Washi vs. Other Shears: What Makes Them Stand Out?

 

When it comes to professional salon shears, there are countless brands to choose from. However, Washi shears have earned a strong reputation among stylists and barbers for their exceptional quality, innovative designs, and affordability. But what exactly makes Washi stand out compared to other shear brands?

In this post, we’ll break down the key differences between Washi shears and competitor brands, highlighting why so many professionals trust Washi for their cutting needs.

1. Premium Steel for Long-Lasting Sharpness

One of the biggest factors in a shear’s performance is the quality of the steel used.

✅ Washi Shears:

  • Crafted from high-quality Japanese and cobalt steel, Washi shears are known for their durability and ultra-sharp edges.

  • Many Washi models feature VG-10 and ATS-314 cobalt steel, which hold an edge longer than standard stainless steel.

  • The hardness of these materials means fewer sharpening sessions and extended shear life.

❌ Other Brands:

  • Many competitors use lower-grade stainless steel, which dulls faster and requires more frequent sharpening.

  • Some brands offer high-end steel options, but they often come with much higher price tags.

2. Ergonomic & Innovative Designs

Comfort is key when using shears all day, and Washi prioritizes ergonomic designs that help reduce wrist strain and improve control.

✅ Washi Shears:

  • Offers a variety of handle styles, including offset, crane, and swivel thumb shears, to promote a more natural hand position.

  • Smart Shear technology allows for adjustable thumb angles to customize the fit.

  • Designed to minimize hand fatigue, making them ideal for long cutting sessions.

❌ Other Brands:

  • Many traditional shears come in a standard straight handle design, which can cause wrist discomfort over time.

  • Some premium brands offer ergonomic models, but often at a much higher cost.

3. Precision Cutting Performance

Stylists love Washi because they cut cleanly without pushing or folding hair—a must for detailed work.

✅ Washi Shears:

  • Features razor-sharp convex edges, making them perfect for precision cutting, slide cutting, and dry cutting.

  • Many models come with anti-push edges to prevent hair from slipping during the cut.

  • Designed to hold their sharpness longer than standard beveled-edge shears.

❌ Other Brands:

  • Some lower-end shears have beveled edges, which don’t offer the same effortless glide through hair.

  • Some brands require more frequent sharpening due to softer steel.

4. Affordable Pricing Without Sacrificing Quality

High-quality shears don’t have to break the bank, and Washi proves that.

✅ Washi Shears:

  • Offers affordable pricing compared to other premium brands, making them accessible to both new and experienced stylists.

  • Often half the price of other high-end shears while maintaining similar or superior quality.

❌ Other Brands:

  • Some premium brands charge $600+ per pair, making them a big investment for stylists.

  • Lower-cost shears often compromise on steel quality and cutting performance.

5. Try Before You Buy with DRWS!

One of the best things about buying Washi shears through Thad at Don’t Run With Scissors (DRWS) is that you can test them out before committing!

✅ Why Buy from Thad?
✔️ Try-before-you-buy program – Experience how Washi shears feel in your hands before making a purchase.
✔️ Expert advice – Thad can help you choose the right shear for your cutting style.
✔️ Local service – No need to order online and hope for the best—Thad will personally bring the shears to you!

Final Verdict: Why Stylists Love Washi

If you’re looking for a shear brand that offers high-quality steel, ergonomic designs, long-lasting sharpness, and an affordable price, Washi is hard to beat. Whether you’re a seasoned stylist or just starting out, Washi provides professional-grade shears that perform exceptionally well—without the luxury-brand price tag.

📅 Interested in trying a pair? Thad will be stopping by salons and barbershops throughout the Fox Valley this April! Have your shears ready for sharpening, and ask him about testing a pair of Washi shears during his visit.

#WashiShears #ThadsDRWS #StaySharp #SalonTools #ShearCare #HaircuttingTools

Thad's Don't Run With Scissors | Greenville, WI
(920) 284-6395


Comments

Post a Comment

Popular posts from this blog

How Often Should You Sharpen Your Shears?

Image
Whether you're a seasoned stylist or a fresh-on-the-floor barber, your shears are one of the most important tools in your hands. But even the best shears won’t perform their best if they aren’t regularly maintained. One of the most common questions we hear is: “How often should I get my shears sharpened?” The answer isn’t one-size-fits-all—but there are some general guidelines to keep your blades in peak condition and protect your investment. The Short Answer: Every 3 to 6 Months Most professionals find that sharpening their shears every 500–700 haircuts , or about 2–4 times a year , is a good baseline. If you’re a high-volume stylist working full-time, you’ll likely fall closer to the 3-month mark. If you’re part-time or in a specialty role (like dry cutting or barbering), you might stretch to 6 months. Factors That Affect How Often You Need Sharpening 1. Frequency of Use Daily use naturally dulls blades faster. If you're cutting all day, every day, your shears are get...
Read more

Common Mistakes That Can Shorten the Life of Your Blades

Image
As a stylist or barber, your shears are your most valuable tool. Keeping them in top condition ensures precision, efficiency, and comfort. However, many professionals unknowingly make mistakes that can prematurely wear down their blades. Here are some common missteps to avoid so your shears stay sharper for longer. 1. Cutting the Wrong Materials Your shears are designed specifically for cutting hair—nothing else. Using them to cut foil, plastic, paper, or even combs can quickly dull the blades and cause nicks that impact performance. Keep a separate pair of utility scissors for non-hair cutting tasks. 2. Improper Cleaning and Maintenance Hair, moisture, and product buildup can corrode metal and cause shears to lose their edge. To prevent this: Wipe your shears clean after every use. Use a soft cloth with a small amount of shear oil to prevent rust and buildup. Deep clean them regularly, especially around the pivot point. 3. Dropping Your Shears Accidents happen, but dropping your shear...
Read more

How to Test Shear Sharpness with a Tissue

Image
  If you’re a stylist or barber, you already know that dull shears don’t just slow you down—they can actually damage hair, leaving it frayed and unhealthy-looking. But how do you quickly check if your shears are still as sharp as they should be? One of the simplest and surprisingly effective methods is the tissue test. Here’s how to do it safely and what it tells you about your shears. What You’ll Need A single-ply facial tissue (like the kind from a regular tissue box) Your shears, freshly cleaned and dry Tip: Avoid thicker or multi-ply tissues—they’re too forgiving and might hide minor nicks or dull spots. Step-by-Step: The Tissue Test Hold the tissue : Fold it once or twice so it’s still thin, then pinch it gently between your thumb and finger, letting it hang freely. Point-cut the tissue : Using just the tips of your shears, make small cuts into the tissue as if you’re doing precision point cutting. Observe the cut : If the shears glide through easily and le...
Read more