Stylish men’s short haircuts for a cool summer look 22 ideas

Have you ever felt the call of the summer sun, beckoning you to switch up your look and embrace something lighter, cooler, yet undeniably sharp? What’s your move when the heat hits? Do you go for a men’s short summer haircut that makes a splash at every poolside soirée? Or maybe you’re curious about which styles are making waves this season? Stick around as we dive into the top hairstyles for men this summer and how they might just be the fresh twist your look needs.

Men’s Refined Side-Parted Fade

This suave haircut features a meticulously styled top with a natural side part, blending into a neat, skin-close fade. The sharp lines of the haircut exude a polished appearance, ideal for men who favor a classic yet modern style.

For gentlemen who juggle boardrooms and barbecues, this hairstyle is a versatile choice. It’s particularly flattering for those with a diamond face shape, as it balances the angles beautifully. Unfortunately, it might not suit those with very curly or unmanageable hair, as the look requires a certain sleekness.

Maintaining this style is straightforward: a quality pomade with a matte finish can keep your hair in place without the shine. Consider the Baxter of California Clay Pomade for its strong hold and natural look.

In this look, it’s all about the fine details—the impeccable line-up around the temples and the forehead adds a refined edge that’s right at home in both the office and on a night out.

Casual Textured Crop

The textured crop seen here is the embodiment of laid-back chic, with a tousled top that screams beach-ready. It’s a go-to hairstyle for a man seeking a balance between casual and styled.

This cut is a fantastic option for the chap with a more casual wardrobe, providing a messy yet intentional vibe. It’s not the best pick for those with thinning hair, as the style relies on a fuller look to achieve that carefree charm.

To keep this look fresh, work in a lightweight texturizing cream like the Kevin Murphy UN.DRESSED Fibre Paste, which offers flexibility and a natural feel.

Wrapping up this look, it’s the effortlessness that captures the spirit of summer—like you’ve just returned from surfing the waves, even if you’ve only surfed the web all day.

Modern Brushed-Up Style

This image presents a modern take on the brushed-up style, with a low fade haircut on the sides to emphasize the volume on top. It’s a bold statement that merges trend with tradition.

Ideal for the urban trendsetter, this cut works best for those with a thick mane. It may not be the easiest to maintain for someone with very fine or straight hair that lacks natural lift.

The key to this hairstyle’s structure is a good volumizing mousse, such as the Moroccanoil Volumizing Mousse, applied to damp hair before blow-drying upwards.

The draw of this hairstyle lies in its dynamic contrast—the structured yet buoyant top against the minimalistic fade, crafting a look that’s as edgy as it is elegant.

Sharp and Sculpted High-and-Tight

Embrace the heat with this faded haircut—a high-and-tight masterpiece that pairs a buzzed fade with a sculpted, short top. It’s military-inspired precision at its most stylish.

This no-nonsense cut is perfect for the active man, someone who needs a haircut that can keep up with a vigorous lifestyle. It’s not recommended for those who prefer a more understated approach to their hair.

Maintenance? Minimal. A dab of light hold gel, like the American Crew Light Hold Styling Gel, should suffice to give the top a touch of control without stiffness.

What sets this cut apart is its sheer functionality mixed with a dash of panache—ideal for those who believe that every second counts, whether you’re clocking miles or closing deals.

Effortlessly Cool Wavy Shag

Here we see an effortlessly cool wavy shag that’s all about movement and texture. The length on top paired with a subtle taper makes it a favorite among men who like to keep it a bit rugged.

This hairstyle is a match for men with natural waves who enjoy a more bohemian look. It might pose a challenge for those with pin-straight hair, as it relies on natural texture.

A sea salt spray, such as the Bumble and Bumble Surf Spray, can enhance the waves and give that fresh-off-the-beach vibe.

This look is all about embracing your natural texture and letting your hair do its thing, giving you that free-spirited edge that’s synonymous with summer escapades.

Classic Caesar Cut with a Modern Twist

The man in the photo sports a classic Caesar cut that’s been given a modern twist with a crisp fade. The even, short length on top exudes confidence with a clean-cut edge.

This timeless style suits a wide array of men, especially those with a strong jawline looking for a low-maintenance yet stylish option. It may not be the right fit for those with a rounder face, as the shorter hair can accentuate width.

The upkeep is simple: a dab of a firm-hold product like TIGI Bed Head for Men Matte Separation Workable Wax will maintain the structured look throughout the day.

Adding to this, the sharp fade brings a contemporary feel to the historical haircut, ensuring that you stand out in the best way this summer.

