Cool & Trendy Boys Haircuts – Summer 2025: Fresh Cuts for Every Hair Type

Summer’s not just a season—it’s an energy. Summer has arrived, so school is out, the sun is shining and every kid is ready for something new. New shoes, new shirts… and absolutely, a haircut that’s stylish for 2025. But the real question is: what’s actually trending this year? What should I use when I’m in a hurry, by the pool or need to add some gel to my style?
Let’s check out some outfits that fit the scene and also help create its style. If your child has curly, wavy or straight hair, there’s a hairstyle coming up that will get everyone’s attention at school, at the high school pickup line or at the next beach bonfire.
Textured Bedhead with Intentional Mess
This style has a way of making it seem like you’ve just woken up looking great. Even though it’s not very tall, this wave is extremely unpredictable at the top. It uses lots of product, so the hair stands up in a wild but controlled manner. This is a teen version of the surfer-meets-street style, so it’s great for boys with thick, straight hair or short thick hair that just needs to be tamed, not made flat.
To stay cool, this kind of structure needs a bit of space around it. I suggest applying American Crew Fiber—rub a little between your hands and then lift your hair upwards. The product doesn’t get stiff, so you can restyle it all day without having to put more on.
I really like this one since it helps you show who you are. Sometimes it looks straight up, but other days it droops into a fauxhawk. There’s flexibility, which is rare in super short styles.
If your kid has a lot of hair and you’re bored with their usual fade, try this style out. At its finest, it’s a bit messy on purpose and your summer photos will look amazing!
Side-Swept Cool with a Clean Taper
A good side-sweep, when combined with an undercut or taper, has a classic beachy feel and makes the top the main attraction. This one hits that “cool kid at sunset” energy. It’s sharp yet soft, controlled yet breezy. The hair’s sides are clean, the top falls to one side and it’s light enough to move with the wind. Perfect for boys with straight or slightly wavy hair.
Keeping this look summer-ready means managing flyaways and frizz. I recommend Paul Mitchell’s Clean Cut Styling Cream because you don’t need much and it’s suitable for hair that’s either wet or dry. Perfect for busy mornings or rushed pre-camp grooming.
I love that this haircut has range. One comb-through and it’s ready for school photos. Shake it up, and it works for soccer practice. It’s a balance of length and control, making it easy to dress for style yet stay organized.
If boys aren’t quite ready for a buzz or fade, but still want to try something new, a side-sweep with a taper is the best choice. Plus, it looks amazing as it grows out.
The Mini Man Bun Revival
Okay, hear me out. Now, the man bun is back, but it’s shorter, softer and perfect for kids. If the hair is pulled back from the front and sides and has a clean base, with a long knot on top, this style looks sure of itself without being too stiff. It works beautifully on straight hair, especially if it’s longer or in the growing-out phase. Minimalist but full of personality.
Maintaining this look is actually pretty low-effort. Spray the Leave-In Conditioner by Sun Bum on your hair to protect the ends and keep frizz under control after being in the water. Tie it with a gentle elastic (avoid the harsh ones!) and brush back with a boar bristle brush.
I’ll be honest—I used to side-eye this style. Yet, I noticed it on a child at a weekend BBQ and it looked perfect. It sticks to being rebellious while still being stylish like an artist or a skater.
If your son’s hair is in that middle stage, try to tie it up instead of cutting it short. You may be amazed at how mature and cool it feels.
The Blunt Fringe Fade
I’ve given this one a twist by making the soldier from modern times. A fade that goes up high on the sides, added with thick and slightly wavy hair and a blunt fringe cut straight across the forehead. It’s very accurate, striking and makes sharp jawlines and big eyes look especially good. It’s a clean-cut short cut, but it has enough details to make it more interesting than a basic buzz.
If your fringe is getting in your eyes, you might need to trim it in the middle of summer. Have your barber cut the edges so they are neat but still soft. Layrite Natural Matte Cream will give you a hold that looks natural, so it’s perfect for keeping your sides tidy and your top flexible.
Honestly? This look is quietly confident. No drama, no over-the-top styling. Just sharp lines and clean proportions. Yes, there’s something about it that feels a bit like a cool European city.
