Defiantly Tacoma's Guide to Ervin's Barbershop

Editor’s Note: I have no idea what to do with my hair. If it’s too short, I can’t stand how my ears stick out and don’t like the shape of my head. If it gets long, the curls get out of control and I look like a less charming Kramer who got struck by an even stronger bolt of lightning. Hair is a hard thing to lock down, and where you get your ears lowered is important. And that’s just when it comes to the actual act of the cut. On top of that, you want a barber or stylist who’s friendly, welcoming, affordable, and available.

I’ve tried almost every major barbershop in town, and without fail, Boe Ervin is one of the best in Tacoma. When he opened his own shop right across from Lincoln High a couple years back, I wasn’t the only one who celebrated that milestone. Few people put on for Tacoma like Boe, and the love is reciprocated. A true man of the people, his quaint shop is quickly becoming a beacon for community in this city. We let the man himself give the quick spiel on why his shop is one for all to call their new hair home.

Clean and Comfortable

Ervin’s meets all safety and sanitation standards. We make sure each client is greeted with a genuine smile and sense of appreciation for their business.

Diverse

Our barbershop is comprised of two barbers, one African American man (Boe) and a Caucasian woman (Katie). That flexibility allows our shop to cater to all ethnicities and hair textures.

Experience

Between both barbers, we have 30+ years of cutting hair under our belts. Your hair is in good hands.

Time Management

Our barbershop is appointment based, which means your time is valued. Each appointment gets the attention it deserves within the time frame it’s been booked.

Community

Ervin’s is for and by the community. We take pride in organizing events like shoe drives, Halloween festivals, and an annual Juneteenth event. We are most proud of our Ervin’s Barbershop Scholarship that assists a selected high school senior to pursue a higher level of education.

ED: Boe knows best! Check out his shop, get your hair cut by one of their two talented barbers, and tell them your friends at We R Tacoma said hello. In the meantime, if you’ve got any hair styling tips, back alley barbers you’re loving, or recipes for to die for quiche, send them all and more to ccatherwood@wertacoma.com. Namaste.

Ervin’s Barbershop was featured in a 2019 episode of This Is R City, which highlighted the best barbers in Tacoma.