If shaving is part of your daily or weekly routine, you've probably noticed how many different types of razor blades there are to choose from. Especially if you are just starting out shaving or have used the same kind of blades for years, the selection can be overwhelming. There is quite a bit of difference in razor blades and on top of that, there really isn't one best one. Every man has different skin and hair growth, as well as different preferences. Still, for every man there is a razor that can be the best choice for him.
The best double edge blades
First, I should mention that we are only going to talk about double edge blades. The interchangeable blades used in a safety razor. If you don't already shave with a safety razor yourself, we really recommend you give it a try. To name a few advantages:
- More accurate results and finer experience
- You need to shave less often because the result is smoother
- Less chance of irritated skin
- Lots of variety in double edge blades
- Razor blades are cheaper
For us men, shaving with a safety razor is becoming more and more natural. It is becoming more and more popular. Also read Perfect shaving: Using a safety razor to learn more about safety razors and give it a try.
What makes a safety razor good?
What is a good razor for you may be a terrible razor for someone else. That's why there is so much variation in double edge blades. Every man has different beard growth and skin. Someone with sensitive skin needs a different razor than someone with normal skin or rough skin. The following factors should be considered when looking for the appropriate razor blade.
Sharpness of the razor blade.
Most men think that the sharpest blade is automatically the best one. While that seems very plausible it is not completely true. I say completely because it is true for some men. The sharper the razor the smoother the shave will be. But there is also a greater risk of cutting yourself. Especially beginners will suffer from this more quickly because they do not yet have a good technique.
Still, with a sharper blade a better result can be achieved with one shave. Provided you master the technique well and do not cut yourself, for men with sensitive skin and thicker hair, a sharp blade is ideal. The skin will be less stressed because the blade only has to go over the skin once and cuts the hair well. If you have less thick hair, it is better to use a less sharp blade.
To compare the sharpness of blades, we have created a table below with the sharpness of the five top rated razor blades. The lower the number the sharper the blade is.
|
Razor blade |
Sharpness |
|
Astra |
49 |
|
Derby Premium |
51 |
|
Feather |
32 |
|
Gillette 7 O'clock |
46 |
|
Wilkinson Sword |
46 |
Razor smoothness
The smoothness of the razor blade also known as smoothness indicates how forgiving the razor blade is. The smoothness is determined by the cutting angle of the blade. A very sharp razor blade has an unfriendly cutting angle that makes you cut yourself quickly if you don't have good shaving technique. With a very smooth razor blade, you are less likely to cut yourself. Useful if you have rough skin or suffer from acne, for example. If you have sensitive skin but thicker beard hairs, this is a less good option. You will then have to put more pressure on your skin or shave several times over the same skin surface. This increases the risk of irritation.
Razor life
Nice all those smooth and sharp blades but what good are they if your blade is worthless after one shave? Razor blades vary in shelf life. This has to do with the quality of the material used. Razor blades last for a number of shaves. After each shave, the sharpness changes. It diminishes after a few times.
Some razor blades last longer than others. This, of course, affects our wallet, so it should be taken into consideration when looking for a good razor.
Best razor blades
Feather Double Edge Blades
According to shaving enthusiasts, the best razor available. It is also the sharpest razor available and perhaps less suitable for beginners. Feather is a Japanese company that makes professional shaving products and also one of the market leaders in that field. If you have sensitive skin with thicker hairs then this is the best choice. If you are looking for a slightly smoother razor then it is better to leave this one aside.
+ Unparalleled sharpness
+ The coating makes this blade long lasting
+ Perfect for thicker hair
Astra Superior Platinum Double Edge Blades
Astra is a manufacturer that is part of Gillette and produces the blades in Russia. These razor blades are one of the most popular thanks to great value for money. The blades are sharp but also smooth enough to shave comfortably without cutting yourself. The lifespan of these Astra razor blades is among the longest. These razor blades last a tremendously long time. Every man should basically be able to do at least five shaves with one blade.
+ Cheap
+ Long lasting
+ Smooth and irritation-free shave
Gillette 87 O'Clock Super Stainless
Of course, there is no such thing as a list about the best razor blades without the name Gillette. Therefore, this brand needs no introduction. These razor blades are right in between mild and sharp. It still gives a smooth shave without the risks of the sharper varieties. Perfect for beginners. In terms of longevity, the razor blades are average and are not expensive.
+ Sharp enough but not aggressive
+ Affordable
+ Blades from a manufacturer with a good reputation
Derby Double Edge Blades
The perfect razor for beginners. These razors are as smooth as possible so you won't cut yourself easily. This also means that the sharpness is minimal which will not give the smoothest results. The longevity of the Derby blades are very good. Some men can get as many as 10 shaves out of them. If you have thin beard hairs and sensitive skin then this blade is a good choice.
+ Very cheap
+ Very mild
+ Very long lasting razor
Wilkinson Sword Double Edge Blades
Another razor that is good to use for beginners. The longevity of Wilkinson razor blades are among the best and the blade is very gentle on the skin. The blade is sharper than the Derby Double Edge Blades and thus gives a slightly smoother result. For thicker beard hairs, this blade is less suitable.
+ Reasonably mild
+ Suitable for beginners
+ Good durability
Vary with different types of razor blades
The best tip is to vary your razor blades a lot. Eventually you will find the blade that gives you the most desired results. It's also quite conceivable that over time your technique will improve so much that you'll find yourself in need of another blade. Fortunately, you can get all double edge blades in small packs so you don't spend a lot of money and can try another razor shortly thereafter.
If you are just starting to shave with a safety razor, it is best to start with a mild razor and go sharper and sharper from there until you find your ideal razor.