Showing posts with label ProductReview. Show all posts
Showing posts with label ProductReview. Show all posts

Tuesday, 27 January 2026

Product Review The Shave Brush Henson Shaving

Product Review The Shave Brush

The Shave Brush Henson Shaving

Almost three years ago I switched to the Henson AL 13 Razor, and I have never regretted it. It has been an amazing purchase. I have recommend them to numerous people. My son got one and has been using it since he started shaving. I stated in my review of the razor:

“This razor provides the best shaves I have ever had, and I have been shaving for almost 40 years. I am thankful my wife suggested it and I encourage you to give it a try. And with the money back guarantee you have nothing to lose.”

Fast forward a couple of years and I had the opportunity to test a new Shaving Brush that Henson had in development.  My son got a silver one to try and I picked up the black model. We have both been very impressed. Since I started using the Henson I have used 3 different shaving brushes. First a cheap one from Amazon because I was not certain I would stick with the safety razor, the second a very expensive Badger hair brush from the now defunct Executive Shaving Club in the UK. The third was ‘The Shave Brush’ from Henson.  I though this is under a third of the cost of the Badger hair one it has been my daily use for well over a year. And there is no going back. The Badger hair one sits in a drawer and collects dust. 

At first I was disconcerted that the knot (the brush fiber part) was ‘messy’. The individual fibers are wavy. But after even just a couple of uses I saw how this allowed the brush to lather much better and much quicker. I use less shave cream, have less waste and get an excellent shave.

For over a year and a half my son and I have used these shaving brushes. The aluminum handle has a nice weight and heft to it. The machining give it a nice texture to the handle and firm hold no matter how slick or slippery your fingers are. The description of this product states:

“This aluminum shave brush features a turned and machined handle, made at our aerospace facility to match the Henson Razor.  The knot is made of synthetic hairs resembling a classic badger hair. The fibers have wonderfully soft tips, combine that with a solid, natural-feeling backbone and outstanding water retention and this brush is the ideal way to create a thick and luxurious lather when applying shave cream.”

This is an excellent product and one we can both easily recommend. And like many of their other products it comes with a 100-Day trial or your money back! So you have nothing to lose, give this excellent brush a try and take your shaving experience to the next level!



The Shave Brush Henson Shaving Comparison 01
Comparison 2 Henson and 2 Other Brushes.
The Shave Brush Henson Shaving Comparison 01
Comparison 2 Henson and 2 Other Brushes.
The Shave Brush Henson Shaving Comparison 01
Comparison 2 Henson and 2 Other Brushes.
Henson Shaving My Set Up
My Original Shaving Set Up
Henson Shaving My Son's Set Up
My Son's Set Up
I received a second AL13 razor for Christmas. 
The limited edition red from Canada Day. 
Mixed it with my original blue and now have 
Montreal Canadian's themed home and away razors. 
My Original AL13 in Blue.

Tuesday, 27 August 2024

Product Review Executive Shaving Brush and MÜHLE Mug

Product Review 
Executive Shaving Mug 
From
Executive Shaving UK

Product Review Executive Shaving Brush and MÜHLE Mug

Over a year ago I switched to a safety razor that is produced here locally, after a year I can state I love it, and my 16 years old son has started shaving using a Dr Squatch Branded version. I love my Henson AL13 Razor it is the best shaves I have ever had and I have been shaving over 40 years now. When I first got my Henson I struggled with it and found a video from the Executive Shaving UK, that made a world of difference. And I wanted to give some of their products a try. My sister-in-law got a few of them for me for Christmas. The products I got were:


Description of the Large Synthetic Shaving Brush with Black Handle:

“Executive Shaving's Large Synthetic Shaving Brush with Black Handle can be used to lather shaving creams, soaps and gels with ease. 

The 28mm knot is packed full of soft synthetic fibres which are kind to the skin and completely free of animal hair making this brush a great choice for those with sensitive skin.

Designed to fit comfortably in the hand, the lathe turned resin handle is black in colour and features the Executive Shaving logo in the base.

Synthetic fibres will dry almost immediately after use and require minimal maintenance.

Comes to you in a branded box made from agri-waste which is 100% recycled and recyclable.”

Description of the MÜHLE Mug:

“MÜHLE's Black Porcelain Shaving Mug enables you to create a rich and creamy shaving lather from your shaving cream or soap.

The base of the mug has three ridges which increases friction to help lather shaving creams quickly. It comes in a traditional style with a perfectly moulded handle for secure holding and fine balance whilst applying lather. 

