It’s Just So Much Better!
I met a fellow from the Czech Republic at a bar in a mountainous town over a few cold ones. As often happens, the topic of long hair came up. After some light hair talk and telling him about The Longhairs, he looked at me directly across the table and flatly said, "you should cut your hair."
Dead serious.
Did you not hear that part about the hair ties, and the whole community for guys growing their hair?
I was a little stunned, like, that’s the most preposterous thing you could possibly say to me. But beyond the shocking absurdity of his recommendation, it wasn’t that he was trying to be a jerk. Rather he was interested in my well-being, and believed life would be better for me with a high & tight haircut.
He kept taking his hat off and showing me his super short hair, rubbing it to apparently demonstrate how nice it felt, how easy to deal with and how great it looked. So great, in fact, that I should cut mine off too.
Perhaps sensing I wasn’t fully on board with his proposal, he asked me, “why have long hair?”
Just as I prepared to launch into a full-blown dissertation, we were interrupted and pulled away. I eventually drifted to the other side of the saloon, we never resumed our little chat, and I never saw him again.
Having missed the opportunity in person, I've taken the liberty of organizing my thoughts on the matter.
So, friend, here is my response...to you and to everyone who says "you should cut your hair."
You Make A Good Point
Maybe I should. There are some compelling arguments for why you should cut your hair.
Long hair is a pain. You do learn to deal with it, after a while you almost forget about it, but there are regular reminders.
Like working out, playing sports, being outdoors, eating, sleeping, dressing for any occasion, riding roller coasters, making out, brushing your teeth and virtually every activity of daily life.
There’s having to shampoo and condition, blowdry, brush it, tie it up, and generally deal with it, rather than simply waking up and walking out the door.
Also it costs some money. Whether it’s shampoo or hair ties, you’re compelled to spend a little money on it which you wouldn’t have to spend otherwise.
Finally there’s all the shit you have to deal with from other people. Which has become meaningless to me, but it wasn't always.
I get it. The idea that you should cut your hair can sound appealing.
All Things Considered
Let’s pretend we weren’t operating a community based on the premise of long hair, and that my livelihood wasn’t literally connected to my long locks. Let’s say I was just a regular guy letting the long hair flag fly, and that I would entertain the notion of cutting my hair off.
Having considered the benefits of short hair, the answer to the question of “why grow it long,” falls into several categories.
Six Reasons You Should NOT Cut Your Hair
The Difference-Maker
Long hair is an instant differentiator. Walk into a room with a hundred guys, five or 10 at most are gonna have flow, depending on where you pull your sample.
Granted, it’s not always good to be different, but I think of it (ironically) like a job application: you immediately want to set yourself apart and be memorable. Like it or don’t like it, long hair does that.
And while there are plenty of other ways to be different, none are quite so obvious or instantaneous as a streaming mane cascading down your shoulders.
A Confident Man
Along with being different comes a certain required self-confidence. It takes a little bit of “I don’t care what other people think.” It’s not easy being different, and as we’ve seen more and more often, that’s especially apparent for little guys with long hair.
With confidence comes self-respect, self-esteem, and belief in your powers and abilities. If you ask me, those things are important. Maybe the most important.
That’s not to be confused with overconfidence or arrogance, because at the end of the day you gotta back it up. But if having long hair can help build and develop those self affirmations, then hell yes let it ride.
The Natives
Keep It Independent
For me long hair symbolizes independence. It means I’m not in a position where someone else decides how long my hair should be, and that’s good because I prefer being the person who decides.
This is mostly with regard to employment. There are a lot of excellent and highly respected jobs and careers where you’re compelled to keep it short, and with respect for those positions, they simply aren’t for me.
The idea of someone telling me I have to cut my hair to work for them, choosing between a job or these golden tresses, is ridiculous. And lucky me, not everyone has that luxury, but it basically means I’m the master of my own fate and I hope to keep it that way.
All Natural
Another reason I choose long hair is it’s all natural. It’s a sign of health, vigor and vitality. It’s a natural biological function, we only get short hair by augmenting that.
Not to say we should all grow out all the hair on our body, ok, but you get the idea. The hair grows for a reason. And there’s a lot of people who can’t grow it out, so why not take advantage of our follicle freedom while we have it?
It’s a Culture
There’s also a cultural aspect. Long hair in Native American culture, for example, is a spiritual artifact and for some tribes represents a connectedness with the earth.
I’m not Native American, but I can respect and appreciate their beliefs, and I do believe long hair creates a certain connectedness to our environment.
Beside the historical cultures of ancient tribes and people, long hair is a culture in itself.
We have a community, and beliefs and customs. We do #HairWhipWednesdays and celebrate our locks. Even guys who have never heard of The Longhairs know when they see other guys with long hair, it’s appropriate to respond with a subtle nod of understanding.
And We All Know
Lastly, it’s just badass. There are limitless long hairstyles to learn and experiment with. I can wear it with a hat or a beanie, tied up, straight or wavy.
Not to mention I can rip off a hailstorm of hair whips at any given moment, twist up a sick braid or choke someone out with it if needed. Hopefully it won’t come to that, but in any case the locks are just sick and I love having them.
With That Being Said
The bottom line is, long hair makes me different. It’s unconventional. It makes people guess, keep ‘em wondering, “is this guy some kind of loose cannon?” or make their own assumptions.
Deep down, it forces people to recognize it’s not a person’s outward appearance, but the quality of their character and depth of their purpose. Which in itself is a greater platform for equality for everyone who’s different.
To the Man Who Says, "You Should Cut Your Hair"
Thanks for the kind suggestion, but I’m going to keep lettin it ride.
I’m not going to insist you should grow your hair long, I think you should wear it however you like. But consider this: I had short hair for 30 years. I’m quite familiar with what it’s like, and so have the good fortune of experiencing both sides.
You didn’t mention if you’ve ever grown it out, but if you haven’t, maybe give it a try? Then you can fairly and objectively decide your preference.
And if that continues to be short, then you should cut your hair! In the meantime I'm going to keep lettin it ride.
Did we miss anything? Any other reasons why we should cut it...or why we should keep lettin' it ride? Why not share in the comments?
Comments
I will be there for 2024! I’m in the bay area (S.F.), so I’ll find a participating location to here.
Nice!
Yes, you should ABSOLUTELY cut your hair! Nothin’ beats being able to summarily relieve yourself of the dagnab split ends that make detangling such a pain. Invest in a good pair of hair scissors. There’s myriad youtube videos and other social media on simple methods to do it yourself and have it come out well. If you do find there’s a learning curve, don’t worry–it grows back–but after you master that curve your loved ones might be booking you for a trim.
Great points all around!
I started growing mine out in 2017 as a way to just see what my natural state is, and kinda to see how far the corporate world was willing to tell me how to live. Surprisingly 99% of people love it (after the initial shock wore off haha), including coworkers and management – who knew?
I also love how it shakes things up and catches people off guard. You gotta live life, be weird, and let the mane loose while you still have it, because not everyone can!
You also learn more about what’s good for your body and hair, and why you can’t just apply cheapo harsh shampoo every day. Your hair is almost like a litmus test for your general health.
Plus, if I didn’t grow it out, how else could I have learned that my DNA picked “rabbi curl” style for my entire head? Newfound respect for Weird Al!
Thank you guys!
A timeless piece .. I remember seeing your very first video on YouTube and that is when I came across your products. They were a great present for my brother (a fellow longhair). I had just made the decision at the time to start growing my hair also and your pages were great inspiration indeed (alongside a cool big bro). 7 years on I have now been lettin it ride ever since and haven’t looked back. Since then I have been able to work in Game of Thrones as an extra due the long locks and I’ve also had the chance to donate 12 inches of hair to a children’s charity. I’d have to say the positives outweigh any difficulty. The longhairs is a way of life. A big shout out from Ireland to all the longhairs out there !
Thanks.
When someone comments on my hair with a derisive tone, I say one of two things (depending on how charitable I am at the time): “Thank you for your comments.” OR “That is some more of your business.” I was raised to avoid commenting on someone’s appearance unless I have something positive to say. That philosophy remains in place, along with the growing mane.
