To some they're an artistic flourish, a method of adding masculinity, or simply a way of keeping warm in winter.
But to others they're an abomination, a coating of hair that adds ten years to a youthful face, or a sign of laziness and sloth.
The debate came to the fore when a Daily Echo reader wrote in to set out her opposition to "hirsute monstrosities".
But what do you think?
The Daily Echo is giving readers the opportunity to choose the best beard in Southampton.
So whether you own a beard of your own or you're putting forward a husband, brother, dad or friend, we want to see your facial hair - and there are several categories of awards:
There’s no need to decide which category to enter – our team of bearded judges (no ‘smoothies’ allowed) will do that for you.
Then it will be down to a public vote to decide the Best Bristles Awards 2016.
There will be top prizes galore of grooming products and £50 vouchers for each category winners to spend on that perfect trim or treat.
Closing date is Friday July 22 with all the entries appearing in a special edition of the Daily Echo and on-line at dailyecho.co.uk on Tuesday July 26.