High Top Dreads: Styles, Care, Pros & Real Life Experience

Not gonna lie, I was obsessed with the idea of getting high top dreads. Ever since I saw people rocking them, I felt like this was the style made for me—clean on the sides, bold on top, and carrying that mix of modern swagger with the tradition of locs. It wasn’t just about hair; for me, it felt like a whole lifestyle waiting to happen.

But here’s the truth: keeping high top dreads wasn’t always as smooth as I imagined. From the first day in the chair to the months of maintenance, I faced plenty of challenges—things no one really tells you at the start. And that’s why I’m writing this story. If you’re thinking about trying high top dreads, I want you to read my journey first. Trust me, it’ll help you understand exactly what you’re signing up for.

By the end of this blog, you’ll know the good, the bad, and everything in between—the styles I tried, the mistakes I made, the maintenance struggles, and the confidence boost that made it all worth it. Whether you’re deciding between high top dreads vs full dreads, or just curious about what it takes, my story will give you the real picture before you take the plunge.

1. Understanding High Top Dreads

1.1 What exactly are high top dreads (locs)?

When I first decided to get high top dreads, I had no idea there was so much detail behind the style. At its core, high top dreads are dreadlocks that are grown only on the top section of the head, while the sides and back are usually cut short, faded, or completely shaved. It’s like mixing two worlds together—the clean look of a modern fade with the bold personality of locs.

For me, the biggest attraction was balance. I loved the idea of keeping the dreads noticeable without having a full head to manage. The fade around the sides made the style look sharper and lighter, especially in hot weather.

1.2 High top dreads vs full head dreads / full locs

Now, let’s be real—this was one of the toughest choices I had to make. Should I go for a full head of locs or stick with the high top version?

Here’s what I figured out from both experience and advice:

• Full head dreads are the traditional way—locs covering the entire scalp. They look powerful, they carry cultural weight, and they don’t need constant barber visits for a fade. But they also require more commitment, heavier maintenance as they grow long, and a stronger lifestyle adjustment.
• High top dreads, on the other hand, gave me that modern edge. They felt easier to manage in the beginning because I didn’t have locs all over my head. But the trade-off? I had to keep visiting the barber to clean up the sides and keep the fade looking fresh.

Personally, I chose high top dreads because I wasn’t sure if I was ready for a lifetime commitment with a full head. It felt like a safer way to step into the dreadlock world without going all in.

1.3 Variations in naming: high top fade dreads, high top dreads fade, high top locs, high top dread styles

One thing I learned quickly—people use different names for the same style. At first, I thought I was getting confused, but then I realized it’s just different ways of describing it. You’ll hear terms like:

• High top fade dreads
• High top dreads fade
• High top locs
• High top dread styles

All of them basically point to the same haircut concept: dreads on top, faded or shaved sides. Depending on where you live or which barber you go to, the terminology might change, but the foundation of the style stays the same.

For me, I simply called them “high top dreads,” but when searching for style inspiration online, I had to use all those variations to find the look I wanted.

2. Who They Suit Best & What to Consider Before You Commit

2.1 Hair type, texture & density — what works best

When I first sat down in the barber’s chair, my loctician told me straight up: not every hair type takes to dreads the same way. Coarser, curlier hair textures usually lock faster and hold shape better. My hair was thick and coily, which made the process smoother. If you’ve got looser curls or straight hair, you can still get high top dreads, but be ready for more patience, extra maintenance, and sometimes different starter methods.

2.2 Face shape, head shape & how high top styles play with those

I never thought about face shape until my barber mentioned it. High top dreads draw attention upward, so they can make your face look longer or sharper. For me, with a slightly round face, the style balanced things out nicely. But if your face is already long and narrow, you might want to go with shorter locs or mix them with a low taper fade to soften the look.

2.3 Lifestyle factors: job, climate, sport, sleeping habits

One of the first challenges I faced wasn’t about hair products—it was about lifestyle. My job was pretty flexible, but not every workplace is cool with dread styles. If you’re in a corporate or strict environment, consider how your high top dreads will be received.

Climate also hit me hard. In the summer, the fade kept my head cooler, but I noticed the locs trapped sweat quickly, so I had to wash more often. If you play sports or sweat a lot, you’ll need a routine to keep your scalp fresh. Even sleep mattered—I had to start wearing a satin cap to protect my locs from flattening or breaking overnight.