As an older guy, I can sympathize with everything you stated about having long hair and, about giving the little guys the support and encouragement they need to feel comfortable however they express themselves.
For now, I’m close to two years in and was happy to find The Longhairs; between the products, hair ties and my now favorite brush, it’s made the time around a little more enjoyable.
Let it ride.
Love to here it Adam! Thanks for dropping a comment.
You tell: it takes some money to maintain it… but on the other hand, you save money by NOT visiting the barber every 6 weeks, as I used to do some 30+ years ago… yes, you read that well: I’ve been a Longhair for 30+ years and I’m going to die with my pony tail.
People sometimes ask me, in Dutch: “why did you take long hair?” Then I say: I didn’t TAKE long hair, it’s YOU who take short hair by constantly having it cut, long hair is what happens if you let nature go!”
Well said Timmo!
I started growing out my hair for the very first time, about eight months before the March lockdown. I’m a mature guy who always wanted to do it when I was younger but gave up each time.
Now, I have hair down to the bottom of my chest and I love it. My hair’s not as full as it once was but I don’t care. I haven’t had a trim in over 18 months. I also started rocking a hefty beard so I look like a badass lion. I’m having a ball. I loved my short haircut but can’t imagine going back right now since I now know the joy of a flowing mane.
I think that most guys who have short hair have never made it through the uncomfortable times when everyone tells you it looks awful and you need to cut it. Growing out your hair or beard is great experience and something every guy should try. You learn a lot about yourself. It’s a really personal journey.
I’ve benefited from the content/products from The Longhairs and Beardbrand as well as groups like Manbuns & Manes on Facebook. Thanks guys and rock on!
Thank you Trevor. True man of the community
When someone says “get a haircut” I smile and say “I just did”. I’ve yet to hear a response that tops mine. 8^)
That’s pretty damn solid!
I had to keep my hair and beard short for about 20 years due to my job. I retired and started growing my hair and beard back again and now both are longer than than ever before (just below my shoulder blades for the hair). I am now 62 and LOVE my hair! LETTIN’ IT RIDE!
I also love your hair ties!
Way to go Mark crushing it!
I do not care what others think, I have a personal creed; make your own reality or by default you live someone else’s. I determine my own look, my own style and my own fate. Live your own life, don’t be a clone or a lemming be unique and revel in that uniqueness, there is no one else like you, be proud of that.
facts!
The last time someone told me to cut my hair I told them about The Great Cut. They immediately changed their tune and gave me props for doing it.
You coming in 2024?
Like most of us, I get that on a regular basis. Most people are most accustomed to me with very short hair. It was actually my stylist who suggested I shake it up and grow it out “a little.” That was back in 2019 (so no, my hair isn’t a result of lock down). As my hair started getting longer, I realized how much i like it and all of the ways it can be worn. People (“friends”) will tell me to cut it and I always – politely, no need to be a d%ck – point out that I don’t tell them how to where their hair, dress, or even whether they should consider weight loss. Nope, I believe people can take care of themselves and we should all respect people for doing that. With that message – I change the subject or politely walk away. No space for negativity in this already challenging world!
I spent a lot of time in jobs that required me to have short hair, and it seemed that every time I thought I could finally grow it out, something came along to end those attempts. I finally hit 50 and had the chance to try again, so I’m took it. Almost two years along now (I’ll be 52 in April), and it’s close to the point where I can get everything into a ponytail (the awkward stage was annoying). I’m not sure how long I’ll grow my locks, but I’m glad I can finally do it (and without having to cover bald spots). Plus, I do seem to get far more compliments than condemnation, which is nice. Ultimately, I like it, and that’s the opinion that matters most.
100%!
Aloha, through college I had long hair, then short hair as a young guy in the job market, then in my 30s it was long again, shorter in my 40s, and have had long hair since my 50s (I’m now 63). Sure, now it’s thinning on top, I actually spray sunscreen on my head when surfing. Maybe what I’ve learned from the Longhairs will help the hair I have last longer.
If I had short hair, I’d just look like all the other 60ish haole guys with short gray/white hair. In my profession having tied up hair sets me apart, it’s a thing.
Definitely a thing. A differentiator.
Dudes, I had short hair for 63 years. It was either my dad or my corporate careers that dictated my hair length and I normally got 9-10 haircuts per year.
In November 2020 I was in an accident that sidelined me for the better part of 2 years. I’m about as recovered as I ever will be. During that 2 years I said to myself, “you’re not working and you’ve always had a full head of hair. Why piss money away on haircuts!”
So I let it grow and something amazing happened. Women I’ve known for decades all of a sudden say up and took notice. They grew up loving Rock Star bad boys with long manes and now they were digging mine. Many were married to guys that have gone bald as they grew older. Now their wives were gushing over my hair because in many cases, my hair was thick and fuller than theirs and the are jealous. Why the hell would I want to give that notoriety up. I’m proud to differentiate myself. When I walk in a public place and see guys wearing TShirts if 70’s era rock bands and not approval of my look, I find it very satisfying. And when women are trying to check me out and smile at me without letting their men see them doing so, then I know I am pushing the right buttons in the universe!
Great article! Have had longer to long hair for most of my 68 years. Even as a child, never understood why my sister could have long hair but I had to get mine cut. Thank God that many of the musicians of the 1970’s had long hair, allowing a lot of us to have a reason to grow ours out. The Crow people believed that the hair was the extension of the soul, and took good care of their flowing manes. I have also been a student of Native American history for most of my life, and agree with many of their beliefs. Have been rejected several times on employment opportunities because of my “appearance “. Nowadays, hair or no hair, most men are accepted the way they are, but there are occasions where someone will try to talk us in to getting a haircut. I thoroughly enjoy your products and your website, and reading the comments of others in our “brotherhood “. I plan on keeping mine long until the very end, and I would gladly contribute in other ways to help both children and adults that suffer hair loss. Thanks for running such an awesome company!
I saw this post and decided to comment.
Stranger: “You Should Cut Your Hair”
Me: And deny a kid the chance to stop being bullied because of alopecia? My mane is being donated to Children With Hair Loss.
It’s for the kids!
When someone suggest I cut my hair my response is what should I tell the barber, make me look like a [email protected] with ears?
Not exactly what we would say, but a strong response nonetheless, JM. Keep lettin’ it ride.🤘
Here I am, my hair’s mid back long, I’ve been thinking about cutting it for a while now. Family also says I should do it. But I’m hesitant. On one hand, I enjoy the idea of quick showers and drying in 5 minutes. I also think I could look well with short hair, and I kinda like slicked back haircuts. Also, maybe I would do better with women?
On the other hand, as the article mentions, long hair is a bit unique, I don’t see many long haired men around here. It also looks pretty after the shower, luscious! But my hair is literally everywhere, I pull it out of the drain, I have to tie it up constantly to eat, and I tie it up all the time anyways because it’s a bit tiring. UGH! I have no idea what to do.
Background on hair: it’s been 7 months since my last cut and I have curly frizzy hair.
I Just started a new job where I’m going into the office every day for the first time in a year. The last week has been tough, managing my hair every day and trying to keep it professional is a lot. It’s probably looked different every day I have gone into work.
Today I started to buckle a bit and thought it was time for a cut but after reading this article I need to push through. I’ve loved the growing process this entire time and just gotta keep it goin. That doesn’t make the day to day easier but I just wanted to vent that out real quick.
Thanks for everyone that is along for this wild ride.
Yo Keegan! Thanks for writing in man, feel free to vent here any time! If you have not already, be sure to check out this post: Awkward Stage Hairstyles. Hope this helps amigo, keep letting it ride!
El Rubio, thanks, man!
I hear there are some Fresno State Bulldogs on your staff, Go Dogs!
Yo Keegs, you know it’s true! Hope you’re crushing and letting it ride man! GO DOGS!
El Rubio!
Thanks for enlightening me!
I’v been in a dilemma about cutting my hair again (I’m currently in the awkward stage, 8 months) and this never hit so real.
