16 Dreadlock Hairstyles for Men Long Locs in Samurai Buns

The samurai bun is more than just a convenience for men with long locs. It is a powerful statement of discipline, heritage, and modern masculinity.

Whether you are hitting the gym or attending a formal event, these styles offer versatility. They keep your locs secure while highlighting your facial features and jawline.

Mastering the “Chonmage” inspired look requires length and patience. These sixteen styles provide the ultimate roadmap for the modern man looking to elevate his dreadlock game.

1. The Classic High Samurai Bun

The classic high samurai bun is the gold standard for men with waist-length locs. By gathering every strand at the crown, you create a silhouette that screams authority and focus.

This style works best for men who want to keep their hair completely out of the way. It emphasizes a strong brow and clear skin, making it a favorite for professional environments.

To achieve this, ensure your roots are neat but not overly tight. Use a heavy-duty hair tie specifically designed for thick locs to prevent mid-day slippage or scalp tension.

2. Samurai Bun with Sharp Undercut

Adding an undercut to your long locs provides a stark, masculine contrast between the shaved sides and the voluminous top. It is the perfect blend of urban edge and traditional styling.

The shaved sides help keep the head cool, which is a major benefit for men with thick, heavy dreadlocks. It also reduces the overall weight of the bun, preventing neck strain.

Maintain the undercut with regular trips to the barber every two weeks. This keeps the lines crisp and ensures the samurai bun remains the undisputed focal point of your look.

3. The Braided Samurai Knot

For a more intricate aesthetic, try braiding your locs before securing them into a bun. This adds texture and a layer of complexity that sets you apart from the crowd.

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Braiding the locs toward the center of the head provides extra security for the bun. This is an ideal choice for active men who play sports or engage in high-intensity training.

You can experiment with three-strand braids or more complex fishtails. No matter the technique, the result is a rugged, textured knot that stays put through any physical activity.

4. Half-Up Samurai Bun

The half-up samurai bun offers a relaxed, bohemian vibe while still maintaining the warrior aesthetic. It involves pulling the top half into a knot while letting the bottom locs flow.

This style is perfect for showing off the impressive length of your hair without it falling into your face. It provides a balanced look that works well for casual weekends or creative workspaces.

Ensure the bun is positioned high enough to create a lifting effect for your face. Letting the remaining locs drape over the shoulders adds a sense of ruggedness to the overall appearance.

5. Samurai Bun with Gold Accents

Elevate your long locs by incorporating gold cuffs or filigree beads into the bun. This regal approach transforms a simple hairstyle into a piece of wearable art.

Focus on placing the jewelry near the base of the bun or scattered through the knot. For men with darker skin tones, the gold provides a stunning contrast that highlights the hair’s natural luster.

Always choose high-quality, lightweight accessories to avoid damaging the hair shaft. These metallic touches are perfect for special occasions where you want to project confidence and success.

6. The Messy Top Knot Samurai

Not every samurai bun needs to be perfectly sleek. The messy top knot is designed for the man who prefers a rugged, effortless look that doesn’t require hours of grooming.

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This style embraces stray hairs and uneven loops, giving off a “just out of bed” energy that remains stylish. It is particularly effective for men with thicker, more mature locs.

To pull this off, avoid using a brush and simply gather your locs with your hands. Secure the knot loosely to allow some locs to hang slightly lower than others for that authentic texture.

7. Taper Fade Samurai Bun

The taper fade offers a more subtle transition than a full undercut. It blends the hair from skin to length around the ears and nape, framing the face perfectly.

This style is excellent for men who want a clean-cut look while keeping the majesty of their long locs. The fade adds a modern, barbershop-fresh feel to the traditional samurai silhouette.

Regular maintenance of the fade is key to keeping this look premium. It bridges the gap between a wild, natural growth and a highly curated, professional male grooming routine.

8. Double-Wrapped Samurai Loop

The double-wrapped loop involves folding the locs twice before securing them. This creates a thicker, more substantial bun that sits firmly against the back of the head.

This technique is particularly useful for men with exceptionally long locs that might otherwise be too heavy for a single loop. It distributes the weight more evenly across the scalp.

Use a long loc tie or a leather cord to wrap around the base several times. This not only secures the hair but adds a rugged, tribal element to the masculine aesthetic.

9. Samurai Bun with Bearded Symmetry

A samurai bun paired with a full, well-groomed beard is the ultimate masculine combination. The bun draws the eyes upward, while the beard grounds the face and adds structure.

To master this look, ensure the lines of your beard are as clean as the parting of your locs. The symmetry between the top knot and the facial hair creates a powerful, balanced profile.

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Use beard oil and loc sheen to ensure both areas of hair look healthy and hydrated. This unified grooming approach shows that you take pride in every aspect of your appearance.

10. Low-Slung Samurai Knot

While many samurai buns sit high, the low-slung version at the nape of the neck offers a more understated look. It is sophisticated and works incredibly well with formal attire.

This position is more comfortable for long-term wear, as it doesn’t pull on the front of the scalp. It is an excellent choice for men who suffer from tension headaches or thinning edges.

Keep the locs smooth and close to the head for a sleek finish. This style is often seen on the modern gentleman who wants to respect tradition while appearing refined and calm.

