Like Slur, I'm in the badger/cream, boar/soap camp. I use equal amounts of both. I shave after I shower and when using a soap, I prewet the soap prior to the shower. It's very easy to whip up a lather with just about any soap with this method. Also, soaps are easier to lather if used every day since they stay more moist. Cream can be easily used even if it has sat for weeks.