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When it comes to boys’ hairstyles, there are endless ways to express personality, culture, and style. From classic cuts to trendy fades, let’s explore ten popular haircuts for boys under 13 that offer a variety of looks for all hair types and textures.
1. The Classic Crew Cut
The crew cut is a timeless, low-maintenance haircut popular across cultures. It’s short on the sides and top, with a gradual fade. The crew cut works well with all hair types, providing a clean look that’s perfect for school, sports, and everyday wear.
2. The Modern Fade with Design
The fade with a design has become a hit among boys who love to stand out. With its blend of art and style, this haircut features a short fade on the sides with custom shaved designs. These patterns can be as simple as a line or intricate shapes that allow kids to express their personality.
3. The Curly High Top
For boys with curly hair, the curly high top is a fantastic choice. The curls are left longer on top, showcasing natural texture, while the sides are trimmed shorter. This style offers a striking contrast, making it especially popular among Black and mixed-race boys who want to embrace their curls.
4. The Textured Fringe
The textured fringe is a trendy look that works well with straight or slightly wavy hair. The hair is kept longer in front to create bangs or a fringe, while the sides and back are trimmed shorter. This style is perfect for boys who want a casual, “skater” look with a bit of edge.
5. The Faux Hawk
The faux hawk combines edginess and playfulness, making it a favorite among active boys. This cut is longer in the center and gradually shorter on the sides, allowing boys to style the center section into a “hawk” without the commitment of a full mohawk.
6. The Undercut with Comb-Over
An undercut with a comb-over gives a polished, classic look with a modern twist. The hair is left long on top and combed over to one side, while the sides are clipped short. It’s perfect for boys who want a stylish, dapper look for formal or casual settings.
7. The Afro
The afro is an iconic hairstyle that celebrates natural curls and texture, making it a popular choice among Black boys and those with curly hair. With a rounded, voluminous shape, the afro can be shaped to the desired size, and it requires regular maintenance to keep its defined form.
8. The Buzz Cut with Line-Up
A buzz cut with a line-up is ideal for boys who prefer minimal maintenance. The hair is clipped short all around, and a line-up (sharp outline along the hairline) adds a clean, polished touch. It’s a simple, timeless look suitable for all hair types.
9. The Surfer Shag
The surfer shag is a long, layered haircut inspired by beach waves. Popular among boys with straight or wavy hair, this style is kept long with layers to add movement and texture. It’s a relaxed, low-maintenance cut perfect for boys who want a more laid-back vibe.
10. The Taper Fade with Curls
The taper fade with curls is a versatile option for boys with curly or coily hair. The sides are tapered short, while the curls on top are left longer, creating a stylish blend of structure and texture. This cut highlights natural curls while keeping them manageable.
Choosing the Right Style for Every Boy’s Personality and Hair Type
Selecting the ideal haircut for a young boy is both a creative and practical process, as it involves balancing personality, lifestyle, and even cultural significance. Whether you’re looking for something classic and low-maintenance or bold and expressive, each haircut featured in this list reflects a unique style. As you embark on this styling journey, it’s helpful to explore what works best with your child’s hair type and daily activities.
Each of these popular styles offers something different, from the neatness of a crew cut to the bold lines in a fade with designs. With so many options, both parents and kids can enjoy the creative process of selecting a haircut that celebrates their individuality while being practical for day-to-day life.
Practicality Meets Style
Convenience is key for active kids, and low-maintenance styles like the crew cut, buzz cut, or undercut with a comb-over help make busy mornings easier. These cuts look sharp with minimal effort and require only occasional trims, making them great choices for boys who enjoy sports or have packed schedules.
For kids who like to stand out, styles like the textured fringe, faux hawk, and surfer shag offer a trendy, unique look. While they may require a bit more styling and maintenance, these haircuts let boys express their personalities. Additionally, artistic haircuts such as the fade with designs allow boys to add a personal touch to their style with creative patterns that can be customized at each appointment.
