What to get on a trip to AoS?

[Smott]

I mistook AOS for a "big company" wannabe in the wet-shaving world, but I got a sample of their Ocean Kelp cream and I really like it! The prices are what they are, but the stuff is pretty good.

[bpire2002]

I've got an AOS store in my local mall, going to check it out.....and from what i can gather ill opt for creams and soaps!

[scottish steve]

As soon as I read the title of this thread I thought "Nothing."
I wouldn't give them my money. I did try a tub of their sandalwood cream once and yes, it's very good, but there are many other products just as or very nearly as good for a lot less money and I hate their whole attitude. High pressure salesmen and overpriced products = you're not getting my cash.

[TwistToOpen]

I use the AoS "lavender essential oil for sensitive skin" shaving cream. I recommend it. Lathers very easily and smells great.

[BigBull]

Before joining B&B I used AOS exclusively. I've tried them all except from Lavender (don't like the smell). If you want to try an oil, they make great oils. Their creams are excellent. I believe their soaps are a bit lacking but I use Sandalwood. Their AS balms are excellent, expensive yes, but go a LONG way. My $.02 if you want to go w a few multiple scents. Buy their creams. Sandalwood & Ocean Kelp is where I'd start (great cold & warm weather covered) and get a bottle of Unscented oil so it doesn't clash w either. I only use Sandalwood balm cuz OKelp only comes in gel...which I haven't tried. ALL of their hard goods are a bit overpriced IMO but you can't go wrong w their soft. Check online sometimes they have a buy $100 get $25 off coupons and ask in store...tell em it's your first visit. Enjoy it! Be ready to drop some cash!

Good luck on the tables if you play. As Wesley Snipes said "Always Bet on Black!"

[bobfarvour]

The pre Shave oil is worthless. Another scheme to get money from you.
The balm is thick and uncomfortable. In hot, humid weather it is akin to walking around with Crisco on your face. It's a little better if you water it down some, but still uncomfortable to me.
The creams are good, but there are better ones that are cheaper.
The Soaps are top shelf, but a little high priced.

Their Sandalwood used to be the best scent this side of heaven, but they've changed it I think. My puck of soap I bought last fall doesn't smell a thing like the cream and balm I had bought the year before. It is still a lather champ though.

Razors, brushes, and anything else they have are a complete rip off.

In the end, to me, they just aren't worth the hype. Not even close.

[BigBull]

Obviously your gonna get differing opinions. Check it out, have them sample some products for you which they are happy to do and decide for yourself.

[rwbrown04]

So I went in and talked to a very nice and down to earth salesperson. We just talked for a bit about how many razors they sell, what the best scent was etc. I got comments on my most recent shave from yesterday (second with OC so a little rough).

I ended up walking out with a sandalwood soap refill and the unscented preshave oil (which oddly has a nice clove scent).

Definitely pricey but it was nice to just browse around for a bit, chat about straights, etc.

[Go West Young Man]

AoS soaps aren't that pricey if you calculate on a 'per shave' basis - they last FOREVER!

[syngent]

I've been DE shaving for a few months now. I'll be heading to Las Vegas tomorrow on business and I know there's an Art of Shaving in the Mandalay Shops that i'm dying to visit. Last time i was there i hadnt started in the DE shaving and didnt go in.

I'm looking for advice on what i might look for while there. Mostly looking for soaps and creams and other products as i havent found a great local source yet. I'd like to pick of some variety but I'm looking for anything considered a must have from this retailer.

For background. I have a EJ 89 and recently acquired a gillette SS and gillette new OC. I've gotten a blade sampler, van der hagen set (brush, mug and soap), c.o.bigelow as my daily cream.

AOS lavender is one of the best lav scents out there,.. also TheGR is in Las vegas, and their "the standard" line is a great lavender with certified organis EO's if they are close to one another you may want to hit them up as well, i love the aftershave balm they have

[mattnick]

Give them all a sniff and get all that agree with you! Variety is the spice of life.

I really like the sandalwood soap and ocean kelp cream.

[jesseix]

If you haven't been shaved before by someone else, a Royal Shave is worth it just for the barber experience. You can also ask them questions and get advice on your beard type.

Definitely the best shave experience I've had, I don't know that I'd want to pay the $65 they charge for it but they opened a new store close to my office and gave out a bunch of vouchers for free shaves so I was able to take advantage of one of those. Was a great way to treat myself after a hectic week of work.

[BigBull]

I think you scored with this purchase! That oil can be used with any and all soaps and creams you have and will last forever. You really only need a dime size for the whole face...just massage it in REAL well focusing on ATG. Enjoy it!

So I went in and talked to a very nice and down to earth salesperson. We just talked for a bit about how many razors they sell, what the best scent was etc. I got comments on my most recent shave from yesterday (second with OC so a little rough).

I ended up walking out with a sandalwood soap refill and the unscented preshave oil (which oddly has a nice clove scent).

Definitely pricey but it was nice to just browse around for a bit, chat about straights, etc.

[takeshi]

Obviously your gonna get differing opinions. Check it out, have them sample some products for you which they are happy to do and decide for yourself.

^ This. Get whatever you're interested. It's YMMV like anything else. I'd only get their soaps but I wouldn't tell others to only get their soaps. Each person needs to decide based on whatever priorities and preferences that person may have.

[BigBull]

What NOT to get: I recently read someone actually purchased their $18 Alum block. REALLY? Or their $12 Alum pen. Are you SERIOUS?

[srmd22]

About the shave oil: it is very thick, and it tends to clock up razors and add drag to the straight razor. However, I have found that by using just a teeny-tiny amount-- like a single small drop for the entire face-- it actually works great, no clogs, no drag. I find a tiny bit of any pre-shave oil does improve my shave, but it is not essential to a good experience.

I love AoS soaps, and use the sandlewood and lemon. I would like to try the creams to, but I my shave supply drawer is full right now, so maybe when I get to the bottom of jar of trompers.