Are taper fades allowed in the military? This question has been a topic of much debate among service members and their families. Taper fades, also known as ‘tapered haircuts,’ involve gradually fading the sides and back of the hair to a shorter length, while leaving the top longer. While the military has strict grooming standards, the rules regarding taper fades can vary depending on the branch of service and the specific regulations in place.
The United States military places a strong emphasis on discipline and uniformity, which is why grooming standards are so rigid. However, in recent years, there has been a growing trend of military branches relaxing their rules to accommodate the changing times and the needs of their personnel. This has led to some confusion regarding the allowance of taper fades.
The Army, for instance, has a specific regulation that addresses haircuts. According to Army Regulation 670-1, “Haircuts may be tapered, but the top length must be no shorter than 1 inch.” This means that while taper fades are allowed, they must follow the specified guidelines. The same rule applies to the Marine Corps, which also requires that the top length of hair be at least 1 inch.
The Air Force, on the other hand, has a more lenient policy. According to Air Force Instruction 36-2902, “Haircuts may be tapered, but the top length must be no shorter than 1.5 inches.” This allows for a slightly longer top length, which may be more accommodating for those who prefer a taper fade.
The Navy, however, has a stricter policy when it comes to haircuts. According to Navy Regulations Manual (NRM) 1650.4, “Haircuts may not be tapered, and the top length must be no shorter than 2 inches.” This means that sailors are not allowed to have taper fades, and must adhere to a straight-line cut across the top of the head.
It is important to note that these regulations are subject to change, and service members should always consult the most current policies and guidelines for their specific branch of service. Additionally, unit commanders may have their own interpretations of the rules, so it is crucial to seek clarification from a superior officer if there is any doubt about the allowance of taper fades.
In conclusion, the answer to whether taper fades are allowed in the military depends on the branch of service and the specific regulations in place. While some branches, such as the Army and Air Force, allow for taper fades with certain restrictions, others, like the Navy, do not permit them at all. Service members should be aware of the rules and guidelines for their respective branches to ensure compliance and avoid any potential disciplinary actions.
