Truefitt & Hill 1805 Luxury Shaving Soap Review: Worth the Wooden Bowl?

When it comes to traditional wet shaving, few names carry as much prestige as Truefitt & Hill. Founded in 1805, this London barbershop has been grooming gentlemen for over two centuries, and their 1805 shaving soap is a tribute to that heritage. But with a hefty price tag and a handsome wooden bowl, does it deliver a shave worthy of its reputation? In this review, we'll put the Truefitt & Hill 1805 shaving soap to the test, examining its lather, scent, performance, and whether the presentation justifies the cost.

We'll also compare it to other luxury options in the Truefitt & Hill lineup, so you can decide if this is the right soap for your rotation.

First Impressions: Packaging and Presentation

The Truefitt & Hill 1805 shaving soap arrives in a sturdy, elegant wooden bowl that immediately feels premium. The bowl is crafted from beechwood, which not only looks classy on any bathroom shelf but also provides a secure grip during use. The soap itself is pressed firmly into the bowl, and the surface is smooth with a subtle, sophisticated scent that hints at the fragrance to come.

The presentation is undeniably luxurious, making it a great gift for a discerning gentleman. However, the wooden bowl adds to the price, and some shavers may prefer a more economical refill option. Truefitt & Hill offers the Apsley Luxury Shaving Soap Refill for Wooden Bowl and the Mayfair Shaving Soap Refill for Wooden Bowl, which are excellent alternatives if you already own a bowl or want to save a bit.

• Beechwood bowl is durable and aesthetically pleasing
• Scent is noticeable but not overpowering before lathering
• Refills are available for those who prefer to reuse a bowl

Scent Profile: The Classic 1805 Fragrance

The 1805 scent is one of Truefitt & Hill's most iconic fragrances. It opens with a fresh, citrusy burst of bergamot and lemon, which is quickly softened by a heart of lavender and rosemary. The base notes of musk and sandalwood add warmth and depth, creating a well-balanced scent that is both invigorating and refined. It's a versatile fragrance that works well for both morning and evening shaves.

The scent strength is moderate – noticeable during the shave but not overpowering. It lingers subtly on the skin after rinsing, providing a pleasant post-shave experience without competing with your cologne. If you enjoy the 1805 scent, you can extend it with the Trafalgar Cologne, which shares a similar aromatic profile and is a perfect companion for a complete grooming routine.

Lather and Performance: Does It Deliver?

The true test of any shaving soap is its lather, and the 1805 does not disappoint. With a good shaving brush, this soap whips up a rich, creamy lather that is dense and slick. It provides excellent cushioning and glide, allowing the razor to glide smoothly across the skin without irritation. The lather is also very stable, holding its structure throughout the shave without drying out.

The soap is easy to load – just a few swirls of a damp brush pick up enough product for a three-pass shave. It also performs well in both hard and soft water, though you may need to add a bit more water in harder conditions. Overall, the performance is top-notch, rivaling other high-end soaps on the market.

For best results, pair this soap with a quality brush like the Regency Shaving Brush, which is designed to create a luxurious lather. The combination of the 1805 soap and a premium brush elevates the shaving experience to a truly indulgent ritual.

• Rich, creamy lather with excellent cushioning
• Good slickness for a smooth glide
• Stable lather that doesn't break down quickly

Value for Money: Is the Wooden Bowl Worth It?

There's no denying that the Truefitt & Hill 1805 shaving soap is a premium product with a premium price. The wooden bowl adds a touch of luxury that you don't get with a simple plastic tub, but it also adds to the cost. If you're new to wet shaving or on a budget, you might consider starting with a more affordable option like the Ultimate Comfort Shaving Cream Tube, which offers excellent performance at a lower price point.

However, for those who appreciate the ritual and aesthetics of traditional shaving, the wooden bowl is part of the experience. It makes a beautiful addition to any bathroom and can be reused with refills, making it a more sustainable choice in the long run. The soap itself lasts for several months with regular use, so the cost per shave is reasonable for a luxury product.

• Wooden bowl adds elegance but increases price
• Refills are more economical and eco-friendly
• Long-lasting – a little goes a long way

In conclusion, the Truefitt & Hill 1805 Luxury Shaving Soap is a standout product that delivers on all fronts: beautiful presentation, classic scent, and outstanding lather. While the wooden bowl makes it a splurge, the quality and experience justify the cost for those who value luxury grooming. If you're ready to elevate your shaving routine, this soap is a worthy investment. For those who prefer a cream, the Ultimate Comfort Shaving Cream Tube is another excellent choice from the same brand. Explore the full range at Luxury Barbers London and find your perfect shaving companion.