An Expensive Razor Worth the Price
I have to admit I’m a bit of a geek when it comes to new gadgets –- especially those that have something to do with shaving. My bathroom drawer is nearly filled with every type of razor imaginable. When I learned that The Art of Shaving had teamed up with Gillette to create an upscale version of the Fusion Razor, I knew I just had to have one. Of course, being who I am, I opted for the most expensive model available, the The Art of Shaving Gillette Power Fusion Razor.
To say this razor, at $150, is slightly over-the-top would be a fair statement. Not only does it have 6 cutting blades and a vibrating motor, but the thing also has a headlight. Being the skeptic that I am, I was determined to find something about this razor that was just marketing hype, but I’ve found the razor lives up to its claims.
In the hand, the razor feels a bit heavy, but the extra weight and size provide excellent balance and control. The surface of the handle is textured and gives a nice grip. In the hand the Power Razor feels good enough to justify the price.
Six Blades and a Battery
The five blade Fusion head gives a close, comfortable shave. That said, at times I believe there are so many blades packed into this little surface that the tight spacing between them does not allow the hairs to spring back up between passes. One feature of the razor that I really love is the blade on the flip side of the head. This blade makes shaving under the nose and straightening sideburns very easy. I wish Gillette would put one of those blades on the flip side of the Mach III head.
As a fan of the Gillette Mach III Turbo, I was pleased to learn The Art of Shaving version of the Fusion Power Razor includes the tiny motor that causes the razor to vibrate at a high frequency. This may sound gimmicky at first, but the vibration really does reduce friction and drag.
I did not find the headlight to be of much use, but my bathroom has enough light to give the sun a run for its money. For those with a dimly lit shaving area, the light would likely prove helpful in reducing shadows under the jaw and chin area.
My Advice
Overall, I can comfortably recommend this razor and find very few flaws in the design. The price may be a bit high for some, but those looking to be on the cutting edge will find a way to justify the expense. There is also an optional stand and shaving brush for those who really want to splurge. The Art of Shaving Fusion Chrome Power Razor is the iPod of razors. For more information on this razor, visit The Art of Shaving or click here to purchase one now.
For those on a budget, you'll find similar, albeit less stylish results, using the Gillette Power Fusion Razor for about $12.
For advice on shaving, please read my article Getting a Barbershop Shave at Home.
