The Ultimate Guide to BTS V’s Iconic Perm Hairstyle

Demystifying the V Perm: Mastering One of Speedcubing’s Most Notorious PLL Cases

If you have spent any time diving into advanced speedcubing and learning the 21 Permutation of the Last Layer (PLL) algorithms, you have likely run into cases that feel smooth and satisfying—and others that feel like absolute hand-twisters. For many cubers, the V Perm firmly sits in that second category.

Known for its tricky finger tricks and distinct piece movements, mastering the V Perm is a critical milestone for anyone trying to push their Rubik’s Cube times down into sub-20 or sub-15 territory.

What Exactly is a V Perm?

On a 3×3 Rubik’s Cube, the PLL stage happens after you have solved the entire cube except for the final layer pieces, which are oriented correctly but sitting in the wrong positions.

The V Perm is a specific case characterized by:

• A diagonal corner swap (two opposite corners need to switch places).
• An adjacent edge swap (two neighboring edges need to swap places).

Visually, when you look at the cube, you will often notice a distinct pattern of blocks and colors that tells you precisely which pieces are out of alignment.

Recognition Tips

Spotting the V Perm quickly saves precious milliseconds during a solve. Here is what to look for:

• The Blocks: Look for a 1×2 block or specific side patterns on the top layer.
• The Corners: Identify the two corners that need to swap diagonally across the puzzle.
• Once you identify the signature look, muscle memory needs to take over instantly to execute the algorithm without pausing to think.

The Standard Algorithm and Execution

The traditional and most widely taught algorithm for the V Perm is:

R' U R' d' R' F' R2 U' R' U R' F R F

• The Catch: This sequence features a rotation (d') and several precise turns that can feel clunky if your grip isn’t clean.
• The Flow: To execute it quickly, focus on fluid wrist movements during the rotation and keeping your hand anchored correctly for the F and R2 moves. Many advanced cubers also practice alternative fingertrick variations to eliminate awkward regrips entirely.

Tips for Practicing the V Perm

1. Slow Down First: Don’t try to rush it at full speed right away. Practice the algorithm slowly to train your fingers on the exact path of the pieces.
2. Isolate the Drill: Set up scrambles specifically to force a V Perm state repeatedly. Doing clean V Perms in a row will do wonders for your muscle memory.
3. Watch Your Regrips: Minimize hand shifting. The smoother the transition between the R moves and the F/d' turns, the faster your execution will become.

How To Do The V Perm

This video provides a clear visual walkthrough and breakdown of how to recognize, execute, and speed up your V Perm algorithm.
http://googleusercontent.com/youtube_content/1