When it comes to men’s haircuts, taper fades are some of the most popular and versatile options. Both low taper and mid taper fades provide a clean, well-groomed appearance but differ in the way the hair gradually shortens on the sides and back. Understanding the difference between the low taper and mid taper can help you choose the style that suits your face shape, hair type, and personal style.
In this guide, we’ll explore the differences between the low taper and mid taper fades, how they compare, and which one might be the best option for you.
Both low taper and mid taper fades are great options for a clean, stylish look. Here’s everything you need to know to decide which fade is right for you.
What is a Low Taper Fade?
A low taper fade is a fade style where the hair gradually shortens starting from the bottom of the hairline near the ears and fading up toward the temples. The fade begins low on the sides and back, usually just above the ears, and creates a soft, subtle transition between the longer hair on top and the faded sides. The low taper fade is typically less dramatic than other fade styles, making it a great choice for men who want a clean yet understated look.
Why Choose a Low Taper Fade?
- Subtle and Neat: The low taper fade provides a clean, refined look without being too drastic. It’s perfect for men who want a polished, professional appearance with minimal contrast.
- Versatile: This fade style can be paired with various haircuts on top, including crew cuts, buzz cuts, and pompadours. It works well with different hair textures, from straight to curly.
- Perfect for Rounded Faces: The soft fade creates a balanced look for men with round or oval faces, as it doesn’t add too much height or volume on the sides.
- Low Maintenance: The low taper fade requires less upkeep compared to higher fades. Regular trims every 3-4 weeks will keep the fade sharp and the sides neat.
What is a Mid Taper Fade?
A mid taper fade is a style where the fade starts slightly higher than the low taper fade, usually around the temple area. The hair on the sides and back gradually shortens as it moves upward, blending from the longer hair on top to the faded sides. The mid taper fade provides a sharper contrast between the top and the sides, creating a more noticeable fade that’s still neat and structured.
Why Choose a Mid Taper Fade?
- Edgy and Defined: The mid taper fade offers a more defined and noticeable fade than the low taper. It adds a sharper contrast between the top and sides, giving you a bold, modern look.
- More Versatile Styles on Top: The mid taper fade works well with a variety of styles on top, such as a quiff, pompadour, or textured crop. It’s ideal for men who want to experiment with different haircuts while maintaining a clean, structured fade.
- Great for Square Faces: The mid taper fade is especially flattering for men with square or angular faces, as the sharper contrast helps define the jawline and features.
- Popular and Trendy: The mid taper fade has become a go-to fade style for many men who want a more bold, yet still clean, look. It’s a popular choice for those who want to make a statement with their haircut while keeping things stylish and modern.
Low Taper Fade vs Mid Taper Fade: Key Differences
While both the low taper fade and mid taper fade provide a clean, well-groomed appearance, they differ in the placement of the fade and the level of contrast they create. Here’s a quick comparison:
| Feature | Low Taper Fade | Mid Taper Fade |
| Fade Placement | Starts low near the ears, creating a subtle transition | Starts at the temples for a sharper contrast |
| Contrast | Subtle and soft fade | More noticeable and defined fade |
| Style Options | Works well with short haircuts like crew cuts or buzz cuts | Works well with styles like pompadours, quiffs, and textured crops |
| Suitability | Ideal for men with round or oval faces | Ideal for men with square or angular faces |
| Overall Look | Clean, understated, and professional | Bold, sharp, and modern |
| Maintenance | Requires regular trims every 3-4 weeks | Requires regular trims every 3-4 weeks |
Which Fade is Right for You?
Choosing between a low taper fade and a mid taper fade depends on several factors, including your face shape, hair texture, and personal style preferences. Here are some tips to help you decide:
Face Shape
- Low Taper Fade: If you have a round or oval face, a low taper fade is a great choice. The softer fade creates balance and symmetry without adding too much height or volume to the sides.
- Mid Taper Fade: The mid taper fade works best for men with square or angular faces because it adds sharpness and definition, helping to highlight the jawline and other facial features.
Hair Texture
- Low Taper Fade: The low taper fade works well with all hair textures, including straight, wavy, and curly hair. It’s particularly good for those who want a clean, professional look without a lot of contrast.
- Mid Taper Fade: The mid taper fade works especially well with thicker, wavy, or curly hair because the fade adds more contrast and helps define the shape of the hair.
Personal Style
- Low Taper Fade: If you prefer a more subtle, understated look that still offers clean lines and definition, the low taper fade is perfect for you.
- Mid Taper Fade: If you’re looking for a more bold, trendy style with noticeable contrast, the mid taper fade will give you the sharp, edgy look you’re after.
How to Style a Low Taper Fade or Mid Taper Fade
Both the low taper fade and mid taper fade can be styled in various ways. Here are a few ideas for each fade:
Low Taper Fade Styles
- Short Buzz Cut: A clean, simple buzz cut works well with a low taper fade, providing a neat, professional look.
- Textured Crop: Add some texturizing cream or mousse to the top and create a natural, tousled style with the low taper fade.
- Side Part: A side part adds sophistication to the low taper fade, making it perfect for a polished, business-ready look.
Mid Taper Fade Styles
- Pompadour: A pompadour works well with the mid taper fade by adding volume and height to the top, creating a sharp contrast with the faded sides.
- Quiff: The quiff adds volume and texture to the front, paired with the mid taper fade for a bold, trendy look.
- Textured Top: Add texture to the top using a texturizing spray or wax for a more relaxed, modern style with the mid taper fade.
FAQs
How often should I trim my low or mid taper fade?
Both the low taper fade and mid taper fade require regular trims every 3-4 weeks to keep the fade sharp and the hair on top at the desired length.
Can I wear a low taper fade with curly hair?
Yes! The low taper fade works well with curly hair, as it creates a clean, defined look while embracing the natural texture of your curls.
Which fade is easier to maintain, low taper or mid taper?
Both fades are fairly easy to maintain, but the low taper fade requires slightly less contrast and upkeep, making it a bit more low-maintenance.
Can I pair a fade with a beard?
Absolutely! Both the low taper fade and mid taper fade pair well with beards, whether you prefer a full beard, goatee, or stubble. The fade adds definition to the beard and enhances the overall look.
Both the low taper fade and the mid taper fade offer clean, stylish looks that can be customized to suit your personal style. The low taper fade is subtle and neat, making it a great choice for men who want a professional yet modern look, while the mid taper fade provides a bolder, more defined contrast for men who prefer a trendy and edgy appearance. Whether you go for the low taper fade or the mid taper fade, both styles are versatile and timeless, offering the perfect combination of sophistication and style.