The decision between a high fade vs mid fade can completely change the vibe of your hairstyle. The high fade starts above the temples for a sharp contrast and bold look, while the mid fade begins around the middle of the head, creating a more subtle yet still noticeable fade. Both styles are popular, but which one fits your face shape, hair type, and lifestyle? Let’s break down the differences to help you make the best choice.
Table of Contents
What Is a High Fade?
A high fade is a type of haircut where the hair gradually gets shorter starting higher on the sides of the head, usually above the temples. The fade creates a sharp contrast between the top of the hair, which is left longer, and the sides, which are clipped very short. This gives the haircut a bold and clean look.
The high fade works well for people who want a more dramatic style. It makes the hair on top stand out more because the sides are so much shorter. It’s a popular choice for those looking for a sharp, modern appearance.
To keep a high fade looking fresh, regular trims are needed. Since the fade starts high on the head, it requires maintenance to keep the contrast sharp and clean. It’s a great choice for anyone who wants a bold and noticeable fade.
What Is a Mid Fade?
A mid fade is a haircut where the hair gradually gets shorter, starting around the middle of the sides of the head. The fade isn’t too high or too low, creating a balanced look with a clean transition from the longer hair on top to the shorter hair on the sides. This fade gives a sharp yet smooth appearance.
The mid fade works well for men who want a fresh, modern look without going for a bold, extreme contrast. It’s a versatile style that can be paired with many different haircuts, from short buzz cuts to longer styles like pompadours or quiffs.
Maintaining a mid fade requires regular trims to keep the fade looking neat. The mid fade offers a balanced, sharp style that’s easy to maintain and great for many face shapes and hair types.
Also read: The Ultimate Guide to 16 Mullet Fade Haircuts for Men
Key Differences Between High Fade and Mid Fade
The biggest difference between a high fade and a mid fade is where the fade begins. A high fade starts higher up on the head, usually above the temples, creating a sharp contrast between the longer hair on top and the short sides. This gives the fade a bold, noticeable look.
In contrast, a mid fade starts around the middle of the sides of the head. The transition from short to long is smoother and less dramatic than the high fade. The mid fade offers a more balanced, subtle appearance, with the fade not starting as high on the head.
Overall, the high fade gives a bold, edgy appearance with more contrast, while the mid fade provides a more blended and versatile style. Both fades are modern and stylish, but the choice depends on how much contrast you want in your haircut.
| Aspect | High Fade | Mid Fade |
| Starting Point | Starts above the temples | Starts around the middle of the sides |
| Contrast | Sharp contrast between top and sides | Softer contrast |
| Overall Look | Bold, edgy look | Balanced, clean look |
| Maintenance | Needs frequent trims for sharpness | Requires less frequent trimming |
| Ideal For | Men who want a bold, dramatic style | Men who prefer a more subtle, versatile fade |
Which Fade Works Best for Your Face Shape?
Deciding between a high fade and a mid fade depends a lot on your face shape. Each fade works differently with various features, and understanding these differences can help you make the best choice for your look. Here’s how each fade flatters different face shapes:
High Fade
The high fade works best for oval or diamond-shaped faces. Since the fade starts higher up, it adds more definition and structure to the face, making it ideal for those with rounder or softer features. The sharp contrast between the top and sides helps balance the face shape, drawing attention to the top portion of the head and accentuating your jawline.
Mid Fade
The mid fade is a great choice for round or square faces. It creates a more gradual transition and helps add balance to the face. For round faces, the mid fade adds angles and sharpness, giving the face a more structured appearance. For square faces, the mid fade softens the strong jawline and adds a more rounded look.
Which Fade Is Better for Your Hair Type?
Your hair type plays a significant role in choosing between a high fade and a mid fade. Here’s how each fade works with different hair types:
High Fade
The high fade works best for thick or straight hair. Since the fade starts higher on the head, it creates a strong contrast between the top and the sides, which looks sharp with thicker hair. The high fade also works well with straight hair, as the clean lines of the fade stand out more when there’s less texture on the sides. It can help control thick hair, making it look more structured and manageable.
Mid Fade
The mid fade is great for curly or fine hair. For curly hair, the mid fade allows the curls to shine on top while keeping the sides neat and tapered. It’s ideal for men who want to maintain the texture of their curls without overwhelming the look with too much fade. For fine hair, the mid fade provides a more gradual transition, adding volume on top while keeping the sides short. It helps create the appearance of fuller, thicker hair.
In short, the high fade is ideal for thick or straight hair, while the mid fade works best for curly or fine hair, offering a more balanced look.
Final Thoughts: Which Fade Should You Choose?
Choosing between a high fade and a mid fade ultimately depends on your personal style and what look you’re going for. If you want a bold, dramatic appearance with sharp contrast, the high fade is perfect. It’s ideal for men who like clean, edgy lines and a more defined, striking look. The high fade works well for those with thick or straight hair and those who have an oval or diamond-shaped face.
On the other hand, if you prefer a more subtle, balanced fade that offers versatility, the mid fade is a great choice. It provides a softer transition, making it ideal for men with curly or fine hair. It’s also perfect for round or square faces, as it adds structure and balance. The mid fade is a more versatile fade that can be easily styled with different haircuts.
Both fades are modern and stylish, so choose the one that best matches your hair type, face shape, and personal style preferences!
Conclusion
In conclusion, both the high fade and mid fade offer unique styles that can enhance your look. The high fade provides a bold, sharp contrast, ideal for those seeking a striking appearance, while the mid fade offers a more balanced, subtle fade that works well for a variety of face shapes and hair types. Ultimately, the choice comes down to your personal style and the level of contrast you prefer.