I’ll admit, I still get pissed with people who judge longhairs. I once had a neighbor who called me “jobless” and “uncultured” just because of my hair (by the way, I work a regular 9 to 5 with a lax hair policy and I got a degree in Political Science. hahaha).
I will totally let my hair flow. This site has been a godsend.
Kudos!
Sitting here at 45 years old listening to my favorite 80s music videos online. Been thinking about it for a few weeks now. I’ve had a “high & tight” since 1995. The hell with it, I’m gonna give it a shot! If it feels too awkward, I can always go back in 5 minutes. Let’s see what happens…….
IT’S ABOUT TIME GARY!!!
Keep us closely posted. And have courage.
Sixty four and still letting it flow. People tell me I wouldn’t be me without my hair being almost to my belt. Beard too! Just seems natural to me, always has…my native grandmother gave me my red heart.
Thanks for the comment Birdsong, dang 64 and letting it flow that’s awesome! We’re especially glad to have you here.
My dude, mine has been growing for years. But so true one must trim it from time to time. Mine is breast length. Long beautiful and gorgeous, even my wife is jealous of it. Shower at night wash, condition followed up with a hair product. Go to bed wake and not touch because it’s good. Or put it up in bun go to bed. Wake the next morning take out bun and do absolutely nothing. Because of natural loose curls and wave. Wife says no man should have hair like that. Yes it does make women jealous. Oh and the way I might add, I’m 47 and still got it. I don’t have the case of the uglies where the hair line running from your face. Or the balding gene to the ones who might be offended by that comment. You’re correct we can walk into a place and might be a hand full of guys with long hair. Or you might be the only one. If you’re the only one you can bet all eyes are on you. Condemning eyes from men, and chances of lusty eyes from women either way it’s win, win. Some men hate us because of it. Sometimes we get aggravated by our long locks. But at the end of the day it’s ours to tend too. I for one am keeping mine. So yeah to rocking locks at 47 is awesome. My looks still hanging in there and not looking long in the tooth, if ya know what I mean. However as I start looking like an old man a high chance I’ll cut it then.
It’s ours to tend to indeed, Seph! Thanks for the comment amigo, hope my flow is still as magical at 47.
El Rubio, did you go to ULL?
I’m a Louisiana Longhair and I’ve made the journey from short to long twice with you guys.
DUDE! So pumped someone finally saw this and asked about it! I didn’t go to ULL but have visited many times working on the recolonization of the Sigma Nu Chapter. I have dear friends there to this day. Stoked to have you with us man, keep lettin it ride!
Coronavirus has kept me from the stylist – never had family support for long hair before until now. Its not very long yet; not sure yet if I will cut it on the other side of the virus. So far I find it cheaper, not more expensive, than cutting. I’ve bought a number of hair bands and bandanas to manage it for now- a lot less expensive than regular haircuts. My wife can just put her hair in a ponytail and go – if I ever really get it long I think it will be easier to keep neat. Seriously thinking about keeping it growing!
Hell yea man. DO IT!
For me, the choice was easy some 32 years ago now: there was one guy at school who had long hair and I suddenly realized: “THAT’s my hairstyle!” And I started to grow my hair out. That was when I was just 18 or so. Now I’m nearly 50 and I still have long hair, happy to have a job where that’s no problem at all. I wear it in a pony tail for 99% of the time, and sometimes when I’m in a funny mood, I tie it up into a full man bun. I’ve noticed, this is not to everyone’s taste… it provokes more reactions from others than my pony tail (but the cause could also be, most people don’t know me in any other way than with that pony tail…) Customers also have all kinds of long hair, recently one came in having a nice top knot right on top of his head, it looked like a little palm tree! VERY nice… others just have long hair down, or up in some kind of… uhhh… high ball 😉 Working in the audio industry makes you meet all kinds of artists, sound recordists etc etc. These guys are all “a bit different” from the average guys, which is one of the reasons I instantly like the majority of them 🙂
Audio. Big time hair guys.
Hail to the longtime longhairs! Glad to have you here Timmo.
I had long hair from the time I was about 14 (high school was hell from the relentless harassment of my classmates, would have loved to have had something like the “Longhairs”m back then!) till I joined the Air Force when I was 20. It was the 80’s and I was the lead guitarist in an 80’s Hair Metal band. My hair was kick ass! I literally cried when I got the locks cut before I left for basic training. Fast forward to 30 yrs later and having at least shorter hair for all of those 30 years. Feeling blessed at age 51 to have a full head of hair and a job where I was working from home before COVID hit, I decided to give it one last shot and grow it out! After about 10 months of growth hitting hard core in the awkward stage, COVID hit, and then I haven’t had any choice in the matter. I was letting it flow! Now a good 14 months into it I have committed to the Great Cut 2024 and my job hasn’t said a word, and I don’t believe they will as long as I pull it back in the office. Fortunately I work for a pretty progressive company that promotes diversity and I am not the only one in the office letting it flow. We have over 1500 employees so odds are in my favor to not be alone, lol! So thanks to the Longhairs I am growing my hair more intelligently, armed with some knowledge to peacefully disarm any anti-hair types, and have some cool ass hair ties and hair wraps to boot!
PS: I also may have my hair stylist on board with the Great Cut 2024 since she already does hair cuts for Children With Hair Loss!
Yo Michael, awesome to read your comment man! It’s always good to have the experience from both sides, imo. Glad to hear you’re working for a progressive company, even more pumped to know you are down for The Great Cut 2024! Will be looking forward to seeing you there. Until then, keep lettin it ride! Oh and we would totally love to have your hair stylist join as well!
I cut my hair a year or so ago after a bad jiu jitsu practice where I kept getting it stepped on and clumps of it pulled out. I didn’t have it tied back well enough. I immediately regretted it and it’s almost back to its pre-cut length. I won’t cut it again for a long time.
Also really looking forward to my new hair ties arriving this week!
Hell yes man! (not on the hair getting pulled out). Definitely try braiding it up when you’re rolling. Also check out this post if you haven’t seen it: Rolling With a Master in Brazilian Jiu Jitsu
I used to cut mine, but it kept growing back. Every time I cut it, it always grew back! So I figured my ‘creator’ was trying to tell me something? I hit the three year mark in October this year and love long hair for all the reasons mentioned.
The choice is yours guys – do ya wanna be a fully resplendent hairy ram, all majestic and independent, or one of those thousands of newly sheared sheep, all botched and scrawny, following each other everywhere?
This is beautiful. I never knew why I stopped cutting my hair, but THIS, this is why.
Of course I would rather be a majestically resplendent ram who is not concerned with the opinions of sheep.
There is so much here in the article and comment board that I am taking notes.
This was one evening for me:
Guard: “It looks ugly, get rid of it.”
Later some random dude: “Dude you look like Adam Driver, famous guy from Star Wars. Looks great man!”
Your own opinion is the best, keep it that way. I got long hair my whole life and got so many negative and positive reactions. So if 100 people got an opinion and it’s a 50/50, you’re the only opinion left to make it 50/51.
Someone touches my hair they are taking a very quick and unscheduled NAP!!
BROCK!!!??? Is it really you? Didn’t realize you were into the flow man!
You left out a drawback to long hair:
Babies.
I have an 8 month old and he endlessly grabs at EVERYTHING! My long hair, his mom’s Afro, her glasses, my beard, clothes, earbuds–nothing is sacred.
But I’m hoping he wants to be like his daddy later on and rock the flow too🤞🏻🤘🏻
Haha! Thanks for sharing Brandon, likewise hoping Junior wants to LET IT RIDE!
Agree with Everything except if there’s a balding issue. Long hair& balding doesn’t look Good (no!) unless you’re looking for the Riff-raff look, although at least you can shave it all off to get the Tough Convict Look.
Also, there are trendy barbers that dont Clean their equipment properly,and guys end up with foul nasty skin issues like Folliculitis,so this is another good reason to shun the salon/ barber.
There was a time Long hair was everywhere. It was less of a RebEllioUs statement than a F*ashion statement but now that it is less common, I notice it more as being Diff3rent & W i l d.
