Types of Fades for Men: Low, Mid & High Cuts

For modern men’s grooming, nothing defines a sharp and stylish appearance more than a well-done fade haircut. Whether you are going for a clean-cut professional look or something more bold and edgy, fade styles offer so much versatility. There are styles of fades that give you subtlety (low fades that blend into your neckline) and also styles that offer bold contrast (high fades that really accentuate the rest of the dimensions of your hair). There is a fade for every hair type, face shape, and personal style. Below, we’ll break down the most popular types of fades for men: low, mid, and high. By the end, you’ll have an idea of what fade will elevate your look.

Types of Fade Haircut

What is a fade haircut?

• Simply put, a fade haircut is when we have a transition of the hair lengths, usually from short on the sides to longer on top.
• Fades are sleek, modern, and look great on almost every face shape. The types of fades for men with the top 5 frequently asked questions are trending in 2025 because there are a lot of different options and styles available for faded looks, and also faded looks are a clean look.

Why Fades Are Popular in 2025

• Fades are among the top groom requests at barbershops all across the USA in 2025. Well, as we said, a fade provides a sharp and stylish look that goes with everything you throw on, casual, business, or formal. Also, you have great options for a variety of top hairstyles, such as the pompadour, quiff hairstyle, buzz cut, and types of fades for men.

Low Fade Haircut

• The low fade begins just above the hairline, goes around the ears, and curves around the head.
• It is a subtle and professional fade.
• Low fades look classic with minimum skin on display.
• It looks best with office settings, oval or long face shapes, and primarily textured hair.

Mid Fade Haircut

• A mid fade starts fading halfway up the sides and back of your head.
• A mid fade provides a greater contrast than a low fade, but not as much as a high fade! Basically, it’s right in the middle, with both boldness and use of your natural hair color evident.
• Best for: Most face shapes, but great for round and heart-shaped faces in particular.

High Fade Haircut

• A high fade starts high on the head, high and tight, to look bold and edgy, or things are really going awry! High fades are great for types of fades for men, defining jawlines, and/or presenting thick or curly hair to its fullest extent.
• Best for: bold personalities, square-shaped faces, and guys who appreciate a modern cut.

Skin Fade vs. Taper Fade Skin/Zero Fade:

• Fades down to bare skin. Fresh and modern. Taper Fade: A gradual fade that ends with longer hair on the top of your head, towards your neck. Traditional look.
• Both of these fade styles fall under the male hairstyle types in our types of fades for men and are often confused by beginners, but there is a clear difference with the degree to which the fading actually occurs!

Drop Fade vs Burst Fade

• Drop Fade: A tapered shape that curves behind both ears and then enlarges the area above. The finish looks dipped.
• Burst Fade: Fades down the area above the sideburns but only fades the hair in the ear area. Think of a semicircle.
• Both the drop fade and the burst fade are modern variations on the fade and a popular choice for those that want to update their appearance with a new haircut.

Bald Fade vs Shadow Fade

• Bald Fade This is any fade that fades to the scalp, meaning the hair on top is cut clean and sharp.
• Shadow Fade: A fade that tapers down to very short hair but is not completely bald.
• Both bald and shadow fade are modern interpretations of styles for men’s fades, as they are a great option for stark contrasts in your haircut.

Temple Fade (Brooklyn Fade)

• A temple fade, or Brooklyn fade, is a unique style that fades only around the temple areas.
• A popular style in urban fashion for the simplicity, cleanliness, and minimalist approach, therefore a great option for those with Afro-textured hair.

Taper Fade for Men

• A taper fade is a classic haircut that never goes out of style. Notice how I said a “taper fade” and not a “fade haircut.” A taper fade is concentrated towards the end of the haircut, where hair is shortened towards the neckline and sideburns.
• The taper fade is included in every list of types of fade haircuts for men and is among the top 5 frequently asked questions. The reason why this is common is because taper fade haircuts can be worn many ways!

What Fade is Best for Your Face Shape?

• Round: High fades to create length.
• Square: Mid odropop fades for structure.
• Oval: Almost anything works.
• Heart: Low fades to balance forehead.

Fade Haircut Maintenance.

• Get regular trims every 2-3 weeks.
• Use pomade or pre-styling cream for definition.
• Moisturize your scalp if going with a skin fade.

How to Ask Your Barber for Your Fade.

• Be very specific. Just say:
• “I want a low fade with a textured top.”
• “Please give me a high skin fade with a side part.”
• Show pictures to aid clarification.

Types of Fades for Men with Beards

• Fades fade into beards beautifully. When asking for a fade, ask your barber for a fade that will blend nicely into your facial hair.
• This gives you a unified style.

Discover the key differences between high and low fades to find your ideal style. Read our guide: High Fade vs Low Fade: Which Cut Is Right for You?

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