What makes a close, comfortable shave feel like a true ritual instead of a chore? For many wet shavers, the secret lies in the brush. A great shaving brush whips up a rich, creamy lather that protects your skin. But when you look at the world of Simpson Shaving Brushes, the sheer number of models can feel overwhelming. Should you choose badger hair or boar? A large handle or a compact one? It’s easy to feel lost in the world of knots and densities.
Choosing the wrong brush can lead to a thin lather and skin irritation—the exact opposite of what you want! This guide cuts through the confusion. We break down what makes Simpson brushes legendary and show you exactly which model fits your specific needs, whether you are a beginner or a seasoned collector. Prepare to discover the perfect tool to transform your daily shave from routine to remarkable.
Top Simpson Shaving Brush Recommendations
- Scotsman Alexander Simpson started production of shaving brushes and male grooming ancillaries in 1919 and is widely regarded as a pioneer in the industry. Manufacturing was originally based in the East end of London but later in Clapham.
- Today Simpson shaving brushes and associated products are manufactured by Progress Shaving Brush (Vulfix) Limited on the historic Isle of Man. They continue to be produced in the traditional way using hand tied knots by time served, skilled workers.
- The Trafalgar is the latest offering from our new line of Alexander Simpson Est. 1919 shaving brushes. This superbly crafted & eye catching lathe turned handle is filled with our uniquely sourced Sovereign grade synthetic fibre.
- Measurements: Brush Height 100mm, Handle Height 50mm, Knot Loft 50mm, Knot Diameter 26mm
- Today we are perhaps the only remaining manufacturer of genuinely hand-made shaving brushes within Great Britain and the British Isles. Our extensive range of products in a large variety of styles & materials make Simpson the number one choice when selecting your next brush.
- Scotsman Alexander Simpson started production of shaving brushes and male grooming ancillaries in 1919 and is widely regarded as a pioneer in the industry. Manufacturing was originally based in the East end of London but later in Clapham. In 1941, following the loss of his factory during the World War II German Luftwaffe blitz, production was moved to the West Country at the famous Nimmer Mill.
- Today Simpson shaving brushes and associated products are manufactured by Progress Shaving Brush (Vulfix) Limited on the historic Isle of Man. They continue to be produced in the traditional way using hand tied knots by time served, skilled workers.
- The Trafalgar is the latest offering from our new line of Alexander Simpson Est. 1919 shaving brushes. This superbly crafted & eye catching lathe turned handle is filled with our uniquely sourced Sovereign grade synthetic fibre.
- Measurements: Brush Height 90mm, Handle Height 46mm, Knot Loft 44mm, Knot Diameter 24mm
- Today we are perhaps the only remaining manufacturer of genuinely hand-made shaving brushes within Great Britain and the British Isles. Our extensive range of products in a large variety of styles & materials make Simpson the number one choice when selecting your next brush.
- Scotsman Alexander Simpson started production of shaving brushes and male grooming ancillaries in 1919 and is widely regarded as a pioneer in the industry. Manufacturing was originally based in the East end of London but later in Clapham. In 1941, following the loss of his factory during the World War II German Luftwaffe blitz, production was moved to the West Country at the famous Nimmer Mill.
- Today Simpson shaving brushes and associated products are manufactured by Progress Shaving Brush (Vulfix) Limited on the historic Isle of Man. They continue to be produced in the traditional way using hand tied knots by time served, skilled workers.
- The Trafalgar is the latest offering from our new line of Alexander Simpson Est. 1919 shaving brushes. This superbly crafted & eye catching lathe turned handle is filled with our uniquely sourced Sovereign grade synthetic fibre.
- Measurements:
- Today we are perhaps the only remaining manufacturer of genuinely hand-made shaving brushes within Great Britain and the British Isles. Our extensive range of products in a large variety of styles & materials make Simpson the number one choice when selecting your next brush.
- The world's finest brush maker - Made entirely by hand, using the same techniques which have not changed since the firm was founded in 1919. The company has a deep rooted heritage within the shaving industry and is generally spoken of as being the benchmark when it comes to the production of precision, high quality shaving tools.
- Measurements: Brush Height 95mm, Handle Height 52mm, Knot Loft 43mm, Knot Diameter 18mm
- Handmade in England with pure badger hair. The badger hair shaving brush is a supreme instrument in the gentleman's arsenal of shaving requisites and a potent symbol of masculine presence in any bathroom.
