I switched to cold water a while ago and never looked back. Best shave ever, lot of irritation disappeared, also very refreshing. For me, I also find I get a better, closer shave with the cold water. Now, that's not saying a hot water shave isn't fun once in awhile, but that's the whole fun of this, do what you feel like, use what blade or soap you feel like, when you feel like...it all comes down to what works for you...and both way's will provide a great shave.