18 Dread Hairstyles for Boys with Stylish Tapers

Finding the perfect look for young men is about striking a balance. Dreads offer texture and culture, while tapers provide a clean, modern edge.

This combination is a favorite for active boys. It keeps hair off the neck while allowing for creative expression through versatile loc styles.

Whether it’s for school or the weekend, these styles redefine coolness. Let’s dive into the best 18 dread hairstyles for boys with stylish tapers.

1. Short Locs with Low Taper

This style features short, uniform locs that sit neatly on top of the head. The low taper starts at the sideburns and neckline, providing a subtle but sharp finish.

It is an ideal choice for young boys who need a manageable hairstyle for school. The low taper keeps the edges looking fresh without being too aggressive.

To maintain this look, ensure the taper is touched up every two weeks. This prevents the short locs from looking unkempt as the natural hair grows back in.

2. Mid Skin Taper with Thick Locs

Thick locs provide a bold and masculine aesthetic that stands out. By adding a mid skin taper, you create a high-contrast look that highlights the hair’s volume.

This style works exceptionally well for boys with darker skin tones, as the skin-tight fade creates a striking visual transition. It emphasizes the strength of the hair texture.

Because the taper is cut to the skin, it requires consistent grooming. Using a light oil on the scalp will keep the skin-faded areas looking healthy and hydrated.

3. High Taper Top Knot

The top knot is a classic way for boys to keep longer dreads out of their faces. Pairing it with a high taper cleans up the sides significantly.

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This look is perfect for active boys who play sports. The high taper ensures there is no hair hanging over the ears, while the top knot keeps everything secure.

When tying the locs back, use soft elastic bands to prevent breakage. The high taper should be sharp and defined to maintain the style’s geometric appeal.

4. Colored Tip Dreads with Burst Taper

Adding a pop of color to the tips of the dreads adds a layer of personality. The burst taper curves around the ear, following the natural shape of the head.

This is a great choice for older boys who want to experiment with their fashion. Colors like honey blonde or deep red complement many different skin tones beautifully.

Maintenance involves protecting the colored ends from drying out. Use a moisturizing leave-in conditioner specifically designed for dyed hair to keep the locs vibrant and strong.

5. Criss-Cross Loc Pattern with Temp Fade

A criss-cross pattern adds a sophisticated architectural element to the dreads. The temp fade focuses exclusively on the temples, leaving the rest of the perimeter natural.

This style is perfect for formal occasions or family photos. It shows a high level of grooming and attention to detail that commands respect and admiration.

The temp fade needs to be precise to ensure it doesn’t clash with the intricate parting of the locs. Keep the parts clean with a light beeswax or edge control gel.

6. Side-Swept Dreads with Drop Taper

Side-swept dreads offer a relaxed and effortless vibe for young men. The drop taper arcs behind the ear, creating a sleek, contoured silhouette that follows the head.

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This style provides a balanced look that isn’t too symmetrical. It works well for boys with longer locs who want a style that moves naturally.

To keep the side-swept look in place, you can use small clips or simply let gravity do the work. The drop taper ensures the back stays clean even as hair grows.

7. Short Twist Locs with Bald Taper

Short twists are a great starting point for many boys embarking on their loc journey. The bald taper provides a very clean, nearly shaved look at the base.

This combination is incredibly low-maintenance and masculine. It focuses on the texture of the twists while keeping the neck and ears completely clear of stray hairs.

Regular washing is important to keep the scalp clean, especially with a bald taper. Use a gentle shampoo to ensure the skin and the twists remain healthy.

8. Barrel Roll Locs with Sharp Taper

Barrel rolls are a popular way to style medium to long dreads. When combined with a sharp taper, the result is a professional and highly organized appearance.

This look is perfect for young men who want a more “grown-up” hairstyle. The sharp taper provides a frame that makes the barrel rolls pop visually.

Since barrel rolls are a tighter style, don’t leave them in for more than a few weeks. This allows the scalp to breathe and prevents tension on the tapered areas.

9. Micro-Dreads with High Taper

Micro-dreads offer a finer, more detailed texture compared to traditional locs. A high taper creates a sleek foundation that emphasizes the density of the micro-locs.

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This style is very versatile and can be worn down or gathered into various shapes. It is well-suited for boys who prefer a more refined, less bulky hair profile.

Micro-dreads require a bit more patience during the locking process. The high taper should be kept very short to ensure the focus remains on the intricate loc work.

10. Freeform Dreads with Shadow Taper

Freeform dreads allow the hair to grow naturally without strict parting. A shadow taper provides a soft, blended transition that doesn’t look overly manufactured.

This is the ultimate “cool kid” look for boys who value authenticity. It’s a low-stress style that celebrates the natural growth patterns of African-textured hair.

Even with freeform locs, the shadow taper needs occasional maintenance to look intentional. It prevents the style from appearing messy while maintaining its organic feel.

