Not knowing what to expect, I decided to purchase the 26mm cashmere brush and I must say I was very impressed with the softnesss of the brush and for me the backbone was perfect. I have other synthetic brushes in my den which are soft but in my opinion this brush moves to my top shelf. I love the red and clear handle and it feels good in my hands. This shaving brush was well worth the cost and to tell you the truth, having used it, I would have paid more. Good job AP shave. 😀