2.4 Budget & time commitment: initial vs ongoing costs

This is the part no one warned me about. Starting high top dreads isn’t a one-time thing. First, you pay for installation (and a skilled loctician isn’t cheap). Then, you’ll need regular retwists and barber visits for that fade. Add in oils, sprays, shampoos—it adds up.

I remember thinking I’d save time by not having a full head of dreads, but the fade maintenance meant I was in the chair almost every two weeks. If you’re on a tight budget or don’t like frequent grooming, high top dreads might test your patience.

3. Style Options & Inspiration

3.1 Styles by length

When I first got my high top dreads, they were short — and honestly, I loved it. Short high top dreads gave me a cleaner, fresher vibe and were easier to wash. As they grew longer, the style totally changed. Medium-length locs started to give me more volume and movement, while longer high top dreads added that bold, standout look I always admired in rappers and athletes.

3.2 Styles by thickness & size of locs

Another choice I didn’t realize mattered so much was the thickness. I started with medium-sized locs, but I’ve seen guys rocking chunky, thicker locs that look powerful and low-maintenance. On the other hand, thin or micro locs can look really neat and stylish, but they’re harder to maintain and can take forever to install.

3.3 Fade & cut styles

For me, the fade was everything. At first, I went with a high top fade with dreads — sharp sides, locs standing proud. Later, I tried a low taper fade for a softer, more gradual look, which actually suited me better for work. Some of my friends even experimented with undercuts and drop fades, making the style look more urban and edgy.

3.4 Design & textures

One time, I got a little adventurous and asked my barber to carve a design into the faded sides. Not gonna lie — it got me a lot of compliments. I also experimented with adding blonde tips, and even though it required more care, it gave my dreads extra personality. Beads and wraps are another way people spice things up, especially for special events or just to break routine.

3.5 Gender / identity variations

At first, I thought high top dreads were just a “guys’ style.” But then I saw women absolutely killing it with this look. Some styles for ladies include thinner locs with fades, or even mixing color highlights for a softer edge. Honestly, it proved to me that high top dreads aren’t about gender — they’re about confidence.

3.6 Influences / trend examples

I’d be lying if I said celebrities didn’t influence me. I looked at pictures of DDG’s high top dreads, checked out Ja Morant’s different stages, and even saw how Chief Keef’s locs shaped the culture. Social media made me realize just how versatile the style could be. There are even high top dreads memes floating around — and while some are funny, they also show how iconic the style has become.

4. Getting Started: How to Create High Top Dreads

4.1 Choosing a skilled loctician / barber — what to check

When I finally made up my mind, the first step was finding the right person to start my locs. I can’t stress this enough — don’t just sit in anyone’s chair. A skilled loctician knows how to part your hair evenly, pick the right size for your locs, and make sure they’ll last long-term. I got lucky because my barber also specialized in dreadlocks, so he handled both the loc install and the fade. That combo was a lifesaver.

4.2 Starter methods: twisting, backcombing, interlocking, freeform

I had to decide how I wanted to start my dreads. The options felt overwhelming at first:

• Twist method: neat and uniform, but requires regular retwists.
• Backcombing: works better for straighter hair.
• Interlocking: keeps the roots tight longer, less maintenance.
• Freeform: natural and raw, but less controlled in shape.

I went with the twist method because I wanted a clean, fresh look, but I quickly learned it came with the responsibility of frequent retwists.

4.3 Sectioning & setting up the shape you want

One mistake beginners make (and I almost did) is ignoring sectioning. High top dreads look their best when the parts are neat and consistent. My loctician carefully mapped out the top section of my head and made sure the spacing was even, which gave my dreads structure as they grew. If you skip this step, you might regret it later when your locs look uneven or messy.

4.4 How many locs do you need for a good high top look?

This was a question I obsessed over: How many dreads should I get? The truth is, it depends on the size you want. I ended up with around 80–90 locs on my high top, which felt balanced — not too thick, not too thin. Some people prefer fewer (chunky look) or more (thin, neat look). There’s no “perfect number,” but your loctician can guide you based on your hair density.

4.5 Time required: what to expect for the install

I thought it would be a quick job, but I was wrong. My first session took hours — the sectioning, twisting, and shaping the fade all combined. Honestly, the time in the chair was worth it, because when I walked out, I finally saw the style I’d dreamed about. Still, be prepared: if you’re going the professional route, bring patience (and maybe snacks).

