Fade vs Taper Fade Haircut: Which one suits you better?

Victor Young

Marketing & Business Development Manager

  • Fade Haircut: A bold, modern style where hair length decreases dramatically from the top to the sides and back.
  • Taper Fade: A balanced, versatile cut that blends the subtle decrease of a taper with the dramatic contrast of a fade.
  • The Difference: While both styles are trendy, the fade offers a more striking contrast, while the taper fade provides a subtler, more flexible look.

Let's dive into the nitty-gritty of these haircuts, help you discover the best fit for your style and head shape.

The Fade: Classic and clean

Picture this: your hair transitions from short at the sides and back, gradually getting longer as it reaches the top.

That's a fade. It's all about that smooth transition, giving you a clean, modern look.

We as barbers like to call this transition as 'blurry'.

Blurrier the better! Which pretty much means there's no lines, and the transition is smooth AF.

And it doesn't stop there. There's a bunch of different ways to wear your fade.

Low fade, high fade, mid fade, skin fade, drop fade, temple fade, burst fade - each one's got its own unique twist on the classic fade style.

And it's best to see the differences visually; check out our Haircut Finder.

The Taper Fade: Best of Both Worlds

Next, let's talk taper fade. The taper gives you a subtle decrease in hair length from top to sides and back.

Often containing the 'blurriness' and transition separately in 2 areas; the sides and back of head.

Fades on the other hand have one connected blurry road or transition.

Again, it's best to see it visually.

Just like the fade, the taper fade's got its own variations. Low taper fade, high taper fade, mid taper fade, skin taper fade, drop taper fade, temple taper fade, burst taper fade - each one offers a different level of contrast and can be tweaked to suit your style.

Choosing Your Style: Fade or Taper Fade?

How do you choose between a fade and a taper fade? It's all about your hair type, lifestyle, and personal style. If you've got thick hair and want a style that's easy to manage, a fade might be your best bet. If you're after a classic, versatile look, you might want to try a taper fade. And remember, your barber's there to help you find the best style for you.

Keeping Your Fade or Taper Fade Fresh

This is the unfortunate catch of rocking a fresh cut like a fade or taper fade.

Your hair grows back within 2-3 weeks so the blurriness is sadly... no longer blurry.

We recommend coming in at this 2-3 week mark to maintain the look!

Conclusion

Whether you go for a fade or a taper fade, you're in for a style that's sure to turn heads. At Mancave Barbershop, our crew has got you covered.

We'll listen, and figure out what's the best cut to suit you.

FAQs

  • Is a fade or a taper fade better for thick hair?

A fade is better for thick hair because it creates a more dramatic effect.

  • Can a taper fade be combined with a pompadour hairstyle? Y

Why not? It'll give more of a slick 'old-money' look since the sides are grown out a bit longer compared to a fade.

  • Can a fade or a taper fade be done at home?

It's certainly achievable, but would require lots and lots of practice and an ability to withstand being roasted by your mates as you learn.

  • How often should I get a fade or a taper fade haircut?

It is recommended to get a fade or a taper fade every 2-4 weeks to maintain the style.