33 Dread Hairstyles For Men

Dreadlocks are a powerful way to show off your style and personality. Whether you want short dreads, long dreads, thick, thin, tied-up, or left loose, there are many cool ways to wear them. Dreads can be neat and simple or bold and creative, depending on the look you want.

In this list of 33 dread hairstyles for men, you’ll find stylish, fresh, and easy ideas for every vibe. These styles work for everyday life, special events, or just switching up your look.

Dread Hairstyles For Men

1. Clean Box Twists

This style is all about fresh parts and tight two-strand twists. The square grid pattern gives the scalp a neat look, while the medium-length twists hang loosely for an easygoing vibe. It’s perfect for anyone who wants something tidy but low effort day-to-day.

The parts do most of the work visually, giving structure without needing extra styling each morning. The twists can be left down, tied back, or even pushed under a cap if needed. It grows out nicely too, so it won’t look messy right away.

Ask your loctician for tight sectioning and defined parts. To keep it looking good, moisturize your scalp and use a light hold product to keep the frizz away. You’ll get a few weeks out of this before needing a refresh.

2. Diamond Twists

Diamond parts bring a stylish upgrade to basic twists. This look keeps the same two-strand method but swaps the square sections for diamond-shaped ones. It gives a fresh twist to a classic base.

It stands out without going too far and works well on shorter hair. If you’re trying to keep your look on point but not flashy, this hits the mark. The pattern catches light nicely and makes the scalp design pop.

Use a shine product to highlight the parts and keep the twist definition. You don’t need a full routine just sleep with a satin durag or bonnet and you’ll be set for a while.

3. Twisted Back Rows

Here we’ve got a style that combines straight parting with twist technique, going all the way back from the hairline. This creates a rowed look, almost like twist-cornrows but with more texture.

It works well for medium to long starter locs and helps train the hair to grow neatly. The direction of the twist also pulls hair away from the face, which feels clean and helps highlight your lineup.

It’s a strong look for guys who want to stay sharp without braids. Use edge control on the hairline and lightly oil the scalp. The back-row layout is both easy to maintain and great for growth.

4. Top Knot Twists

With this style, the front and sides are twisted toward the back and gathered into a knot or small bun. It’s a nice mix of tight detail and relaxed volume. The bun keeps things cool and controlled.

This look works for guys with medium to longer locs or starter twists. If you want your hair up but don’t feel like braiding, this is a strong option. It frames the face well and makes room for showing off your fade or taper.

Keep the sides fresh with regular cuts, and redo the top as needed. You can also swap the bun for a ponytail depending on the day. It’s a style that gives you a few choices.

5. Star Part Braids

This bold style uses star-shaped parts that meet in the center and braid outward. It’s a creative take on straight-back braids, adding pattern and shape right from the scalp.

Great for special events or just if you want to try something different, the star design catches attention without being too loud. It also holds really well, meaning fewer touch-ups needed during the week.

Ask for tight parting and defined braids. You can even wrap the ends into a knot at the nape for a neat finish. Keep it moisturized and wear a durag at night to protect the look.

6. Mini Barrel Knots

This hairstyle features thick twisted knots that stand up slightly from the scalp. The pattern is boxed and tight, but the shape adds height and character. It’s perfect for guys with shorter dreads or starter locs.

It gives a bit of a rugged feel while still being polished. The barrel knots hold longer than loose twists, which makes it a good choice for low-maintenance guys who still want something fresh.

Ask for even sections and tight rolls when you get this done. Use gel or locking cream for hold and shine. It’s the kind of look that keeps shape even through gym sessions or long days.

7. Interlocked Crown Grid

This one uses a circular pattern in the parts with the twists feeding inward or outward from the crown. It’s like a maze on your scalp and gives the hair visual flow from every angle.

It works well for guys with full thick locs who want to try something artistic. It also keeps the roots controlled, which is great for loc progress and keeping your base strong.

The detail on this one means you’ll need someone skilled with sectioning. Use a light oil to keep the scalp healthy and avoid buildup, since this pattern can last for weeks at a time.

