15 Coolest Boys Haircuts 2020: Trendy Styles Revealed

15 Coolest Boys Haircuts 2020: Trendy Styles Revealed
Published Date - 12 August 2025
Right, let's talk about boys haircuts 2020—because honestly, the game has changed. Gone are the days when boys had just two options: short or shorter. This year brought us a whole new world of trendy boys hairstyles that actually let kids express their personality. From low maintenance boys haircuts that work perfectly for busy school mornings to more textured looks that scream weekend vibes, there's genuinely something for every young lad. Whether you're after that fresh-from-the-barber look or something a bit more relaxed, these 15 cuts might just become your go-to inspiration.

The Evolution of Boys Haircuts in 2020

This year marked a proper shift in how we think about modern kids hair trends. Social media changed everything—boys started seeing style inspiration everywhere, from TikTok to Instagram. The result? Haircuts became way more about personal expression than just looking 'neat and tidy.' Parents started embracing cuts that let their kids show off their individual style, whilst still keeping things appropriate for school. The influence of pop culture hit different in 2020. Footballers, musicians, and even young influencers became the new style icons. Boys weren't just copying their mates anymore—they were looking at what their favourite content creators were rocking and wanting to try something similar.

Factors to Consider When Choosing a Boys Haircut

Before diving into our list, let's keep it real about what actually matters when picking a cut. Your hair texture plays a massive role—what looks incredible on straight hair might not work the same magic on curly locks. Face shape matters too, though most boys' cuts are pretty forgiving. Maintenance level is probably the biggest consideration for most families. Some cuts need daily styling, others look great with just a quick ruffle. School dress codes can be a bit of a buzzkill, but there are loads of school-friendly boy hairstyles that still look fresh. Most importantly, it's got to feel right for your kid's personality.

15 Coolest Boys Haircuts for 2020

Here's where it gets exciting. These boys fade haircut styles and textured options genuinely dominated 2020, and for good reason. Each one brings something different to the table, whether you're after classic vibes or something more modern.

1. The Classic Fade

This one's a proper crowd-pleaser. The classic fade keeps things short on the sides and back, gradually blending into longer hair on top. You've got options with low, mid, and high fades—basically choosing how dramatic you want the contrast to be. It works with pretty much any hair type and keeps things neat for school whilst still looking sharp.

2. Textured Crop for Boys

This textured crop for boys became absolutely massive in 2020. It's all about that choppy, slightly messy texture on top with shorter sides. Perfect for boys with thicker hair who want something that looks effortlessly cool. The best part? It genuinely looks better when it's a bit messy, so styling is pretty minimal.

3. Modern Pompadour

Think classic pompadour but way more relaxed. The hair sweeps back and up, but it's not as structured as the vintage versions. Works brilliantly for boys with longer faces, and you can style it sleek for special occasions or keep it more casual for everyday wear.

4. Messy Quiff

This popular male youth cut is basically the cool cousin of the classic quiff. Instead of perfect styling, it embraces that 'just rolled out of bed but still look good' vibe. The front hair gets swept up and back, but it's deliberately imperfect. Dead easy to style and looks great on most face shapes.

5. Buzz Cut with Design

For boys who want something properly low maintenance but still interesting, this is your pick. The basic buzz cut gets jazzed up with shaved designs or patterns. Could be simple lines, geometric shapes, or even more intricate patterns. It grows out relatively quickly, so you can change up the design regularly.

6. Side-Swept Fringe

This versatile cut works across different hair textures and gives boys that classic, put-together look. The fringe sweeps to one side, covering part of the forehead. It's brilliant for school because it looks smart, but you can mess it up a bit for weekends. Works particularly well for boys with straight to slightly wavy hair.

7. Curly Top with Faded Sides

For boys with naturally curly hair, this combination is absolutely perfect. Keep the gorgeous curls on top whilst fading the sides for a clean, modern look. The key is using the right products to define those curls without making them crunchy. This cut celebrates natural texture rather than fighting against it.

