25 Best Men's Crew Cut Hairstyles (2018 Update)

The crew cut is a classic yet stylish men’s haircut worth trying in 2018. Although the men’s crew cut hairstyle has traditionally been a type of short military hairstyle, guys are getting this look as an everyday style as well. This is because crew cut hair is masculine and easy to maintain, offering an athletic, practical way to style hair for men. The best part is that crew cut styles are versatile – you can keep the hair on top short or grow it long enough for a side-swept finish. Furthermore, most men choose the crew cut fade where you ask your barber for short taper faded sides for a high-contrast look.

No matter how you want your crew cut haircut – short, long, faded or paired with a beard – this cool hairstyle for men has gained popularity in recent years, with the modern crew cut now considered one of the top hairstyles for men of the year. Check out our guide below for the best crew cuts and how you can get this awesome style.

How To Get A Crew Cut

To get a tapered crew cut, all you really need is hair clippers; in fact, many guys actually cut their own hair at home with a good pair. Now, start with a tapered fade on the sides and back. While the typical crew cut is short all around, you do have the option to leave your hair on top slightly longer than the sides. We recommend a number 1 or 2 haircut on the sides, and a 3 or 4 on top to create some contrast. However, if you do want a barber to cut your hair, try a high or skin fade for a very sharp finish.

How long you leave the hair on top depends on whether you want a short or long crew cut. Longer hair can give you the option of styling different hairstyles, including an Ivy League, textured crop, or even a side part.

How To Style A Crew Cut

Finally, to style a crew cut, use some good pomade or wax. If you want your hair to look structured, shiny and slick, choose a medium to strong hold pomade with sheen. For a textured crew cut that shows off your hair’s natural feel, use a no or low shine product for a matte finish. We would advise against using gel to avoid clumping, especially if you have thin or thinning hair.

Because your hair is really short, actually styling your hair is optional. You can just spread out some hair wax and leave it mostly messy. However, for a classic, sophisticated look, guys may want to consider the side swept crew cut, where you part the fringe to one side.

Best Crew Cut Styles

If the crew cut hairstyle for men seems like a cool look for you, check out the best crew cuts below for inspiration. We’ve included all the most popular variations and provided a gallery of pictures to show your barber when asking for the cut. And don’t forget that there are a variety of other high and tight haircuts to get if you want an even shorter look.