If your son isn’t interested in the latest trends but still wants a trendy haircut, this is the perfect style for him. It says “I care,” without trying too hard.
High-Contrast Fade with Sweeping Layers
This style is a summer head-turner. It begins with a short fade that grows long and thick at the top, creating a look that’s almost like waves. The crown is where the magic happens, as long strands fall over to one side, giving straight hair a big advantage. This cut is loud in the coolest way.
The top needs to be refreshed every three to four weeks, but the fade will need to be updated more often. Let it flow a bit. Spray Seasalt Spray by Blind Barber and lightly scrunch your hair to get some texture. If your kid’s hair is wavy, this will make it more noticeable. For sleek straight hair, it adds needed grip.
To my eyes, it looks like something you’d see on a teenage character in a summer movie. It gives structure without sacrificing flair. Drama without chaos.
Thinking about a bold transformation this season? This fade-layer combo is your move. It’s a classic long on top style that everyone will notice.
Spiked-Up Confidence with a Clean Side Fade
You can feel the energy in this haircut and that’s a good thing. A sharp spike design, chosen carefully and a short fade around the sides and back. The overall vibe is playful but polished. It’s a strong style, but not too dramatic and suits boys with straight or thick hair. There’s something futuristic about this, as if we’re watching a mini action hero emerge.
I always use Got2b Glued Styling Spiking Glue to keep my spikes looking sharp and not flake or melt in the sun. Add a little to dry hair and use your fingers to twist upwards for a strong style that won’t budge during bike rides, games at the playground or water fights at home.
What I’ve found from following trendy boys haircuts 2025 is that a great spiked look isn’t messy. It’s all in the shaping. A good barber will create layers in the top area to give height and just enough fading on the sides to keep the style neat.
I think this style is perfect for summer, as it’s practical, colorful and just as cool as your child’s favorite Marvel character.
Modern Samurai Knot with Bare Sides
For those who like to experiment, the updated samurai bun is for you. All angles pulled tight and tied into a long topknot, this style looks stylish and can be worn daily. It’s perfect for long straight hair, but can also be used on medium wavy hair that has grown out. The clean sides? After being shaved low, the focus is entirely on that striking knot.
A hydrating mask once a week, like Maui Moisture Heal & Hydrate + Shea Butter Hair Mask and using cloth elastics will help protect your hair. Although you need to be more disciplined with this style, as soon as your morning routine is set, it doesn’t take much effort.
The strength visible in this style is what makes it feel almost like it’s from a movie. You’d probably find this style on a kid who skates or draws and always likes to go beyond the usual rules.
If your child has long hair and a bit of a rebel streak, now is the time to try something new and memorable. Besides, the style can be transformed into a curtain cut as it grows out.
Sleek Fade with Beach-Boy Texture
This one’s your all-American heartthrob haircut. Light and messy hair that’s straight on top, with a bit of lift to make it feel airy. Fine lines of fades on the sides add contrast, but it’s not very noticeable. There’s a soft sophistication to it—kind of like what you’d expect from a young surfer who knows how to charm the neighbors at a Fourth of July BBQ.
I think Verb Volume Dry Texture Spray is great for everyday styling. It keeps your hair looking good without adding grease and helps the lift at the root stay in place during summer activities. A small amount of sea salt spray in the morning will keep your hair looking great.
The reason it’s so popular in the trendy boys haircuts straight hair category is that it’s extremely simple. And when the sun hits those blonde tones? Chef’s kiss.
This is the one to try if you’re after a universally flattering, easy-to-love style that doesn’t need explaining. It just works.
Precision Bowl Cut with Skin Fade Drama
The bowl cut is making a comeback, but it’s not the same as it was before. This version is sleek, modern, and striking. The top part is in a soft halo and the fade at the bottom brings the cut right down to the skin. Straight-haired boys will look precise and polished with this style which is sure to make them stand out. It’s not for everyone, but that’s kind of the point.
Since this style is very clear, you should get a trim every 3–4 weeks to keep it looking right. BaBylissPRO GoldFX Clippers are a solid at-home investment if you’re into maintaining this cut yourself.
I was amazed when I saw this style on a kid’s runway earlier this year. It balances nostalgia with boldness. I’d describe it as “retro-future”—and it seems to fit perfectly with the styles we see today.