These shaving mugs are trimmed by hand and fired twice. It is during the second firing that the glazing of the classic black colour takes place.

Compatible with all MÜHLE Shaving Soap Refills, a selection of other soap refills as well as all shaving creams.

Dimensions:

Height: 7.5cm
Top Diameter: 10.5cm
Bottom Diameter: 8cm.”

The ridges in the bottom of the mug make a world of difference. It causes the lather to build up so quickly and smoothly. It really is impressive. After using the mug for over 6 months I could not imagine going back to any other style or form of lubricant for shaving. The mug is sturdy and has a nice heft. And it looks sharp sitting on the counter. 

The brush is middle of the pack for price point. I like that it is a thick full head of bristles but they are so soft and flexible. It works perfectly and cleans easily. It has a decent weight and a wider diameter then many on the market. I still recommend the Executive Shaving video when I convince people to give a safety razor a try. And I pretty much follow his method each I lather up the two cheeks and shave, under the chin and shave then around the mouth.  

Here is the video that introduced me to their products!

 
(Video shared with permission from Executive Shaving.)

The shaving gel from Executive Shaving is the best I have ever used and this cup and brush help make each shave an excellent experience! And every time I shave I think of the many shaving scenes in M*A*S*H. But with Executive Shaving your equipment will be state of the art, no Korean War remnants. 

Hawkeye Shaving M*A*S*H

I am just getting ready to reorder shaving cream and will likely try at least 1 other scent from Executive Shaving UK!

Executive Shaving Citrus Kiss Aftershave Balm

Executive Shaving Citrus Kiss Natural Shaving Cream

Thursday, 27 June 2024

Product Review Executive Shaving Citrus Kiss Natural Shaving Cream

Product Review Executive Shaving Citrus Kiss 
Natural Shaving Cream an Aftershave
Executive Shaving UK

Product Review Executive Shaving Citrus Kiss Natural Shaving Cream and Aftershave Set

Over a year ago I switched to a safety razor that is produced here locally, after a year I can state I love it, and my 16 years old son has started shaving using a Dr Squatch Branded version. I love my Henson AL13 Razor it is the best shave I have ever had and I have been shaving over 40 years now. When I first got my Henson I struggled with it and found a video from the Executive Shaving UK, that made a world of difference. And I wanted to give some of their products a try. My sister-in-law got a few of them for me for Christmas. The products I got were:


Description of the Shaving Cream:

“Highly concentrated and made from all-natural ingredients, our Citrus Kiss Shaving Cream has a light Mediterranean citrus fruit scent with subtle notes of lime, lemon, orange and bergamot.

It contains glycerin and shea butter to deliver exceptional razor glide while moisturising and nourishing your skin to leave it soft and supple after shaving.

Only a tiny amount is required for each shave meaning the 200ml tub should last around 6 months of daily shaving. For best results, lather with a shaving brush.

Suitable for all skin types and perfect for use will all razor types including cut throat, double edge and single edge safety razors.

Comes in a 200ml aluminium container which is fully recyclable.”

Description of the Aftershave:

“Our Citrus Kiss Aftershave Balm comes with a light Mediterranean citrus fruit scent and will calm the skin after shaving.

Suitable for all skin types, it contains a blend of carefully selected ingredients including oat extract, aloe vera and vitamin E to nourish, soothe and moisturise the skin whilst also helping to fight the visible signs of ageing including fine wrinkles.

The Citrus Kiss Balm is non-greasy and easily absorbed into the skin.

Also great as an everyday moisturiser.”

This review will focus on the Shaving Cream and Aftershave Balm both with the Cirtus Bliss Scent. Being in Canada I was concerned about the prices and shipping, so I asked for them as a gift. And I can state of the 4 Shave creams I have tried since switching over it is by far the best. The shave cream is soft and viscous, it is softer than any of the others I have tried. I have been using it for 6 months and have used just under half the tin. The scent is amazing. It is invigorating just to open the tin and smell it. I typically shave every other day, and this cream is amazing. It lathers up wonderfully. 

I do not use the aftershave often as I prefer to shave in the evening before bed, but I do use it occasionally if I shave earlier in the day, and sometimes just as a cologne. The two math perfectly in scent.  

This is by far the best shaving cream, gel, or soap I have ever used. It lathers up wonderfully. Application is easy. It does not dry out quickly like many others I have tried. And it smells amazing. I can easily recommend this product and look forward to trying others from Executive Shaving.

