A new school year is one of the busiest times in any barbershop. Parents want a cut that looks sharp on picture day and survives gym class, recess and a few weeks of skipped brushing. Kids and teens want something that looks cool. The good news is you can usually get both.
Below, the barbers at Fade Artist in Barrie share the boys’ haircuts we’re booking most this fall, how to pick the right one for your child’s hair and routine, and how to make the visit easy, even for first-timers.
What Makes a Good Haircut for School?
Before picking a style, think about three things:
- Maintenance. How much time will your child actually spend on their hair in the morning? For most kids, the honest answer is zero. Choose a cut that looks good straight out of bed.
- Hair type. Thick, straight, wavy, curly and fine hair all behave differently. The right cut works with your child’s texture instead of fighting it.
- School and activities. Sports, swimming, helmets and dress codes all matter. Hockey players often want short sides, while a student with a uniform might want a cleaner, classic look.
The Best Boys’ Haircuts This Year
1. The Crew Cut
Short on the sides and back, a little longer on top. The crew cut is the most practical boys’ haircut there is. It’s easy to wash, quick to dry and almost impossible to mess up. It works on nearly every hair type and is great for younger kids.
2. The Low Taper Fade
The hair gets gradually shorter near the ears and neckline, with more length left on top. A taper looks clean and modern without being too dramatic, which makes it popular with parents and teens alike. It also grows out well, so it can go a little longer between visits. Learn more about the low taper fade.
3. The Textured Crop
Short, choppy hair on top with a fringe that falls forward, usually paired with a fade. It’s one of the most requested cuts for tweens and teens because it looks styled with very little effort. A little texture paste and it’s done. Read our full guide to the textured crop.
4. The Buzz Cut
One length all over, cut with clippers. It’s the ultimate low-maintenance choice for summer, sports and kids who hate brushing. A buzz cut can be dressed up with a fade on the sides or a sharp line-up.
5. The Classic Side Part
Tidy, timeless and picture-day ready. The sides are kept short and the top is left long enough to comb to one side. It’s a great choice for school uniforms, family photos and special occasions. Our guide on getting the perfect side part has styling tips.
6. Curly Top with a Fade
For boys with curly or coily hair, keeping the curls on top and fading the sides shows off natural texture while keeping things neat. Ask your barber how much length to leave so the curls can form properly.
7. The Burst Fade or Mullet (for Teens)
Older kids often want something with more personality. A burst fade curves around the ear and pairs well with a modern mullet or curly top. These styles need more frequent clean-ups, so they’re best for teens who are happy to come in every few weeks.
How to Choose the Right Cut for Your Child
| If your child… | Try | Visit every |
|---|---|---|
| Hates brushing their hair | Buzz cut or crew cut | 4–6 weeks |
| Plays hockey or wears a helmet | Crew cut or short taper | 3–5 weeks |
| Wants something trendy | Textured crop or burst fade | 2–4 weeks |
| Has curly hair | Curly top with a taper | 4–6 weeks |
| Has a uniform or dress code | Side part or low taper | 4–6 weeks |
Fades look their sharpest for about two weeks, then start to soften. For more on timing, see how often men should get a haircut. The same rules apply to boys.
Tips for a First Haircut or a Nervous Kid
- Book a quieter time. Weekday mornings or early afternoons are usually calmer than Saturdays.
- Show them photos first. Let your child pick a style they like, so they feel part of it.
- Bring a distraction. A tablet, a favourite toy or a snack can help younger kids sit still.
- Tell your barber about sensitivities. Some kids don’t like the buzz of clippers near their ears. Scissors can be used instead.
- Keep it positive. Praise them during and after, and point out how sharp they look in the mirror.
Talking to Your Barber
The best results come from clear communication. Bring a photo if you have one, and mention how much styling your child will actually do, any cowlicks or tricky spots, and whether there are school rules about length or designs. If your child has a stubborn cowlick, our cowlick guide explains how a good cut can work with it.
Keeping Your Child’s Haircut Looking Fresh
A good cut is only half the job. A few simple habits keep it looking sharp between visits:
- Use a kids’ shampoo two or three times a week. Daily washing can dry out the scalp, especially in winter.
- Keep products simple. A small amount of light paste or styling cream is plenty for a crop or side part. Skip heavy gels that flake.
- Brush or comb after swimming and sports. Sweat, chlorine and helmets flatten hair and cause tangles.
- Book the next cut before you leave. It’s the easiest way to stay on a 4 to 6 week schedule during a busy school term.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the most popular haircut for boys right now?
Textured crops, low taper fades and classic crew cuts are the most requested boys’ haircuts. Teens are also asking for burst fades and modern mullets.
How often should boys get a haircut?
Most boys need a cut every 4 to 6 weeks. Fades and sharp styles look best with a clean-up every 2 to 4 weeks.
What is a good low-maintenance haircut for boys?
A crew cut or buzz cut is the easiest. Both look neat without any styling and grow out evenly.
When should I book a back-to-school haircut?
Book one to two weeks before school starts. The cut will settle in, and you’ll avoid the last-minute rush.
Book a Boys’ Haircut in Barrie
Get your kids ready for the school year with a fresh cut from the barbers at Fade Artist, 431 Huronia Rd #2, Barrie. Call (705) 896-0003 or book online. Browse our men’s haircuts and taper fade services to see more styles.
