What's the Difference with a Low and High Taper Haircut? A visual guide

Victor Young

Marketing & Business Development Manager

  • Low taper haircut: A subtle style that starts tapering around the ears and neck, keeping the top long.
  • High taper haircut: A less subtle with a larger fade area - it begins tapering near the crown or higher up on the side.
  • Both styles: Highly customizable with different lengths and finishes to suit your preferences.

Fades got popular in the late 2000s. And from what we've seen in our stores, there's a trend moving towards the taper fade haircut (if not already dominating).

And you know what? I'm not surprised.

Being a more low-key, subtle look - it adds a touch of sophistication while keeping the freshness you get from a blurry AF fade.

Here you'll learn the differences, and I'll provide as many photos to help you visualise things.

Low Taper Haircut

So as the name suggests - a low taper is... a lower taper.

Depending on your head shape, it usually starts at the mid ear - of course this varies from person to person.

In terms of looks, it's a more subtle and neat look which is great for professional settings or of course going out.

The beauty of a low taper haircut lies in its versatility.

Whether you prefer rocking a slicked-back style or a messy, textured look, a low taper can delivers, big time.

It's what I've been rocking recently.

low-taper-haircut

High Taper Haircut

Now, let's talk about the high taper.

This style starts tapering higher up the head, near the crown or top of ear.

Because it's higher, you're get a larger area of blurriness.

A high taper haircut can be a game-changer for those with thick or curly hair, as it removes bulk and makes the hair easier to manage. It also adds height and structure to the face, making it a good choice for those with round or square face shapes.

Just like the low taper, the high taper can be customized with different lengths and finishes. For a more conservative look, opt for a subtle high taper with a longer top. For a trendier style, go for a sharp high taper with a short, textured top.

mid-high-taper-fade

Taper Fade vs Fade

You might be wondering, "What about taper fades and fades?" - good question.

A fade is all about that smooth transition from short hair at the sides and back to longer hair at the top. It's a classic, clean look that's always in style.

If you're interested in learning more about these styles, check out our detailed article on Taper Fade vs Fade.

fade-vs-taper-fade-haircut

Low Taper vs High Taper: Which One is Right for You?

Choosing between a low taper and a high taper haircut ultimately comes down to your personal style and comfort level. If you prefer a subtle, understated look, a low taper might be the way to go. If you're all about making a bold statement, a high taper could be your perfect match.

Remember, the best haircut is one that makes you feel confident and comfortable. Don't be afraid to experiment with different styles and lengths until you find the one that suits you best.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a mid taper haircut?

A mid taper haircut is a middle ground between a low and high taper. It starts tapering around the temple area, offering a balance between subtlety and boldness.

What is a low taper fade?

A low taper fade is a variation of the low taper haircut where the hair fades to skin level towards the neck and ears. It's a more dramatic take on the classic low taper.

What's the difference between a low taper and a high taper?

The main difference lies in where the tapering begins. In a low taper, it starts around the ears and neck, while in a high taper, it starts near the crown of the head.

Which pomade is best for a taper hairstyle?

The choice of pomade depends on the finish you want. For a glossy, slicked-back look, opt for a high-shine pomade. For a natural, textured finish, a matte pomade would be ideal.