Different & wild indeed, K. Turi. Thanks for the comment amigo.
Reading about the baby, I am reminded of a three year old Facebook photo that all longhairs and longhair aficionados should check out, of Hairfreaky’s daughter, eight months old at the time, grabbing hold of her Dad’s extremely long hair.
I love it man! I am native American and it is part of our culture. Some people just don’t understand or have the knowledge of other cultures. Anyway I’m close to 4 years in and plan to keep lettin’ it ride! Love the products you guys offer by the way .
Yo Aaron, awesome to read this man! Stoked to have you here. Check out this post if you haven’t seen it yet, interested to hear what you think as a Native American: Long Hair in Native American Culture.
Hey guys found this site just recently and am fully impressed. Like Stephen said in his Sept 19 post I too have had the good fortune of looking young for my age at 51 and have decided to let my hair grow. Doing well so far with a slight trim about a month ago. I guess it’s been 3 or 4 months now but haven’t gotten any “you need a hair cut” comments, not that I care. I know I’m in for a climb but one step and one day at a time hopefully I’ll be a fixture in this group. Seems like there is a lot of good encouragement here and I like that.
Welcome Don! Great to see you here and yes this community is amazing. Make sure to get on our email list to get all the latest from the blog.
After 4.5 years of growing my hair I am cutting it, i am unsure but I have got bored of it and want new short hairstyles and I’m in my college fire academy so I will have to eventually. I’m sad about the though
Only you can make the call Will. Nothing wrong with a reset. Would recommend that you donate it to Children With Hair Loss if you do end up cutting it off. Remember, once a longhair, always a longhair. We’ll be here for ya man.
Thank you man….I was this close to buzzcut my hair . But reading your article. Now I’m gonna keep it.
Glad to hear it man!
I have had short hair, no hair and for the last six years long hair. Yes, it can be a pain and it can be a turn off for some people, but I’m not growing it out to impress them. I’m doing it for myself. I’m disabled so employment isn’t a concern, and even if it were, who needs that type of hassle anyway. Before becoming disabled I had THAT type of employer. I had to keep my hair above my collar, no beard, and my moist ache trimmed. Let me tell you, it was a drag, no individuality whatsoever. Let it ride brother, let it ride!
Glad to have you here El Trueno, thanks for sharing man!
I have had the good fortune of looking young for my age AND having lived and worked in the conforming world long enough to no longer care what anyone thinks of me and my long hair. I worked in a number of companies in which men were expected to have short hair, so I have “been there done that” and now revel in my very masculine choice to sport a long mane.
Hell yeah man. We are stoked to have you here!
Thanks guys, this is my second time that I am attempting to grow my hair out, the first time was when I was 19 and frankly it was a terrible experience for me because I didn’t have helpful advice like the kind you guys put out, so I chopped it off. Now 10 years later I’m 29 and I have now been growing my hair officially for 5 months. Hair is progressing fantastically, and this time i am not backing down! even though my wife wasn’t too overjoyed when I told her my plans.
It’s great to be a part of the longhairs community!
Carlos, great to have you here man! You’re entering right into the heart of the awkward stage. Difficult times lay ahead, but you can make it! We’re here for you, keep us posted on your hair updates. C’YA!
I have been doubting my long hair, at least in current situations, being 18 years old with dreams to go to a private 4 year college, and to graduate with a bachelors degree to pursue a career in the path I am stepping towards. The reason for my doubt, relies on the fact that private colleges care about well kept students and while I am well kept and shave nearly every day, long hair seems to have a negative affect on a mans presence in today’s world, which is of course why you guys have created this fraternity. The problem is this may help to keep a mans confidence from going down the drain, but it hasn’t fully had an affect on changing the social structure of the present times. The career I plan on pursuing also has a very professional setting and like to pick and choose based on a persons appearance, as sad as it may be it may never change, and if ever not anytime soon. My question is, should I cut my hair while trying to get into the private college and keeping the hairstyle until after the pursuit of my career, and eventually grow it out. If you recommend I do cut it, when, so I am able to let my locks float along with the wind for as long as possible as they give me confidence and courage. If you’re thinking, if they give someone courage and confidence, then why cut, but sometimes you have to follow the strict guidelines of others in order to accomplish an important goal. I love my long hair, but in the long term a career is what really matters, especially one that I find enjoyable, that in itself will give me the passion for life I’ve always needed and wanted. Any thoughts, is appreciated.
Dear Average Longhair,
Appreciate you sharing your thoughtful comments, and your dilemma is common. We can’t advise you one way or another, as The Longhairs or myself personally. It would be easy for me to say, “DON’T CUT IT, TO HELL WITH THEM!” On the other hand it would be prudent to suggest you cut it.
It would be hard for me to believe you would get accepted or denied to college based on your hair length. Of course I don’t know what college(s) you’re talking about, but as long as it’s neat and well-kept I’d be surprised.
As for the career path, maybe you don’t have to decide on all that right this moment? You’ll have at least a few years in college right? Why not let it ride for a few years, who knows maybe you’ll lean another career direction, or the professional will loosen up. If anything, trim it during your entrance exams and grow it out when you get to campus?
One more thing: personally, I have never really “played it safe.” And I’ve never regretted it.
You’ll make the right decision, amigo. And you’ve got our support either way.
On second thought KEEP LETTING IT RIDE MAN!!! lol C’YA!
Let me pick up that mic you dropped. Great post.
I grew up in a religious fundamentalist house where I’d get a lecture if my hair went a couple weeks and started to touch my ears or collar. The part on independence hit home beautifully. I grow my hair because I can and nobody can tell me to do otherwise. You want me to conform? Nah, I’ll let it ride. Because I like it.
Same here, Case! I thought getting haircuts was something guys were supposed to do, and like it. Indoctrination. I know better now. Finally decided to let it ride, and I LOVE it!
I started growing my hair out bout year and a half ago. My hair is now shoulder length. My beautiful fiancé loves it, my best friends think it’s awesome and I get complements almost everyday bout my Luscious goldilocks.
But of course with lovers come haters.
Several co-workers constantly bash me for my long hair. Telling me that I should cut my hair, I got into a bar fight with a guy, because he was betting his buddies that he couldn’t cut my man tail off.
It’s tough being your own man. But it’s a honor to have such an awesome community to share with.
Silver lining, I headwhip to Iron Maiden while I air guitar and it’s freakin sick!!!
Keep on keeping on long hairs
Well that escalated quickly. If someone tried to cut my hair there would be problems. Glad you made it out of there ok and KEEP LETTIN IT RIDE!
I have been letting it ride for 1yr and 10 months. I have been thinking about cutting the last couple weeks. This is what I needed to hear! Thanks
NIIICE MAN, KEEP LETTIN IT RIDE!
As a cyclist it throws my competition off their game, as a casual rider I can cruise around on my fixed gear with my locks blowing in the wind
Right??
AWESOME thanks for this. I really need to read this so I know how to tell them to people that tell me to cut it off to F**** off! In a nice way lol
Yes, always be nice 🙂
Please try some Irish diplomacy.
Hello! Very happy to see a courageous man in this crazy world.
I had grown my hair for 3 years with care and love. That’s the longest I could tolerate the pressure from people to cut it short. Still feel the trauma.
Keep going!👍🏻
Rockin the black pony
ROCK ON MAN!
Great article mate! I used to have long hair some years ago but I decided to cut it because it started to fall out. I panicked since I was only 21 (now I’m 28), my family convinced me to cut it. My baldness, which is incipient but progressive, still manageable though, began at the sides of the head and has been spreading from there, slowly, gradually. I still have hair in that area but it’s thinner and there is less density. Should I give it a try? Cheers!
Yes GO FOR IT!
Post Script. I do like Metal as well as all types of music composed by people w actual talent. I am a nazarite. A choice based on cultural and natural w a religious twist. I also like the contrarian aspect of non-conforming simply because others are bothered by it. To me its not natural to have short hair. Only Roman and Greek societies had short hair. Which indicates how much roman catholisism influence has in western society today and for the last few hundred years. Reformed Jews are very Romanized and are a sect of ultimate confusion while Orthodox is straight up upfront about their appearance and their ways.