5. Maintenance & Care

5.1 Washing / cleansing: frequency, residue-free shampoos

One of the first lessons I learned was that you can’t treat high top dreads like regular hair. My loctician told me to avoid heavy, creamy shampoos because they leave buildup. I switched to a residue-free shampoo, and it made a world of difference. At first, I washed once every two weeks, but in hot weather or after workouts, I had to wash more often to keep my scalp fresh.

5.2 Moisturizing: oils & natural products

Dryness was my biggest enemy. My scalp got itchy, and my locs started feeling brittle. That’s when I discovered lightweight oils like jojoba and argan, plus rose water sprays. I learned the hard way that less is more — too much oil made my locs greasy and attracted lint. A light spritz every couple of days kept them healthy without buildup.

5.3 Retwisting / re-locking / tightening

I thought I could skip retwists, but nope — my roots grew out quickly, and the neat look faded fast. Every 4–6 weeks, I had to retwist to keep things tidy. Sometimes I went to my loctician, sometimes I tried it myself. But honestly, a professional job always looked better. If you want a cleaner, uniform look, regular retwists are non-negotiable.

5.4 Dealing with buildup, odor & scalp issues

Nobody talks about this enough — buildup is real. Using the wrong products or not rinsing properly left white residue in my dreads. And if I skipped washing after sweating, odor crept in. I learned to clarify my locs every couple of months with apple cider vinegar rinses. It kept my scalp healthy and gave my dreads a lighter, fresher feel.

5.5 Protecting hair during sleep & harsh weather

The first time I slept without covering my dreads, I woke up with flattened, fuzzy locs — and lint everywhere. From that day, I started wearing a satin bonnet or using a satin pillowcase. It not only protected my dreads but also reduced breakage. In winter, I had to moisturize more often because the cold air made my hair dry faster. In summer, I washed more often to beat the sweat.

5.6 Managing the fade

Here’s the part I didn’t expect — the fade maintenance. High top dreads look best with sharp sides, which means regular barber visits. Every two weeks, I found myself back in the chair for a fresh lineup. It added to the cost and effort, but without it, the style quickly looked unkempt.

6. Pros & Cons: Honest Realities

6.1 Advantages of high top dreads

When I first got them, the confidence boost was unreal. Everywhere I went, people noticed the style. A fresh fade with dreads on top just has that clean but bold vibe. I also loved that high top dreads were lighter than a full head of locs. My scalp could breathe, and in hot weather, it felt way more comfortable. Another big plus? Versatility. I could tie them up, let them hang, or style them with accessories without the heavy weight of a full head.

6.2 Challenges / downsides

But here’s the truth — high top dreads aren’t all easy. The upkeep caught me off guard. I had to retwist regularly and visit my barber for a fade almost every two weeks. That was time, effort, and money I didn’t fully expect. There were also days when my scalp felt sore after retwists, or when buildup made my dreads look dull. And unlike a full head of locs that can be left to freeform a bit, high tops demand sharper grooming to keep the balance between the fade and the locs.

6.3 Common pitfalls & what to avoid

I made my share of mistakes too:

• Using heavy waxes early on — they made my locs stiff and messy.
• Skipping satin protection at night — which left my dreads flat and full of lint.
• Delaying barber visits — trust me, once the fade grows out, the whole style loses its magic.

If you’re starting out, learn from my errors. Stick to light products, protect your hair at night, and keep up with your trims.

7. Transitioning & Alternatives

7.1 From high top dreads to full head locs

One question I kept asking myself was: What if I want a full head later? The good news is, it’s possible — but it takes patience. To transition, you basically let the sides and back grow out, then start locs on that new growth. The challenge is that the old high top dreads will already be mature while the new sides are in the baby stage. This can look uneven for months. Some people blend it by wearing hats or tying up the older dreads until everything catches up.

7.2 If high top feels like too much

Not everyone sticks with high top dreads. A couple of my friends started and later realized they wanted something lighter or less noticeable. Alternatives like a low taper fade with locs or even a drop fade with short twists can give you a stylish look without the full commitment. If you just want to test the waters, starter twists or braids are a good way to see how you feel before locking your hair.

7.3 Hybrid styles: mixing it up

At one point, I experimented with keeping the high top but playing with designs on the faded sides. Some people go further and color only the tips, or mix high top dreads with a temporary mohawk fade. The beauty of this style is flexibility — you don’t have to stick with just one version forever.