- The Emperor is ideally suited to bowl lathering and has a very ergonomic classically shaped handle. Comfortable and aesthetically pleasing stamped faux ivory handle
- Today we are perhaps the only remaining manufacturer of genuinely hand-made shaving brushes within Great Britain and the British Isles. Our extensive range of products in a large variety of styles & materials make Simpson the number one choice when selecting your next brush.
- The world's finest brush maker - Made entirely by hand, using the same techniques which have not changed since the firm was founded in 1919. The company has a deep rooted heritage within the shaving industry and is generally spoken of as being the benchmark when it comes to the production of precision, high quality shaving tools.
- Measurements: Brush Height 98mm, Handle Height 47mm, Knot Loft 51mm, Knot Diameter 23mm
- The undisputed King of the synthetic fibre shaving brush world is now available here in our classic faux Ivory handle.
- Here we present our Simpson Special Pure Badger Hair Shaving Brush, widely thought of as the most versatile shaving brush on the market today, packed lovingly with our uniquely sourced Platinum Grade synthetic fibre. The Special Pure Badger Hair Shaving Brush is a brush that does everything & everything well and this synthetic bristle version is no exception. Quickly adored by those who purchase.
- Today we are perhaps the only remaining manufacturer of genuinely hand-made shaving brushes within Great Britain and the British Isles. Our extensive range of products in a large variety of styles & materials make Simpson the number one choice when selecting your next brush.
- Traditionally Simpsons most popular value for money shaving brush in North America, the Commodore is turned in three sizes and filled with Best Badger Hair.
- If you want bang for your buck Badger, the Commodore is the brush to choose.
- Size: Overall brush height - 90mm Handle height - 45mm Knot loft - 45mm Knot diameter - 21mm Weight - 52g
- The world's finest brush maker - Made entirely by hand, using the same techniques which have not changed since the firm was founded in 1919. The company has a deep rooted heritage within the shaving industry and is generally spoken of as being the benchmark when it comes to the production of precision, high quality shaving tools.
- Handmade in England with pure badger hair. The badger hair shaving brush is a supreme instrument in the gentleman's arsenal of shaving requisites and a potent symbol of masculine presence in any bathroom.
- The world's finest brush maker - Made entirely by hand, using the same techniques which have not changed since the firm was founded in 1919. The company has a deep rooted heritage within the shaving industry and is generally spoken of as being the benchmark when it comes to the production of precision, high quality shaving tools.
- Measurements: Brush Height 88mm, Handle Height 44mm, Knot Loft 44mm, Knot Diameter 19mm
- Handmade in England with pure badger hair. The badger hair shaving brush is a supreme instrument in the gentleman's arsenal of shaving requisites and a potent symbol of masculine presence in any bathroom.
- This classically shaped shaving brush with it's ageless handle design is turned in three sizes and filled with Super Badger hair. The Persian Jar is a true Simpson favourite and our of our best selling designs.
- Today we are perhaps the only remaining manufacturer of genuinely hand-made shaving brushes within Great Britain and the British Isles. Our extensive range of products in a large variety of styles & materials make Simpson the number one choice when selecting your next brush.
- Premium Pure Badger Hair Bristles for Superior Lather & Comfort: The Simpsons Duke 3 Shaving Brush features premium pure badger hair for a thick, opulent lather. Its dense, extra-soft bristles create an exceptional shaving experience by evenly distributing shaving cream and lifting hair for a smoother wet shave.
- Classic Faux Ivory Handle for Timeless Elegance & Durability – Designed with a finely crafted faux ivory handle, this luxury shaving brush not only exudes sophistication but also offers exceptional grip and balance. The ergonomic design ensures precise control while lathering, making it a must-have for both traditional and modern wet shavers.
- Perfectly Sized for Optimal Performance & Comfort in Every Shave – With an overall height of 93mm, a handle height of 47mm, a knot loft of 46mm, and a knot diameter of 23mm, the Duke 3 is perfectly proportioned for comfort and efficiency. Its 65g weight adds to the balanced feel, making it an indispensable tool for achieving a refined, effortless shave.
- Handcrafted Excellence by Simpsons – A Legendary Shaving Brush Brand – Recognized as one of the most esteemed shaving brushes worldwide, the Simpsons Duke 3 Pure Badger Brush is meticulously handcrafted to the highest standards. This brush delivers unparalleled durability, performance, and a time-honored wet shaving experience for discerning gentlemen.
- Ideal for Traditional Wet Shaving & a Perfect Gift for Grooming Enthusiasts – Whether you're a seasoned wet shaver or new to the craft, this Simpsons shaving brush is an elite upgrade to your grooming kit. It makes an outstanding gift for men, providing an exquisite lathering experience for a smooth, indulgent shave every time.
