Medium length locs offer the perfect balance of versatility and manageability. They are long enough to tie back but short enough to remain lightweight.
Modern men need styles that transition from the boardroom to the gym effortlessly. Tying your locs is the most effective way to achieve this.
The right tie protects your ends and reduces daily manipulation. It also highlights your facial features and keeps your grooming routine sharp.
Explore these 18 curated styles designed specifically for men with shoulder-length locs. These looks emphasize masculinity, structure, and ease of maintenance.
1. The Classic Low Ponytail
The low ponytail is a foundational look for any man with shoulder-length locs. It gathers the hair at the nape of the neck for a clean, professional appearance.
This style is particularly effective for those with thick locs that need to stay contained throughout the day. It requires minimal tension, which helps preserve your hairline over time.
For the best results, use a snag-free hair tie specifically designed for dreadlocks. This ensures you won’t experience breakage when removing the tie after a long day.
2. The High Top Knot
The high top knot is a bold choice that pulls the locs toward the crown of the head. It creates an athletic, modern silhouette that works well with streetwear or athletic attire.
This style is ideal for highlighting an undercut or a sharp fade along the sides and back. By concentrating the volume upward, you create a more elongated facial profile.
To maintain this look, ensure your locs are long enough to reach the center of your head without excessive pulling. Use a strong elastic to keep the weight centered.
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This style provides the best of both worlds by securing the top section while letting the back hang free. It offers a relaxed yet intentional aesthetic for casual outings.
It is an excellent choice for men who want to showcase their hair length without it falling into their eyes. The top section is usually tied at the mid-crown.
Make sure to divide the hair evenly at the ear line to maintain balance. This look works exceptionally well for men with medium-sized or thin locs.
4. The Samurai Bun
Inspired by traditional aesthetics, the samurai bun involves a small, tight loop at the back of the head. It is a refined version of the standard man bun.
This style requires your locs to be gathered and then folded over through the tie. It creates a compact, structured shape that stays secure during high-intensity activities.
The samurai bun is perfect for men who prefer a minimalist approach to grooming. It looks particularly striking when paired with a well-maintained beard.
5. Barrel Roll Tied Back
Barrel rolls add a sophisticated texture to the front of your hairstyle. By rolling the locs into themselves before tying them back, you create a tiered, professional look.
This style is often seen at weddings or formal events because of its intricate appearance. The rolls lead into a central tie that secures the remaining length.
Despite its complex look, it is quite practical for keeping hair completely stationary. It prevents individual locs from straying or frizzing during the day.
6. The Pineapple Updo
The pineapple updo is a functional style that gathers all locs at the very top of the head. The ends are allowed to flop forward or to the sides.
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Use a soft scrunchie or a silk tie for this style to avoid creating a “dent” in the hair. It is a great way to show off the health and thickness of your locs.
7. Two-Strand Twist Ponytail
By twisting pairs of locs together before tying them, you add an extra layer of visual interest. The twisted texture makes the ponytail look thicker and more deliberate.
This is a protective style that helps keep the locs organized and prevents lint buildup. It is a favorite for men who go several weeks between full maintenance sessions.
Secure the ends of the twists into a single low or medium ponytail. This creates a heavy, masculine drape that looks great from every angle.
8. The Messy Mid-Bun
The messy mid-bun is for the man who prefers a rugged, effortless look. It involves pulling the locs halfway through the tie at the back of the head.
It is the ultimate “weekend” style, requiring almost no precision. The loose ends provide a relaxed vibe that complements casual clothing and outdoor lifestyles.
Even though it is “messy,” ensure the tie is tight enough to hold the weight. This prevents the bun from sagging or pulling on your scalp as you move.
9. Braided Crown with Tie
In this style, several locs are braided along the scalp towards the back, where they meet a tie. It combines the security of braids with the ease of a ponytail.
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This is ideal for active men who play sports or frequent the gym. The braids ensure that shorter locs near the hairline stay firmly in place.
The back can be finished with a simple elastic or a decorative cord. It is a highly durable style that can last for several days without needing a reset.
10. The Side-Swept Tie
The side-swept tie involves gathering the locs and securing them slightly off-center. This asymmetrical look adds a modern, artistic flair to your grooming routine.
It works best for men with deep side parts or those who naturally prefer one side of their face. It draws attention to the jawline and ear jewelry.
Ensure the tie is not too tight against the ear to avoid discomfort. This style offers a unique silhouette that stands out in a crowd of standard ponytails.
