A low taper fade and a high taper fade vary mainly by where the tapering begins and the look it gives. Wondering which one is right for you? Here’s a detailed guide.
A low taper fade begins just above the earline. It offers a sophisticated look that fits well in any setting. On the other hand, a high taper fade starts above the temples. It creates a sharp contrast for a bold, contemporary style, perfect for trendy cuts.
Low taper fades give a subtle elegance with smooth transitions from the top to the shaved sides and back. It’s perfect for a minimalist look. High taper fades, however, are bold and striking. They feature very short sides, beginning around the eyes, making a noticeable difference.
Both styles need touch-ups every 2-4 weeks to keep it looking fresh. Styling products like pomades, waxes, or gels can help style your hair. Curly hair types may choose a curly taper fade to highlight their curls while keeping the sides neat.
The main differences between a low and high taper are where they start and their boldness. Your face shape and what you like matters a lot in choosing the best style for you.
Low Taper Haircut
The low taper haircut is a stylish way to look neat and structured. It starts subtly around the middle of the ear, keeping more length on the sides. This provides a clean, understated finish that’s great for work or play.
This haircut blends well with many styles. It can be slicked back for a neat look or worn loose and textured for a casual vibe. It’s perfect for those who like to try new looks without too much change.
Choosing a low taper fade means hair gets shorter as it goes down the head. It begins lower, creating a smooth blend. This look is sharp without showing too much scalp. It fits men with various hair types and shapes faces nicely.
A low taper fade pairs well with different hairstyles:
- Sleek and refined side-swept Ivy League.
- Clean, voluminous textured French crop.
- Modern and edgy brush-up style.
- Classic comb-over with added volume and contrast.
- Debonair look when paired with a beard.
- Balanced and stylish modern pompadour.
- Natural volume enhancement for long, wavy hair with a low temple taper fade.
- Reduced bulk and neat edges for curly hair.
The low taper fade is versatile and low-maintenance. It needs touch-ups every 3-4 weeks. It’s a favorite for active people who want a classy look.
High Taper Haircut
The high taper haircut begins its sleek cut much higher on the head, often near the crown or a few inches above the ears. It offers a bold contrast with its sharp fades on the sides and thick top. It’s great for people looking for a standout look. If you have thick or curly hair, this style is perfect for you, especially favored for afro-textured hair.
This cut brings height and shape. It’s ideal for those with round or square faces. With the high taper haircut, you can choose from subtle fades to dramatic, textured styles for a modern touch.
It’s fitting for any event, from hanging out to going to a wedding. To keep it neat and sharp, use a strong gel or pomade. You can also mix it with styles like the undercut to up its cool factor.
- Features a sharp contrast with shaved sides and voluminous top.
- Best suited for thick, coarse hair types.
- Complements round and square face shapes by adding height and structure.
- Good for both casual and formal events.
- Combine with strong-hold pomade or gel for a sleek finish.
- Customizable with longer or shorter tops for varied looks.
There’s a big difference between a high taper fade and a low taper fade. The high taper starts way up, near the top of your head, making a bold statement. It’s the go-to for those aiming to stand out but still keep some hair flexibility.
Taper Fade vs Fade
Knowing the differences between a taper fade and a fade is key to the right haircut. A taper fade smoothly changes from long to short, keeping some hair on top. This gives a softer look than the crisp contrast of a standard fade, which has very short sides and a longer top.
A low taper begins above the ears for a clean look without showing the scalp. A high taper, however, starts higher and makes more contrast. It matches well with styles like comb overs or high tops.
Fades are known for their sleek transition from short to long on top, giving a polished look. But a taper fade adds a gentle touch by blending into various hair lengths easily.
Unlike fades that change smoothly, taper fades mix side and back transitions for a richer texture. Both styles need regular trims, around every 2 to 3 weeks, to keep up the look.
Choosing between a low and high taper depends on what you like in terms of contrast and style fitting. For a sharp, clean look, go for a fade. But if you prefer a smoother blend, a high taper fade might be your pick. Just know, “taper fade” often gets mixed up; while all tapers are fades, not all fades are tapers.
Low Taper vs High Taper: Which One is Right for You?
Choosing between a low taper and a high taper haircut depends on your style and face shape. Knowing the difference between high taper and low taper can help you decide. This makes sure your haircut looks good on you.
A low taper begins just above the ears for a smooth change from long to short hair. It’s great for a clean, professional look, being both balanced and subtle. Perfect for work, it’s easy to care for, needing a trim every few weeks. It suits round or square faces best and works with straight or wavy hair.
A high taper starts higher, near the temples or the hairline, for a bold look. It reduces hair volume and adds height, making your face stand out. Ideal for oval or heart-shaped faces, it’s a match for curly or thick hair. Yet, it requires more frequent trims to keep the look sharp.
In the end, the choice between a low taper fade and a high taper fade depends on what you prefer and how much scalp you’re okay with showing. Both styles have their own advantages, catering to different tastes and hair care routines.
FAQ
What is the difference between a low taper and a high taper haircut?
A low taper starts near the mid-ear. It looks subtle and professional. A high taper, however, begins at the crown or top of the ear. It reduces hair bulk more dramatically, which is great for emphasizing facial features and handling thick or curly hair.
What is a low taper fade haircut?
A low taper fade haircut begins tapering around the mid-ear. It offers a clean, conservative look without showing much scalp. This style fits well in professional environments. It can be mixed with different styles, from slicked-back to textured looks.
How does a high taper fade differ from a low taper fade?
A high taper fade starts higher up, around the crown, creating a bold reduction in hair bulk. It is ideal for a dramatic change, especially for thick or curly hair types. A low taper fade is more subtle, beginning around the mid-ear. It keeps more length and gives a neat, understated look.
Is a high taper haircut suitable for all hair types?
A high taper haircut works well for thick or curly hair by reducing bulk. Yet, it can be adjusted for different hair types and styles. This makes it versatile for many people.
Can a low taper haircut be styled differently?
Yes, a low taper haircut offers lots of styling flexibility. You can go for a sleek, slicked-back look or a casual, textured style. The low taper works with various styles while keeping a clean, professional finish.
What are the advantages of a taper fade compared to a general fade?
A taper fade transitions from long to short more gradually than a general fade. It keeps more length on top, making it less harsh. This gradual fade fits well with many styles and lengths.
How do I choose between a low taper and a high taper haircut?
Your choice between a low and high taper depends on your style and facial shape. A low taper suits those looking for a subtle look, fitting for work. A high taper offers a bold change, reducing hair bulk and enhancing the face’s height. Think about the style impact and how much scalp you’re okay showing.