Simpson Shaving Brushes: Your Guide to a Better Shave
Simpson shaving brushes have a long history. People trust them for a great lather. This guide helps you choose the right one.
Key Features to Look For
When buying a Simpson brush, look at these main things. They make a big difference in your shave.
- Knot Size: This is the bundle of bristles. Smaller knots are good for face lathering. Bigger knots hold more soap. They create a huge lather fast.
- Knot Shape: Simpson offers bulb and fan shapes. Bulb shapes are rounder at the top. Fan shapes are flatter. Fan shapes are often better for painting soap onto your face.
- Handle Material: Handles come in many styles. Look for something you hold well. Heavy handles feel sturdy. Light handles are easy to move around.
Important Materials
The bristles matter most. Simpson uses three main types. Knowing them helps you pick.
Bristle Types
- Pure Badger: This is the entry-level badger hair. It is stiff. It exfoliates your skin well. It takes the longest to break in.
- Best Badger: This hair is softer than pure. It holds water better. It makes a good lather easily. Many new users start here.
- Super Badger/Two-Band: This hair is very soft. It feels luxurious on the face. It holds a lot of water. It requires a bit more soap.
- Silvertip Badger: This is the top tier. It is the softest hair available. It feels like silk. It is expensive but offers the best feel.
The handle material is also important. Most Simpson handles use high-quality resin or acrylic. These materials are durable and resist water damage.
Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
Simpson generally makes high-quality brushes. However, some details affect performance.
Quality Boosters
- Knot Density: A denser knot packs more hair in. More density means a richer, thicker lather. It feels more luxurious when scrubbing your face.
- Knot Setting: How the hair is set into the handle matters. A well-set knot keeps its shape over time. Poor setting causes shedding too quickly.
Quality Reducers
Watch out for brushes that shed many hairs right away. A few loose hairs are normal when new. Losing many hairs after a few uses suggests a problem with how the knot was glued.
User Experience and Use Cases
How you shave dictates the best brush for you.
Face Lathering vs. Bowl Lathering
If you like to build your lather directly on your face, a medium-sized knot (like 22mm or 24mm) works well. A bulb shape helps you work the lather in circles.
If you prefer using a separate shaving bowl, you might like a larger knot (26mm or 28mm). Larger knots hold more soap, making a huge bowl lather quickly.
Travel vs. Home Use
For travel, look for a shorter, stout handle. These brushes pack easily. For daily home use, you can choose a longer, more decorative handle.
Simpson Shaving Brush Buying FAQs
Q: How do I break in a new Simpson badger brush?
A: You break it in by using it often. Pure badger brushes need more use. Lather your face 5 to 10 times. The hairs will soften and bloom.
Q: Are Simpson brushes too expensive?
A: They cost more than synthetic brushes. But a good Simpson brush lasts for many years, often decades. Think of it as a long-term investment in your daily routine.
Q: What knot size is best for a beginner?
A: A 20mm or 21mm knot is a great starting point. It is easy to manage. It does not hold too much soap, which prevents waste.
Q: Can I use soap and cream with the same brush?
A: Yes, absolutely. Simpson brushes handle both well. Badger hair holds water that helps cream lather easily. It also works hard to build lather from hard soap pucks.
Q: How do I clean my Simpson brush after use?
A: Rinse the knot thoroughly under warm running water. Gently squeeze out the excess water, moving from the base to the tip. Do not pull the hairs.
Q: Should I store my brush upright or upside down?
A: Always store your brush upright, with the bristles pointing up, or on a stand where air can reach the base. Storing it wet and upside down traps moisture, which can damage the glue and wood over time.
Q: What does “bloom” mean for a shaving brush?
A: Bloom refers to the way the bristles spread out after getting wet and worked into a lather. A good bloom means the brush is ready to cover your face evenly.
Q: Are synthetic Simpson brushes available?
A: Yes, Simpson makes excellent synthetic options now. They look similar to their badger brushes but dry much faster. They are great for travel or for those who prefer vegan products.
Q: Will my brush shed hairs forever?
A: No. A quality brush may lose a few hairs during the first few uses. If it keeps shedding large amounts after a month, contact the seller. That is not normal for a well-made Simpson brush.
Q: How does a fan shape differ from a bulb shape in use?
A: A bulb shape is better for whipping up a lather quickly in a bowl. A fan shape spreads the lather out more evenly across the face for application, like you are painting it on.