8. Brown-Tipped Diamond Knots

Here, we’ve got knots set into diamond sections, and the dreads themselves are tipped with brown color. It gives contrast and makes each piece stand out without needing too much effort.

If you like a bold look but don’t want to bleach everything, coloring just the ends keeps it manageable. The diamond layout adds detail, and the sectioned knots sit neatly across the head.

Use color-safe products and moisturize the ends since they’ve been dyed. This style grows out well and still looks clean when loose hair starts to show.

9. Two-Tone Bun with Twist Design

This hairstyle pulls the locs into a high bun, but what makes it stand out is the twist design along the scalp and the two-toned color in the bun itself. Black at the roots and blonde at the top gives it contrast.

It’s sharp and clean from the front and has personality from the back. The scalp design keeps the look fresh while the bun adds height. It’s a strong style for guys with thick dreads.

Ask for a high bun with twist designs leading into it. Keep the bun tight and retwist the base as needed. You’ll want edge control and a scarf to keep the hairline sharp overnight.

10. Long Side-Parted Dreads

This look keeps the dreads long and pulled back, parted to the side with defined twists from the front. It’s simple but powerful, especially with a clean hairline and a bit of hang on the shoulder.

Great for guys with longer mature dreads, it keeps things neat without putting too much pressure on the roots. The parts guide how the hair falls, and it all wraps toward the back.

Use a leave-in spray or oil to keep the dreads soft. You can leave them out or tie them loosely at the nape. Either way, it keeps you looking styled without trying too hard.

11. Vertical Rope Top

This look features thick twisted ropes going straight back into a small high ponytail. The scalp has detailed parting, and the pattern keeps things clean while still showing volume. The front hairline is shaped tight with a defined edge-up.

This is a great choice for guys who want a twist style that shows off fresh grooming. The top bun keeps the hair off the face, and the scalp design adds visual texture from every side. The style works well for medium-length hair and is pretty easy to manage daily.

Keep the scalp moisturized and use a shine product to bring out the twist details. A satin durag at night helps hold the shape and keeps the hair looking fresh longer.

12. Spiral Knot Grid

This style uses diamond parts with thick spiral knots laid in a tight pattern. The hair forms small raised sections that give a strong, compact shape with defined parts. It’s bold and well-structured from top to bottom.

This one is for guys who like a strong base with detailed placement. It keeps the locs in check and gives the scalp a nice break. The knots sit evenly and make the look feel finished without being bulky.

Ask your stylist for precision sectioning and clean coils. Regular oiling will help with shine, and the knots can last a while without needing daily upkeep.

13. Clean Cornrow Rows

This hairstyle has straight-back cornrows with sharp parting and sleek styling. It sticks to classic rows, laid flat and evenly spaced for a simple, bold statement. The braids are medium in size and neat all the way to the ends.

Perfect for anyone who prefers a low-drama look with high impact, this style holds well during sports or daily wear. It’s clean, no-nonsense, and shows off your head shape with sharp lines.

Use edge control and keep your scalp clean for longer wear. A silk scarf at night can help keep the frizz away. It’s a solid go-to that works for all kinds of settings.

14. Chunky Twist Diamonds

This style features large twists spaced out over a diamond grid pattern. The base is detailed but the twist size adds a looser, bolder feel. It’s a great balance of structure and volume for medium-to-long locs.

If you’re looking for something bold without being tight to the scalp, this is the one. The chunky twists give a relaxed feel, but the clean sections keep it fresh. It’s perfect if you want something that holds shape but still moves a bit.

Moisturize daily and twist any loose hairs between appointments. It grows out nicely, making it a solid pick if you don’t want to retwist too often.

15. Freeform Full Locs

This is a classic long dread style with no added design, just natural full-length locs left down. It gives a chill, strong vibe with a lot of personality. The locs are thick, slightly uneven, and fall freely around the shoulders.

This style speaks for itself. It’s for men who want their hair to speak without needing any twists or added parts. It carries a raw, natural look that stands out without doing too much.

Keep the locs hydrated with oil and wash regularly to avoid buildup. You can leave them out, tie them back, or throw on a headband when needed. It’s freedom in a hairstyle.

