A history of beard competitions

You’ve got your beard care routine down. You know what products your mane loves and how to comb it just right to smooth out those flyaways. Your beard smells and looks great, and you’re getting compliments everywhere you go. Why not take it a step further, Kingsman? Why not go for serious bragging rights and enter your enviable locks in a beard competition?

Beard Competitions Include a Variety of Categories

The world of beard competitions is open to any beardsman proud enough to show off his mane. You can enter categories for the fullest, longest, or most impressive beard. But the most memorable competitions are those featuring elaborately styled beards — where you might see a Cthulhu-like structure crawling off a contestant’s face or a beard sculpted into loops like a roller coaster or waves of a Hawaiian island.

Some competitions, like the National Beard and Mustache Championship, include many categories. You’ll find traditional styles like “Best Chevron Mustache,” “Best Handlebar Mustache,” or “Best Goatee,” and more creative categories like “Most Creative Beard,” where sculpting products are essential. This championship is based in the United States.

If you win at nationals, you can go on to the World Beard and Mustache Championship, hosted by the World Beard and Mustache Association. This event has been held in countries all around the world — from Belgium to Texas to New Zealand. Many of the categories mirror those at nationals, so a winning beard in the U.S. might also take home a world trophy.

The History of Beard and Mustache Competitions

The first known beard and mustache competition was held in London, England in 1873. Appropriately titled “The First Beard and Mustache Show,” it was judged by women randomly selected from the audience. Thirty contestants entered, but only six reportedly showed up on the day of the event. Attendance was low, and the competition wasn’t repeated.

Beard and mustache competitions resurfaced in the 1970s throughout Europe, gradually growing in size. By the 1990s, the modern version of beard competitions we recognize today emerged in Germany. In 1995, the competition expanded internationally and has continued to grow ever since.

Modern Day Beard Competitions

Beard champions dedicate themselves year-round to maintaining their competition-ready looks. Many protect their beards while sleeping, use deep conditioning treatments , schedule frequent trims, and follow strict grooming regimens. Styling and hold require practice, patience, and the right technique.

Many modern competitions draw significant crowds, supporting both the contestants and local charities. Most beard and mustache championships donate part of their proceeds to nonprofit organizations. Prizes range from trophies and medals to the ultimate honor — bragging rights.

Kingsman, would you ever enter a beard or mustache competition? Share your thoughts in the comments. And don’t forget — sign up for our newsletter to receive beard care tips, grooming culture, and beard history straight to your inbox.