjustable Parker Variant (plus your Rockwell 6S) in a future shave.

[@shave-a-thon3415]

I like the Progress and the Futur but I have blade exposure problems with both. As I've written before, I'm not too happy with Merkur's lack of quality control. My Progress was calibrated to start at settting 5 (that's where setting 1 should be). As far as the 34c goes, check these links. Maybe we can all get together and buy bulk to get these prices! www.alibaba.com/product-detail/Merkur-Solingen-Heavy-Duty-Double-Edge_150932938.html www.alibaba.com/product-detail/double-edge-safety-razor-merkur-34c_172423664.html

[@wtre428476]

Have you seen the video about Sterling...basic tour of where they make their products...left a lot of questions...I like their products..but theyclearly need help ..I hope they get it

[@ericwilliams2056]

Happy New Year Nick! Thank you for all your reviews of the many different shaving products and DE Blades out there. I have learned so much about wet shaving from you. keep up the good work! Eric :)

[@shawng746]

Great to see another video Nick. I also have that same Kent comb. They make awesome stuff. Also, you should try the YSL L'homme Intense. Its a bit pricier, but worth it in my opinion.

[@edwingil1352]

Can you do a video on the blades grim smolder soap

[@aaronfenner148]

I love the 1305 and the way it looks, only brush I use...love the cream and green!!!!

[@davidpackkard3354]

I’m with you Nick. The 34C is a great razor but my Gillette Slim is my favorite.

[@mangOO0548]

which blade is more sharper and better for you: Perma-Sharp Super or Gillette 7 O'cklock Super Stainless -Green ?? Thank you very much

[@gnomeoshaves4641]

Happy New Years to you and your family Nick. Been looking forward to this video...I was hoping you would do a shave with these like in the past videos :P Thanks again for your videos. I have really learned a lot from watching them. Again, thank you very much and looking forward to all of your upcoming videos

[@kishenpankhania363]

Thanks for giving us a amazon link to PAA shipping to UK from the website is $17

[@Diener94]

if you like suavecito, you should give layrite a try. I think the scent is better and washes out the same.

[@cliffhill186]

Come on Nick! When you gonna do your 2017 video!! I'm just getting started in wet shaving so, need some stuff.

[@ridgebringger6520]

Watching this in soon to be November hoping for the shaving gear of 2017 video will be uploaded next year!!!

[@ridgebringger6520]

I've got into wetshaving because of you and a long time fan. Excited for the next vid🤙🏼

[@mohsen1374]

your videos and reviews are awesome nick, one of the reasons i got into wet shaving!

[@TheAndreastt1]

Finally! Great video and awesome choices! I agree with a lot of them. CaD, Gondolier and Cavendish were actually the first three PAA soaps I bought, and I think they still remain my three favorites! Pré de Provence No. 63 is an unbelievable scent. It's so good. I like your description of the scent - "like a hot summer night" - because that's exactly what it smells like! The only thing I don't like about it is the tin. It easily gets dented if you are not extremely careful with it. I definitely agree with your "modern" razor choice. Even though I have expensive razors like iKon in my shaving den, I keep coming back to my Merkur 34C - It is such an excellent razor. It was my first DE razor, and I bought it per your recommendation. Thanks. Also, which Fine aftershaves do you particularly like besides Platinum and Snake Bite? Happy New Year, Nick! And take care.

[@dtboice]

It looks like a lot of people (including me) are following your advise. When I put in the snake bite aftershave in amazon it automatically asked me if I wanted to pair it with both the Phoenix Shaving Soap (Gondolier) AND the 63 Men's Shave Soap. The Perma-Sharp blades also popped up.

[@leveluplifestyle5727]

Mr_Chewbacca 1138 I noticed that too

[@OrangeGeemer]

What can be done to remove or diminish the green-gray color after a shave??? (my face is light color and my beard is black, so my baby smooth shave leaves me a green tint).

[@MichaelPace2.0]

Hey Nick, I always have trouble shaving around my adam's apple. Mine isn't giant or anything, but I can just never get the angles right. Any advice? Also, never stop making videos. I'd be lost without you!

[@tbyrne4409]

love the videos man. I've learned so much from watching you. learned good technique as well as great gear. keep it up man.

[@adamwatson4735]

Yep been checking every day for this

[@newdawnfades263]

Second the permasharp. I've tried 12 different brands and the permasharp have come out top. I never ever cut myself with these blades, and I don't get irritation (use a Muhle R41.) I have really coarse thick facial hair, but also have super sensitive skin on my neck. These blades work perfectly for me.

[@blakegeyen4004]

you have any good recommendations on any shave club's

[@christosioannou9628]

Does anyone know if there are any good American made razor blades?

[@davidmallette]

Which do you prefer the 1305 or the 2000

[@Abhikpr.]