Relaxed Beach Waves

Next up, we have a man with relaxed beach waves, perfect for a summer haircut. The natural flow and slight volume provide a carefree yet composed look.

It’s a great match for those with naturally wavy hair, aiming for a laid-back style that doesn’t require much fuss. It’s less suitable for those with pin-straight hair unless they’re willing to put in extra styling time.

To maintain this breezy look, a light hold texturizing spray, like the Sea Salt Spray by Pete & Pedro, will give you that wind-styled natural wave without the crunch.

It’s the ultimate “I woke up like this” style that speaks volumes of your go-with-the-flow attitude, perfect for any summer setting.

Sharp Crop with Textured Top

Featured here is a sharp, tight crop with a beautifully textured top, a hairstyle that combines precision with a bit of edge.

Ideal for the trend-conscious man, this style works wonders on dense hair, providing texture and depth. However, it might be challenging for those with fine or sparsely populated locks.

To achieve this textured look, use a product like Layrite Cement Clay for its strong yet pliable hold, allowing you to reshape as needed.

This cut’s magic lies in its textured dynamism—giving you a versatile, edgy look that can transition from a day at work to a night out without missing a beat.

Contemporary Bowl Cut

In this image, we see a modern take on the bowl cut, featuring a defined shape around the head that transitions into a subtle fade. It’s a bold and artsy choice for the fashion-forward man.

This cut is best for those with straight to wavy hair who enjoy a statement look. It’s not for the faint-hearted or those with very curly hair, as it requires a certain hair texture to pull off.

Maintaining this bold silhouette could involve regular trims and a smoothing product like Paul Mitchell’s Tea Tree Shaping Cream to keep things sleek.

What we love about this look is its unapologetic nod to the past while firmly maintaining a contemporary stance, all about making a statement with your strands.

The Slicked Back Fade

This gentleman models a classic slicked-back look paired with a fade that adds a modern touch. It’s an edgy, yet polished hairstyle for men that makes a statement.

It’s a fantastic option for those with thicker hair, lending itself well to various hair textures but may not suit someone with very fine hair that lacks volume.

To maintain the sleek back, a good quality pomade is key. Try something like the Baxter of California Clay Pomade for that perfect hold and shine.

This look captures the essence of a go-getter with a penchant for the classics, but who also appreciates the edge that a fade brings to the table.

The Braided Top with Fade

This photo presents an intricate 2 strand twist that adorns the top of the head, complemented by a skin-tight fade. It’s a modern and stylish hairstyle that merges tradition with contemporary trends.

This braid style works best for individuals with thick, textured hair and is especially popular within black communities, adding a touch of cultural flair. However, it requires a level of commitment to styling and maintenance that may not be ideal for everyone.

To keep the braids looking fresh, it’s crucial to moisturize regularly. An excellent product to use is the SheaMoisture Jamaican Black Castor Oil Strengthen & Restore Balm.

This style isn’t just about looking good; it’s about embracing a part of one’s heritage while rocking a look that’s both sporty and high-fashion.

The Defined Coils with Fade

The gentleman in this photograph sports an effortlessly cool hairstyle that combines tightly coiled hair with a sleek fade. It’s a bold summer haircut that’s both stylish and comfortable.

This look is best for those with naturally curly hair and works well with different face shapes, especially complementing the diamond face shape. It might not be the ideal choice for those with straight hair or for someone looking for a less conspicuous hairstyle.

To maintain the definition in those coils, a curl-defining product, like Cantu Shea Butter for Natural Hair Define & Shine Custard, is essential.

This hairstyle stands out for its unique combination of statement-making volume on top and crisp cleanliness on the sides, perfect for the summer’s heat.

The Modern Afro Fade

In this image, we observe a contemporary twist on the classic Afro – a neatly faded perimeter accentuating a beautifully rounded top. This look is a staple hairstyle for black men, merging tradition with modern barbering techniques.

It suits those with tight curls who aren’t afraid to flaunt their natural texture. However, it’s not the best choice for someone seeking a low-maintenance summer haircut due to the styling involved.

A curl sponge and a moisturizing hair cream, such as Carol’s Daughter Hair Milk, can help maintain the shape and health of the Afro.

This hairstyle stands out as a bold celebration of natural beauty, a nod to cultural roots, and a stylish statement all in one.

The Casual Curly Shag

Lastly, this photo captures the carefree spirit of summer with a naturally curly shag that’s all about embracing one’s innate hair texture. It’s relaxed, unfussy, and perfect for the man who likes to keep it casual.

