In the world of hairstyling, the mid taper is becoming increasingly popular for its versatility, sharpness, and stylish appeal. Whether you are looking for a clean, professional appearance or a more casual look, the mid taper provides the perfect blend of balance and sophistication. This haircut technique offers a fade that is neither too short nor too long, offering a well-groomed, yet easy-to-maintain style that works for all ages and hair types. But what exactly is a mid taper, and why is it worth considering for your next hairstyle? This article delves deep into the mid taper, exploring its features, how to achieve it, and how to incorporate it into your personal style.
What is a Mid Taper?
A mid taper is a type of fade that transitions gradually from longer hair at the top of the head to shorter hair on the sides and back. The key distinguishing factor of a mid taper is the placement of the fade, which typically starts around the temple or midsection of the head. Unlike the low taper, which fades closer to the ear, or the high taper, which starts above the temples, the Mid Taper strikes a middle ground. It offers a cleaner, more uniform look compared to a high taper but with more shape and definition than a low taper.
The fade in a mid taper is smooth and subtle, making it ideal for individuals who want a sharp yet natural look. It can be paired with various top styles, including buzz cuts, pompadours, or textured quiffs, allowing for flexibility in styling. It’s also a great option for anyone seeking a haircut that works well in both professional and casual settings.
Why Choose a Mid Taper?
There are several reasons why the mid taper has become one of the most requested haircuts in barbershops and salons. Let’s break down some of the main benefits of choosing this versatile fade:
1. Versatility in Styling
One of the standout features of a mid taper is its versatility. Because the fade starts in the middle of the head, it allows for a range of styles on top. Whether you prefer a shorter, low-maintenance look or a longer, more textured hairstyle, the mid taper complements a variety of top lengths. You can style it with a slick back, a pompadour, or even just a simple spiky or messy look, giving you ample room to experiment without sacrificing the sharpness and neatness of the fade.
2. Balanced and Proportional
The mid taper is especially ideal for those looking for a haircut that balances length and sharpness without going overboard. Unlike high fades that may reveal more scalp or low fades that leave more length on the sides, the mid taper provides a gradual transition that looks proportionate on most face shapes and hair types. It avoids the extremes and delivers a clean, well-groomed appearance that enhances the natural shape of your head.
3. Low Maintenance
Unlike fades that require constant touch-ups, the mid taper is relatively low maintenance. The fade is gradual, and because it doesn’t go too short, it grows out more naturally without noticeable lines or stark contrasts. This makes it an excellent choice for individuals who want a fresh look without frequent salon or barbershop visits. The fade still retains its sharpness as it grows out, which is perfect for people with busy schedules or those who prefer less upkeep.
4. Works Well for Different Hair Types
The mid taper is suitable for a wide range of hair textures. Whether you have straight, wavy, curly, or coiled hair, the fade can be customized to suit your natural hair type. The key to achieving the best mid taper for your hair type lies in finding a skilled barber who knows how to work with different textures, ensuring the fade complements your hair’s natural growth pattern.
How to Achieve a Mid Taper
Achieving a mid taper requires some skill and precision, especially when it comes to placing the fade at the right point on the head. Here’s a step-by-step guide to achieving this look:
1. Start with a Longer Length on Top
The first step in creating the mid taper is to decide how long you want the hair on top to be. Whether you’re going for a short buzz cut or a medium-length textured style, the barber will leave the hair on top longer than the sides, allowing for contrast. It’s essential to communicate your desired length clearly to your barber to get the best outcome.
2. Create the Fade
Once the top is trimmed to the desired length, the barber will begin the fade. Starting at the midsection of the head (usually just above the ears), the fade is gradually blended from the longer hair at the top to the shorter hair on the sides and back. The fade should be smooth and seamless, without any noticeable lines. To achieve this, the barber will use different clipper lengths, working carefully to taper the hair gradually.
3. Blend the Fade
Blending the fade is the most important step in creating a smooth, natural-looking mid taper. The barber will use different guard lengths and blending techniques to ensure the transition from long to short is as seamless as possible. This step requires skill and precision, so it’s essential to find a barber who is experienced with fade techniques.
4. Edge and Detail the Hairline
After the fade is complete, the final step is to clean up the edges of the hairline. The barber will use a straight razor or a trimmer to sharpen the hairline along the temples, neck, and sideburns. This helps define the fade and ensures a crisp, clean look.
5. Styling
Once the mid taper is done, the stylist will typically apply styling products to the top to achieve your desired look. Whether you prefer a pomade for a sleek, polished finish or a styling gel for a textured, voluminous effect, the choice is yours. The right products will enhance the natural shape of your hair and complete the mid taper style.
How to Maintain a Mid Taper
One of the great things about the mid taper is that it doesn’t require constant maintenance. However, to keep it looking sharp and fresh, here are a few tips for maintaining your mid taper:
1. Regular Trims
To keep the fade looking clean and sharp, it’s important to visit your barber for regular trims. Although the fade grows out naturally, you’ll need to have the fade touched up every 3–4 weeks, depending on how fast your hair grows. This will ensure that the transition between the long top and the shorter sides remains smooth and neat.
2. Keep the Top Trimmed
While the sides and back will gradually fade out, it’s important to maintain the top length, especially if you have longer hair. Regular trims will ensure that the top portion of your hair stays at the right length and maintains its shape.
3. Use the Right Hair Products
The mid taper works well with a variety of styles on top, but using the right hair products is essential to achieving the best result. Consider using a light mousse or texturizing cream for added volume and definition, or a light pomade or wax to keep your hair in place without making it too stiff. Avoid heavy products that can weigh the hair down and disrupt the shape of the fade.
Popular Styles to Pair with a Mid Taper
The beauty of the mid taper is its adaptability. It can be combined with a wide range of top styles. Here are some popular styles to pair with a mid taper:
1. Pompadour
A pompadour works great with a mid taper. The added volume on top contrasts nicely with the clean fade on the sides. Whether you’re going for a vintage look or something more modern, this pairing is sure to make a statement.
2. Quiff
A textured quiff combined with a mid taper is perfect for those who like a bit of height and volume on top. The fade allows the quiff to stand out without looking too overwhelming, providing a well-balanced and stylish look.
3. Buzz Cut
For those who prefer a low-maintenance look, a buzz cut with a Mid Taper is a great option. The sharp fade on the sides makes the short hair on top look even cleaner and more defined.
4. Undercut
A mid taper undercut is another excellent choice. This style features short sides that gradually fade up to a longer top, which can be slicked back or styled in any way you like.
Final Thoughts on the Mid Taper
The mid taper is one of the most flexible and timeless haircuts available. Its balanced fade, clean lines, and versatility make it a standout choice for anyone looking for a fresh, sharp look that works in both formal and casual settings. Whether you’re aiming for a clean, professional appearance or a more laid-back, stylish vibe, the mid taper can be tailored to suit your personality and preferences. With the right maintenance and styling products, this haircut can keep you looking sharp and stylish for months to come.