If your child is confident and enjoys trendy looks, this bowl-fade mashup is exactly what they should try. It’s neat, fresh, and dripping with personality.
Sun-Kissed Faux Hawk with Skin Fade
One of the most fashionable trendy boys haircuts 2025 offers is a layered faux hawk with a steep skin fade that fades right into the skin. The long length of the crown gives it a fun texture and the light blonde color gives it a summery look. If your child’s hair is straight or wavy and fine, this style will give them lots of energy and attitude.
Use Fatboy Tough Guy Water Wax to get a cool-looking finish that will hold up against heat and wetness. It also matches nicely with sun hats and baseball caps; simply fluff it out with your hands after wearing it.
I enjoy that this style is both a bit wild and polished. It’s not as aggressive as a mohawk but still makes a statement, especially when paired with bright swim trunks or street-style sneakers.
If your boy is after a style that’s cool and still practical, this faux hawk will please him. It’s really about adding dimension, sharp fades and that cheerful, post-summer feel.
Soft Curls with a Skin Fade
With this haircut, you get a fluffy, tidy and neat look all at once. The curly hair up top is not styled, so it falls naturally with lots of wavy and full texture. The clean skin fade on the sides and back is what makes the look special by contrasting soft hair with sharp edges. It’s a boys haircut that stands out on its own.
I use the Kinky Curly Curling Custard to make my curls pop without making them feel heavy. Use it on damp hair, scrunch, and air dry. Bonus: it leaves your hair looking shiny without making it greasy in the summer heat.
I prefer looks that embrace natural hair instead of trying to tame it. This cut isn’t just stylish—it feels confident and lived-in. If your son’s hair is wavy or curly, now is the time to highlight that style.
Middle school kids will look great in this style as they start to find their own style. It means, “I know myself,” even without saying much.
Carefree Layers for Loose Natural Curls
This is the one with that “always golden hour” effect—it’s soft, fluffy and bouncy. The curls are less tight here, so it’s a good choice for boys with wavy or slightly curly hair that tends to look tousled. The cut is just right to give it shape, but it still looks like it was done by the wind.
No heavy styling needed—just a light mist of Not Your Mother’s Curl Talk Activating Mousse to enhance definition and tame frizz. It makes the hair soft and touchable, but also gives it some shape.
I feel that this is a cut that never goes out of style. It’s lovely when you just style it, but it can look even better when bedhead sets in. There’s no need to overthink it.
If your child loves to run, swim or take a snooze in the sun, this hair will stay stylish through it all.
City-Cool Curls with Streetwise Texture
This cut turns soft curly hair into a style that looks great on city boys. There are some curls and these are styled by cutting the top in layers for a bouncy, moving style, while keeping the sides and back a little longer and fuller for a casual look. It’s a boys haircut that seems planned but also looks like it was just a lucky result.
Put a little SheaMoisture Coconut & Hibiscus Curl Enhancing Smoothie on your damp curls and use your fingers to comb it through. It keeps things looking dry and light which is important when it’s very hot.
It looks to me like a mix of New York fashion and a weekend vibe. It’s comfortable, looks great and helps keep your curls under control.
If your teenage son wants a trendy look but doesn’t want to get a close shave, this is a good option. It thrives in its own softness.
Edgy Fringe and Feathered Chaos
If your child enjoys being a little messy, this activity is perfect for them. The hair is layered and styled in a way that looks like it hasn’t been combed. The front is long enough to reach the forehead and the crown flips in a feathered way. It suits straight hair the most and the combover bangs give it a strong fashionable feel. Very skate-park-meets-runway.
You’ll want to use texturizing spray; Redken Dry Texture Spray helps your hair stay loose and firm. Use fingers, not a comb, to style. The goal is attitude, not perfection.
This haircut really stands out among the current trendy straight haircuts for boys. It’s artistic. A little wild. It’s so fashionable that it seems like it would fit in a photo spread. One of my personal faves.
If you notice your son is a bit creative or indie, this is the perfect gift. It’s personality-forward in all the best ways.
Soft Mop Top with a Touch of Vintage
Think Beatles meets playground cool. This style is focused on having a lot of volume, a textured look and a side part that’s not too sharp. If you have wavy or curly hair, this cut is great for making your hair puff and swirl. The top reaches the eyes and the sides blend softly into the rest, leaving only soft, natural curls.