Here is the video that introduced me to their products!

 
(Video shared with permission from Executive Shaving.)

Executive Shaving Citrus Kiss Aftershave Balm

Executive Shaving Citrus Kiss Natural Shaving Cream

MÜHLE Black Porcelain Shaving Mug

Executive Shaving Large Synthetic Shaving Brush with Black Handle





Tuesday, 7 May 2024

Fitness My Gear May 2024

Fitness My Gear April 2024

Fitness My Gear April 2024

This post is an update of one written back in 2012. Over the years some gear has been added and some has been removed. Having spend the better part of 6 months on crutches late in 2023, and early 2024. I am basically starting my fitness journey again. Over the years I have has successes and setbacks. Starting about 6 years ago I started having problems with sprained knees or water on the knees. At the time I was doing Karate with the kids. And trying to compensate for the knees I caused some ankle issues, and plantar fasciitis. It was not until after prolonged time on crutches that I have really committed to getting back in shape. And now in my mid-50's I need to pay a lot more attention to my body, and to what doctors recommend. 

Because I work out predominantly at home I often get asked about the gear I use. In the past I have written some specific articles on specific pieces this will be a piece on what I have and use currently.

PowerBlock Classic Dumbbells

PowerBlock's

I wrote a separate review of my PowerBlock set a while ago. My set replaces 28 pairs of dumbbells and 2565lbs of free weights. The set of dumbbells replaced by this kit is:

2.5, 5, 7.5, 10, 15, 17.5, 20, 25, 27.5, 30, 35, 37.5, 40, 45, 47.5, 50, 55, 57.5, 60, 65, 67.5, 70, 75, 77.5, 80, 85, 87.5 and 90lbs.

This set is expandable by another 30lbs per side but at the current cost I doubt I will ever do it.

PowerBlock Barbell

PowerBlock Barbell

PowerBlock no longer sells this and it only works with the older Pro and Elite sets of Powerblock But I love it.

PowerBlock KettleBlock

PowerBlock KettleBlock

PowerBlock makes two different models of the KettleBlock. A 20LB model and the 40, the 40 is also upgradeable to 55. It is a great tool. The weights included are:

8, 12, 16, 20, 25, 30, 35, 40

It was a great investment. I wish the handle could take cores like the regular PowerBlock's. If you have newer Urethane sets you can buy a Kettle Handle for your normal weights, will be rectangle not square but they will get the job done. I really want the upgrade to take these to 55lbs.

York Barbell 306 Inline-to-Decline Bench

York Barbell 306 Inline-to-Decline Bench

I got this bench this year for Christmas as an upgrade for an older Model York. It has no uprights for bench or squat use, but the variety of positions make up for that. It has 5 different back positions and 3 different seat positions. Best bang for the buck at $145 and for another $99 a preacher curl attachment.

Thera-Band Bands

Thera-Band Bands

Various lengths and resistance also a door anchor. I have short ones tied with loops for leg lifts and longer ones for pulls.

Nike Medicine Balls

Nike Medicine Balls

I tried a lot of different size and styles of medicine balls before I decided on the Nike Balls. I love the weight, slight variations in size and that they are designed for both indoor and outdoor use. I have added mine slowly over time and currently have:

4, 6, 8, 10 pound balls.

They have held up very well and I love them. I want to add more.

Fitter First Balance Board

Fitter First Balance Board

This is my newest piece of equipment. I got it because I have small feet and have injured my ankles in the past. I am using this to help strengthen them and develop better balance. Currently I am just using it for body weight but plan on eventually adding weighted exercises.

Manduka Black Mat Pro

Manduka Black Mat Pro

Back when I was teaching Yoga I was using this mat for over 10 hours a week and used it at work, at hot yoga and at home. It had never developed a funky smell. It is thing and supportive. It is great for stretching, plyometrics, and other floor exercises.

Gaiam Exercise Block

Gaiam Exercise Block

My flexibility sucks. But I like using these they help me get towards poses that I just cannot do yet. With the three different sides there are progression they let me keep trying and improving.

PowerStands

PowerStands

These were one of the best investments I ever made. They have changed the design since I got mine. I tried numerous before buying these

TRX Force Kit Tactical

TRX Force Kit Tactical

Sometimes you encounter something so great you just cannot stop talking about it. To be honest, that is how I feel about the TRX Suspension Training System. It is one of the best investments I have ever made for health and fitness gear. The versatility and flexibility of this piece of equipment combined with the portability and 'workout anywhere' option make it truly amazing. 

