IE 11 is not supported. For an optimal experience visit our site on another browser.

Beard contest shows off styles of the hirsute

Clockwise from top left, Norbert Topf from Austria, Michael Johnson of the U.S., Gerhard Knapp of Germany and Eric Jansson of the U.S.
Clockwise from top left, Norbert Topf from Austria, Michael Johnson of the U.S., Gerhard Knapp of Germany and Eric Jansson of the U.S.Michaela Rehle / Reuters
By PhotoBlog
Armin Bielefeldt of the U.S. poses before taking part in the Beard World Championship in Leinfelden-Echterdingen, Germany, on Nov. 2.
Armin Bielefeldt of the U.S. poses before taking part in the Beard World Championship in Leinfelden-Echterdingen, Germany, on Nov. 2.Michaela Rehle / Reuters
As November begins, many men will stow away their shaving equipment for the month and let their stubble blossom into beards as part of "Movember," an effort to raise awareness of men's health issues. (NBC's Today show anchors are also joining in.) If you're letting your facial hair grow, but unsure of proper styling, here's some inspiration from the Beard World Championships in Leinfelden-Echterdingen, Germany, where more than 300 people from around the world face off in different moustache and beard competitions. Razors down! 
Clockwise from top left, Norbert Topf from Austria, Michael Johnson of the U.S., Gerhard Knapp of Germany and Eric Jansson of the U.S.
Clockwise from top left, Norbert Topf from Austria, Michael Johnson of the U.S., Gerhard Knapp of Germany and Eric Jansson of the U.S.Michaela Rehle / Reuters
Clockwise from top left, Franz Mitterhauser from Austria, Charlie Savill from Britain, Jeffrey Moustache of the U.S. and Frazer Coppin of Britain.
Clockwise from top left, Franz Mitterhauser from Austria, Charlie Savill from Britain, Jeffrey Moustache of the U.S. and Frazer Coppin of Britain.Michaela Rehle / Reuters
PhotoBlog