8. Spiky Texture

This edgy style brings back spikes but in a more refined way. Instead of the super-structured spikes from years past, this version is more textured and natural-looking. It works with shorter hair lengths and can be styled down for school or spiked up for weekends.

9. Slick Back Undercut

This sophisticated cut combines longer hair on top that gets slicked back with much shorter or even shaved sides. It's quite grown-up looking, perfect for boys who want something a bit more mature. You can style it properly slicked for formal events or keep it more relaxed for casual wear.

10. Mohawk Fade

Now this is bold. The mohawk fade keeps a strip of longer hair down the centre whilst fading the sides completely. It might sound intense, but when done right, it can look quite smart—especially with a lower contrast between the top and sides.

11. Layered Medium Length

For boys who prefer longer hair, this layered cut adds movement and prevents that heavy, flat look. The layers create texture and make thick hair more manageable. It's quite versatile—you can wear it neat for school or tousled for a more relaxed vibe.

12. Textured French Crop

This modern take on the classic French crop features more texture and movement. The fringe is cut bluntly but styled with texture, whilst the back and sides stay neat. It's brilliant for boys who want something that looks styled without too much daily effort.

13. Faux Hawk

The faux hawk gives you that edgy mohawk vibe without fully committing to shaved sides. The hair gets styled up in the centre, creating height and texture. Perfect for boys who want something fun for weekends but can be styled flatter for school.

14. Brushed Up Fringe

This trendy style takes the traditional fringe and brushes it upward and back instead of letting it fall forward. It creates height and movement whilst still keeping things relatively neat. Works particularly well for boys with fine to medium hair thickness.

15. Long Surfer Hair

For the ultimate relaxed vibe, longer surfer-inspired hair became quite popular. It's all about that effortless, beachy look with natural waves and movement. Requires minimal styling—just some texturising product and you're sorted.

Boys Hair Care Routine

Let's keep this simple because nobody wants a complicated routine. A good boys hair care routine starts with the right shampoo—something gentle that won't strip natural oils. Most boys don't need to wash their hair every single day unless it gets properly greasy. Conditioner isn't always necessary for shorter cuts, but longer styles definitely benefit from it. For styling, less is usually more. A small amount of product goes a long way, and the key is working it through damp hair for the best distribution.

Hair Styling Products for Boys

When it comes to boys hair styling tips, product choice makes all the difference. For textured, messy looks, a good texturising paste or wax works brilliantly. If you want something sleeker, a light pomade or styling cream gives that polished finish without looking too heavy. For boys with sensitive scalps, look for products with fewer chemicals and more natural ingredients. Always start with a tiny amount—you can always add more, but it's much harder to take product out once you've overdone it.

Frequently Asked Questions

How often should boys get haircuts?

Most short haircuts for boys need a trim every 4-6 weeks to keep them looking sharp. Longer styles can go 6-8 weeks between cuts. If you're maintaining a specific shape like a fade, you might want to touch it up every 3-4 weeks.

What are some quick hairstyling tips for busy mornings?

Damp hair styles much easier than completely dry hair. A quick spritz with water and a small amount of product can work wonders. For really rushed mornings, choose cuts that look good with minimal styling.

How can I convince my son to try a new hairstyle?

Show them pictures of styles you think might work and let them have input in the decision. Sometimes starting with a subtle change helps build confidence before trying something more dramatic.

Are there any haircuts that work well for both school and sports?

Fades, buzz cuts, and textured crops are brilliant for active boys. They stay neat during sports but still look stylish. Avoid styles that need lots of product or precise styling if your son plays sports regularly.

How can I maintain my son's haircut between salon visits?

Learn basic trimming techniques for tidying up the neckline and around the ears. Invest in decent clippers if your son has a fade—you can touch up the sides to extend time between professional cuts.

Final Thoughts

These boys haircuts 2020 brought us show that there's genuinely a style for every personality and lifestyle. From super low maintenance options to cuts that let boys express their creative side, the choices have never been better. The key is finding something that works with your son's hair type, fits your family's routine, and makes him feel confident. Remember, hair grows—so don't be afraid to try something new. What might just become your next fave could be waiting in this list.
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