Adjustable Weighted Vest 40lbs


The vest is easy to put on and easy to remove. Adding and removing weights is very simple as well. It is easy to clean and the construction is excellent. I expect this product to last for years to come. Very satisfied with the purchase.

ONETWOFIT 48" Silent Mini Trampoline


A few years back I read a couple of books about Rebound Fitness, or using a mini trampoline for fitness. The science in the books is very convincing. But the books also specifically talked about what type of trampolines to use and not use. You can pick up mini trampolines for a cheap as $50 and as expensive as $1000. This one is not bargain priced nor is it overly expensive. It has been used for about 6 years, by myself, my wife and all three kids. I still have not got to 3 sessions of 5 minutes a day, but am back using it most days

Team Body Project

Team Body Project


I have been using the workout videos from TBP for 6 years now, off and on. I was having some good success and then injuries set me back. What I love is a lot of their workouts have a knee friendly modification. I have done a number of programs from them and even recently started back just doing some seated workouts to start moving again. For all my reviews of TBP plans click here. I love the app on my phone and tablet, or using it through a web browser for the TV, or using it on the computer.

Infrared and Near Infrared Light Therapy

This has been a huge gamechanger for me this year. I was doing therapy at a podiatrist last year and was pay $50 for 18 minutes of treatment, 9 minutes infrared and 9 minutes ultrasound. I started doing so research as the infrared really seemed to be helping. With some birthday money I purchased this:


It made a huge difference. I was doing about an hour a day, 10 minutes on each knee, ankle, and foot. Within a week my feet and knees were feeling better than they have in years. So I stepped up the game and purchased:




Now most days I try and spend 20 minutes doing whole body and if I am having any issues with knees, feet, shoulder I give them some extra attention with the other model.


Update May 14: The Rebounder has moved to the master bedroom so my wife can use it as well. And the TRX was mounted in the garage weight room to give more pull options.

Fitness My Gear May 2024 Update 1

Fitness My Gear May 2024 Update 2

Other Fitness Articles:
My Fitness Gear 2024
...

TRX Articles:
...

My P90X Series:
Gear
...

Health & Fitness Book Reviews:
The Primal Blueprint 21 Day Total Body Transformation - Mark Sisson
The Ten Commandments Of Lifting Weights - Jared Zimmerer
Toadally Primal Smoothies - Todd Dosenberry
Caveman Resurection - Jeff Pickett
40 Days to Optimal Health - Dr. Scott Morris
Eat Stop Eat - Brad Pilon
The Primal Blueprint - Mark Sisson
The New Rules of Lifting - Lou Schuler and Alwyn Cosgrove
Bench Press by: Sven Lindqvist
Sly Moves by: Sylvester Stallone
Fit for Eternal Life: A Christian Approach to Working Out, Eating Right, and Building the Virtues of Fitness in Your Soul by: Dr. Kevin Vost
Body for Life 12 Weeks to Mental and Physical Strenght by: Bill Phillips 
Lose Fat Not Faith by Jeremy R. Likeness
Living The Good Life: Your Guide to Health and Success by: David Patchell-Evans
Dump your Trainer by: Ashley Marriott and Marc L. Paulsen
...

Monday, 26 June 2023

Product Review Henson AL13 Razor

Product Review AL13 Razor


Well, this is a review I never expected to write. Recently my wife indicated she wanted to get me a new razor to try. It was the Al13 from Henson Shaving. I had not used a safety razor previously. Her boss had got one and swore by it. I was in need of new blades and could not believe how expensive they had become even at Costco. And with the money back guarantee I thought it would be worth a try. I ordered the Henson Al13 in Steel Blue, and also ordered the 100 pack of replacement blades. 

Being completely honest after my first attempted shave with the safety razor I was disappointed, or at least underwhelmed. But, based on all the praise the product has received on Facebook, and personal stories I have heard, from my wife’s boss who has always struggled with shaver burn and her manager who uses it for her legs. I had followed the advice on the Henson site and just shaved the way I normally would have, warm water, soak the beard, shave cream and long strokes. I figured I was doing something wrong and went looking for resources on how best to shave with a safety razor. I found this video from Executive Shaving in the UK and it was a life changer:

 
(Video shared with permission from Executive Shaving.)