God bless you! Well written article. I was trying to gather my thoughts on the contrasts/comparisons for this issue and how to present it to my employer if needed but also to myself. This article reassured me what i think and feel in association with like minded people.
Yo Brett! Glad to hear it and glad to have you here. Try this one on for size: Dear Boss
Nice article El Rubio. Going on my 3rd year without a haircut and was starting to think about cutting it…but not after reading this.
Baljit Saini You can just trim any split ends if it’s been that long, but not cutting significantly unless you canged your mind based on your own hair preferences (not others) for some reason
I agree with the feeling of connectedness. Ears and nose have hairs that receive respective signals for sensing the world around us. Doesn’t seem too far out that the hair on our heads has a similar function.
Another plus, I now understand those silly looking “cowlicks” I grew up with actually serve the purpose of keeping hair out of my face
What if you look much better with short hair?
How would you know?
I’ve found my tribe!
Welcome amigo!
Am 42 years old 43 in 2 months, I’ve only ever had 1 haircut in my entire life, at 12 years old locked up in youth corrections…. for some it’s just a necessity… it took 6 guards to shave my head at 12, 3 of them still wear scars of that interaction to this day…..
That’s how they get ya.
Glad to have you here, amigo.
So stupid. You saying it ‘means the length of your hair isn’t dictated by other people’ which is an oxymoron of sorts because all of your reasons are about other people. I shaved my head a few months ago because it was easier FOR ME. And that made me feel confident. And life is easier, and I prefer it. If you prefer your hair long do that. Just shut up and do it. Don’t try and pretend it makes you more connected to your environment than me.
Roger that Lbi!
I’m in my 20s and this is my first time growing it out. Everybody I know would be against it but it feels so powerful and free. I’m not going to give up. And it feels like only now I’m taking care of my hair and my whole body better.
I will remind myself to read this wonderful post whenever I feel bogged down by the boring world.
Cheers brother.
Raja! Great to hear man. Just keep growing in all aspects of your life. We’ll be here for support.
Well, I have always known I was a long hair. It is only modern society that has done away with men having long hair to be the norm. I wasn’t allowed to grow it out as a kid or even as a teen. My adventure began very shortly at that magical age where nobody could tell me anymore what hair length was required. I confess, I did cut my hair off once. I will also point out it was done in honor and compassion. A cancer patient had identical hair and color as mine. All the more rare as how thick my mane is and the multi colors that it holds. From afar it looks an almost dirty blonde or a swede. Get close and there is black, brown, platinum blonde, blonde, and plenty of red. I cut it off and gave that little girl her hair back. I also confess in being so proud and fullfilled in my deepest emotions to see her in sheer bliss at having her same hair again. It was in the newspaper, all of us, her mother, her, and myself eyes filled with tears of joy. To make it better, her spirits raised, she had the strength to survive chemo, and to my knowledge remains cancer free. In any other circumstance, I would never cut my hair for another. It is simply a part of who I am. In my mind an extension, no less valuable than my arm or leg or other appendage.
Hell. Yeah. Man.
Glad to have you here Andrew, and thanks for sharing.
I refuse to cut my hair because, personally, I feel short hair is a haircut for tools. I, also, want to put my foot down. Society hasn’t really done shit for me nor has it kept a good track record of keeping itself professional and civil therefore I will not indulge in hypocrisy. Every little thing requires someone to get a haircut and it gets annoying. It takes hair forever to grow and stuffy types need to realize people have a life outside of their institutions that could strongly reflect their spiritual beliefs such as Sikhs. Honestly, discriminating against long hair should be considered prejudice just as much as declining someone due to skin color or culture. Some people have side-careers or hobbies that involve their style. I do some modeling and acting on the side and it helps me a lot. I don’t feel like my hair is a lot of maintenance at all either. It’s rather quick for me to prep mine and short hair always carried that bad hair day chance or just looks awkward. Basically, society can shove it and needs to adapt already. The ways of old are practically on life-support and it’s time to pull the plug.
THE MESSAGE IS LOUD AND CLEAR MATE!
AMEN!!
Hey, really glad I came accross this site. I’m in the process of growing out my hair for the first time ever. I’ll be 37 in a couple of weeks and have been growing out my hair since January.
The way I look at it is; It’s my decision and I don’t need anybody’s permission or approval to do anything relating to my appearance. I’ve also grown a big beard for the first time ever and got a nose piercing.
Some people have asked if I’m going through a mid-life crisis! No, I’m fed up of trying to please other people, I’m now going to do something that I’ve always wanted to do.
Looking forward to looking like a bigger bad ass!
Yo Welsh Viking! Hell yes man, we’re the same age and on the same page. Keep lettin it ride mate. Also, send your hair updates on our social media for #maneupdatemonday
C’YA!
That’s a really good point. Growing your hair is something that everybody should be allowed to do, regardless of your gender.
I’ve been letting my hair grow for the last four years, even though I was forced to buzz it off beceause I had an extreme hair cut (if that is a thing lmao); I had a very thick long ridge of hair that fell to my hips, but my sides were very short, like 1 cm. I basically had a very long mohawk.
I was enjoying it a lot, I felt like I was living the best moments of my existence. Really lol.
Infortunatly, I was forced to cut it beceause my school didn’t like it. So I cut it all off. As a person who worn long hair the majority of it life, It was a very new feeling, I didn’t hate it, but I didn’t like it either. it wasn’t me.
Now, my hair is reaching the middle of my back.
If someone tells you to cut your hair, just yeah, chop it off and bake them a cake with your hair inside.
Hey I know I’m late but I’m at 1 year with my hair nd it’s considerably long but I’ve only let hair grow from the top and not the sides . Should I begin to let my hair grow from the sides or is it fine as is ? Does it add more depht ? I would love to see what you would have to say , thank you !
Just the boost I needed. This was rad!
The same can be said about buzz cuts. Being different/standing out is why I decided to buzz off my hair really close. Almost every room I walk into the guys either have some generic short hair style, a beautiful mane, or balding by the force of nature. I am a guy capable of growing out a mane, but who buzzed off all my hair and I stand out EVERY where I go. I stand out from the guy with the beautiful mane of hair, and the generic guys who have the play-it-safe regular hair cut.
You make a great point Buzz Cut Tony. Here’s to being different, amigo.
Cool. My hair is ALSO different because it’s in between the generic and the long flowing mane as it is about 5.5 inches on the top, tapered from around 4 down to 2.5 around the sides and back, and I comb it downwards so that the front is in bangs covering part of my face, or also to the side and not really covering my face, along with if I sweep it to the side or back.
I’d like to point out that although the concept of having long hair is great- not everyone can or should try to pull it off. I’m a prime example of this- I’ve always wanted to have long hair, and though I have plenty of it- it flat looks like crap when I grow it out! Its too thick- with random waves, curls, cowlicks, feathers, it ends up looking too feminine for me- and just like a big uncontrollable mop. I’ve tried Asian straightening creams, I’ve had it permed before- nothing controls this crap hair of mine! My morning bedhead also redefines the laws of physics- just incredible stuff. Its so frustrating and causes lifelong disappointment. How could the hair genes have screwed up so bad when mine was created?? So, long hair is cool and all- but not if it doesn’t make you look cool- if you’ve got the wrong hair type, like me- unfortunately its better to stay on the shorter end of the spectrum, if you want to keep your visual integrity as a man. My hair even struggles to look good when short, it will drive me insane to the grave 🙁
Welcome, Brad! What’s the longest you ever got it? Are you sure you just never made it past the awkward stage? I would bet a lot of those excellent descriptive features would mellow out once it got long enough.
If it’s that bad you can always shave it all off!
Thanks for writing in hombre…hope you’re having a great hair day.
Let it ride till I die!
Nicely written. And nice to hear about my countryman. Czech republic woohoo 😀
Thank you man! Hopefully he tries growing his hair out!
