The Best Men’s Summer-Ready Haircuts (For Every Hair Type)

When the temperature rises, your hair starts to fight back. It clings to your neck, flops in your eyes, or melts into a shapeless mess the moment humidity hits.

The best way to fight the frizz, sweat and mid-July meltdown? A smart, seasonally appropriate haircut. One that works with your natural texture, keeps you cool, and looks sharp whether you’re beach-bound or beer garden-ready.

From fades to curls, here are the best summer-ready cuts for men across every hair type.

Straight Hair: The Textured Crop

The textured crop is a no-brainer for straight hair in the summer. Short on the back and sides with a choppy, layered top, it adds volume and definition without weight.

It’s low maintenance, easy to style with a touch of matte paste, and stays off your face in the heat. If your hair tends to go limp, ask your barber for point cutting to create movement and reduce bulk.

A fringe can work here, too, but keep it short and messy to avoid a sweaty forehead situation.

Wavy Hair: The Tapered Quiff

Wavy hair thrives in summer when it’s given some freedom. The tapered quiff leaves enough length on top to show off your texture while keeping the sides neat and tidy. It’s got polish without looking try-hard.

Style it with a lightweight cream or sea salt spray to enhance your waves and reduce frizz. Avoid anything too heavy or greasy — your waves need lift, not lockdown.

Afro Hair: The Short Afro Fade

The short afro fade strikes the right balance between shape and structure. Tightly cropped sides keep things cool, while a rounded top gives your curls space to breathe.

It works particularly well with tighter curl patterns, and it’s easy to maintain with regular shape-ups.

Moisture is key here — use a curl cream or leave-in conditioner to keep your hair defined and prevent summer dryness.

Coily Hair: Sponge Twists With Skin Fade

Coily hair requires a style that withstands heat without necessitating daily maintenance. Enter the high skin fade with sponge twists — clean at the sides, expressive up top.

It’s bold, fresh and very much in fashion. The fade keeps you cool, while the twists allow for definition and creativity.

Keep your scalp hydrated with natural oils, and refresh your twists with a spritz of leave-in conditioner when needed.

Curly Hair: The Loose Scissor Cut

Curly hair tends to be finer and looser in texture, which means it can get fluffy and frizzy fast in humid weather. The solution? A loose scissor cut with layers that follow the curl pattern.

This style keeps the shape intact without adding bulk or weight. Ask your barber to avoid thinning shears, which can make curls behave unpredictably.

Use a lightweight curl cream or mousse to enhance definition, and let it air dry naturally for the best results.

Thick Hair: The French Crop

Thick hair can feel like wearing a wool hat in summer. The French crop solves that with short sides and a blunt fringe that keeps bulk under control. It’s stylish, timeless, and surprisingly easy to wear.

Ask for the top to be point-cut or razor-textured to thin it out. Keep the product to a minimum — a light styling cream or powder will help you stay cool and keep the shape intact.

Fine Hair: The Ivy League

Fine hair can fall flat when it’s too long, but go too short and it looks sparse. The Ivy League cut walks the perfect line.

It’s a classic short back and sides with a touch more length on top for styling flexibility. Wear it neat with a side part or loose with a bit of texture.

Use a volumising mousse or matte clay to add body without weighing it down.

Receding Hairline: The Buzz Cut

A receding hairline in summer can be made worse by sweat and sunburn on your exposed scalp. The buzz cut embraces it all with confidence. It’s minimalist, masculine and takes seconds to style.

The key is to keep it sharp around the edges — a fresh line-up makes all the difference.

Pair it with a good SPF spray or scalp moisturiser to protect your skin.

Long Hair: The Layered Shoulder-Length Cut

Yes, long hair can work in summer — if it’s layered properly. A shoulder-length cut with light layering removes bulk and allows for better airflow. It also makes tying it up easier (or letting it fall in soft waves if that’s your thing).

Use a lightweight leave-in conditioner or hair oil to prevent dryness and frizz. Don’t be afraid to get regular trims to keep your hair looking intentional rather than overgrown.

The Summer Reset: Shaved Head

Sometimes, the best cut for summer is no cut at all — just take it all off. A shaved head is liberating, practical and actually quite stylish when paired with confidence.

It eliminates all grooming concerns bar one: keeping your scalp healthy. Use sunscreen daily and exfoliate once or twice a week to avoid flakiness or irritation.