15 Waves Haircuts for Men That Are Making Waves in 2025
Waves haircuts for men continue to dominate 2025, blending classic texture with modern edge. Whether you’re going for that smooth 360 waves pattern or a more natural wavy flow, there’s a wave style to match your vibe. In this guide, we break down 15 top-tier waves haircuts for men — each designed to work with your hair’s texture and boost your overall look.
15 Best Waves Haircuts for Men This Year
1. 360 Waves with Low Taper Fade
The 360 waves with low taper fade is a go-to for men who love sleek, brushed-down coils with clean edges. This style offers low-maintenance control with a sharp neckline and temple taper. For men with thicker hair textures, this haircut pairs well with styles like hairstyles for men with thick hair, keeping things sharp and manageable.
2. Deep Waves with Temple Fade
Deep waves emphasize the depth and uniformity of your hair pattern, working great on coarse hair types. Add a temple fade for that modern touch. Guys with 4C textures or tighter curls will love how this style pops after a fresh brush session. Just like styles featured in braided hairstyles for men, moisture retention is key here.
3. Waves with Burst Fade and Beard
This edgy style blends burst fades around the ears with tight waves up top, then finishes strong with a shaped beard. If you’re rocking facial hair, this haircut balances top and bottom perfectly. It carries a similar vibe to curated soccer haircuts for men where structure meets personal flair.
4. Curly Waves with Mid Fade
For men who naturally lean toward curls, this style lets you embrace that texture while shaping it into defined waves. A mid fade brings symmetry. It’s an ideal option for those seeking a good haircut for curly hair that doesn’t strip away volume but refines it instead.
5. Long Wavy Top with Tapered Sides
This haircut features longer waves on top and neatly tapered sides for a high-low contrast. It’s perfect for men growing out their hair and want to try the best hairstyles for men long hair without losing clean edges. Add a moisturizing cream to keep your waves soft and touchable.
6. Brushback Waves with Drop Fade
Inspired by the brushback hairstyle men love, this version pushes your waves backward rather than spinning. A drop fade adds a modern silhouette. It’s sleek, mature, and suitable for guys with looser wave patterns or slightly straightened textures.
7. Defined Waves with Part Line
Adding a sharp part to defined waves gives this classic style some new structure. This haircut adds a touch of elegance, similar to the clean looks seen in professional short men’s haircuts. It works best on medium-length hair that’s been consistently trained with brushing.
8. Mohawk Waves with Skin Fade
If you like bold styles, this waves-meets-mohawk combo turns heads. The central wave pattern flows into a skin fade on the sides. It’s edgy and expressive — similar in attitude to taper fade mullet hairstyles with a tighter crown focus.
9. Soft Waves with Textured Top
Not everyone wants tight coils. This softer wave style is great for men who want movement without the rigid discipline of 360 waves. Great for medium to long textures and guys who lean into hairstyles for men with thick hair that are low-fuss but full of life.
10. Short Waves with Line-Up
This version pairs short, well-defined waves with a crisp line-up, creating a structured, face-framing effect. It’s ideal for men with a square jaw or wider forehead. Pair it with a fade or leave the sides natural — both options work great.
11. Waves with High Taper and Design
Want to add artistic flair? Combine waves with a high taper and a custom hair design etched into the sides. It’s a modern, expressive take similar to the creative vibe of braids with designs for men. Use a precision trimmer for best results.
12. Extra Wavy Afro Fade
If your hair naturally sits between coils and waves, embrace the fluff with an afro fade. This haircut keeps the edges fresh while allowing wave volume up top. A great option for medium-length textures that want to keep it real but refined.
13. Slick Waves with Side Part
The slick waves style has a touch of vintage — almost pompadour-like — with a defined part. Perfect for guys transitioning from longer cuts and looking for something neat but not too short. Use a shine-enhancing pomade to hold the shape.
14. Wolf Cut Waves
The wolf cut isn’t just for straight hair — it works wonders with waves too. Keep the top messy and voluminous while letting the sides fade subtly. This laid-back wave haircut reflects styles seen in curly undercut mens looks with texture on top and structure underneath.
15. Waves with Blowout Fade
Combine a blowout fade with medium-length waves for a voluminous, airy finish. It suits all face shapes and gives your hair space to move. Use a sea salt spray or curl foam to create lift without flattening the wave definition.
Expert Tips & Style Recommendations
- Brush daily with a medium or soft wave brush — consistency is key in building and keeping waves.
- Moisturize your scalp and hair regularly. A wave pomade or curl-enhancing cream helps define texture and prevent dryness.
- Durag at night is non-negotiable. It keeps waves in place while reducing frizz and breakage.
- Washing matters — avoid over-washing. Instead, co-wash (conditioner-only wash) 2–3 times a week to retain moisture.
- Hair type affects your waves. Men with tighter curls need more brushing, while those with looser patterns benefit from styling creams and regular trims.
FAQs
1. How long does it take to get 360 waves?
On average, it takes 3–6 weeks of consistent brushing and moisturizing to start seeing solid wave patterns. Hair texture, brush technique, and product usage all impact the timeline.
2. Can you get waves with curly hair?
Absolutely. Curly hair is actually ideal for waves because of its natural bend. With the right training and brushing routine, curls will form into well-defined waves.
3. What’s the best haircut to start waves?
A low or medium fade with a short length on top (usually level 1.5 to 2) is perfect. It gives enough room for the wave pattern to emerge while keeping the sides tidy.
4. Are waves high-maintenance?
They require regular brushing and moisturizing, but once your pattern is locked in, daily upkeep is simple and fast. A durag at night cuts down on restyling time.
5. Can I combine waves with other hairstyles?
Definitely. Waves pair well with fades, parts, designs, and even longer tops like mohawks or undercuts — giving you flexibility while still showcasing your texture.
Final Thoughts
Waves haircuts for men are more than just a style — they’re a craft. With the right cut, a solid brush game, and a bit of patience, you can create head-turning waves that work with your lifestyle. Whether you’re just starting out or looking to upgrade your wave game, there’s a version here that’ll match your texture, face shape, and personal style. Ready to level up your look? Check out more on short men’s haircuts and taper fade hairstyles to pair with your waves.
