Are you curious about the differences between boar and badger shaving brushes? Look no further! In this epic wet shave showdown, we will compare two of the most popular shaving brushes – the badger and boar.
We’ll go over the advantages of each, their cost comparison, and their durability. Ultimately, you’ll be able to pick the right brush for you! So sit back, relax, and enjoy our wet shave showdown!
Table Of Contents
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What is Boar Hair?
Boar hair is a natural product from boars and is one of the most popular shaving brushes. Boar brushes are typically cheaper than badger hair brushes, with a normal price range from as low as $5 up to $20.
Furthermore, boar bristles are longer than badger hair and feature a coarse texture that helps to hold more water and create a thicker lather. Initially, a badger brush will feel softer on the skin, but with regular use, the boar bristles will soften and provide an enjoyable shave.
One major drawback of boar bristles is that they can be harder to control when it comes to water loading, but with some practice, you can use any brush to create a great lather.
What is Badger Hair?
Badger’s hair is the most popular material used in shaving brushes because it is softer and more expensive than boar hair. Badger’s hair is obtained after the killing of the animal, and it ranges in color from brownish-grey to black.
The hairs are much more flexible and softer than boar, making them ideal for a luxurious lather. Badger’s hair is also known for its durability, as a good badger brush may last for years if taken care of properly.
Advantages of Boar Hair
Boar hair brushes are generally cheaper than badger hair brushes, and they have unique advantages that make them a great choice for some shavers. One advantage of boar hair brushes is the backbone they offer.
Boar hair is much thicker, coarser, and stiffer than even Pure Badger hair, making it a great tool for digging into hard, dense soaps like Tabac or Mitchell’s Wool Fat. Additionally, boar hair is strong and does a good job lifting hairs from the skin’s surface.
This makes it easier to create a rich lather for a more comfortable shave. Plus, after about three months of use, the brush will break in and become softer and more pleasant against the face. Even then, boar hair brushes are still not as soft as badger bristles, but they still do their job well.
Advantages of Badger Hair
When it comes to badger hair, there are four grades available on the market, with pure badger hair being the most economical. The hairs are soft and flexible, making them ideal for creating a rich lather.
Badger hair is also more robust than boar hair brushes and can last for many years with proper care and maintenance. Initial use of a badger brush may feel slightly abrasive against the face. However, this is only temporary until the brush is broken in.
Once broken in, badger brushes offer a luxurious experience with soft, gentle bristles that feel great on the skin.
Cost Comparison of Boar and Badger Brushes
Regarding cost, boar hair brushes are generally cheaper than badger brushes. However, some pure badger hair brushes can be cheaper than a boar brush. This makes it important to do your research before making a purchase.
Prices can vary widely depending on the quality of the brush and the type of bristles. It is also important to remember that a good badger brush may last for years, making it a more cost-effective option in the long run.
The Durability of Boar vs. Badger Brushes
It’s all subjective. A boar shaving brush can last up to 30 years, same with a badger brush. Buying a quality brush can turn your brush into an heirloom item passed down from generation to generation.
Boar hair brushes are initially more coarse than badger brushes, making them more abrasive against the skin. On the other hand, badger brushes are more durable than boar brushes and can last for years. A good boar brush, however, will soften over time and become as soft as a badger brush.
Natural badger bristle is ultra-soft, flexible, and long-lasting, providing wet shavers with many years of luxurious shaving. Boar brushes, Silvertip, or Super Badger shaving brushes are recommended for the hardest soaps, as they can handle anything else.
Which Brush is Better for Wet Shaving?
When it comes to wet shaving, badger hair is considered the pinnacle of the wet shave brush world. It is softer and more luxurious than boar hair and creates a richer lather. Many users find badger hair brushes easier to break in and create a better lather than boar hair brushes.
Badger’s hair also has better water retention, allowing a more consistent lather throughout your shave. However, boar hair brushes have their advantages too. They are stiffer and create a thicker lather, which some users prefer. Boar hair brushes also have better longevity than badger hair brushes, as they are more resistant to wear and tear.
Why Natural Badger Bristle is Preferred
Natural badger bristles are considered the best quality because they are unbleached and not treated with chemicals, which can help preserve the bristles for longer.
Badger bristles also provide a softer and more comfortable shave and will not scratch or irritate the skin as a boar brush can. Furthermore, badger bristles generally have a longer lifespan than boar bristles, so you won’t have to replace your brush as often.
However, badger brushes are more expensive than boar brushes due to their higher quality and luxurious feel.
Conclusion: Which Brush is Right for You?
It comes down to personal preference when deciding which type of shaving brush is right for you.
Boar hair brushes are generally cheaper than badger hair brushes, but badger hair is softer and more durable. Boar bristles are thicker and stronger than badger bristles but not as flexible. Boar bristles absorb water, while badger bristles tend to shed it.
A boar hair brush might be a good option if you’re looking for a brush that won’t break the bank. However, if you’re looking for something that will last longer, a badger brush may be the better choice. Ultimately, the decision is up to you and your needs.
Jay Kang
Just because i'm asian does not mean I don't need shaving. I always wanted to grow a beard when I was young, now I need to shave because hair growth for me is a problem. I'm going through what every man will and has gone through before.