20 High Top Dreads That Actually Stand Out (%currentyear%)

Every week, someone sits in my chair asking for dreads that make a statement without going full commitment. High top dreads deliver exactly that — locs on top with clean faded sides, and after 20 years of starting these for clients, the versatility still surprises me.

Here are 20 high top dread styles that actually work, from classic silhouettes to creative cuts you won’t see everywhere.

Traditional High Top Dreads

The traditional high top dreads feature uniform length dreads standing straight up from the crown, paired with precisely faded sides. This timeless approach maintains 3-4 inch dreads that create a cylindrical silhouette. The clean lines and structured shape make it ideal for those wanting a bold yet professional appearance that works in any setting.

Temple Fade High Top

A temple fade high top creates a gradual transition around the temples while maintaining full dreadlock density on top. The fade starts high near the temples and curves naturally around the head’s contours. This technique softens the contrast between dreads and skin, resulting in a more fluid, contemporary silhouette that flatters round and oval face shapes particularly well.

Flat Top Dreads

This style transforms traditional dreads into a perfectly level surface reminiscent of the classic flat top haircut. Barbers carefully trim and shape the dreads to create a horizontal plane across the top. The precision required makes this a high-maintenance option, but the geometric perfection and nostalgic appeal make it worth the effort for style enthusiasts.

Colored Tips High Top

Colored tips add instant personality to high top dreads through strategic color placement on the dread ends. Popular choices include bleached blonde, vibrant red, or electric blue tips against natural black roots.

This technique creates depth and movement while allowing for easy color changes. The contrast draws eyes upward, emphasizing the height and structure of the cut.

Two-Toned High Top Dreads

Two-toned high top dreads feature split coloring techniques that can run vertically, horizontally, or in alternating patterns throughout the dreads. Some opt for half-and-half coloring with distinct sides, while others alternate individual dreads between two shades. This bold approach requires confidence to pull off but creates an unforgettable signature look that photographs beautifully.

Zigzag Part High Top

The zigzag part high top incorporates a creative shaved pattern that breaks up the traditional straight lines of the style. The zigzag design typically runs from the forehead to the crown, creating visual interest and movement.

This detail works especially well with shorter dreads, as the pattern remains visible and sharp. It’s become increasingly popular among younger professionals seeking subtle creativity.

Mini High Top Dreads

Mini high top dreads keep length to 1-2 inches maximum, creating a subtle yet distinctive look. This conservative approach works perfectly for corporate environments or those testing out dreads for the first time.

The shorter length requires less maintenance and drying time while still delivering the textured appeal of traditional dreads. They’re particularly effective on coarse, thick hair.

Medium Length High Top

Medium length high tops feature dreads reaching 4-6 inches, hitting the sweet spot between statement and manageability. This length allows for versatile styling options—dreads can stand straight up, lean to one side, or even be tied back partially. The added length creates more movement and flow while maintaining the structured high top silhouette that defines this style category.

Extended High Top Dreads

Extended high top dreads push boundaries with 8+ inches of length that can be styled upward for maximum impact or allowed to fall naturally. This dramatic variation requires strong hair and dedicated maintenance to support the weight.

The length enables creative styling options like partial ponytails or cascading effects. It’s the ultimate choice for those wanting to make a bold statement everywhere they go.

High Top with Side Design

Incorporating shaved artistic patterns into the faded sides transforms a high top into wearable art. Designs range from simple lines and curves to elaborate tribal patterns or personal symbols.

The contrast between the textured dreads on top and the precise line work on the sides creates compelling visual interest. These designs typically need refreshing every two weeks to maintain crisp edges.

Geometric High Top Dreads

Geometric high top dreads arrange individual locks in calculated patterns like triangles, diamonds, or hexagons visible from above. Some variations include geometric designs shaved into the fade itself.

This mathematical approach to dread placement creates order within the organic texture of dreads. The style appeals to those who appreciate precision and symmetry in their personal aesthetic.

High Top with Hair Tattoo

Hair tattoos elevate the high top with intricate shaved artwork on the sides or back of the head. These detailed designs can include portraits, landscapes, or abstract patterns that showcase the barber’s artistic skill.

The temporary nature of hair tattoos allows for regular design changes. This style works best with very short fade lengths to maximize contrast and detail visibility.

Curly End High Top Dreads

Curly end high top dreads maintain locked roots and shafts but leave the ends loose and curly for added texture. This softer approach creates an interesting contrast between the structured dread bodies and free-flowing tips.

The technique works particularly well with naturally curly hair textures. It offers a more approachable, less rigid appearance while maintaining the high top’s distinctive silhouette.

High Top Dread Mohawk

The high top dread mohawk strips away all side hair, leaving only a central strip of dreads running from forehead to nape. This punk-inspired take on mohawk dreads maximizes the contrast between skin and dreads.

The mohawk formation can vary in width from narrow racing stripes to wider panels. It’s currently trending among musicians and artists seeking maximum visual impact with minimal maintenance.

Twisted High Top

Twisted high tops combine traditional dreads with two-strand twists for varied texture throughout the style. Some dreads remain fully locked while others maintain a twisted pattern, creating visual and textural diversity.

This technique works exceptionally well during the early stages of dread formation. The mix of textures adds depth and interest while allowing for more styling flexibility than uniform dreads.

Swept Side High Top

The swept side high top styles dreads to lean dramatically to one side while maintaining overall height and structure. This asymmetrical approach creates movement and flow within the traditionally rigid high top framework.

