(This post was last modified: 03-15-2016, 12:48 AM by NeoXerxes.)
Antica Barbieria Colla AND Boellis Panama 1924
SPECIAL NOTE: I know this is unconventional, but I am reviewing these two soaps together because I find them to be similar in overall feel (though they do have some characteristic differences, which I will note below). Due to their similarity in scent and style, some may prefer to purchase one rather than both. Consequently, since this review has been adapted for a comprehensive and comparative format, I am combining the performance and post-shave feel categories.
Overall rating: 10/10 for Antica Barbieria Colla soap; 10/10 for Boellis Panama 1924; 9/10 for Antica Barbieria Colla cream
Packaging: Between ABC and Boellis, Boellis definitely gets the nod on packaging. The ceramic bowl is iconic, beautiful, and classy, and really lets the user know at first glance that this is a luxury product. ABC doesn't have a ceramic bowl option. The soap version of ABC simply comes wrapped, while the cream comes in a plastic bowl with a high quality paper label. From what I understand, in a rather odd design choice, the ABC soap can be used as a refill for the cream bowl, as the soap has the same diameter. For this reason some users choose to purchase and finish the ABC cream before purchasing the soap as a refill.
Olfactory impressions: ABC and Boellis have a very similar scent. Both are extraordinarily simple almond-based fragrances. The way I'd describe the difference is that ABC seems to have more of that "cherry" vibe that is present in some almond scents. Both are of excellent quality and smell very natural, but scent strength is on the low side, with ABC being noticeably weaker (nearly non-existent before lathering) than Boellis. Don't bother with either of these soaps if you are expecting an explosive and powerful almond fragrance, as neither will deliver in that regard. For me a lack of scent strength is irrelevant, so I have not factored this into the score.
Performance characteristics & post-shave feel/look: At the outset I should note that both brands of soap perform flawlessly - I have not a single complaint. In terms of style, these soaps are obviously products of Italian barbershop brands, as they are designed for maximum effectiveness without any frills or complications.
Let's start with the differences between ABC soap and ABC cream (which is more of a "croap" in consistency). To me, ABC cream and ABC soap are distinctive products despite having an essentially identical formula. For whatever reason, after using both for a period of time, the soap performs a bit better for me. The soap is more slick (in use and with residual slickness) than the cream, and has a better post-shave feel. Additionally, in terms of cost it is a much better value. For that reason and for reasons of performance, I would recommend ABC soap over the cream every time. While it was very good, I wasn't blown away by the performance of the cream, but the soap certainly impressed me - following this reasoning, I have deducted 1 point from the ABC cream score.
ABC versus Boellis is a much tougher contest since, again, they are similar in vibe and equal in the quality of performance, but actually have different characteristics. Basically, I think ABC is slicker, but Boellis has better protection and a more heavily moisturized post-shave feel. In terms of post-shave look and complexion, ABC ensures that the skin looks completely neutral, while Boellis imbues a slight layer of moisture - performance here could go either way. Interestingly I found that in hard water ABC performs better (it is the slickest soap I've ever used with hard water) and lathers easier, but in moderately soft water Boellis improves significantly. Before getting my water softener I’d have selected ABC, but now, overall, I might give the nod to Boellis - like with post-shave look, it could go either way though. Essentially, if you prefer extreme slickness, pick ABC. If you prefer having a more moisturizing post-shave and better protection, Boellis is the one to beat.
The main reason that I’d ever so slightly (and I mean slightly) favor Boellis even though slickness is my most important performance metric is that it is memorable and exceptional in two areas where ABC is exceptional in one - that said, ABC is one of the slickest soaps I have ever used. As always, keep in mind that this is entirely subjective. Some folks prefer a completely neutral post-shave feel and look, which ABC has, and therefore might consider ABC to be the exceptional product in that area. Others prefer their shaving products to imbue some level of moisture into the skin, which Boellis certainly does. The bottom line is that these are both excellent soaps, and you won't sacrifice anything by selecting one over the other. However, I should note again that to me both soaps are quite similar (I feel that Boellis is almost a tallow version of ABC), and while they do perform differently, for many it would be redundant to own both.
Who might like these products: If you want a top-performing Italian barbershop shaving soap, ABC and/or Boellis is for you. In my view Boellis is positioned better as a "luxury" product, primarily due to the ceramic bowl. Both brands offer refill options that can be found at a relatively low price, which may be a good option for many who wish to use their own custom bowls (I should note that in terms of puck consistency, Boellis is a bit softer and thus easier to mold into shape). Lovers of slickness in particular might find ABC soap to be one of their top favorites, while seekers of in-shave protection are likely to favor Boellis.
Who might not like these products: If you don't like simple fragrances, can't stand weak scents, or don't like the smell of almond, stay away from both products. Also, I've heard some folks express a dislike for the "cherry" aspect of an almond scent. If you do not care for that cherry vibe, keep in mind that ABC has it more than Boellis.
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Thanks for reading gents! If you have any comments or suggestions on the format of this review, please let me know.
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My next review will be on Santa Maria Novella cream.
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