El Rubio….as always your eloquence about the Fraternity far exceeds the normalization of the simple mind we find throughout all walks of society today! The symbolism of ‘high and tight’ hair only represents the limits one can restrict the human mind too….unless of course the person is incapable of growing his main…then I believe we would embrace his since of passion as a true brother “IF” he don’s the ‘head-wraps’ and ‘lids’ presented to the Longhairs Fraternity of today!
“Let It Ride”
Novara
Yes Novara! Thanks for the kind words and your thoughts my friend. We will continue to let it ride, and implore you to do the same.
Fraternally,
I’ll be 64 in July. When I was a teen I had shoulder length hair. fought my dad tooth and nail over it. I’m now a retired firefighter and all through my career I had a buzz cut. called it “the wash and wear cut”. Three years ago, out of the blue I told my wife I was letting my hair grow out, her reply, “its your hair”. So now its about 4 to 5 inches past my shoulders. Usually I keep it either in a braid or pony tail because it’s easier at the gym or in my wood working shop. Anyway, most of the guys I worked with can’t understand why I let it grow out. I still get quite a few looks in public but I’ve gotten used to it and besides I don’t really care what others think. the one person I have to worry about says she likes it and even braids it for me. She had short hair through out her work career and now she’s growing hers out. our kids think we’ve gone back to the “hippie” days. We’re just a couple of laid back retiree’s who now do what “we” want to instead of someone else telling us what we have to do. Bottom line is I grew my hair out because I wanted to. What others think is not important to me anymore. So, that’s my comment.
Yo Thomas! Great reading your comment. I need to put you in touch w/ my dad, he’s a 25-year fireman approaching retirement. I can’t imagine him ever growing his hair out.
Enjoyed reading about you and your wife growing it out. It’s great. We hope you will both consider joining us for The Great Cut on 3/9/19.
Until then…keep lettin it ride!
Great article. At age 60 decided to let it grow. Now almost 4 years later still enjoying the ride
I was seventeen in a catholic high school and my curly black hair was growing beyond what was considered acceptable. The principal asked me if I was planning to have it long after graduation and I said yes, not because I really intended to but just to see his reaction. Then he answered: go for it then when you become a ”serious” man cut it short like a grownup. That day I became a convert and never looked back
We can’t expect others to understand. That’s why we’re here.
Keep lettin it ride hombre.
I’ve had my hair in a lot of different styles, from a short, normal cut to below my shoulders, natural(curly) and, sorry for that big mistake, chemically straightened(don’t do that, you may never be able to stop). The thing is, it is much harder to take care of curly hair and make it looks good.
So, to all my long-haired friends, i’m sorry but, for once in my life, even if i love my long hair, i will try the buzz cut style and, who knows, let my beautiful brown mane grow naturally in the future.
Tiago! Thanks for the comment.
If you decide to cut it, we hope you will considering waiting and joining us for The Great Cut on March 9, 2019.
Either way, we’ll be here! Thanks for being part of our community.
I’m 58 and my hair is down to my chest. This is the 3rd time I’ve let it flow. The first time was due to a mid-life crisis. As soon as I cut it, I was like, “WTF….why did I do that?” Then I got divorced and cut it again because I thought it would help me with the ladies. Once again, WTF…. so I let it grow again. It takes a lot of balls to grow your hair long in your 50s. Proud to say my 57 year old brother is also a long hair and we have nothing in common but I think he looks cool with it. Saw you on Shark Tank. Enjoyed the article and totally relate with it. Cheers.
Thanks Chris! Glad to have you here in the community, keep lettin it ride!
Been growing mine out for about 2 1/2 years got 18 inches it’s the longest iv ever gone.And I plan on letting it go for another 2 years.
good for you guys that growing long hair is acceptable in your society.
here in the phililppines iy is acceptable
but not supported,
out of the 10 colleges near our city only 2 would allow long hairs
(the two were private and two of the most expensive in our region),
and during high school if we grow our hair longer than the normal students cut,
our school discipline officer will line us up and cut out a patch of our hair higher forcing us to cut it short or clean at the sides, “clean cut” as they would say.
you would look like its as if you are in a fuckin maritime academy.
before enroling they would let you sign a waiver to allow this,
you got no choice but to sign
it or else choose another high school a bit far away
(oh, all the high schools here dont allow long hairs)
even in college,
i studied at a state college,
started to grow my hair long again
(putting pins to hide it at the back
before entering school)
one time i forgot to redo the pins
inside..
long strands started to be visible,
another disciplene officer
got me in his office,
gave me a haircut,
yeah he cuts hair like a pro,
clean and good,
but also bid farewell to my long hair.
this is how long hair is fucked
in the philppines public schools.
Wow JAM, thank you for sharing so we have a better understanding. We are grateful for our freedom to grow our hair, even if some people give us grief for it. Wishing you strength and success in your journey to let it ride, please keep us posted!
Ah mate i’d look like a complete muppet headbanging with short hair at a Metallica or PowerWolf gig xD
The negative comments for me motivate me the most to keep growing! 15 months strong! And of course the head bands and hair ties are helping my journey!
I originally grew mine out because i was made fun of when was younger by a clown and called dumbo. Now i have had it long for about 11 years had to cut short twice during elementary school because of head lice and I did not enjoy it short. Long hair became a part of me. I had various other comments about me making fun of me but with it I cared less about what people though of me. It helped shape me to who I am today.
Well said Tyler, that’s awesome man!
if you grow your hair for what others think , is that not the same and cutting it to appease society ?
You got us pegged J
Why did you have to cut it short because of lice? You just go through the treatment. I remember at least 2 longhairs getting lice in elementary school & not having to get haircuts because of the lice.
Long hair gives you magic powers. Powers to not give two shits about what close minded people think. Powers to rock out at any music festival. There’s tons you could list, overall, long hair is just magical.
Call him the Magic Man!
I’m about 6 months into a 9 1/2 month Barber School. Been growing my hair for about 4 months now. I am constantly bombarded with “You should get a haircut!” To which I say you “it’s the first time in 30 years that I’ve been able to grow my hair out.” I was in the Marines for 4 years and then in management positions and other jobs where long hair was frowned upon. Barbering is my ticket to self-employment and growing my hair is one outward sign of me being my own boss. My instructor has been barbering for over 50 years and he thinks it’s cool that at my age, I’ll be 49 on the 27th, that I’m growing my mostly silver locks long. Thanks for the inspiration and for what you all do for those that are and those aspiring to be longhairs.
Hell yes Fog-McCobb! First thanks for your service. Second congratulations on running your own business, and expressing it as such. And finally, WELCOME TO THE TEAM man! Glad to read your story, and to have you here. Cheers and keep lettin it ride!
It’s funny but I made a conscious decision a few days ago while I was on holidays on Mykonos where I can truly be myself and give a flying fuck about what everyone else thinks of my appearance; I’m going to grow my hair back. My hair was long and wavy and black until the early 90’s when I finally cut it off and wore it in my version of a pompadour. Now this hair is very much salt & pepper. I’ve just turned 67 (ugh) and so over trying to find a good barber at a reasonable cost; I’ve got one now and it’s $30 a pop every month. Wish me luck! Lawrence
You’re in it to win it Lawrence. Perfect age to let it ride! Keep checkin in here, let us know how your journey is going.
I’m going back to school in about a month. I am having a hard time deciding whether to cut it or not. It is like 3 inches below my shoulders. It takes 2 years to grow 5ish inches. (Slow) My mom has always had short hair since I was born except for one year when it was at her shoulder. She looks awesome with short hair. But my hair is curly and a big Afro, so there are many good reasons to cut it short. I’ve wanted to for months. I think short is the way to go, no matter what people think. Long hair isn’t the bomb, really. Everyone has it and it gets really boring. You stand out with short hair. Depends on what’s person you are- short, long, somewhere in between. But long hair is not really cool. Short hair comes with confidence and total swagger for many. I think it’s lit. I’ve had both and short hair is the perfect choice for athletic people. Got nothing to worry about whether it’s in your face or falling out of a ponytail.
Finally we’re hearing from the other side! You make some profound observations, Yellowfang_101. Sounds like short hair is the ticket for you. C’YA!
