What should somene look for n a strop?

stIff or flexable? hard or soft? same color throughout or darker on top? should It have any cracks In the face? and what shuld the fabrIc feel lIke?

Strops are really an individual choice when it comes to things like colors and draw or resistance. I do recommend a 3 inch strop these days as most razors are 3 inches long and I think it is easier to learn on and use one. Stops like Roo and Water Buffalo are thin and have heavier draws. Horsehide is all over the place, but usually is slick to start out with. Bridle is an excellent choice as are some of the other cowhides out there. Latigo's have a heavier draw after break in although you have to get through a layer of oil and wax to get to it. Cordovan these days is the most expensive and also starts out slick. For the most part, with a quality leather, all you have to do to break a strop in is rub your palm on it daily before use until the palm feels warm. This is a great way to treat your strop on an ongoing basis as well.

Take your time and look around. Don't be in a hurry.

Have fun

Lynn's post pretty much sums it all up. I would add that the type of strop is less important than the arm that wields it; learning to strop properly or, perhaps more importantly, learning how to use your strop will contribute more to an excellent shave than finding a magical strip of leather. Just my two cents...

Well I must be doing things right because I took one of those vintage straight razor wannabe razors and honed and stropped it. Then I performed the hanging hair test and it did wonderfully, so I go to show my wife and cut the tip of my forefinger off literally, but at least I got it out of the way quickly and now ill be using my brain.