16. Micro Twists

This look is all about small two-strand twists with clean square parts. The twists are thin, allowing for light movement and a textured surface. The parting grid adds to the neat layout.

It works well for guys who want a defined twist look without too much thickness. It feels light and can be styled into ponytails or pushed under a cap without ruining the shape.

Use a light cream for hold and twist definition. Keep the scalp moisturized and use a silk wrap at night to keep the shape for longer wear.

17. Forward Twist Grids

Here we’ve got defined two-strand twists with a grid parting that moves slightly toward the front. The layout adds a nice shift in direction, making the twists fall forward.

It’s a good style for guys who want something structured with a bit more personality. The direction of the parts changes how the twists hang, and it adds movement across the scalp.

Twist touch-ups every few weeks help keep it looking fresh. Use a twisting butter or locking cream to keep the texture right and cut down on frizz.

18. Long Loose Copper Dreads

This is a natural dread style left to grow long with a copper-brown tint. The locs fall all the way down the chest and back, and the slight color variation gives it a rugged and striking finish.

Perfect for those who’ve had their dreads for years, this look makes a quiet statement. The texture and length do all the talking, and the reddish-brown adds some character without needing dye all over.

Keep your locs washed, oiled, and palm-rolled to stop matting. It’s low effort once you’re locked in and works in any setting from casual to dressed up.

19. Big Section Rope Twists

This style uses big sections and thick rope twists for a look that pops. The grid pattern keeps it clean, but the twist size gives it presence. It’s bold, noticeable, and gives your scalp room to breathe.

It’s great for guys with thicker hair or those wanting a style that holds up during active days. The thickness makes it last longer, and it’s easy to redo one or two twists if they start to loosen.

Keep it soft with regular oiling, and sleep with a satin scarf to prevent frizz. The big twist look stays fresh without much effort between visits.

20. Flat Top Twist Grid

This twist style lays the locs flat with a clean grid base, giving the hair a low-profile shape that still looks styled. The parts form a tight pattern, and the twists lay down rather than hanging out.

It’s great for short-to-medium hair and works well for anyone who wants something sharp but chill. The flat layout makes it easy to wear under hats or hoodies without squishing the style.

Keep it neat with light oil and retwist any loose ones by hand if needed. It’s low-key but shows you’ve got your grooming on point.

21. Starter Locs With Defined Parting

This look features fresh starter locs laid over a clean, visible grid pattern. The roots are tight, while the ends of the locs start to puff slightly, showing early maturity. It’s a great start for anyone new to the dread journey.

The grid parting makes the locs easy to maintain and style as they grow. The length is even, and the texture looks soft and full without looking heavy. This style gives room for growth and shows the scalp in a neat, healthy way.

Light oil and a soft hold gel will help maintain the fresh retwist look. Regular retwisting keeps the base strong while allowing the length to grow out naturally.

22. Swirled Cornrow Loc Combo

This hairstyle combines cornrows with swirled partings and locs tied into mini buns at the back. The swirls add a bold twist and make the whole head look like a design canvas.

Each section curves around another, creating a soft wave across the scalp. The ends are tied off into coils, keeping the hair from hanging and giving a tidy finish. It’s eye-catching without being too loud.

Moisturize the scalp and retwist any loose pieces to keep the look fresh. Use light hold spray to lock the shape and keep the shine going strong.

23. Zigzag Box Braids

This look features braids hanging freely from zigzag-shaped partings. The sharp part design adds some edge, while the loose braids give movement and texture.

It’s a style that balances clean parting with a laid-back finish. The braids are medium-sized and hang down evenly, offering a relaxed look that still feels styled.

Use braid spray or a leave-in conditioner to keep it from getting dry. A satin cap overnight will help the zigzag parts stay crisp between visits.

24. High Loc Pony with Crisscross Base

This hairstyle gathers thick locs into a top ponytail while the base is styled in a crisscross pattern. The locs fan out from the top, giving a lifted look that’s full of energy.

The scalp design adds detail to the base, making the ponytail pop even more. It’s a great way to keep hair off your face without losing that bold loc vibe.