There’s no need for much product, but Cantu Kids Leave-In Conditioning Detangler helps keep curls moisturized and frizz at bay. If you air dry your hair, you can maintain its touchable quality.
There’s something about this look that just feels warm. Retro style might be the reason or perhaps it’s the way the curls softly rest on the face. It’s not a lot of effort—but people always compliment it.
If you want a summer hairstyle that stays cute into fall, this is the one for you. For elementary or middle school boys who want a look that’s cute and timeless.
Ultra-Close Fade for Clean Summer Comfort
This summer haircut is perfect for anyone who wants something low-maintenance—a short fade that hugs the scalp, then fades gradually into a textured micro-buzz. It’s lightweight, allows your hair to breathe and suits African American hair well. You can skip the styling products since it’s short, yet it still looks neat and trendy every day.
If you want your fade line to stay neat, you should trim the cut every 2–3 weeks. Apply Bevel Moisturizing Hair Lotion between visits to your barber to nourish your scalp and control dryness.
There’s something empowering about this cut. It’s direct. It doesn’t try to hide or soften. It is useful in basketball, at weddings and everywhere in between.
If you’re a parent tired of dealing with knots or too much product, this is the perfect way to start fresh. And for boys who prefer a fresh-out-the-chair vibe year-round? Say no more.
Mini Fringe with Edgy Temple Fade
This look walks into 2025 with a smirk. A short teen cut is marked by a small, jagged fringe that’s fun and daring and a strong temple fade that goes directly into a neat taper. It’s not your average fringe—it’s got edge. This style fits straight hair or boys with thin hair who want a little extra style.
How long the cut stays fresh depends on how tight you want the sides to be. If you’d like to lay your fringe down or add a little wave, a small amount of American Crew Grooming Cream can help.
I didn’t think I would enjoy this style as much as I do; it’s playful, lively and the cut itself has character. If you’re shy, it’s not for you, but if you have spark, it’s perfect. This fringe speaks their language.
Plus, if you’re into bold, editorial ideas, this one’s a star for school photos or a summer vacation update.
Classic Scissor Crop with Soft Fade
This one’s a throwback—but in the best possible way. The even length of the short scissor-cut top is balanced by a subtle fade at the ears. The result is soft, timeless, and totally mom-approved. This cut is great for straight and short thick hair, especially for younger boys who haven’t tried more detailed fades or longer styles.
I generally suggest Suave Kids Styling Gel because it’s not sticky, provides a light hold and can be easily washed out. A little bit keeps your hair in place without making it stiff.
There’s nothing boring about this simplicity. It’s easy to use, looks neat and there’s still space for your own style.
It’s perfect for middle school boys who want to dress well without spending too much time getting ready.
Red Crop with Soft Side Sculpt
Let’s talk color and contrast. The main feature of this cut is a straight shape, with the hair smooth, clean and evenly cropped on the forehead. But the real standout? That fiery red tone. It adds a new twist to this classic style. The sides are shorter than the top which adds a little bit of movement to the style.
You only need to trim this cut about every 3–4 weeks to keep it looking good. Using Brylcreem Original just a little will give your hair a soft shine for any special occasion.
I like that the warmth of her hair is the main focus here. It’s neat, cool and has a little bit of mischief—much like Dennis the Menace, but it’s definitely 2025.
If you’re after a little extra flavor, but without the sharpness or loudness, this is for you. Simple doesn’t have to be boring.
Slicked Back Undercut for Drama & Confidence
Drama alert—in the best way. This cut takes all the length from the sides and leaves the top full, so the fade is clear and the crown stands out. Long on top straight hair works best for this style, since the hair can be swept back in a smooth line across the head. It’s formal, edgy, and super fun to style.
Mould your hair on the back with Uppercut Deluxe Pomade and then use a wide-tooth comb for it. Sunday lunch may be best in formal attire, but at summer shows and birthdays, you can dress more casually.
This look is for the confident kids. The people who love to be noticed or the people who secretly enjoy being the best-dressed everywhere they are.
I think this style is one of the best trendy boys haircuts 2025 long options—it’s bold, sleek and you won’t soon forget it.