So, low tape, you probably heard about it, maybe seen it on someone or even had it yourself. But what’s it really? It’s kind of a no-brainer but also super useful. Basically, it’s a haircut where the sides and back get shorter down low — near the ears and neck and fade nicely into the skin.
Not one of those crazy high fades that jump right up near your temples or mid fades sitting somewhere in the middle. Nah, low taper’s chill, subtle, kinda smooth.
I like it ’cause it’s not trying too hard. Clean and fresh without screaming “look at me!” You can keep your hair longer on top, style it however — messy, slicked back, curly — and the taper just frames everything.
If you’re looking for something with a bit more flair around the ear, the burst fade might be more your speed—it’s clean but edgy.
Low Taper, Fade, What’s the Difference?
People ask me all the time, “Hey, what’s the difference between low taper and fade?” Here’s the thing: a taper means the hair gradually gets shorter, right? And a fade is kinda the same but usually involves skin showing or tighter blending.
Low taper sits low on the head, just above the ears. Mid fades start higher. High fades? Way up near your forehead. And then there’s burst fades — those are special. They curve around the ear and are pretty bold. But you don’t see burst fade much with low tapers unless you ask for it. I’ve done a few mixes — subtle burst fades around the ear with a low taper base — looks cool, not too wild.
Honestly, low taper is like the chill cousin of all the fades — not too flashy, just clean and functional.
Why Do Guys Keep Coming Back to the Low Taper?
Man, because it’s easy. You wake up, look decent. The edges are tidy but not too harsh. You can show up to work, a party, whatever, and it’s always on point.
Not quite into low or high fades? The mid taper fade sits right in the center, giving you that just-right balance.
Plus, it works for almost every hair type. Thick hair? Cool. Thin hair? No problem. Curly hair? Especially good for that. The taper keeps things looking neat but doesn’t mess with your natural hair pattern too much.
Another thing — low taper isn’t high maintenance. You don’t need to hit the barber every week, maybe every 3-4 weeks to keep it sharp. Longer if you’re cool with a bit of grown-out look.
How to Tell Your Barber You Want a Low Taper
Here’s what I say to clients who wanna try it but aren’t sure how to ask: “I want a low taper. Keep it clean around the edges. Don’t cut too high, just near the ears.” Simple.
Sometimes, I tell people to bring a picture. Helps avoid those “Wait, what did you want again?” moments. Barbers all have their own style, so a pic makes it clear.
If you want to spice it up, you can ask for a little burst fade near the ear — but keep it subtle. Otherwise, just go classic low taper.
Styling a Low Taper — What Works?
Depends on what’s on top. If your hair’s straight or wavy, you can use a matte paste or pomade — nothing heavy — just to add a little texture or shape.
For curls, leave it natural or use a curl cream to define the strands. The taper on the sides keeps it neat, so the curls get to shine on top.
If you’re more into buzz cuts or crops, the low taper finishes it off nicely — keeps the cut looking fresh but doesn’t go full skin fade.
Who Should Think About a Low Taper?
Really, anyone. If you want something professional but not boring, low taper’s solid.
Got a round face? It can help add some shape.
Square jaw? It softens the look a bit.
And if you just want something clean and simple with a bit of style, low taper fits the bill.
The Low Taper in Today’s Hair Game
These days, fades can get crazy — skin fades, burst fades, line designs. Low taper? Nah, it’s just steady and classic.
A low taper reminds you sometimes simple is best. It’s easy to do, looks good on pretty much anyone, and keeps you looking sharp without much effort.
Feeling bold? Pair your taper with length and go for the modern mullet fade—a cut that definitely turns heads.
And hey, if you wanna go bolder later, you can always add designs or bump it up to a mid or high fade.
FAQs
- What’s the difference between a low taper and a low fade?
Low taper is a gradual shortening, usually a softer blend. Low fade might have more skin showing or a sharper cut near the bottom. - Can you get a low taper if you have curly hair?
Yeah, it works great! Keeps the sides neat and lets the curls on top look natural. - How often do I need to get it trimmed?
Every 3 to 4 weeks if you want it sharp. Otherwise, it can go a little longer and still look decent. - Is a low taper professional enough?
Definitely. It’s clean, neat, and works for all kinds of settings. - Can you mix a low taper with a burst fade?
Yep, some barbers do that to add a little edge near the ears. But it’s optional and usually subtle.
Kamran Shahzad is a passionate hair fashion enthusiast and experienced writer specializing in modern hairstyles and grooming trends. From classic cuts to bold fades, he brings expert tips and fresh inspiration to help you stay sharp and stylish every day.