A high taper fade is a men’s haircut with the sides trimmed gradually shorter, starting at 2 inches maximum from the top of the hair down to the sides of the head. Guys everywhere are hooked on this versatile fade because of the incredible contrast it creates when combined with any hairstyle!
High-tops, combovers, man buns, quiffs, high and tight haircuts, and any other edgy cut you can think of – all of these were proven to result in a strong and neat look when paired with a high taper fade. Zayn Malik’s spiked hair, Adam Levine’s undercut, and Channing Tatum’s brushed-back tresses are only a few examples of how this stylish fade has been effective and trendy!
Sharp definition is best achieved with dense hair since most of the sides will be trimmed off, and this would allow for more versatility in styling. Use strong hold styling products like gels and pomades to maximize the benefits of this clean and crisp cut.
Stop the hesitation and check these popular high taper fade haircuts for the modern stylish man!
#1: Grey Curly High Taper for Older Men
A curly high taper is a good and easy style to maintain for older men. The curly top has been disconnected at the front to keep a heavy fringe but blended at the back. It has been tapered around the edges for a tidy finish and will grow out well. This is a pretty low-maintenance cut, a trim every 4-6 weeks will be enough to keep it tidy. To give a natural finish, a styling powder or a low sheen paste will work.
#2: Fresh High Taper for Wavy Hair
One of the best haircuts for males with curly hair is a cropped cut. This allows length to be preserved while creating a nice shape. Pair this cut with high taper fade and you’ll be extra sharp. Try to avoid over-texturizing the top as this will cause your curls to frizz. Ask your barber or stylist about finishing products.
#3: Korean-Inspired High Taper
Asian hair grows differently to Caucasian hair. The hair grows straight and out so the approach to fading is slightly different. This Korean-inspired high taper has been left heavy with the transition point sharp. The reason for this is that the client wanted some length left on top. The skin has been left low so the barber can transition the fade into the top, keeping the shape. If you’re confused as to how to explain this, try to have this picture to show your barber.
#4: High Top with a High Taper Fade
Those flat top hair cut fades are a match made in heaven with shaved sides! This men’s taper fade haircut is all about that top design.
#5: Taper Fade Hairstyle on Straight Hair
One of the styles that go well with a tapered fade is a fluffed up top, great for building up texture.
#6: Hard Part with a High Fade
The smooth shave comes perfect with an abrupt part continuing on with a mini faux hawk.
#7: Quiff with a High Fade
The duo that never fails to impress! Sport a masculine look while keeping it chill.
#8: Afro Haircut
The difference in hair volume is astounding wherein the skin fade accentuates the bodied ‘fro and vice versa.
#9: Skin Fade
A bald fade is one of the most popular hairstyles for men nowadays. Perfect for spring and summer but still awesome all year ’round!
#10: Taper Haircut with Waves
There is so much to style even if you have a considerably short hair cut. Stylist Dario did a wonderful job on the waves and layers on this fade and taper haircut men love.
#11: Curly Hair
If you’re tired with having a full on curl party, having shaved sides is the next big thing for you. Management comes easy without sacrificing style.
#13: High Top Fade Comb Over
Manage your pompadour by putting it over a side. Mousse it up and gel it down and you’ve got yourself a dashing look.
#14: Taper Fade with Long Hair
Q&A with style creator, Gustavo Melendez Castro
Traditional Barber @ All-Star Clippers Barbershop in Houston, TX
How would you describe this look?
The high taper is versatile fade that can be rocked with every hair texture and all hairstyles – from waves to side parts, or a man-bun as, as pictured above. What I love about it is that you get the best of both worlds. From the front profile to the client, you get the feel of a mid/high skin fade but around the ears, you still have a crisp line up. Longer hair with a side part makes an awesome fade with hair on top.
Any advice for someone considering it?
Try it! You can’t go wrong with this one. Whether you’re wanting a fohawk, a buzz cut, or a contour, this fade pairs nicely with them all. To execute this cut properly some of the bulk hair from around back the ear needs to be taken down, adding a slimmer front profile to your head. Of all the tapers it’s the longest lasting one so you’re getting your money’s worth but since it is a taper if you decide you want to try a different look, you can do so in little time and the transition is easy.
#15: Short Crew Cut
Q&A with style creator, Titi Ngo
Barber @ Trims Barbershop in Hamilton, ON
How would you describe this look?
I describe this look a classic, unique hairstyle. This specific comb-over haircut with a mid-bald fade is a nice cut for someone that wants a new trendy look but at the same time have a professional look.
My favorite thing about this haircut is the “blurry” effect on the fade. How I achieved a “blurry” fade is by using the corners of my clippers while fading to give the fade a grainy look to it. I just love how the overall haircut came out to be.
Any advice for someone considering it?
I recommend people that are looking to have this taper fade haircut is you always gotta style your hair with products especially with this comb-over haircut. You rather a nice volume well hold together comb-over than just letting it flap over to the side. Everybody has different head shapes if you have a wider head shape I recommend the highest part of the fade a longer length. Leaving longer hair like this creates a unique appeal. When receiving a comb-over haircut you want that box overall look. Depending on your hair thickness and whether you like more of a shiny look or matte look but I recommend using clay for a strong hold and matte finish, pomade for medium hold and medium shine, and cream for medium hold and matte finish. When styling your hair and you want more volume I suggests blow-drying your hair on the hot setting first than touch it up with cold setting to activate the volume touches on your hair.
#16: Slick Back Taper Haircut
Q&A with style creator, Viry Valenzuela
Stylist @ DBK Salon in Toronto, ON
How would you describe this look?
This is an undercut fade, low maintenance, and trendy, and it is easy to style. My favorite thing about this look is that it is very stylish and versatile.
Any advice for someone considering it?
It is very important to use styling products such as pomade or gel. This haircut is great for any face shape and easy to style if the hair is straight.