The swept direction can be changed periodically to prevent permanent lean. It’s particularly flattering for square and rectangular face shapes, softening angular features.

Spiked High Top Dreads

Spiked high top dreads style individual locks to point in multiple directions, creating a crown-like effect. This edgy variation requires strong-hold products and regular manipulation to maintain the spiked formation.

The chaotic energy contrasts beautifully with the clean, faded sides. Shorter dreads work best for this style, as longer ones become too heavy to maintain the spiked position effectively.

High Top with Dread Bun

This versatile style features longer dreads that can be gathered into a top knot or bun while maintaining the signature faded sides. The ability to switch between wearing dreads up or down offers day-to-night versatility.

The bun position can vary from directly on top to slightly back on the crown. This option appeals to professionals who need a more conservative look occasionally.

High Top Dreads with Beard Fade

Connecting the high top fade seamlessly with a well-groomed beard fade creates a cohesive, polished appearance. The fade line flows continuously from the temples through the sideburns into the beard.

This technique requires precise barbering skills to maintain proper proportions. The connected fade elongates the face and creates a sophisticated, intentional look that works especially well for formal occasions.

How to Maintain Your High Top Dreads

Maintenance makes or breaks this style. I retwist my clients’ high top dreads every 4-6 weeks to keep the roots neat and the locs defined. Wait longer than that, and the new growth tangles — you lose that clean separation between the dreads and the fade.

Wash with a residue-free shampoo every 7-10 days. Regular shampoos leave buildup that loosens locs over time. After washing, squeeze (don’t rub) with a microfiber towel and let them air dry completely before restyling.

At night, always wrap with a satin durag or bonnet. Cotton pillowcases pull moisture out and create lint that gets trapped inside locs. This is the single biggest maintenance mistake I see — guys skip the durag and wonder why their dreads look dusty after a month.

For styling hold, use a light loc gel or twist cream. Stay away from heavy waxes — they attract dirt and are nearly impossible to wash out once they build up. If your locs feel stiff or look dull, that’s product buildup telling you it’s time for a clarifying wash.

High top dreads are one of the most popular styles I see among Black men with dreads, but these maintenance principles apply to every hair texture.

How to Ask Your Barber for High Top Dreads

Getting the right high top dreads starts with clear communication. Here’s exactly what to tell your barber.

First, decide on your fade height. A high fade with dreads gives maximum contrast and makes shorter dreads look taller. A mid or low fade keeps things more gradual. Bring a reference photo — it eliminates 90% of miscommunication.

Tell them your preferred dread thickness. Thinner locs (pencil-width) give you more of them and more styling options. Thicker locs (finger-width) are bolder but harder to restyle once formed.

Specify the length you want on top. If you’re starting fresh, you’ll need at least 3-4 inches of growth for the locking process. If you already have locs, tell them whether you want the tops trimmed, shaped, or left to grow.

If you’re exploring different dreadlock styles for men, ask your barber which locking method suits your hair texture — comb coils, two-strand twists, or freeform locs all produce different patterns.

Tapered High Top with Baby Dreads

Baby dreads create an ultra-refined high top using pencil-thin individual dreads with a subtle taper rather than harsh fade. This delicate approach typically features 40-60 thin dreads for maximum density and movement.

The gentle taper maintains more hair on the sides while still creating shape. It’s perfect for those wanting a softer, more approachable version of the traditional high top dread style.

FAQs: High Top Dreads

How long does it take to grow high top dreads?

Growing high top dreads typically takes 3-6 months for the initial formation, depending on your hair texture and desired length. Coarse, kinky hair locks faster than straight or wavy textures.

The high top shape develops as dreads mature and can be styled upward. During the awkward phase, wearing a durag at night helps train dreads to stand upright. Patience is essential as dreads strengthen and mature over time.

Can you get high top dreads with straight hair?

Yes, straight hair can form high top dreads, though it requires different techniques and more maintenance than textured hair. Backcombing, twist and rip, or crochet methods work best for straight hair.

The locking process takes longer—sometimes up to a year for full maturation. Regular palm rolling and product use help maintain the shape. Many people with straight hair find that adding texture through perming first creates better results.

How often should you retwist high top dreads?

High top dreads need retwisting every 4-6 weeks to maintain their neat appearance and upright position. More frequent retwisting keeps a cleaner look but can cause tension and thinning.

Less frequent maintenance allows for more natural growth but may look less polished. Your hair growth rate, lifestyle, and desired aesthetic determine the ideal schedule. The fade portion needs touching up every 2-3 weeks for optimal sharpness.

What products work best for maintaining high top dreads?

The best products for high top dreads include residue-free shampoos, natural oils like coconut or argan for moisture, and light holding gels for retwisting. Avoid heavy waxes or products with buildup that can cause dreads to look dull or attract lint.

Sea salt spray helps with texture and locking for newer dreads. A good edge control product keeps the hairline and fade looking crisp between barber visits.

How much do high top dreads cost?

Initial high top dreads installation typically costs $75-200 at a professional loctician or barbershop, depending on your hair length, thickness, and the method used. Comb coils and two-strand twists are usually at the lower end, while interlocking costs more.

Retwist maintenance appointments run $40-100 every 4-6 weeks. Some barbers charge separately for the fade, which adds $15-30 per visit. The total yearly investment for maintenance is usually $400-800 — but high top dreads are relatively low-maintenance between appointments compared to styles requiring daily heat or heavy product.