I would like to face lather as it seems more fun and getting more face time with a brush can never be a bad thing. I rather enjoy moderate backbone, I just love feeling the horse hair brushes at my work and I'd prefer little to no scratch. I like natural hair and I'm open to Badger, Boar and Horse. I'm just struggling on where to begin, the options are so open and the variety so large.
I got introduced to wet shaving via a "starter kit" from Art of Shaving. For less than $30 bucks you get a pure badger brush, shave oil, shave cream, and post shave balm. Great place to start, in my opinion.
As you can see we don't all agree on the many products and variables. You will get some good product tips and direction, and soon you'll be helping the new members. It's a fun hobby.
It sounds like you would be seeking Best badger or a Finest with a loft of around 50-52 mm for a 20-22 mm knot
http://theshaveden.com/forums/threads/the-brush-basic-information-everyone-should-know.29125/ begin here. From what you describe, a three band brush might be a good starting point.
