Merging the precision and elegance of a straight razor with the comfort and convenience of a safety razor, shavettes are a top pick for many wet-shavers.
What is a Shavette?
Shavettes are sometimes classified as a type of straight razor. They are similar in style to straight razors but feature a disposable blade rather than a fixed blade. Unlike straight razors, shavettes do not require sharpening or honing prior to use and are a great way to ease into using a straight razor.
How to Use a Shavette?
Traditionally shavettes were used by barbers to give a close trim, to shape hairlines, and to reach trouble areas like the jawline and nape of the neck. They have increased in popularity throughout the years and many wet-shavers prefer shavettes for home use. Easy to use, shavettes are compatible with either single edge blades, or standard double edge blades snapped in half.
NOTE: The Feather Artist Series is designed for use only with Feather Single Edge Razor blades.
To load a shavette, follow these steps:
- If using a double edge razor blade, fold the razor in half lengthwise to divide it into two. Keep the wrapping on while dividing the blade in half. Skip this step if using a single edge blade.
- Remove the insert from the shavette. These are usually plastic or metal and come in a number of colours (red, black, clear, blue, etc.).
- Open the insert and the blade with the notches or marks on the insert.
- Close the insert, ensuring the blade is still aligned.
- Slide the insert back into the shavette.
- Start shaving!
Inserts may vary for each model. Some models may have a locking system instead of inserts. The same steps listed about would still if using a shavette with a locking system. Instead of placing the blade in the removable insert, the blade would be aligned inside the locking system.
Why Use a Shavette?
Depending on your shaving preferences, a shavette might be the model the best model for you.
| PROS | CONS |
|---|---|
| - Easy to use | - Learning curve to perfect the technique |
| - Stylish models | - Fewer models to choose from |
| - Reach difficult areas | - Causes irritation if use incorrectly |
| - No stropping or honing required | - Not as durable as straight razors |
| - Easy to source blades |
Which Shavetter Should I Choose?
We’ve listed our best-selling shavette models, according to price point, to help you choose a model.
| MODEL | Focus R21 Stainless Steel Shavette Straight Razor | Parker Shavette Barber Straight Razor with Black or White Scales | DOVO Shavette Black Handle | Focus Slim AL Aluminum Replaceable Blades Straight Razor | Boker Barberette, Black Handle | Kai Captain Standard Japanese Folding Razor |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| LOADING MECHANISM | - Insert | - Loading System | - Insert | - Locking System | - Insert | - Locking System |
| BLADE USED | - Double edge blades snapped in half | - Double edge blades snapped in half | - Double edge blades snapped in half | - Double edge blades snapped in half | - Double edge blades snapped in half - Long blades snapped in half | - Feather Professional Single Edge blades |
| PRICE RANGE | $ | $ | $$ | $$ | $$$ | $$$ |
| COUNTRY OF ORIGIN | Italy | India | Germany | Italy | Germany | Japan |