Nice video. Been waiting for this. Nd we got a fragrance to. That is a good one. Try boss bottled next. I feel like if you like l'homme you might like that. I got into fragrances through wet shaving. Now I have 90 bottles.

[@amg20000]

#63 is amazing and underrated. It's a daily soap for me. I can't get the soap dialed in with my semogue 830, it works excellent with my razorock plissoft. Any tips on lathering 63 with my 830. Happy New Year buddy.

[@dallasb1105]

I use a Vie-Long 12705 horse hair brush; what is your opinion of horse hair brushes?

[@christopherach4402]

Fantastic review , Nick I was waiting for that. totally agree with You about Merkur 34C. I tried many, many razors from Maggard to Edwin Jeagger and otners, for some reason 34C feels the most versatile and comfortable. Thank You for all Your great reviews in the past years . Looking forward for more. Please keep making them. Happy New Year to You and Your wife. chris

[@shave-a-thon3415]

Check these links. Are those Merkurs made in Pakistan or Germany? www.alibaba.com/product-detail/Merkur-Solingen-Heavy-Duty-Double-Edge_150932938.html www.alibaba.com/product-detail/double-edge-safety-razor-merkur-34c_172423664.html

[@asufans5]

I don't know where to order the Italian brush. if you could please help me out. thank you and have a great day.

[@mattcurry112]

Love the video. I always look forward to your videos because we seem to have the same tastes on alot of things. Im going to try the Snake Bite soon, alot of people seem to like it, so your not alone. What is your post shave routine?

[@carrmak]

I would love to try the Pre de Provence No. 63 but it's so hard to get in Europe. I would have to pay as much for shipping as the soap costs when ordering it from the US. :( How come they don't sell them in Europe, if they produce them in France.

[@parmargurdeep3617]

Gr8 videos Nick. I basically started wet shaving after watching your videos. For my first shave I had my phone sitting in front of me and copying your strategy. I use Alum block and was concerned about using it tropically on skin. Do you think it's harmful?

[@tylerd.rudolph1019]

Does the LS 24mm Finest have decent backbone?

[@twhite19782012]

Nick, great video! Would you be up to doing a review of the Rainbow double edge blade made by Lord? I'm really enjoying the smoothness of the blade and would value your opinion.

[@jairoluis2000]

Waiting for your 2017 gear!!

[@rubyplayz7008]

You got me into wet shaving and i love it now! Hears to good health and more videos!!

[@nickshaves]

That makes me so happy to hear! My best to you and your family - Nick

[@patdurbin1961]

Great choices for your products of the year. I really like PAA and love CK. Have you tried their shampoo/conditioning bars? they are awesome. I love the CaD and the Sandalwood.

[@phosierichards]

Overall Nick, which is the better Brush, Pure Badger, Boar, or Synthetic? Love your site. Great advice.

[@cdbickford6202]

I've been watching a lot of your videos and they are full of great info. Thank you. Here's a question for you. Do you shave every day? I ask because I'm in the military and have to. I currently use a Stirling soap, splash and balm, Personna razors along with a handle I got ok amazon along with a cheap brush. With all that are their products you find to be cost effective? A large soap seems to last only about month. To me that seems fast. Any input....? Thanks in advance

[@TheChrisFoulger]

Nick would you recommend silvertip or manchurian for a pantarei brush?

[@mountainstatematt271]

Since you got into a few non shaving grooming products I was curious if you had any suggestions for a decent deodorant. I'm really liking the performance and more natural ingredients that I am finding in a lot of the shaving products that I have been using and I would like to find a deodorant along the same line.

[@DavidWebster444]

Nick, what is the "Slickest" shave soap you have tried?

[@katinkabvre8207]

Have you tried the synthetic brush from Mühler? I've heard the silver tip fibre is really good

[@CMHobbies]

Nick, is the Gillette Super Speed about the same as the Razorock Quick Change?

[@B00MBATS]

Hi Nick, new to the safety wet shave and thoroughly enjoying it. When done with my shave is there anything I should do with my Merkur 38c before I put it on the stand i.e. should I be cleaning it or dipping it in anything? Great channel and did subscribed...

[@benwalmsley8901]

Vinnie Boombatz, I wondered that also. At 19:47 he mentions he dips them in rubbing alcohol. This is something I've never heard mentioned in other videos but it makes sense to me. @ nick shaves, can you confirm? Brush & razor or just razor?

[@alexdeleon7135]

I completely concur with your nomination of Semogue's 1305. I has become my favorite boar.

[@Jazzberrytpt1]

the best boar brush bar none is the Razorock non dyed brush in either cherrywood or olivvewood handles

[@mikeangel477]

You should do a shaving brush cleaning video

[@slrobinson3]

Hi Nick. Just wondering, if you're using the Stirling balm with a scented splash, which do you put on first? Thanks for your help.

[@ajay60610]

Any fragrance free soap?

[@colecantrell5316]

Have you ever tried Arbonne's re9 shave cream?