I will be honest I watched this 17-minute video twice. And the instructions and advice made a lot of sense. My biggest mistakes were using long strokes, and just shaving once. Using the techniques in this video of short brisk strokes, and constantly adjusting the angle works wonders. And on most days I can get away with a double shave, once with the grain and once across the grain, but if I want a really close shave I do the two shaves with the grain and one across the grain. And this multi-pass method makes sense, I have been using razors with between 2 and 4 blades for over 30 years now. 

I can easily state that doing a multi-pass shave with the Henson AL13 provides the closest, cleanest shave I have ever had in my life. I have used almost every disposable or disposable head razor on the market. Several from Gillette, Schick, Wilkinson Sword, Bull Dog, and even Bic. I have tried almost a dozen electric shavers over the last 40 years, and with how thick and wiry my facial hair is they always felt like they were ripping the hair out. 

The Henson AL13 gives the cleanest closest shave of my life! It is also the most even shave of my life. I never realized how uneven the hair was cut using a multiblade razor. But I can feel the difference after every shave, and as getting ready to shave again even after 2, 3 and occasionally even 4 days. 

At the time I picked up this razor I was not sure it would work for me and did not pick up the stand. I wish I had. After using it for a few days and knowing how good it was I picked up a few accessories:




There are several options for both types of accessories. I like the Blade Bank I picked because it is a sealed container, and the whole thing goes in recycling when filled. The Cover I picked mainly because I liked the leather option over some other products.

My wife commented that the razor was heavy, but I had a special edition Mach 3 that was heavier and I actually preferred the heft. I also prefer a longer handle. But I have acclimatized to both initial concerns. 

I will state it again, the Henson AL13 provides the best shave I have ever received. It is as good as a straight razor shave; I have had occasionally at barber shops. It is a well crafter tool and I can see why they say it will last a lifetime. I can easily recommend this product, but highly recommend the video above before first use. I have been using this for over a month now and do not see myself ever going back. In fact, I have recommended we get one for when our son start shaving, and even that our 16 year old daughter give it a try. This razor provides the best shaves I have ever had, and I have been shaving for almost 40 years. I am thankful my wife suggested it and I encourage you to give it a try. And with the money back guarantee you have nothing to lose. 

(At Christmas 2025 I received a limited edition Red AL13 See below, my son has also been using a custom branded one since he started shaving a few years ago.)






Henson Shaving My Set Up
My Original Shaving Set Up
Henson Shaving My Son's Set Up
My Son's Set Up
I received a second AL13 razor for Christmas 2025. 
The limited edition red from Canada Day. 
Mixed it with my original blue and now have 
Montreal Canadian's themed home and away razors. 


Saturday, 10 September 2022

Product Review - Q-bitz Solo Game

Q-bitz Solo
Visual Dexterity. Cubed.
Mind Ware
ASIN B00C6DQO0O



There are two solo editions of Q-Bitz, there are Orange and Magenta. A number of years ago I received Q-Bitz for my birthday and from the day it entered the house it has been a family favourite. But the base game only plays 4 players and we are a family of 5 and often have others over to play board games. Shortly after we received the base game we picked up Q-Bliz Exterme one and also one of the Solo versions. This is a great game for cognitive development. We have played it often. Each Solo tin game comes with:

1 game play tray
16 cubes of each color
20 Q-bitz cards

The 20 cards are different and continue counting up from the 80 in the base game. If you have the base game and both solo editions you have 120 puzzle cards the same as in the educational classroom edition.

The tin says it can used for solo play and works for brain training, dexterity, and agility. You can also add the Solo to the base game and have more puzzles and players. The game also has 3 modes of play in the rules that come with the game:

This game is designed to teach symmetry, pattern recognition, help improve visual dexterity and provide friendly competition. It also stimulates the brain by use of spatial reasoning and memory skills. It is super fun.

The difference between the Extreme and normal Q-Bitz is that this game has 4 sets of 2 dice, each with different sides. And as 2 dice from the original version. The original all 16 dice are the same. So finding the piece in this version often means swapping dice.

Overall this is an amazing game the recommendation is that players be aged 8 and up, but we have played with our youngest even when she was 5 and it still works well. It is a lot of fun for the whole family, either playing solo or with others. It can be taught in under a minute and is easy to introduce to new players or visitors to the house. We love the Q-Bits family of games!

Note: If you are local to Kitchener Waterloo you can get this and many other amazing games at J & J Super Store!


Games by Mind Ware:
Q-bitz
Q-bitz Solo Orange
Q-bitz Solo Magenta
Q-bitz Extreme
Q-bitz Classroom Set
Cool Circuits Puzzle