Popular Braids Hairstyles for Men with Step-by-Step Guides

Braids are not just for women anymore. More and more men are embracing braids as a way to express style, heritage, and creativity. From athletes to rappers to everyday guys, braided hairstyles have become one of the coolest and most practical trends.

The beauty of braids is that they work for almost everyone. Whether your hair is long, short, thick, or curly, there’s a braid style that will suit you. Some men wear braids to keep hair neat and manageable, while others love the bold, artistic look.

I still remember the first time I tried braids. A friend who was good at braiding offered to do mine. I’ll admit, I was nervous at first — what if I looked silly? But the moment I saw my reflection, I was hooked. It felt fresh, stylish, and different from anything I had before.

In this guide, we’ll explore the most popular braid styles for men, how to do them step by step, and what they cost at a barber or salon.

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Why Braids Are Trending for Men

Braids have always been around in different cultures — from African tribes to Vikings to Native traditions. But in recent years, men have embraced them in modern ways.

Here’s why:

• Low maintenance — once braided, hair stays neat for days or weeks.

• Cultural pride — many styles have deep roots in history.

• Fashion statement — braids stand out and show confidence.

• Versatility — from tight cornrows to messy Viking braids, there’s something for everyone.

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How to Braid Hair Men Step by Step?

If you’ve never braided before, don’t worry — it’s simpler than it looks.

Basic 3-Strand Braid (for beginners)

1. Start clean — Wash and condition your hair. Dry completely.

2. Detangle — Comb through so there are no knots.

3. Section hair — Take a chunk and divide into 3 equal parts.

4. Cross over — Move the right strand over the middle. Then the left over the new middle.

5. Repeat — Keep crossing strands until you reach the end.

6. Secure — Tie with a small band.

When I first tried this on my nephew’s hair, it came out messy — but he still loved it. Like anything, practice makes perfect.

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Popular Braids Styles for Men (With Guides)

1. Cornrows

Cornrows are tight braids close to the scalp, often in straight or curved rows.

Step-by-step:

1. Wash and condition your hair.

2. Part hair into rows with a fine comb.

3. Take 3 small sections at the front of each row.

4. Braid tightly while picking up more hair as you move back.

5. Secure ends with rubber bands.

Cost: $40–$100 at a barber, depending on design.

Why men love it: Clean, long-lasting, and stylish.

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2. Box Braids

These are square-shaped braids that hang loose.

Step-by-step:

1. Part hair into small square sections.

2. Take one section and split it into 3 strands.

3. Braid down.

4. Repeat for each section.

Cost: $80–$200, depending on length.

I once tried box braids before a beach trip. Not only did I look cool, but I didn’t have to worry about my hair for the whole vacation.

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3. Drake Braids

Named after rapper Drake, these are simple cornrow-style braids with neat patterns.

Step-by-step:

1. Part hair into 4–6 sections.

2. Cornrow each section straight back.

3. Add designs (zig-zags, curves) if you like.

Cost: $50–$150.

Fun fact: Drake’s style made braids mainstream for men who never considered them before.

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4. Viking Braid

Inspired by Norse warriors, this style is bold and powerful.

Step-by-step:

1. Grow medium to long hair.

2. Shave sides for an undercut (optional).

3. Gather hair at the crown.

4. Do a single 3-strand or fishtail braid down the back.

Cost: $60–$120.

When I first saw a friend wear Viking braids, it reminded me of movie characters. It’s a style that makes you feel strong.

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5. Zig-Zag Cornrows

This is a creative twist on regular cornrows.

Step-by-step:

1. Part hair in zig-zag shapes.

2. Cornrow each section carefully, following the pattern.

3. Secure ends.

Cost: $80–$150.

Why it’s cool: The design is eye-catching and artistic.

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6. Two-Strand Twists

A simple, low-maintenance option.

Step-by-step:

1. Section hair into small squares.

2. Take two strands and twist them around each other.

3. Continue until finished.

Cost: $40–$80.

This was my go-to when I was too lazy for full braids but wanted a clean look.

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7. French Braids

Classic and neat, great for medium hair.

Step-by-step:

1. Start with a top section, split into 3 strands.

2. Cross right over middle, left over middle.

3. Add more hair as you go down.

4. Finish with a band at the end.

Cost: $40–$70.

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What Does God Say About Braids?

This is a question many people ask. The Bible mentions braids in 1 Timothy 2:9, saying women should dress modestly, “not with braided hair and gold or pearls.”

But this doesn’t mean braids are forbidden. Most scholars explain that it was about vanity and showing off wealth, not the hairstyle itself.

In many cultures, braids have spiritual or cultural meaning. For example:

• African tribes use braids to show age or status.

• Native Americans see braids as strength and unity.

• Vikings wore braids for battle readiness.

So, whether you wear braids for fashion, culture, or self-expression, it’s more about intention than the style.

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Braids vs. Other Hairstyles: Cost and Maintenance

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Final Thoughts

Braids for men are more than a trend — they’re a mix of culture, art, and personal style. Whether you want the neatness of cornrows, the boldness of Viking braids, or the everyday ease of twists, there’s a braid style for you.

The key is patience. The first time I tried braiding, my arms ached, and the parts weren’t straight. But I kept practicing — and now I can braid my nephew’s hair in under 20 minutes.

So don’t be afraid to try. Start small, practice, or go to a skilled barber. Your hair might just become your new favorite way to express yourself.