Communicating the Right Style to the Barber
A key part of a successful haircut experience is clearly communicating with the barber. Parents and kids alike should feel confident in describing the desired style, but sometimes words alone may not be enough. Here are some tips to ensure that your child gets exactly the haircut they want:
Bring Reference Photos: Photos are a barber’s best friend when it comes to understanding a specific style. Bringing a picture of the haircut you want helps to eliminate guesswork and provides a visual reference for the length, fade level, or fringe style you’re aiming for. It’s especially helpful for cuts with unique details, like a line-up or design patterns.
Be Clear on Length and Tapering: Terms like “short” or “long on top” can be vague, so try to use specific measurements when discussing length. For instance, if you want a 1-inch fade or a 2-inch top, let the barber know. Barbers also appreciate when clients specify the degree of tapering on the sides, which can make a big difference in how the haircut looks overall.
Discuss Maintenance: Some cuts, such as a textured fringe or faux hawk, require a bit of daily styling. Talk with the barber about how much maintenance the style will need so you and your child know what to expect. This conversation also gives the barber a better idea of the practicality you’re looking for in the haircut.
Specify Any Custom Design Details: If you’re choosing a style with shaved designs, make sure to communicate any patterns or specific elements you have in mind. For boys who want a simple line, lightning bolt, or other shapes, discussing these details ahead of time ensures the barber can plan the look properly.
Ask for Styling Tips: Barbers are experts in styling techniques, so don’t hesitate to ask for guidance on how to maintain the look at home. For example, they can recommend products for styling curly high tops or tips for achieving a perfect comb-over. This can be particularly useful for parents managing styles that may require more daily care.
Let the Boy Speak Up: Encouraging your child to voice their preferences empowers them to take part in the process. Even younger boys can benefit from asking questions and learning to express what they like, which builds confidence and helps ensure they feel happy with the end result.
Embracing Cultural Diversity in Hairstyles
Haircuts are often more than just a style choice—they can also be a powerful form of cultural expression. For instance, the afro, curly high top, and taper fade with curls highlight natural texture, celebrating Black culture and encouraging boys to embrace their curls. These styles allow young boys to showcase pride in their heritage while keeping their hair looking great.
Likewise, styles like the surfer shag carry a relaxed, beach-inspired vibe that embodies a laid-back cultural aesthetic. For families with cultural ties to specific hairstyles, communicating these details to the barber can further personalize the haircut experience, ensuring a style that resonates with the child’s identity.
Practical Tips for Maintaining Boys’ Haircuts
Here are some quick maintenance tips to help keep each haircut looking fresh:
Schedule Regular Trims: For hairstyles like the faux hawk or undercut, plan to visit the barber every 4-6 weeks to maintain shape and structure. More classic cuts like the crew cut or buzz cut might need trims every 6-8 weeks.
Invest in Gentle Products: Kids’ scalps are more sensitive than adults’, so it’s essential to use mild hair products. For curly styles, light leave-in conditioners or curl creams can keep the hair hydrated and frizz-free.
Moisturize for Curly Styles: For styles like the afro or high-top fade, hydration is essential. Regularly using oils or moisturizing creams helps maintain healthy curls, adding shine and softness.
Develop a Daily Routine: Some styles, like the comb-over or textured fringe, may benefit from a small amount of gel or styling cream each morning. Teaching kids a simple routine helps them feel involved and ensures they start each day looking their best.
A Haircut as a Confidence Booster
A fresh haircut can be an incredible confidence booster, especially for kids discovering their personal style. When a boy feels good about his haircut, it can have a positive impact on his self-esteem and encourage him to embrace his unique personality. From a simple cut to a bolder style, a haircut is a great way for kids to start expressing themselves.
Final Thoughts
Whether you’re going for a classic crew cut, a playful faux hawk, or a culturally inspired afro, each of these haircuts has something unique to offer. From practical, low-maintenance styles to bold, expressive looks, every boy can find a haircut that suits his lifestyle and taste.
Don’t forget that haircuts are not just about style—they’re also a way for boys to explore their identity, build confidence, and feel empowered in their appearance. So, when you’re next at the barber, make sure to communicate your style choice clearly, bring any reference photos, and let your child’s personality shine through their haircut. With the right style, boys can step out feeling both stylish and self-assured, ready to take on whatever comes their way.