Henson AL13 Color Comparison: Which Anodized Finish Matches Your Style?

Choosing a safety razor is a deeply personal decision—and not just because of the shave. The color and finish of your razor sit on your counter every day, so it deserves to be a piece you enjoy looking at. The Henson AL13 series offers several anodized aluminum finishes, each with its own personality, durability, and visual effect. Whether you're buying your first AL13 or adding a second color to your rotation, this comparison will help you match the finish to your style.

Anodizing isn't just a cosmetic coating; it's an electrochemical process that hardens the aluminum and prevents corrosion. That means your razor's color stays vibrant for years with minimal care. In this guide, we'll look at the most popular Henson AL13 colors—Aircraft Aluminum, Steel Blue, Canada Red, Jet Black, and the limited USA 250th Blue—and break down how they look in different lighting, how they age, and which bathroom styles they complement best.

Classic Neutrals: Aircraft Aluminum and Jet Black

Aircraft Aluminum is the original AL13 finish—bare, raw aluminum that's been bead-blasted and anodized clear. It has a subtle matte silver look that catches soft highlights without being flashy. This finish works beautifully in modern, minimalist, or industrial bathrooms where you want the tool to blend in rather than stand out. It's also the lightest color option, so any scratches or wear show less than on darker finishes.

Jet Black is the opposite end of the neutral spectrum. The deep anodized black has a slight sheen that makes the razor's precise machining pop. It's available on both the standard Henson AL13 and the 'The Henson Razor in Jet Black' variant. Jet Black pairs well with dark vanities, brushed nickel fixtures, or bold tile. One tradeoff: dark finishes can show water spots or soap scum more readily, so a quick wipe after shaving keeps it looking pristine.

• Both neutral finishes are easy to pair with any Restore Post-Shave Balm packaging since they don't clash with colors.

Bold Colors: Steel Blue and Canada Red

Steel Blue is a rich, slightly muted blue with a metallic sheen that shifts from navy to a lighter teal depending on the light. It's one of the most popular AL13 colors because it adds personality without being loud. The 'Henson AL13 in Steel Blue' is a consistent bestseller for good reason—it looks equally at home in a coastal-themed bathroom or a modern barber-style setup. If you're torn between USA 250th Blue vs Steel Blue, note that Steel Blue is darker and more subdued, while the 250th is brighter and more patriotic.

Canada Red is a bold, saturated crimson that stands out on any counter. This anodized finish is deep and glossy, almost like a candy apple red. It's perfect for shavers who want their gear to be a conversation starter. The 'Henson AL13 in Canada Red' works well in rustic or vintage-inspired bathrooms, especially with brass or copper accents. One practical note: red anodizing can fade slightly if exposed to direct sunlight for years, so keep it out of a windowsill if you want the color to stay punchy.

• If you shave in a shared bathroom, bold colors make it easy to spot your razor at a glance.

Limited Editions: USA 250th Blue and Other Special Finishes

The USA 250th Blue finish was released as a limited-edition tribute to the United States Semiquincentennial. It's a brighter, more electric blue than Steel Blue, with a subtle sparkle effect in direct light. This finish appeals to collectors and patriots alike, but its availability is limited. If you see one, it's a good idea to grab it quickly because once they're gone, they may not return. The anodized razor finish is identical in quality to the core colors, so durability is on par.

Henson occasionally releases other limited colors (like copper or gold), but those are typically different materials rather than anodized aluminum. For the AL13 line, the current core colors are Aircraft Aluminum, Steel Blue, Canada Red, and Jet Black, with the USA 250th Blue being the only recent special run. If you're after a truly unique look, keep an eye on Henson's announcements—but don't overlook the standard finishes; they're far from ordinary.

• When comparing razor aesthetics, consider not just the razor itself but how it looks next to your brush, bowl, and stand like 'The Henson Stand'.

Matching Your Finish to Your Shave Routine and Decor

Your choice of anodized finish can influence your daily shave experience. A bright color like Canada Red might make you look forward to morning grooming even more, while a neutral like Aircraft Aluminum keeps the focus on technique. If you travel frequently, a darker finish like Jet Black hides scratches better than lighter ones, though all AL13 finishes are quite durable thanks to the anodization process.

Bathroom decor is another factor. Stainless steel and chrome fixtures pair well with any AL13 color, but if you have brushed nickel or matte black hardware, Jet Black or Aircraft Aluminum will match seamlessly. For bathrooms with warm wood tones or brass fixtures, Canada Red or Steel Blue add a complementary pop of color. And if you have a coastal or blue-themed bathroom, the USA 250th Blue or Steel Blue will feel right at home. Ultimately, the best Henson color is the one that makes you smile when you pick it up.

• Don't forget to pair your razor with a matching or contrasting 'Restore Post-Shave Balm' to complete the grooming aesthetic.

The Henson AL13's anodized finishes are more than just colors—they're an expression of your personal style and a daily reminder that shaving can be enjoyable. Whether you choose the understated Aircraft Aluminum, the bold Canada Red, the classic Jet Black, or one of the blues, each finish offers the same precise, mild shave that Henson is known for. Pick the one that feels right to you, and enjoy a great shave every morning.