Viking culture wasn’t just about raids and runes—it was also about power, identity, and visual impact.
That same spirit lives on today through bold Viking-inspired hairstyles that command attention and radiate masculine energy.
Whether you’re into Norse mythology, want a warrior-like appearance, or simply want to stand out from the crowd, Viking hairstyles offer rugged style with primal appeal.
In this guide, you’ll explore:
- 🔹 Authentic Norse hairstyle inspiration
- 🔹 Modern Viking haircuts that work for today’s man
- 🔹 Braids, undercuts, and long hair ideas
- 🔹 Styling tips, maintenance, and beard combinations
Let’s dive into the world of bold hair and fearless masculinity.
⚔️ What Makes a Hairstyle “Viking”?
The real Vikings—Scandinavian warriors from around 800–1100 AD—were known for their long hair, well-groomed beards, and often shaved or partially shaved heads. These looks weren’t just about appearance—they signaled strength, fearlessness, and high status.
Core Viking Style Elements:
- Long or medium hair
- Undercuts or shaved sides
- Braids, twists, or knotted styles
- Messy, rugged texture
- Full or styled beard pairing
Modern Viking hairstyles are inspired by these features, combining traditional rugged looks with contemporary edge.
🔥 Popular Viking Hairstyles for Men (Modern Interpretations)
Each of these styles taps into Viking roots while staying wearable today.
⚡ The Shaved Sides with Long Top
This bold cut involves fully shaved sides with long hair left on top, either slicked back or styled into a topknot or man bun.
Why it works:
- Highlights facial features
- Easy to maintain on the sides
- Creates a dramatic contrast
- Pairs perfectly with a beard
Modern twist: Add a fade or hard part for an extra modern edge.
🐉 The Viking Undercut
Think long hair on top with sharp, clean sides—but without going fully bald on the sides. It’s more structured than a fade, but still very Norse-inspired.
How to wear it:
- Let the top grow past chin length
- Shave the lower half of your head around the sides
- Tie the top in a ponytail or braid
Best for: Men with thicker or coarse hair textures.
🪓 The Warrior Braid
A long braid running down the center or side of the head is the ultimate Viking flex. It’s eye-catching, rooted in tradition, and undeniably masculine.
Style options:
- Single braid down the back
- Two side braids along the temples
- Cornrow-style braids leading into a bun
Pro tip: Use leather wraps or metal beads for a more authentic look.
🌀 The Twisted Top Knot
A messier take on the man bun, this style involves twisting your long hair into a coiled knot on top or toward the back of your head.
Why it works:
- Ideal for mid-length to long hair
- Gives off warrior monk vibes
- Easy to wear casually or for events
🧔 Long & Loose with Beard
The most traditional Viking hairstyle? Just let it grow. Long, wild hair paired with a thick beard is timeless—and says you’re not trying too hard.
Add texture with:
- Sea salt spray
- Light matte clay
- Subtle waves or controlled frizz
Great for men with naturally wavy or curly hair.
🪶 Side Shaved with Designs
Some Viking-inspired cuts take it one step further by incorporating runic or tribal designs shaved into the sides. This adds a bold, battle-ready element.
Pair it with:
- Long braid or mohawk on top
- A crisp line-up or temple fade
- Beaded beard for extra Norse energy
🧭 The Faux Hawk Viking Edition
Keep the center strip of your hair longer while fading or trimming the sides close. Style the top upward into a mohawk-like peak.
Why it works:
- Low maintenance compared to braids
- Works on shorter hair
- Suitable for straight, wavy, or curly types
🧔 Beard Pairing Is Everything
No Viking hairstyle is complete without considering the beard.
Here’s how to match your hair to your facial hair for maximum warrior energy:
| Hairstyle | Best Beard Style |
|---|---|
| Long hair with shaved sides | Full beard or braided goatee |
| Viking undercut | Medium boxed beard or chinstrap |
| Braided styles | Beads in beard, long and natural |
| Man bun / top knot | Shorter trimmed beard or stubble |
| Loose waves | Full natural beard or mustache combo |
Bonus idea: Use beard oil with earthy scents (like cedarwood or sandalwood) to fully commit to the Viking aesthetic.
🪙 Accessories That Level Up Your Viking Look
Vikings weren’t minimalist. They used braid rings, leather ties, and beads to decorate their hair and beard—especially before battle or ceremonies.
Modern tools you can use:
- Metal Viking hair beads
- Leather or suede braid wraps
- Wooden or bone beard rings
- Decorative elastics
These small touches elevate your look from “guy with a bun” to “modern Norse king.”
✂️ How to Maintain a Viking Hairstyle
While these cuts look wild, they require more grooming than you might think. Here’s how to keep it fresh:
Regular Trims
Even long hair needs shaping. Get a trim every 6–8 weeks to:
- Maintain clean undercuts or fades
- Shape the ends to avoid frizz
- Keep beard edges defined
Moisture + Strength
Use deep conditioners or beard oils to prevent dryness and breakage. Viking hair isn’t stringy—it’s thick and alive.
Braiding Care
Braids should be redone every few days. Use leave-in conditioner and avoid pulling too tight. For added shine, finish with a small amount of argan or jojoba oil.
👑 Who Should Try a Viking Hairstyle?
These styles work great for men who:
- Want to stand out with a bold look
- Enjoy combining traditional and edgy style
- Aren’t afraid of long hair or extra grooming
- Love Norse mythology, fantasy, or medieval style
- Have medium to thick hair with texture
But truthfully, anyone can adapt a Viking look. You can rock a clean undercut with a rugged beard—even if you work in a modern office.
💭 Viking Hair: More Than Just Style
Choosing a Viking hairstyle isn’t just a fashion statement—it’s a way of embracing something primal. These cuts symbolize:
- Power
- Freedom
- Fearlessness
- Individuality
Whether you’re going full Ragnar Lothbrok or just want a braid to spice up your undercut, Viking hairstyles let you tap into that warrior energy with modern confidence.
⚔️ Final Thoughts
Viking hairstyles are bold, primal, and timeless. They blend history with modern edge and offer more room for self-expression than most styles out there.
✅ Grow it long
✅ Shave it clean
✅ Braid it, knot it, decorate it—just own it
Pair it with the right beard, accessories, and attitude—and you’re no longer just a man with long hair. You’re a modern warrior.
Tasos Moulios is the founder of Beardlong. He loves trying different beard and hair styles and blogs about them. The tips he shares come from his own experience and love for what he does.