How about this for an answer?
I can cut my hair any time but you’ll always be stupid.
El Rubio,
This is my first time writing in. I’ve been following The Longhairs on YouTube for a few months now. You guys are awesome and I truly commend you for the work that you’re doing.
I’m on my 2nd grow out. I had the locks down to my shoulders (finally out of the awkward stage) after three years of growing it in high school. I kept it for a year after graduating but cut it because I thought it was holding me back from getting a job. A few years later I joined the USAF so I had to keep it short. Now that I’m a civilian again, I can let it ride… once I’m back out of the awkward stage.
I feel like this article speaks to a lot of men out there who have or aspire to have long hair. It certainly spoke to me. Thanks!
Agreed! I have had my doubts too especially when I graduated college and started applying to jobs, but I landed one at Coca-Cola in ATL and they are very corporate. It goes to show that if you have a nice highball or lowball in my case then people will respect you and won’t thing you’re just a stoner.
P.S. found you guys from How I Built This on NPR – ROCK ON!
Well said Kyle. Stoked you checked us out and thanks for stoppin by. We’ll for sure check out your Funkadelic project.
Yo Kyle, hella stoked you found us from the podcast! Welcome to the community, keep it live down there in the ATL.
Long hair acts as a filter for people who are judgmental and helps me decide who is worth taking to. Why waste your time on folks who judge you by the length of your hair? Actually, I find more interesting people are willing to engage a badass with long hair. I do want to find a way to manage it better now that it’s mid back and I’m 6’2″. Wash it everyday and I need efficienct method to tie it up and keep moisture from wetting my dress shirts. I’m an Engineer and expected to look professional. But to be honest, long hair tied back right looks a lot better than most of the half ass facial hair men war today.
Well said John! Thanks for writing in amigo. We need more 6’2″ longhairs out there!
In 2011 I was lucky enough to have survived a brutal car accident. After two years of multiple surgeries (6 to be exact) and other personal setbacks I knew it was time to start living a more fulfilling life. I quit smoking and my kids said I should mark that day with some sort of special occasion. I came up with the idea that if I failed at quitting the dags, I would buzz my hair. So I let it grow. Let it flow!
After 4+ years, I’m happy to say my pelt is now in the 18″ range. Over the first year or so, there were scores of folks (friends, family and strangers alike) that asked, WHY the long locks…and at YOUR AGE? At which point I shared my storied reasoning with pride and self respect. Needless to say, most walked away with a completely different perspective. Touché’
Found your website a few weeks ago. I membered up, ordered a couple packs of hair ties and the calling cards as well (brilliant marketing idea). In a sense, my hair IS my calling card? I will support your products and direct other longhairs to your site. IF/when I get out to San Diego, let’s go have a few ‘Daddy Pops’.
Yo TF! Man, thanks for telling your story, that’s remarkable! Shot to the heart.
Thrilled you found us. Thanks for ordering hair ties and cards, hope you have fun handing them out, I know we do.
Absolutely get in touch if you make it to SD! We’re always down for a few oat sodas.
Stoked to have you write in, thanks again amigo and keep it long and strong!
In high school I always wanted to have long hair. Being that I attended a strict private Christian school, they had some wierd rule that Christian men can’t have long hair. I remember trying to cheat the system by using massive amounts of hair gel and spray to form only medium length hair in a hideous form that would make it look like I had short hair. When I got home, I would clean my hair and then let what was really nothing that long ride free! One day during school photos, I tried letting my hair down naturally and my headmaster actually pulled me aside and gave me a stern talking. He combed my hair back for me and made me retake my picture. When I got home, I was ordered to have my hair cut real short. The moment I graduated I immediately started growing it out again. I’m in my third year of college and now my hair is a long dirty-blond wavy dream. Nothing beats the feeling I get when random girls come up to me saying how much they wish they had my hair. I’m at a Christian university now and I guess they realize that in the big scheme of things, hair length doesn’t change what kind of man you are.
Yo Raph, thanks for sharing your story man. There’s some potentially useful commentary in this blog, might be a little cheeky for the headmaster: https://blog.thelonghairs.us/top-3-time-christmas-longhairs/
Glad to hear you’ve finally had the chance to grow it out amigo!
You forgot to mention the fact that all your strength and super natural abilities ride on you not cutting your hair…. just saying…
My son tells people he is growing his hair out so that he can whip the moon one day.
That’s right, he is going to “hair whip” the moon.
I imagine his hair whips are epic.
Thanks for sharing that! I really enjoyed reading about you staying true to yourself.
I’ve been growing my hair out for about 14 months now, and I’ve had to defend my reasons for doing it so many times. It’s forced me to be ok with being different, and not care so much about what others think of me. Ironically, I’ve become more confident in myself because of the haters. I love the long hair! Let it ride boys!
Kenneth, you know it man! Glad to have you on the team!
Right to the point. Excellent. Who does this guy think he is? I say every guy should try long hair a least once. If they don’t like, they should shit the hell up. I love growing my hair out and don’t want to go back to the short hair. I’ve been told different times I should cut it. But now no one seems to say anything. Guess there use to the idea. I hope they keep it that way. But if they don’t it goes in one ear and out the other.
Spoken like a die hard!
It has always made me mad that schools or work places force man to cut their hair, no job has ever demanded me (I’m a girl) to cut my hair ? sooo… I think you need one more reason for you’re long locks like for example; FREEDOM AND EQUALITY. Why should girls have long hair? They are free to cut and decorate their hair but not boys o no no no. Boys should be boys ?
Thank you Sai! As you’ve pointed out, we’re simply advocates for equality, with long hair as our platform. Thank you for supporting!
El Rubio,
Thank you my long-haired Ambassador, for speaking your mind and defending our cause. This story gave me hope that I can get through this phase of annoyance and weird looks. lol You’ve also given me more perspective as to the benefits of having long hair. Longhairs United!!!
Glad you connected w/ the story Chris! Stand with us man! You can make it.
It makes you look like a badass warrior! Enough said.
Hi-ya!
Great comment, Junior. I’m in a similar situation. Some of my gay friends have said and acted in the same way. I’m happy with it and I can actually see where they are actively trying to look or be someone else. Why be a copy? God bless!
Retired after 30 years in the military. Wanted to try it. I love lettin it ride! I have a job which traditonally leans “short hair”. So I enjoy the “is this guy a loose cannon angle?” Great blog – excellent content. Thanks.
Who is this guy???
Awesome man! That’s why I will continue to grow it out, a little bit more and the awkward stage will be something of the past \m/
…and also I’m letting grow my beard hehehe, next year I think I could go to stand in election for a new Santa XD
Cheers!! 😛
Cheers man!
Just cut your fucking hair and shut up. Lol.
Spoken like a true uncle 🙂
Bruh. Stop cursing at him about his hair to cut it.
Lol. Thank you TwistyPuzzler.
Been a longhair on and off since high school. Every time I got it cut it didn’t take long before I would start growing it out again. Made me feel like I was just another face in the crowd, and who wants to do that. 55 and letting it ride till it runs out lol!!
Keep it while you can!
Been letting it ride for the last 7yrs. This is my 4th blonde whip since high school. The only thing about short hair is keeping it cut, and finding that special someone to cut it just the way you want it, same goes with long hair too but a bad haircut grows so slow. When I would get it cut I felt as though I was just like everyone else. But it wasn’t long before I would start letting it ride again, awkward stage and all. 55 and still letting it ride!!!
Hell yeah Dennis!
All great points El Rubio.
Its just a stupid thing to say to someone & in all honesty makes the perpetrator seem a bit of a dork!
Like many have said the main appeal to me is to be different, life would be so boring if everyone had exactly the same type of personality so why not try to have a different look as well?!
Power to the longhairs & to the people who have the courage to be different!
Yes man! Courage.
Well, here is the thing… I hear that awful advice all the time. I just ignore. I also ignore those ones who always say something like OH, YOU LOOK BETTER WITH SHORT HAIR. Only I can count how many times I did cut my hair short after hearing that, to later hear the same person say WHY DID YOU CUT YOUR HAIR?
