Rookie Barber Battle

** One model per competitor is permitted with competition entry ticket**

Eligibility
• No pre-cutting
• Hair must be at least 2″ in length on top for proper styling
• Models must arrive with clean product free hair
• Simple clean design allowed only, 1–2 lines max. no logos, letters, complex designs, overly deep or aggressive line work.
• Must cut and style the top
• Models must meet eligibility requirements in order to serve as a model

Rules:
• Barbers have 30 minutes to complete and style a full fade haircut including the sides and top. No Blow outs, Tapers, or Mohawks
• No Enhancements allowed including
• Simple designs allowed. No overly complex design or aggressive line work

Judging Criteria (45 Points)

Fade (5 Points)
• Transition: Smooth, seamless blend with no visible lines or patches
• Balance: Fade is even around the head and complements head shape
• Finish: Clean graduation from skin to bulk with consistent density
• Deductions: Harsh lines, dark spots, uneven blend, or imbalance around the head.

Line Up (5 Points)
• Precision: Line up is sharp, crisp, and clearly defined
• Symmetry: Even from recession to recession; sideburns and temple points balanced
• Control: No push-back, uneven edges, or over-cutting
• Deductions: Crooked lines, inconsistent shape, pushed hairline, enhancements, or unfinished edges.

Styling Technique (5 Points)
• Styling Execution: Hair is styled cleanly, intentionally, and with control
• Design Support: Styling enhances the freestyle design and overall concept
• Finish: No loose strands, flyaways, or unfinished areas; final look is polished and stage ready
• Deductions: Sloppy styling, unfinished shaping, or styling that distracts from the design.

Creativity (5 Points)
• Original concept that stands out from standard designs
• Creative choices flow together cohesively
• Innovation without sacrificing technique or cleanliness
• Deductions: Copycat designs or creativity that compromises execution

Cut Precision (5 Points)
• Cut Reflection: Cutting technique clearly supports and reflects the intended style and design
• Execution: Techniques are clean, intentional, and precise
• Scoring Note: Higher points for purposeful multi-tool use and techniques that enhance the design; deductions for poor control, uneven results, or cutting that does not align with the style.

Completion (5 Points)

• Haircut is fully completed, balanced, and polished.
• Style is appropriate for the model’s face shape and head shape.
• Facial hair (if present) is groomed, blended, and complements the haircut.
• Finish is clean from all angles (front, sides, back).

Cleanliness (15 Points)

•Clean Tools 3pts: Tools and workstation are maintained in a clean and sanitary condition throughout the
service.
• Clipperside 3pts: Disinfectant spray is present and used appropriately during service.
• Hand Sanitizer 3pts: Hand sanitizer is present and used when appropriate.
• Sharps Container 3pts: All razors and sharps are properly disposed of in a designated sharps container.
• Nicks & Cuts -3pts: Points will be deducted for any visible cuts or nicks to the model.
• Clean Station 3pts: Work area is properly cleaned after completion — no neck strips, wrappers, or debris left
behind.

Cleanliness (15 Points)

•Clean Tools 3pts: Tools and workstation are maintained in a clean and sanitary condition throughout the
service.
• Clipperside 3pts: Disinfectant spray is present and used appropriately during service.
• Hand Sanitizer 3pts: Hand sanitizer is present and used when appropriate.
• Sharps Container 3pts: All razors and sharps are properly disposed of in a designated sharps container.
• Nicks & Cuts -3pts: Points will be deducted for any visible cuts or nicks to the model.
• Clean Station 3pts: Work area is properly cleaned after completion — no neck strips, wrappers, or debris left
behind.