That is done because people respond to numbers in products in general. People instinctively assume that higher numbers are somehow better than lower numbers. For software, as an example, version 12.0 is better than a competitor's version 11.0. In the case of razor cartridges, more blades are better than fewer blades. More and newer is better just because it is. Until some folks discover otherwise and rebel against the marketing schtick and ridiculously overpriced products. Increasing the number of blades in a cartridge can only be taken so far before it becomes impractical. Impractical due to increased manufacturing cost without a corresponding increase in shave quality. Now the major manufacturers are turning to other means of innovation. Gillette's collaboration with, and eventual acquisition of, Art of Shaving is one such case. The COVID quarantine torpedoed the AoS business to a large extent, so it is gradually being replaced with Gillette Labs. They now sell heated razors, and even a Bugatti Special Edition Razor, along with cartridges with exfoliating bars. Traditional shaving has done the same thing with Wolfman and similar exclusive, very pricey razors. The hype surrounding these products is little different than what Gillette, Schick and others are doing. Mucho money, but not necessarily a better shave. That's the great thing about a competitive marketplace! Sure, it is a bummer if a favorite product changes for the worse or gets discontinued. We have a great wealth of options now, and lots of reviews online. Finding a great shaving soap is easier than ever before.
The Schick Quatro worked well for me, however the two bladed Slim Twin was my favorite and I still have a couple packs of refill Carts. I like Barbasol and it will work with a brush. The purple, or yellow cans are my favorites. Sent from my SM-A526U using Tapatalk
I don't think they would get enough of the younger generation to use it to make it worth bringing back. Sent from my SM-A526U using Tapatalk
ARKO seems to last a long time, even with regular use. It doesn't take much, when you face lather. Just wet the face, rub the stick all over, and lather. The lather forms very thick, and slick. I have to add water to the brush, over and over, to thin it out some. Also, there is usually so much lather in the brush, it is good for 2-3 passes.
Looks like Arko is walking away with this survey. Course we recall the "classic" Williams soap video I love, where the shaver says, halfway through it, "I really don't like this soap". I haven't seen a similar video pertaining to Arko.
Question: Has anyone used Williams, and properly face lathered with it? I don't mean load the brush, then whip it on your face a little. I mean get your face wet, and then rub the bar/puck(Williams) over your face, and have at it with the brush.
I have and, for me, it worked just fine. But I have to admit to liking Williams and having no problem getting a nice lather with it regardless of vintage
i face lathered modern williams for around 10 years,wilkinson brush,mach 3 carts.great alternative to that gel and canned goop.heavy loads,very slick,didn't dissipate.then i started vintage gillettes late 2016..didn't rub the face with it though.
I still have a good supply (lifetime) of Arko and Williams. I shave with Williams every Wednesday and with Arko from time to time. Tomorrow is its time. So the Arko will get some face time Thursday through Sunday this week.
Is Williams even made anymore? If not, then Arko automatically wins because it is still being manufactured. A soap that can no longer be bought cannot be good or bad because it can no longer be used. Sure, people can say "But I have a stash". Okay, it can be better for a miniscule percentage of the public, but only until it runs out. Rationing it doesn't allow wetshavers to enjoy the full benefit of the soap.