This hairstyle is ideal for those with a wave or curl to their hair, providing a laid-back, surfer vibe. It might not align with the grooming standards of more conservative professions.

Keeping this look in top condition simply involves a good wash-and-go routine, with the occasional use of a curl-friendly product like DevaCurl’s Ultra Defining Gel.

It’s the quintessential hairstyle for a summer filled with beach days and outdoor fun, resonating with a sense of freedom and ease.

The Curly Top with High Fade

Pictured here is a charismatic summer haircut with a voluptuous curly top, perfectly complemented by a high fade. The cut exudes a playful yet sharp demeanor, ideal for the trendsetters.

This cut is a show-stopper for someone with natural curls looking to highlight their texture. It’s not the best fit for straight-haired gents or those averse to a bit of daily styling.

The key to maintaining those enviable curls is a hydrating curl cream, like Moroccan Oil Intense Curl Cream, ensuring each coil is defined and frizz-free.

What’s enticing about this style is its duality; it’s both business at the sides and party at the top, making it a versatile choice for all summer occasions.

The Disconnected Pompadour

Here we see a modern rendition of the classic pompadour, featuring a disconnected style with a sharp contrast in length. It’s a hairstyle that boldly straddles the line between vintage glam and modern edginess.

It’s best suited for those with thicker locks who can achieve the necessary volume on top. This may be a challenge for men with finer hair or those looking for a low-maintenance haircut.

To keep the pomp in place, a strong-hold hair wax like TIGI Bed Head for Men Matte Separation Workable Wax will do the trick.

The hairstyle captures an air of retro cool, perfect for those who appreciate a nod to classic styles while making a contemporary statement.

The Laid-Back Waves

The individual in this image radiates summer vibes with relaxed, tousled waves. It’s an effortless look that speaks to a free-spirited lifestyle, synonymous with hairstyles for a diamond face shape.

This look is perfect for wavy-haired men who favor a natural, just-came-from-the-beach look. However, it’s not as suitable for those who prefer a more structured or shorter style.

A sea salt spray, such as Bumble and bumble Surf Spray, will help achieve this texture while keeping the hair looking natural and movement-filled.

This style exudes a sense of ease and confidence, making it a fantastic choice for those long, sun-soaked days.

The High and Tight

The photo showcases a classic military-inspired high and tight hairstyle. It’s clean, it’s precise, and it’s incredibly low-maintenance, making it an ideal summer haircut.

This style is universally flattering and practical, especially for those who want a hassle-free hairstyle. It might not appeal to those who prefer a longer, more stylized look.

Maintenance is minimal; a simple wash and perhaps a touch of matte styling product for a bit of texture is all you need. American Crew’s Forming Cream could be a good fit.

It’s the quintessential choice for someone with an active lifestyle, or anyone looking for a sharp, no-nonsense haircut that keeps them cool in every sense of the word.

The Textured French Crop

Our final image displays a hairstyle that blends texture with the timeless appeal of a French crop. It’s a refined summer haircut with a fringe that adds personality.

This style works well for those with straight or slightly wavy hair and is a great match for someone with a keen sense of style but also appreciates simplicity.

For texture and hold, a lightweight texturizing powder or paste can be used. Try something like the Kevin Murphy Bedroom Hair for a lived-in yet controlled look.

It’s a versatile and stylish hairstyle that embodies a sense of relaxed elegance, making it as suitable for a night out as it is for a day at the office.

The Edgy Textured Top

This image features a sharp and edgy look with a textured top that adds a sense of depth and drama to the hairstyle. It’s a haircut for men that’s as much about attitude as it is about style.

Ideal for those with a thicker hair type who can support the structured top, this hairstyle may not be suitable for those who prefer a more traditional or conservative look.

To keep this textured top looking its best, a matte clay, like the Hanz de Fuko Claymation, can provide long-lasting hold with a natural finish.

This hairstyle resonates with urban edge and is a statement piece in itself, making it a great conversation starter at any summer social event.

The Casual Curly Charm

The man in this photograph exudes casual charm with his medium-length curls that provide a soft, approachable look. It’s a versatile hairstyle that’s as fitting for a summer date night as it is for a day at the beach.

This style is best for those with natural waves or curls and can work wonders on various hair types, offering a great way to let those natural curls shine. It might be less appealing to those who prefer a sharper, cleaner haircut.

To maintain the curls’ shape without weighing them down, a lightweight mousse or curl cream can be used, such as the Bumble and bumble Curl Defining Cream.

It’s the perfect hairstyle for those lazy summer days when the vibe is relaxed but the style is still very much on point.