How to Choose a Shaving Brush
A shaving brush is one of those purchases that most men make once and don't think about again for years. Getting it right the first time matters — the right brush makes lathering faster, more effective, and genuinely more enjoyable. The wrong one is frustrating from day one.
Here's what you need to know before buying.
What Does a Shaving Brush Actually Do?
More than most men expect. A shaving brush lifts and softens the beard hair before the razor passes over it, which means a closer and more comfortable shave. It also exfoliates the skin as you lather, removing dead skin cells and reducing the chance of ingrown hairs. And it builds a far richer, more protective lather from your shaving cream or soap than you'll get working product in with your hands.
If you're switching to wet shaving, a good brush is one of the most impactful upgrades you can make.
Bristle Types: What's the Difference?
Synthetic The best choice for most men and the only type we actively recommend at Beard & Blade. Modern synthetic fibres perform on par with natural bristles — they hold water well, build a rich lather quickly, and dry fast after use. They're also cruelty-free, more durable, and easier to maintain than natural alternatives. If you're new to wet shaving or replacing an old brush, start here.
Boar Boar bristle brushes have a stiffer, more abrasive feel that some experienced wet shavers prefer for the exfoliation and the traditional shaving experience. They soften with use over time. A good option for those who specifically want a firmer brush feel — but for most people, a quality synthetic will outperform them from day one.
Badger We no longer stock badger hair brushes at Beard & Blade due to ethical concerns around the harvesting process. Modern synthetics have closed the performance gap to the point where badger brushes offer no meaningful advantage anyway.
Our Top Picks
Best overall: Beard & Blade Classic Synthetic Shaving Brush Black Our most popular shaving brush by a considerable margin, made by Simpsons — one of the most respected brush makers in the world. Soft, dense synthetic fibres that build a rich lather quickly and rinse clean in seconds. Comfortable handle, solid build quality, and excellent value at its price point. Also available in a Faux Tortoiseshell finish.
Best traditional feel: Proraso Bristle Hair Shaving Brush Chrome Proraso's entry into shaving brushes is a boar bristle brush with a clean chrome handle that pairs naturally with the rest of the Proraso range. Firmer than synthetic, with a satisfying backbone that suits men who like more resistance when building lather. Softens and improves with use.
Best for travel: Beard & Blade Travel Shaving Brush A synthetic brush that stores in its own protective tube — keeps the bristles safe. The size gives you the same lathering performance as a full-size brush. The most practical option for frequent travellers who don't want to compromise on their wet shaving routine.
Best performance synthetic: Beard & Blade Chubby Silvertip Synthetic Shaving Brush Also made by Simpsons, this is a step up from the Classic. The chubby knot shape and silvertip-grade synthetic fibres hold more water and product, delivering a more luxurious lather experience. Particularly good for building lather from harder shaving soaps. Also available in Blue and Nebular.
Best value: Frank Shaving Synthetic Shaving Brush Black FR0929 A no-frills synthetic brush that performs well above its price point. Straightforward design, good fibre density, and a comfortable handle. A sensible choice for anyone who wants a reliable daily brush without spending more than necessary.
What to Look For
Knot size — the knot is the bundle of bristles at the top of the brush. A larger knot holds more water and lather, which suits harder shaving soaps. A smaller knot is easier to control and better for cream-based products. Most standard brushes sit in the 22–26mm range which suits most users.
Handle size and shape — the handle should feel balanced and comfortable in your hand. Taller handles suit men who prefer to hold further from the bristles; shorter, chunkier handles (like a chubby shape) suit those who prefer more direct control.
Fibre density — denser fibres build lather more efficiently and hold more product. If you're using a hard shaving soap, look for a brush with a dense, tightly packed knot.
How to Use Your Shaving Brush
Soak the brush in warm water for 30 seconds before use to soften and hydrate the fibres. Shake out excess water, then load the brush with your shaving cream or soap using small circular motions. Build the lather either in a shaving bowl or directly on your face — both work, it's a matter of preference. After use, rinse thoroughly, shake dry, and hang bristle-down on a stand to air dry.
For more detail on caring for your brush, see our guide on how to clean and maintain your shaving brush.
The Bottom Line
For most men, the Beard & Blade Classic Synthetic is the right starting point. It's our bestseller for a reason — reliable, well-priced, and genuinely good at its job. If you want more exfoliation and a traditional feel, the Proraso Bristle Hair is worth a look. Travelling regularly? The Travel Tube brush solves a problem most wet shavers don't think about until they're packing a bag.
Browse the full range of shaving brushes at Beard & Blade. Free delivery Australia wide.
You have presented some great information and amazing tips to use!
Thanks….
Hi Ben! Thanks for your question and welcome to the club! When using a shaving brush, the first thing to do is to run it under warm water to fully wet all of the bristles. Then, gently shake out most of the water, leaving the bristles damp but not dripping wet. The water should not be hot as this will damage the brush and may cause bristles to come loose.
You can then apply a small amount of cream to the brush and begin lathering. You have the choice to either build the later in a shaving bowl, or you can lather directly onto the face.
With regard to the life of the brush, a brush that is looked after should last a few years with regular use. Be sure to rinse it thoroughly after use and allow it to dry upside down before storing it away. Hope that helps!
im new to wet shaving (had zero experience in the past). i wonder how to use cream on a brush to lather up? does the brush need to dip in water first? I guess i can read instruction/direction for use on the cream product which is on its way? it would be great if you are happy to answer. thanks.
last but not least, how long does a brush from your website last before i should consider getting a new one? say, if i use it for 3-4 times a week. thanks.