When it comes to men’s grooming, braids have become a defining statement of style, culture, and individuality.
From sleek cornrows to creative patterned designs, there’s a wide range of options to explore.
In this guide to all types of braids men, I’ll break down the most popular styles, how they differ in technique and look, and what to consider before choosing the one that suits you best.
Table of Contents
All Types of Braids Men Summary Table
Here are many of the braiding styles men use (you might see overlap between categories or hybrid versions).
| Style | Description / Technique | Best Hair Types / Lengths | Pros | Cons / Things to Watch |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Cornrows | Braids laid close to the scalp, braided along rows (straight lines, curves, geometric designs). | Medium to long textured or coily hair. | Very durable; low daily maintenance; lots of pattern flexibility. | If done too tight, risk of hairline stress (traction); scalp irritation possible; after several weeks may look messy. |
| Box Braids | Hair is sectioned into small square (box) parts and braided downward (often with extensions). | Medium to long hair; especially good for textured hair. | Versatile styles; can add length or thickness with extensions; low maintenance for weeks. | Takes time to install; heavy for fine hair; tension must be managed. |
| Single Braids / Individual Braids | Individual plaits (without scalp weaving) – just single braid strands. | Hair that has enough length to braid (from mid-length upward). | Cleaner simpler aesthetic; easier to maintain the scalp; less stressful at roots than tight cornrows. | May not stay as tight for long; ends may unravel if not secured well. |
| Twists / Two-Strand Twists | Instead of three strands, two strands are twisted around each other. | Curly or coily hair types; moderate length. | Good protective style; lighter tension; easy to undo or restyle. | May not look as “braided” in looser hair types; twist definition can loosen over time. |
| Senegalese Twists / Rope Twists | A variation of twist using extension hair wrapped to get sleek “rope” look. | Medium to long hair (often using added hair). | Sleek, polished; can last several weeks. | Installation time; careful tension needed at roots. |
| Knotless Braids | A variation on box braids where the braid starts without a bulky knot at the root (extensions are fed in gradually). | Good for men who want to reduce stress at the scalp; works with textured hair and extensions. | More comfortable at roots; reduces tension; more natural-looking root. | Takes more skill and time to install; can be more expensive. |
| Micro Braids / Tiny Braids | Very small, fine braids (closer to cornrows but very thin). | Hair that’s long enough and strong enough to handle very fine sections. | Extremely versatile; can be styled many ways. | Time-consuming to install; more delicate; may break if too much manipulation. |
| Goddess / Boho / Curly-End Braids | Braids (often box or knotless) but with loose curly or textured ends, giving a soft finish. | Hair that can hold curl or extension ends. | Aesthetic appeal; less rigid look; adds movement. | Ends may get frizzy; requires care to maintain curls. |
| Patterned / Designer Cornrows | Cornrows arranged into artistic patterns—zigzags, swirls, geometric shapes. | Medium to long hair; textured hair. | Visually striking, highly customizable. | More complex to install; may require a skilled braider; scalp care is key. |
| Fishtail Braids / French Braids / Dutch Braids | These are classic plaiting techniques, often used on longer hair. | Hair long enough to incorporate sides into the braid. | Elegant, versatile; you can do side braids, single braid styles. | Not always ideal for very textured hair unless the hair is stretched/straightened; may loosen. |
All Types of Braids Men: 6 Braid Styles for Men
Photo credit: @Todayz_Styles, Men Deserve, Ricky Raul Hernandez Agosto, Juwan Gaines, JAMILA, Kae 🧚🏾♀️💕| Stoke-on-Trent | UK Braider