11. Braided Dreads with Tapered Sides

Braiding individual dreads together creates a unique texture and reduces volume. Tapered sides ensure the profile of the head remains slim and well-defined.

This look is highly durable and can last through heavy physical activity. It is a fantastic option for boys who are constantly on the move or playing sports.

Ensure the braids are not too tight to avoid pulling on the tapered edges. A light scalp oil will keep the exposed skin from becoming dry or irritated.

12. Bleached Blonde Dreads with Low Taper

Bleached blonde locs are a bold fashion statement that reflects a confident personality. A low taper provides a grounded, dark contrast to the bright hair on top.

This style is very popular among young influencers and trendsetters. It works best when the taper is kept at the natural hair color to create a “roots” effect.

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Bleached hair requires extra moisture to prevent brittleness. Use a deep-conditioning mask once a week to keep the blonde locs looking healthy and vibrant.

13. Ombre Locs with High Skin Taper

The ombre effect transitions from dark roots to lighter ends, creating a sense of depth. A high skin taper removes hair from the sides, making the ombre stand out.

This is a sophisticated look that requires a skilled stylist. It’s an excellent way for boys to experiment with color without dyeing their entire head of hair.

The high skin taper needs to be very clean to maintain the modern aesthetic. Regular trips to the barber are necessary to keep the transition from skin to hair sharp.

14. Mohawk Dreads with Burst Taper

The Mohawk dread look is achieved by concentrating locs in the center of the head. The burst taper creates a rounded fade around the ears, highlighting the Mohawk.

This style is edgy and full of energy, making it a favorite for young boys. It offers a rebellious yet groomed look that is perfect for self-expression.

Keep the Mohawk locs moisturized so they stand upright or hang with a healthy weight. The burst taper should be refreshed often to keep the shape of the Mohawk clear.

15. Shoulder-Length Dreads with Tapered Neckline

Longer locs that reach the shoulders offer a classic, timeless look for young men. Tapering the neckline prevents the hair from looking shaggy at the base.

This style is great for boys who want to show off the length and maturity of their locs. The tapered neckline provides a clean finish that looks great with collared shirts.

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To prevent the long locs from tangling, use a silk or satin pillowcase at night. This also helps preserve the freshness of the tapered neckline for longer periods.

16. Two-Strand Twist Dreads with Mid Taper

Two-strand twists give the locs a rope-like appearance that is very visually appealing. A mid taper balances the hair’s volume by slimming down the sides.

This style is excellent for boys with high-density hair. It organizes the hair effectively while providing a clean, professional-looking taper on the sides.

Regularly unraveling and re-twisting is not necessary once they loc, but the taper should be maintained. This ensures the style remains sharp and intentional.

17. Spiral Locs with Sharp Temp Taper

Spiral locs add a sense of movement and bounce to a boy’s hair. A sharp temp taper at the front ensures the hairline looks crisp and perfectly groomed.

This look is very modern and works well for boys with a more artistic or creative flair. The contrast between the bouncy spirals and the sharp taper is striking.

Use a light curl-enhancing mousse to keep the spirals defined. The temp taper should be lined up with a straight razor for the most professional finish.

18. Undercut Dreads with Low Taper

An undercut removes a significant portion of hair from the sides and back, leaving locs only on top. A low taper at the bottom of the undercut adds a refined touch.

This is a very cool and breathable style, perfect for hot summer months. It reduces the overall weight of the hair while maintaining a full look on top.

The undercut area needs to be shaved or tapered regularly to keep the style looking intentional. It’s a bold look that requires commitment to regular barber visits.

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At what age can a boy start getting a taper with his dreads?

Most barbers suggest that once a child is comfortable sitting in the chair—usually around age 3 or 4—they can get a taper. It is a great way to keep their locs looking neat as they grow.

How often should the taper be refreshed?

For the cleanest look, a taper should be touched up every 2 to 3 weeks. This keeps the lines sharp and prevents the natural hair from blurring the distinction between the fade and the locs.

Do tapers work with all types of dreads?

Yes, tapers are incredibly versatile and work with freeform, manicured, thick, or thin locs. The taper essentially serves as a frame that makes any loc style look more polished.

Will a high taper cause my boy’s locs to thin?

A taper itself does not cause thinning, as it only affects the hair on the sides and back. However, ensure the stylist does not pull the remaining locs too tight when styling, as this can lead to tension.

How do I maintain the skin on the tapered areas?

It is important to keep the tapered skin moisturized to avoid “barber’s itch” or dryness. Use a natural, fragrance-free oil or moisturizer to keep the skin healthy and smooth after a fresh cut.

Can I do a taper at home for my son?

While it is possible with the right clippers, a professional taper requires skill in blending and fading. For the best results and to avoid mistakes in the loc sections, visiting a professional barber is recommended.