Low Fade vs Mid Fade vs High Fade: Which Fade is Right for You?

In the world of men’s hairstyles, few trends have dominated modern barbershop cuts quite like the fade haircut. Clean, sharp, and incredibly versatile, the fade has become a go-to choice for guys wanting a polished yet stylish look. But with so many options—low fade, mid fade, and high fade—how do you know which one suits your face shape, hair type, and lifestyle best?

At our barbershop, our expert barbers specialize in precision fade haircuts and can help you choose the perfect style. We also carry premium hair styling products like our quicksand clay, and rodeo paste to keep your fade looking fresh long after you leave the chair. Stop by today for a professional consultation!

What is a Fade Haircut?

A fade haircut features gradually shorter hair as it moves down the sides and back, creating a seamless blend from longer hair on top to nearly skin-tight at the bottom. The key difference between fade types lies in where the fading transition begins:

•  Low Fade: Starts just above the ears

•  Mid Fade: Begins around the middle of the sides (near the temples)

•  High Fade: Starts high up, often at or above the temples

Each variation offers a unique balance of bold and subtle, making the fade one of the most customizable men’s haircuts available.

Low Fade: Subtle, Professional, and Timeless

The low fade is the most conservative and versatile of the three. The fade begins low—typically just above the ears—and gradually tapers down toward the neckline. This creates a clean, understated transition that keeps attention on the hair on top.

Best for:

•  Professional environments

•  Round or square face shapes (softens strong jawlines)

•  First-time fade wearers

•  Longer top styles like side parts, comb-overs, or textured crops

A low fade pompadour or low fade with slick back looks incredibly sharp

Clients love the low fade because it grows out gracefully and requires less frequent touch-ups than higher fades.

Mid Fade: The Perfect Balance

The mid fade (also called a medium fade) strikes the ideal middle ground. The tapering starts around the slightly below the temples offering more contrast than a low fade while remaining office-friendly.

Best for:

•  Oval or diamond face shapes

•  Textured tops like quiffs, French crops, or messy spikes

•  Guys wanting noticeable style without going too bold

•  Curly or thick hair (shows off natural texture beautifully)

The mid fade pairs perfectly with modern styles like the pompadour . To enhance texture and definition, our barbers recommend finishing with a matte pomade or styling clay from our premium product line—ideal for natural, touchable hold.

This is by far our most requested fade at the shop due to its versatility and balanced appearance.

High Fade: Bold, Modern, and Statement-Making

The high fade is the most dramatic option. The fade begins high on the head—often at or above the temples—creating a stark contrast between the longer top and ultra-short sides. This style emphasizes the hair on top and gives a sleek, edgy vibe.

Best for:

•  heart shaped heads (subtracts width and increases structure)

•  Bold personalities

•  Short tops like buzz cuts, crew cuts, or skin fades with designs

•  Athletic or streetwear-inspired looks

Popular combinations include the  pompadour, high fade with curls, or a timeless buzzcut. For maximum impact, we suggest using a strong hold water-based pomade to sculpt and control the top while keeping the look clean and contemporary.

The high fade demands regular maintenance (every 2–3 weeks), but the sharp result is always worth it.

Still unsure? Book a consultation with our experienced barbers—we’ll assess your hair texture, head shape, and style goals to recommend the ideal fade haircut for you.

Keep Your Fade Fresh with the Right Products

No matter which fade you choose, great styling products are essential for maintaining that just-cut look. At our barbershop, we stock professional-grade options including:

•  Strong hold pomade for slick, structured styles

•  Matte clay and texturizing paste for natural, voluminous tops

•  Water-based pomade for easy washout and restyling

•  Pre-styling sea salt spray to add grip and texture

Our barbers use these products daily on clients and can show you exactly how to apply them at home.

Ready for your next fade haircut? Whether you’re leaning toward a classic low fade, versatile mid fade, or daring high fade, our team is here to deliver precision results. Schedule your appointment today and step up your grooming game with a sharp, modern fade!