Tie it with a soft band and use loc oil to keep it from drying out. Keep the base clean with regular retwists to keep the style looking fresh.

25. Rope Twists With Square Sections

This one features tight rope twists parted into even square boxes. The twists are neat and defined, hanging slightly down the sides and back.

The parting grid adds sharp contrast and helps each twist pop on its own. It’s tidy, consistent, and works well for everyday wear or a night out.

Use a twist cream for hold and to keep the frizz low. Wrap it at night and refresh with a light mist to keep the shape strong.

26. Sharp Fade With Curved Braids

This style uses curvy cornrows on the top and sides with a skin fade underneath. The braids wrap into loops and waves, giving the head some flow and shape.

It’s a mix of structure and creativity, perfect for guys who want clean lines with a little movement. The fade keeps it fresh around the ears and neckline.

Keep the scalp hydrated and touch up the fade between full braid sessions. Add some edge control for shine and clean finish around the hairline.

27. Radial Twist Crown

This twist style fans out from the center of the scalp in a full circular pattern. Each twist points outward, giving a crown-like shape that looks cool from every angle.

It’s a statement look that draws the eye to the center while keeping things symmetrical. Perfect for medium-length locs or twist starters.

Keep the center tight with regular touch-ups. A light twisting gel helps keep the shape, and a satin bonnet can hold everything down overnight.

28. Star Pattern Cornrows

This cornrow look forms a starburst shape at the crown of the head. Braids run from the center outward, connecting at sharp points.

The pattern looks complex but keeps a strong shape and sits flat to the head. It works well for men who want something fresh and structured.

Use braid gel for a polished finish and keep the parts clean. The star stays defined longer with a bit of oil and regular night wraps.

29. Blue-Tipped Twist Locs

This look mixes twists with dyed tips in shades of blue. The roots stay dark while the ends fade into icy blues and vibrant tones, giving contrast and style.

The twists are loose but defined, letting the color show clearly at the ends. It adds fun without needing a full dye.

Use color-safe products to keep the blue bright. A curl refresher or leave-in conditioner helps the twists hold their shape and color longer.

30. Pulled-Back Twist Styles

This collage shows a set of twist styles pulled back into different ponytail looks. The sides are faded or tapered while the twists run from the front to the back.

Each angle shows a version of how the twists can be gathered or left to fall naturally. It’s clean, pulled-together, and easy to adjust depending on the day.

Use edge control and a soft tie to keep everything smooth. This is great for anyone who likes a bit of shape and structure without losing length.

31. Tall Dread Top Bun with Taper Fade

This look shows off long thick dreads pulled into a tall top bun. The height adds volume and makes the face look longer. The bun is wrapped securely but still looks full and loose, giving a bold, lifted shape.

The sides are kept short with a clean taper fade that brings contrast to the heavy top. The sharp line-up around the forehead adds a fresh finish. It’s the kind of cut that looks detailed without trying too hard.

To keep this look fresh, retwist the roots regularly and moisturize the scalp. The bun can be redone daily or worn for a few days if tied right. Use a loc butter or cream to keep the strands from drying out.

32. Wrapped Cornrow Braids with High Shine

This style features tight, glossy cornrows that wrap in clean, curved sections from the forehead to a bun at the back. The pattern flows smoothly and keeps the shape close to the scalp.

Each braid is thick and spaced evenly, with clean parting and a strong shine. The braids gather at the crown, showing off the shape of the head while staying neat.

To keep this looking crisp, sleep with a silk wrap and use braid sheen spray. The shine makes the braids pop and the shape stay tight longer between appointments.

33. Twisted Leaf Pattern Braids

Here, twisted braids are styled in a unique leaf-like pattern across the scalp. The parts curve in symmetrical rows that form a shape like vines or feathers growing outward.

Each twist follows the shape of the pattern, and the ends hang freely for a soft finish. The overall look is clean and natural but with extra personality.

To maintain this, use twisting gel to hold the roots and mist the braids daily. A satin bonnet will help keep the twists defined and the parting sharp.