If you want a shell strop, have a look at The Superior Shave. He occasionally has Horween shell strops made by Walkin' Horse. I have the 2" wide one with the raw linen back; really prefer that linen texture to tightly woven linen or cotton. Many folks say to splurge on a 3" width; I have 2.5" strops mostly, but don't miss that half inch at all when I use my shell strop. You just X-stroke.

As far as preferences for what I have at hand, I far prefer the Horween shell to my Illinois 127, which is steerhide. I like my latigo the least. For pastes, I use wool felt on the SRP modular paddle.

Best wishes and happy shopping.