If you’re deciding between a taper or a fade for your next haircut, you’re not alone—both styles are popular choices for men looking for a clean, sharp, and versatile look. At Rush Hair & Beauty, our expert stylists are always available to help you choose the right cut that will provide a sharp and polished finish.
While both the taper and the fade can work well with various hair types, it’s important to understand the distinct characteristics of each style. This knowledge will help you to select the best option based on factors such as your own individual personal style and preferences.
What is a Taper Haircut?
A Taper Haircut is a classic style that gradually shortens the hair from the top of the head down to the sides and back while maintaining some length at the neckline. This subtle transition creates a clean, polished look that can work well in both professional and casual settings. The versatility of a Taper Haircut means that it can be adjusted to suit different hair lengths and tailored to individual preferences.
Michael Rackett, a member of the Rush Artistic team, explains, “A Taper Haircut is a fantastic option for those looking for a well-groomed style that is low maintenance. It blends effortlessly and can be customised to keep more length or going shorter depending on your desired look”.
What are the Different Types of Tapers?
While Taper Haircuts generally follow the same gradual shortening technique, the level of contrast as placement of the taper can vary.
Classic Taper: The classic taper provides a subtle, blended appearance that gradually transitions into the neckline. It is a timeless option that maintains a neat and refined look without any drastic contrasts.
Low Taper: A low taper begins just above the ears and offers a subtle, natural finish with minimal contrast between the longer and shorter lengths. This style is an excellent choice for someone seeking a refined look without excessive sharpness.
High Taper: For a modern and edgy look, a high taper haircut starts higher up on the head and is cut closer to the scalp. This technique creates a stronger contrast and a sharper appearance, making it an excellent choice for those who prefer a bold and stylish finish.
What is a Fade Haircut?
A fade haircut is a modern and sharp hairstyle that features a gradual shortening of hair from the top down to the sides and back, often blending seamlessly into the skin. Unlike a taper, which retains some length at the bottom, a fade provides a more dramatic transition, resulting in a clear, high-contrast finish. This versatile cut can be customised to match different preferences, with variations in intensity and placement that allow for either a subtle or bold look. As a result, it has become a popular choice for individuals seeking a sleek, trendy appearance.
What are the Different Types of Fades?
Fades come in various styles, each offering a different level of contrast and impact. Here are the three main types:
Low Fade: A low fade starts just above the ear and gradually blends into the skin, creating a subtle and natural transition. This style keeps the haircut looking sharp while maintaining a softer, more understated finish.
Mid Fade: Sitting between a high and low fade, the mid fade offers a balanced look that suits all hair types. It provides a noticeable contrast while remaining versatile enough for both professional and casual styles.
High Fade: For a bold, statement-making look, the high fade starts near the temples and creates a sharp contrast between the longer hair on top and the closely cropped sides. This style gives a clean, modern edge that stands out.
What’s the Difference Between a Men’s Taper & Fade?
Fades Are Closer-Cropped Than Tapers: Fades are cut much closer to the scalp, often blending down to the skin for a seamless finish, while tapers maintain some length at the bottom for a softer transition.
Tapers Are More Clean-Cut: With their gradual length change, tapers offer a polished and refined look, making them ideal for professional settings or those who prefer a more classic style.
Fades Are Trendier: Fades have become a staple in modern street style, known for their bold, edgy appeal that suits contemporary fashion trends.
Fades Offer More Contrast, Tapers Are More Subtle: A fade creates a striking contrast between the longer hair on top and the closely shaved sides, whereas a taper has a more gradual, blended transition for a natural and understated finish.
Fades are better for textured hair, tapers suit all hair types: Fades can highlight natural texture or curls in short hairstyles, while tapers are suitable for all hair textures, offering flexibility in styling.
What is a Taper Fade?
A taper fade is a hybrid haircut that blends elements of both a taper and a fade, creating a smooth, seamless transition. It starts with the gradual length reduction of a taper but blends into the shorter, skin-close effect of a fade. This combination offers a balance between a clean, professional look and a more defined, modern style.
Taper fades can be tailored to suit different hair types and personal preferences, making them a versatile choice for those who want a refined yet trendy haircut. It works well on straight, wavy, and curly hair, offering a polished finish that grows out naturally.
How to Choose Between a Taper vs Fade Haircut
Choosing the right style depends on several factors, including hair type, face shape, and maintenance preferences:
Hair Type: Fades work best for thicker hair, as they create a sharper contrast and structured look. Tapers are more flexible, suiting both thick and fine hair, allowing for a softer transition.
Face Shape: A fade can help elongate rounder faces by drawing attention upwards. A taper works well for more angular features, offering balance without drastic contrast.
Maintenance: Fades require frequent touch-ups to maintain their sharp, skin-close finish. Tapers grow out more naturally, requiring fewer barber visits.
How to Ask Your Barber for a Taper or a Fade Cut
When getting a haircut, specify whether you want a taper, which features a gradual transition with longer hair at the bottom, or a fade, which has a close-cut finish. Clearly indicate how high or low you want the fade or taper to start. It’s also helpful to bring reference photos to help your barber understand your vision better.
At Rush, our stylists provide consultations to help you choose a cut that complements your face shape, hair type, and lifestyle.
Summary: Taper vs Fade Haircuts
Both tapers and fades provide sharp, stylish finishes, but they cater to different preferences:
- Tapers offer a more subtle and versatile look, making them ideal for professional settings.
- Fades deliver a bold, modern appearance with more contrast.
If you’re unsure which style is best for you, our expert stylists at Rush can help you find the perfect cut.
Book Your Hair Appointment Now
Ready for a fresh new look? Book your taper or fade haircut at your nearest Rush salon today. Check out our latest promotions and let our expert stylists craft a sharp, polished style that suits you.
FAQ’s
It depends on your style preference. A taper offers a subtle, professional look, while a fade is sharper and trendier.
No, a taper gradually reduces hair length but keeps some at the bottom, whereas a fade blends down to the skin.
Yes, tapers grow out more naturally, requiring less maintenance compared to fades.
Tapers work well for those who prefer a clean, low maintenance look suitable for all hair types.
Fades are ideal for those who like a modern, edgy style with sharp contrast.
Prices vary but tapers typically cost less than high-maintenance fades.
Fades often cost slightly more due to the precision and upkeep required.
