Mid taper fade: what it is and how to ask for it

What a mid taper fade is

On a mid taper fade the barber fades the sideburns and the back of the neck, and takes the fade higher up them than on a low taper fade. More of the sideburn and the neckline is short and fading, and the contrast with the length on the sides is clearer. Above the ear nothing is faded: the sides keep their length and blend into the top.

Low, mid and high taper

Low, mid and high tell you how high the fade goes, the same way as with a low, mid or high fade. A taper at any height stays on the sideburns and the neckline.

• Low taper fade: the fade is low, close to the hairline. The most subtle.
• Mid taper fade: the fade goes to the middle height. A clearer fade than a low taper, still tidy.
• High taper fade: the fade goes highest. The biggest contrast, but still not above the ear.

Who it suits

Anyone who wants a fade that shows more than a low taper but still leaves the length on the sides. It works on straight, wavy, curly and coily hair, and it keeps the top free for a crop, a quiff, curls or a side part. If you want the side of the head itself to be short, ask for a mid fade instead, which also goes above the ear.

How to ask for it

A photo matters most for the height. "Mid" is a judgement call, and your mid is not every barber's mid.

If you do not have one, say the name and the height:

It also helps to say how short you want it at the bottom (down to the skin or a very short grade), the length on top, and, if you have a beard, that the fade should blend into it.

Looks that go with a mid taper

• Textured crop or French crop
• Quiff or a swept-back top
• Side part or comb over
• Curls, twists or waves on top
• Buzz cut with a faded side

Keeping the line sharp

A mid taper shows growth a little sooner than a low taper because more of the sideburn and the neckline is faded. Most barbers suggest a cut every two to three weeks to keep the line sharp. A matte paste or clay gives the top texture without weighing it down.

Find a barber near you

Pick a barber, then show them the height you want: "mid" is a judgement call and your mid is not every barber's mid. Pick your city to see barbers with their opening hours, walk-ins and online booking, or search by postcode.

Questions

What is the difference between a mid taper and a mid fade?

The height is the same, but a mid fade goes above the ear, round the side of the head. A mid taper stays on the sideburns and the neckline.

Is a mid taper the same as a low taper?

No. Both fade only the sideburns and the neckline, but a mid taper takes the fade higher.

Can I have a mid taper with a beard?

Yes. The fade ends at the sideburn, so ask the barber to carry it into the beard line.

How often should I get it cut?

Every two to three weeks keeps the line sharp. At four or five weeks it still looks fine, just softer.