Barber Competition
Barber Competition: Cutting Edge Styles – HEBS 2026
Think you’ve got what it takes to stand above the rest? The HEBS 2026 Barber Competition returns with four electrifying categories designed to test precision, speed, creativity, and classic technique. Each competition will take place live on the show floor, giving barbers a chance to showcase their artistry in front of industry leaders, fellow professionals, and a hyped-up crowd.
Event Details
- Date: Sunday, May 4th, 2026
- Location: Meadowlands Expo Center, Secaucus, NJ
- Hosted By: Hair Education Beauty Summit (HEBS)
Preliminary Submission Entry Fee: $50 per team
$50.00
Category 1
Fast and Flawless
Speed meets precision. Competitors must execute a professional-quality fade with a clean lineup
in under 15 minutes. Judges will look for technical skill, speed, and consistency under pressure.
- Duration: 15 Minutes
- Number of Competitors: 20
- Prize Pool:
- 1st Place: $3000 + Trophy
- 2nd Place: $1000 + Trophy
- 3rd Place: $500 + Trophy
Judging Criteria
- Speed and efficiency
- Smooth blend and transition
- Hairline sharpness (C-cup visible)
- Symmetry and balance
- Final polish and cleanliness
Rules
- Models must have at least a #2 guard on the sides and #3 on top at the start.
- Lineups must be natural—no pencil marks, dyes, or guides prior to the competition.
- The C-cup area must be fully visible and cut during the comp.
- Hair color and enhancements are permitted.
- No pre-cuts allowed.
Category 2
Freestyle Fusion
Push the limits. Barbers in this category will create original designs, combining creative haircutting with elements like color, accessories, and theme-based presentations. This is where imagination meets execution.
- Duration: 1 Hour
- Number of Competitors: 20
- Prize Pool:
- 1st Place: $3000 + Trophy
- 2nd Place: $1000 + Trophy
- 3rd Place: $500 + Trophy
Judging Criteria
- Creativity and originality
- Design complexity and execution
- Cohesiveness of the theme (hair + attire)
- Use of props, accessories, and/or color
- Overall visual impact
Rules
- Designs must be created live—no pre-cuts or pre-designs.
- Hair color, enhancements, and accessories are allowed and encouraged.
- Wardrobe and presentation play a role in final scoring.
Category 3
Vintage Vibe Tag Team
Classic never goes out of style. This tag team event celebrates traditional barbering. Each duo will recreate iconic men’s cuts with a retro twist—think pompadours, slick backs, and clean shaves with an updated edge.
- Duration: 1 Hour
- Number of Competitors: 10 (teams of 2)
- Prize Pool:
- 1st Place: $3000 + Trophy
- 2nd Place: $1000 + Trophy
- 3rd Place: $500 + Trophy
Judging Criteria
- Authenticity of vintage style
- Teamwork and synergy
- Precision and attention to detail
- Fade quality and style balance
- Overall execution and presentation
Rules
- Teams must work on the same model.
- Minimal use of color preferred—focus on technique.
- No pre-cuts or designs allowed.
- Vintage-themed clothing encouraged and scored.
Category 4
Braids & Fades
A hybrid of artistry and precision. This category blends intricate braiding styles with clean, high-quality fades. Contestants must showcase seamless integration of both techniques in a head-turning final look. Participants may compete solo or as a tag team, with one person responsible for the braiding and the other handling the fading.
- Duration: 1 Hour
- Number of Competitors: 20
- Prize Pool:
- 1st Place: $3000 + Trophy
- 2nd Place: $1000 + Trophy
- 3rd Place: $500 + Trophy
Judging Criteria
- Complexity and creativity in braiding
- Precision of the fade and lineup
- Balance between fade and braid design
- Visual harmony and finish
Rules
- Tag team entries are allowed: one participant may perform the braiding, the other the fading.
- Extensions and color are permitted
- No pre-braiding or pre-cutting—everything must be done live.
- Lineup must include a clearly visible C-cup.