11. Twisted-Root Samurai Bun

Before forming the bun, twist the individual sections of your locs at the root. This creates a “swirled” effect leading into the knot that looks incredible from every angle.

The twisted roots provide a tighter, more secure hold, making it great for windy days or outdoor activities. It highlights the craftsmanship of your loc journey and your dedication to grooming.

Apply a small amount of locking gel to the roots before twisting for a high-shine, polished finish. This detail-oriented style is perfect for men who appreciate the finer points of hair design.

12. Viking-Inspired Samurai Bun

Combine the samurai aesthetic with Norse influences by adding side braids that lead into the main bun. This hybrid style creates a warrior look that is both rugged and historic.

The side braids help to pull back shorter locs that might otherwise fall out of the main knot. It gives the head a more streamlined shape while adding intense visual interest.

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This style is for the man who isn’t afraid to stand out. It suggests a persona of strength and adventure, making it a perfect match for those with an active, outdoorsy lifestyle.

13. The Jumbo Loc Samurai Bun

If you have thick, jumbo locs, the samurai bun becomes a massive, impressive crown. The sheer volume of the hair creates a bold statement that cannot be ignored.

Because jumbo locs are heavier, the placement of the bun is crucial. Aim for the center-top of the head to ensure the weight is centered and doesn’t cause the head to tilt backward.

Use an extra-large elastic or even a dedicated loc sleeve to hold the bun in place. The result is a powerful, heavy-duty look that showcases the strength and thickness of your hair.

14. Micro-Loc Samurai Knot

Men with micro-locs can achieve a very dense and detailed samurai bun. The smaller diameter of the locs allows for a smoother, more rounded knot that looks very refined.

This style offers a more “hair-like” texture from a distance, making it a versatile choice for conservative work environments. It is elegant, neat, and highly professional.

You can even “braid the bun” itself since micro-locs are so flexible. This allows for creative shaping that isn’t possible with thicker loc styles, giving you more artistic freedom.

15. The Dyed-Tip Samurai Bun

Adding a pop of color to the ends of your locs—such as honey blonde, copper, or silver—creates a stunning visual when wrapped into a samurai bun.

As you loop the hair, the colored tips will be exposed at different layers of the knot. This creates a multi-dimensional effect that adds depth and modern flair to your style.

Choose a color that complements your skin tone and personal style. For men, earth tones or cool greys are often the preferred choice for a sophisticated yet trendy look.

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16. Samurai Bun with Loc Wraps

Incorporate fabric wraps or colorful threads into several locs before pulling them into the bun. This adds a nomadic, eclectic feel to the traditional samurai shape.

The wraps can be used to add splashes of color or to simply protect specific locs from wear and tear. They provide a unique texture that breaks up the uniform look of the dreadlocks.

This is a great way for a man to express his individuality and cultural pride. It turns the hairstyle into a conversation piece that reflects a deep connection to personal history.

How do I prevent scalp tension when wearing a samurai bun?

To prevent scalp tension, avoid pulling the locs too tightly at the hairline. Use a loose grip when gathering the hair and secure it with a soft, wide hair tie rather than a thin, restrictive rubber band. It is also helpful to change the position of the bun slightly every few days to give different areas of the scalp a rest from the weight of the long locs.

Can I wear a samurai bun with fresh locs?

It is generally recommended to wait until your locs have matured and gained some length before pulling them into a tight samurai bun. Putting too much pressure on new locs can cause them to thin at the roots or become misshapen. If your locs are new, keep the bun very loose and avoid wearing it for extended periods to ensure the locking process isn’t interrupted by the tension of the style.

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How do I keep my samurai bun looking neat all day?

For a long-lasting, neat look, apply a light coat of edge control or natural pomade to your hairline and the base of your locs. Wearing a silk or satin scarf for ten minutes after styling can help lay down any frizz or flyaways. Additionally, using a “loc tie” or a dedicated spiral hair tool can provide a more secure hold than a standard elastic, keeping the bun in place through movement.

Is the samurai bun suitable for formal occasions?

Absolutely. The samurai bun is one of the most sophisticated ways for a man with long locs to present himself in formal settings. To make it “black-tie” ready, ensure your locs are clean, well-hydrated, and that your roots have been recently maintained. Pairing the bun with a clean shave or a well-trimmed beard will complete a sharp, professional look that fits perfectly with a suit or tuxedo.

What is the best way to sleep with long locs to maintain this style?

If you plan on wearing a samurai bun the next day, it is best to sleep with your locs loose or in a very loose ponytail at the nape of your neck. Always use a large silk or satin bonnet or a “loc sock” to prevent friction and frizz while you sleep. This keeps the hair smooth and hydrated, making it much easier to gather into a clean, impressive samurai bun the following morning.

How long do my locs need to be for a proper samurai bun?

For a traditional samurai bun that sits at the crown, your locs should ideally be at least chin to shoulder-length. This ensures there is enough length to loop the hair through the tie at least once and have a small “tail” or loop remaining. If your locs are shorter, you might be better suited for a “top knot” or a half-up style until they gain the necessary weight and length for a full bun.