11 Awesome Short Dreads Hairstyles for Men

Not everyone can pull off dreadlocks, but those who can know that it’s one of the most iconic and statement-making hairstyles of all time. Dreadlocks, also referred to as locs, are considered a protective hairstyle, which means the ends of the hair are tucked away, thus “protecting” the hair from damage and manipulation, especially for those who have natural hair.

Sometimes, synthetic hair or hair extensions are added to protective hairstyles, which also include braids and twists. These can add thickness, length, and/or color to the hair. Whether you’re looking for a new way to style your dreads or thinking of a completely different ‘do than what you currently have, we’ve got you covered with the 11 best short dreads hairstyles for men. 

1. Box Braids

Box braids are among the quintessential hairstyles when it comes to dreadlocks. Although they look similar to cornrows and don’t deviate too far from the standard braided hairstyle, there are a few differences between the aforementioned styles. A box braid is not braided against the scalp like cornrows are. Box braids are sectioned off in – you guessed it – boxes and are braided down from the root to the end, typically in three-plaited strands.

In this case, the locs are twisted but still sectioned off in square or box-like shapes. Not only is this style one of the best short dreadlock hairstyles for natural hair, since the locs are not braided against the scalp, but your hair will also have a bit more movement to it.

2. Curtains

Curtain bangs and hairstyles are all the rage right now, thanks to the resurgence of all things 90s, including fashion, beauty, and, obviously, hair trends. The part-your-hair-down-the-middle took a back seat in the 2000s and 2010s, but it’s clearly back with a vengeance, fueling online debates about middle parts and side parts between millennials and Gen Z’ers everywhere.

If you’ve got a dreadlocks hairstyle and are looking for a fresh twist on today’s hottest style, opt for dreads and part your hair down the middle, especially if you’ve got short hair since the curtains will subtly frame your face and create the illusion of high cheekbones.

3. Dyed

Another way to set your locs hairstyle apart from the rest is by applying hair color to your dreads. Whether you opt for shades of caramel or honey or go for something that’s a little on the wilder side, like neon or pastel shades, be sure to go to your trusted hairstylist for a project like this. You don’t want to have a DIY mishap and end up having to do something drastic, like cutting your hair off.

If you have long dreadlocks, try securing your freshly dyed locs in a ponytail hairstyle or bun with an elastic band for an effortlessly easy ‘do that’ll keep you cool in the warmer temps.

4. Fade

Opting for a fade hairstyle with short dreadlocks is a great way to pull your entire look together, especially if you have facial hair or a full beard. While this style will guarantee that you’ll be looking fresh whether you’re at the gym or hitting the bars with your friends, it’s definitely a little high maintenance, as you’ll need a haircut every two weeks at the very minimum, so keep that in mind if you’re toying with the idea of getting a taper fade or faded sides.

5. Mid Length

Having the dreadlocks style for medium length hair is perfect for someone who wants a little more hair to work with while still keeping it mostly out of the way. One of the best things about mid-length locs hairstyle is that you’re not limited to just one style, and the length is actually very versatile. Wear them down, put them in a low bun, wear them in a half-up/half-down style, or simply pull them back in a ponytail hairstyle with an elastic band. The possibilities of playing around with this length are truly endless, and you can easily switch up your style from day to day.

6. Side Parting

Parting your locs to one side is a fun way to switch up your dread hairstyle, and whether you have box braids, crochet braids, wavy dreadlocks, or even long mohawk dreads, this style is a surefire way to edge up your look.

A side part also works on all lengths of hair, so whether you have long hair, short hair, or medium length hair, this style is incredibly versatile, and also works on most hair textures. For a modern, edgy look, opt for an undercut on one side or just above the nape of your neck.

7. Spiky

If you’re ready for a bold, statement-making hairstyle, then a spiky dreadlock hairstyle is a must-try. This style can also be referred to as mohawk dreads, as the hair twists naturally stand up, which can also give the illusion of additional height for those who want to appear a tad bit taller.

This look is also one that requires a lot of maintenance, as the sides of your head will have to be shaved frequently to keep up the mohawk dreads look. However, this maintenance can typically be done at home with a simple can of shaving cream and a razor if you’re ready to commit to that and are very careful during the two to three-week process.

8. Swept Forward

If you wear your short natural hair in dreadlocks and if you want a subtle update to your hairstyle, try a swept forward style that’ll make your hair appear fuller and thicker, as well as add a little bit of height to your overall appearance. This style, with the shaved sides and back of the head, does require a bit of maintenance, but not as much as your typical fade.

Keep everything looking clean and on point by matching the length of your beard to the length of your hair at the sides of your head.

9. Undercut

Getting an undercut is a great hairstyle option when it comes to people with thick hair who are looking to manage the amount of hair they have and have to deal with, all while looking effortlessly edgy and badass. While undercuts can be just on one part of your head, like the left or right side, on the back of your head above the nape of your neck, or all of the above, the style itself is incredibly versatile, thanks to the amount of hair that is on your head. If your dreadlocks are on the longer side, pull them back into a bun or topknot to keep them out of your face, or simply let them fall to one side for a casual style.

10. Very Short

It’s recommended that you wait until your hair is at least six inches long to start dreadlocks, and this very short dreadlocksstyle shows that the beginning stages of dreads are just as cool as their lengthier counterparts. While you can style dreadsyourself, to make sure you get the outcome that you’re looking for, it’s best to go to a trusted hair salon and ask a hairstylist who specializes in starting and maintaining dreadlock hairstyles. Ask your friends for recs, or use the power of the internet to find a stylist who can give you the locs of your dreams.

11. Wild

While some people may opt for more traditional styles of dreadlocks, sometimes, you need a bold cut and style to really express yourself, and that’s where this wild look comes in. The best part about this look is that although you can style it in a funky, all-over-the-place way, you can also pull it back into a bun, part it down the middle or to one side, and more, making it one of the most versatile dreadlock hairstyles on this list.