So, people are mean all the time.
I live in Brazil, in a very small city, and people still act like having long hair means you’re gay and deserve no respect. And if you are not gay, then you love rock ‘n roll and is a drug addict. In fact, by coincidence, I’m gay.
I’m gay because I’m gay, and not because I have long hair, and my hair would never define my sexuality if things were different. But believe it or not, even gay men also have no respect for me because I have long hair. In their heads, having long hair makes me “gay-er”. Yeah, since my hair is long (for 2 years), countless times I heard guys saying that would not date me because I have long hair, or they just ignore me because of that.
I don’t care because I knew things would be like this. For years I tried to be what people expected me to be, and I gained nothing in return. So, I’m 35 now, and when I was 32 I though it was time for me to do what I wanted and conquer my own confidence and independence. And here I am. Never been happier with my long hair. Maybe I will cut it short again in the future, but if I do that, I’ll do it because I want to, and not because someone told me to.
Now I’m in the process to get it longer enough to donate but still keep it long after the cut, in the hopes that my hair can also make another one as happy and confident as I am now.
And thanks for your inspiring words for all long hairs around the world.
Yo Junior! Your comments are genuine and meaningful, thank you for sharing. We’re glad to know our words have inspired, especially all the way in Brazil. You’re always welcome here amigo, thank you for being part of the community!
Howdy Junior,
Great story.. I too have gone down that long gorgeous hair donation route several times! I’m a natural blonde slightly curly all my life, now turning silver-gray with the same gorgeous locks.
Lying those out on the table stalk by stalk is a beautiful site 🙂
I have to say, the donation movement is noble and honorable but the year or so of recovery is soooo painful. Hopefully someone out there is flipping a finger through those locks and smiling.
Cheers!
to all the longhairs of the world.. we do bring happiness
Yes man!
I just recently buzzed my head. I had shoulder length hair and buzzing it was devastating. I caved in to pressure of advice to cut it. Take it from me, long hair truly lives in the heart. I wish so badly I hadn’t cut it. It’s as if I watched my pride and honour be swept away by a broom and a part of you gets swept away with it. Sure I find it easier maybe to “fit in” now in certain situations, but damn, I’d go back to having it long in an instant if I could. I took the easy rode this time but it will never happen again my friends! If you truly love long hair (who wouldn’t I mean seriously?) take it from me and the longhairs; let it ride! It’ll be a good year til I’m back to myself again with hair. As for whatever reason they give you to cut it, there in fact lies a far better reason to reply as to not cut it. I promise. You just need to search harder because if long hair were easy, everyone would be doing it. But it takes effort and lots of work as do all great things worth while!
Striking the heart man! You’re still with us. In fact, consider documenting your trials and tribulations through the awkward stage as you go back through it, and help the other guys make it through.
Hit us direct on email if you’re interested in that idea. Thanks for sharing man!
I love everything about this and I really, really wish I were sitting next to you at the bar with the Czech. WE WOULD HAVE HAD SO MUCH FUN FUCKING WITH THAT GUY.
😉
HAHAHA! Ash, wish you had been sitting there too. Thanks darlin 🙂
Ash is a so nice woman that you should be in a great danger, El Rubio….lol
but it should be funny earing Ash answering that man….
Haha, Chamane if you knew Ash you’d be even more interested in hearing what she had to say.
There are so many reasons why I let my mane flow. One in particular is why be ordinary when you can be extraordinary? My hair sets me apart from the masses. Living a life as cookie cutter wannabe was never my forte. Love the skin you are in and the rewards will multiply. My hair is a gift that keeps on giving. I trim it and give away my inches to make wigs for women and children who have lost their hair. This resonates with my personal vision statement, “Creating a life of change, impacting the lives of the one or the many”. Live large and in so doing you model the way for others to be courageous.
Live large man! Good to hear from you as always Equus, thanks for your take on it.
“Model the way for others to be courageous.”
in that case, i answer ” you should grow your hair” why not?
we could be oppressive as them, but it’s only a joke, for we ask tolerance and must be tolerants
now, in Europe, long hair on men is accepted for you meet often manbuns, and our gansgtas usually are sort or buzzed hairmen
long hair is seen as quiet opposition to the economic-political system ( alterglobalists) and accepted with sympathy ( thank you, José Bové : https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jos%C3%A9_Bov%C3%A9)
Awesome article. I got a little bit of crap from my friends (mostly the girls I’m friends with) when I was going through the awkward stage and everyone told me to cut it. I powered through and actually met my girlfriend when my hair was shoulder-length. She’s told me multiple times that she thinks my long hair is cool and that it made me different from other guys.
And who knows if you would have ever met her or connected with her if you had short hair.
I grew my hair out for almost two years, it got to be about 15 inches by the time I cut it. Getting it chopped was the worst decision I’ve ever made. I didn’t feel like me. Now I’m about five months into regrowing it and I’m finally starting to feel like myself again. Let it ride!
Alright Dan! Gettin the band back together!
Long hair was also sacred to the European Keltic and Germanic tribes. One of the things the Romans did to subjugate and humiliate the European tribes was to force the men to cut their hair. You don’t have to be Native American to celebrate a heritage of long hair.
Proud men with long locks has a very ancient history in Europe!
Leo, great stuff man! We would love to dive into some of these other cultures. You want to write a guest blog post for us?? Hit us direct on email if you’re interested.
Thanks for writing in!
My biggest reason why I choose to let it ride is simply because I can. Like you said, you dont want a boss telling you that you have to cut your hair in order to get the promotion or raise. No thanks. My pay should be based on my contribution to the company, not my appearance. Hence, I have long hair and my own business! Plus, I’d rather be one of the 5 or 10 dudes with long hair than one of the 90 or 95 with short hair… Guess thats just my nonconformist, self reliant, independent nature… You guys are doing an awesome thing! And I’m proud to be apart of it! ✌❤?
Hell yes man, we’re glad to have you part of it! Thanks for writing in hombre, appreciate your comments!
The flow… love it bro….. which ever style u want… but im rocking it.till the end…….wore my yellow shirt from u guys last week… some one said i get it i get it……
Krazy Karl, hell yes man! Haven’t heard from you for a little while, glad to hear you’re reppin the Golden Pony. Thanks for writing in!
I’d just like others always short hair until I become 55 being kicked out of church because of several narcissists they’re rather want to belief them than I. 22 Years before I lost all the friends I had, because I became a Christian and now there are 2 friends left, one of ‘m is Jesus Himself and somebody else I only connect with internet because he live in the other part of the Netherlands. I shouldn’t take longhair because I do have the Klinefelter Syndrome (1 on the 500 man has KS) and if I have short hair or long hair, a lot of people confuse me with a woman, but now much more and sometimes I must laugh if someone calls me honey or something. I do have a rough youth, both of my parents treat me or I was nothing and for a very long time I belief that, but in 2014 it was just like I say “Fuck you all!” Than I kept it growing and let it grow and grow and until it hits the ground we’re many years further, I am blond/reddish and it looks damn good! 😉
Hans! Thanks for reading and writing in. Glad to have you on the team!
You were wrong about one thing: you’ve got thousands of longhair friends around the world!
Wow, that’s great!!
BAM. El Rubio strikes again. Let it ride muchacho.
Blammo!
Very well said Mr. El Rubio!
Thanks man!
Had the same at 61 long .short.my is when I was growing up it was a flat top.or reg.$1.50.they call it fade out cut know.but rember in school girls could and still can wear their like .and not said much.about.i thought as a kid wasn’t far.and guess why I still have long hair and it’s for me.because I feel like me.tks.
Because I feel like me!
The title scared me a bit, but the message is on point as always!
Ha! I know you didn’t really think the unspeakable Sam.
Totally agree!! Let it ride 😀
Pow!
Ive had long hair for about a year now and ive recently had doubts and thoughts of chopping it off, but this is just what I needed. I tend to doubt myself and spin myself in circles in my head, but I ahould havr more confidence in myself and my hair. Thank you
You got this Colton. Stoked you found us!