11. Low Tucked Bun
The low tucked bun is achieved by forming a ponytail and then tucking the ends back into the elastic. This creates a neat, rounded shape at the nape.
This is arguably the most formal way to wear tied locs. It hides the ends of the hair, giving the appearance of a shorter, more contained style.
It is perfect for cold weather when you want to keep your hair off your coat collar. It also protects the ends of your locs from friction and environmental damage.
12. Double Tied Locs (Stacked)
Stacked ties involve using one tie at the crown and another further down the length of the ponytail. This creates a segmented, “bubble” effect.
This style is great for controlling long, medium-length locs that might otherwise whip around. It adds a structural, geometric element to your look.
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You can use matching bands for a sleek look or contrasting colors for something more vibrant. It is a functional way to keep your hair extremely secure.
13. Bandana Wrapped Tie
Using a bandana as a tie adds a rugged, classic element to your locs. The fabric provides a wider surface area, which reduces tension on individual strands.
This style is perfect for outdoor work or festivals. The bandana can cover the hairline to manage sweat or simply serve as a bold accessory.
You can tie the bandana in a traditional knot or use it to wrap around a bun. It offers a timeless, masculine aesthetic that never goes out of style.
14. The Crossed-Over Low Tie
This technique involves crossing two sections of locs over each other before securing them with a tie. It creates an “X” pattern at the back of the head.
It provides a more secure hold than a standard ponytail because the weight is distributed more evenly. It also adds a subtle, sophisticated detail to a simple look.
This style is best suited for men with shoulder-length locs that have enough flexibility to cross over. It looks refined and intentional for any occasion.
15. The Loose Loop Tie
The loose loop is a variation where the hair is only partially pulled through the tie, leaving a large loop. It creates a relaxed, voluminous shape.
This style is great for showing off the texture of your locs without letting them hang completely loose. It is comfortable for long-term wear throughout the day.
Use a large, flexible tie to ensure the loop doesn’t feel too heavy. It is a soft, approachable look that works well for creative professionals.
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For men who want to showcase skill and style, the fishtail braid tie is a top-tier choice. The locs are woven into a flat, wide braid and tied at the end.
This style compresses the hair significantly, making it very easy to manage. The intricate pattern of the fishtail weave highlights the varying tones in your locs.
It is a conversation starter that demonstrates a high level of grooming care. This look is best for special occasions where you want to make an impression.
17. The Forward-Falling Bun
This style positions the bun slightly forward toward the forehead. The ends are allowed to drape over the front, creating a “fringe” or “bangs” effect.
It is a high-fashion look that adds mystery and edge to your appearance. It is particularly popular among younger men and those in the music or arts industries.
Ensure the bun is secure so the weight doesn’t shift as you walk. This style frames the face beautifully and works well with square or oval face shapes.
18. Multi-Elastic Segmented Tie
This style uses several small elastics placed every few inches down the length of the locs. It creates a series of small “puffs” that look highly organized.
This is a very athletic look, as it keeps the hair completely rigid and out of the way. It is a favorite for runners and cross-fit enthusiasts.
It allows you to experiment with different colors and textures of ties. It is a practical, durable, and masculine way to finish your list of medium-length styles.
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You can tie your locs daily, but it is important to give your scalp a break. Avoid keeping them in high-tension styles for more than 8 to 10 hours at a time to prevent traction alopecia and root thinning.
What are the best types of ties for men with locs?
The best ties are snag-free elastics, silicone bands, or fabric-covered “hair clouds.” Avoid traditional rubber bands or ties with metal joiners, as these can catch on the hair fibers and cause significant breakage.
Can tying my locs cause thinning at the hairline?
Yes, if the styles are consistently pulled too tight. To protect your hairline, ensure you can fit at least one finger under the tie comfortably, and try to vary the position of your ponytail or bun to distribute the weight.
How do I make a man bun look professional for work?
For a professional look, ensure your locs are neatly moisturized and use a low or mid-height tucked bun. Using a tie that matches your hair color and keeping your facial hair well-groomed will elevate the entire aesthetic.
Should I tie my locs when they are wet?
It is best to avoid tying locs while they are heavily damp. This can lead to “dread rot” or mildew because the moisture gets trapped in the center of the bun where there is no airflow to dry it out properly.
How can I stop my hair ties from snapping?
Medium shoulder-length locs can be heavy and dense. Look for “extra-large” or “heavy-duty” ties specifically marketed for thick hair or locs, as standard pharmacy ties are often not strong enough to hold the volume.