A distinctive hairstyle, commonly seen in ice hockey and referred to as "lettuce" or "salad," is gaining attention beyond the sport, even reaching Hollywood. This look, a variation of the mullet, is characterized by subtle length differences and a feathery tail, and is being noticed for its widespread appeal.
Roots and Evolution of the "Lettuce" Hairstyle
The "hockey hair" trend has a history stretching back to the 1970s, a period when longer hairstyles were more common for men. Over time, this evolved, with players developing specific styles that became synonymous with the sport.
The term "hockey hair" encompasses various names, including "cheddy," "lettuce," "flow," and "salad."
A key feature of the "lettuce" style is its softer approach compared to a traditional mullet. It often involves a loose, sometimes wavy top, sides that are gently tapered, and a "feathery tail" that rests on the nape of the neck.
Spread Beyond the Ice Rink
While originating in ice hockey, the "lettuce" hairstyle is now appearing in different circles, including among celebrities.
Barry Keoghan, preparing for his role as Ringo Starr, has been seen sporting a look described as "heavily lettuce coded."
Social media platforms, particularly TikTok, have played a significant role in popularizing this trend. Videos showcasing "lettuce hair" have garnered hundreds of thousands of views.
Personalization and Reactions
Players and stylists have experimented with the "lettuce" look, leading to a range of interpretations.

Bryer Lang, a senior forward, had his hair styled by his mother, Melissa McMullen, who owns a hair salon. His look reportedly included highlights on top and bleached sides, and was captured in a widely shared TikTok video by Bauer Hockey.
Early reactions to the style have been mixed, with one account suggesting the hair "needs a tetanus shot," indicating a perception of ruggedness associated with the trend.
Broader Adoption
The "lettuce" style is not exclusive to ice hockey players, with athletes in other sports also adopting similar hairstyles.
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At Saint Ignatius, members of the baseball team have been observed growing their hair out, alongside the hockey team.
Expert Insights
The trend's migration from sports to mainstream fashion suggests a cultural resonance with the "lettuce" aesthetic.
The appeal of the "lettuce" hairstyle may lie in its blend of edginess and a more refined finish compared to older versions of the mullet. The use of social media has clearly accelerated its visibility and adoption across different communities.
Conclusion and Future Outlook
The "lettuce" hairstyle, born from the ice hockey culture, has demonstrably transcended its origins. Its adoption by public figures and its viral spread on social media indicate a notable cultural moment. The style's adaptability, allowing for personal touches like dyeing and bleaching, contributes to its ongoing appeal. The trend’s current trajectory suggests continued visibility in fashion and popular culture.
Sources:
The Guardian: "Salad praise: how ice hockey’s ‘lettuce’ hair is winning over Hollywood" - Published: 8 minutes ago. https://www.theguardian.com/fashion/2026/feb/21/salad-praise-how-ice-hockeys-lettuce-hair-is-winning-over-hollywood
The Sun Bulletin: "Permanent Lettuce: A Pageant of Hockey Hair" - Published: Mar 14, 2024. https://www.thesunbulletin.com/permanent-lettuce-a-pageant-of-hockey-hair/
The SI-Culver: "Hockey Hair" - Published: Apr 4, 2023. https://sicpspirit.org/5719/features/hockey-hair/