8. Cost, Time & Real Life Experience

8.1 Typical cost of getting started

The first shock I got was the price. My initial install cost me around the same as a premium haircut, but that was just the beginning. Depending on your barber or loctician, starting high top dreads can range anywhere from $80 to $200+. If you want neat, clean sectioning and professional twisting, it’s worth paying for quality — because a sloppy start shows forever in your locs.

8.2 Regular upkeep expenses

Here’s where the money really adds up.

• Barber visits for fades every 2–3 weeks.
• Loctician retwists every month or so.
• Products like residue-free shampoo, oils, sprays, and satin gear.

In the long run, I was easily spending more on maintenance than the initial install. Anyone thinking high top dreads are “low-cost” should prepare for ongoing investment.

8.3 Time commitment

If you’re considering high top dreads, prepare to give them time. My install session took hours, and retwists weren’t quick either. Add barber visits and daily moisturizing routines, and it felt like I was always scheduling my hair. At first, I didn’t mind because I loved the look, but over time, it became part of my lifestyle.

8.4 Real life experiences: confidence & reactions

Here’s the part I didn’t expect — how people reacted. Some days, it felt like all eyes were on me. I got compliments everywhere, from friends to strangers. My confidence grew, and I honestly felt like high top dreads gave me a new identity.

But not all reactions were positive. A few older relatives weren’t fans of the style, and I definitely noticed some judgment in professional settings. That’s when I realized — high top dreads aren’t just hair; they’re a statement. You have to own them fully, because not everyone will understand.

9. FAQs & Common “People Also Ask” Questions

What are high top dreadlocks?

High top dreads are dreadlocks grown only on the top section of your head while the sides and back are faded, tapered, or shaved. It’s basically a mix of a clean modern haircut and the traditional loc style.

Is it better to have a full head of dreadlocks?

This depends on what you want. A full head of locs carries cultural weight, looks powerful, and doesn’t require constant barber visits. But it’s heavier and needs more long-term care. High top dreads are lighter, easier to manage at first, and more flexible for people testing the style. I personally chose high top first because I wasn’t ready for the full commitment.

How many dreads do I need for a high top?

It depends on your hair density and the size you want. I ended up with around 80–90 locs, which felt balanced. Some people prefer fewer, chunkier locs, while others go for 100+ thin ones. There’s no perfect number — your loctician can guide you.

What type of dreads did Chief Keef have?

Chief Keef is known for his full head of freeform-style dreads, but his look influenced a lot of people who later chose high top versions inspired by his vibe.

Did King Von have high top dreads?

Yes, King Von had high top dreads with a clean fade on the sides — a look that became part of his signature style.

Does Ja Morant have high top dreads?

Yes, Ja Morant has worn high top dreads at different lengths and styles throughout his career. He’s one of the most popular modern references for this hairstyle.

Is 100 locs good?

The number of locs depends on your style. Around 100 locs usually means thinner sections, which can look neat but require more maintenance. Fewer locs give a chunkier, heavier look. Neither is “better” — it’s about what fits your hair and preference.

10. Expert Tips & Uncommon Advice

Get the foundation right from day one

If I could go back, I’d spend even more time making sure my parts were clean and my loc size matched what I wanted long-term. A bad start can’t easily be fixed later without cutting and restarting.

Don’t overdo products

I learned this the hard way — piling on waxes and heavy creams only led to buildup and a dull look. Light oils and sprays work better. Remember: your locs should breathe, not suffocate.

Learn simple at-home care

While a loctician is important, there are things you can do yourself: separating locs to stop them from merging, moisturizing your scalp, or tying them up neatly for sleep. Relying only on appointments can get expensive fast.

Be patient with the “awkward stage”

Every loc journey has a phase where your hair doesn’t look how you want. For me, it was when the sides grew out too fast and my top wasn’t long enough to style. It felt messy, but pushing through that stage was worth it — the growth and maturity eventually gave me the look I had dreamed of.

Protect your scalp health

This one’s underrated. High top dreads put pressure on the top section of your scalp, especially as they grow longer. I learned to give my roots a break — no super tight styles, no constant pulling, and making sure my scalp stayed clean and moisturized.

Own the style confidently

The biggest lesson? High top dreads are more than just hair. People notice them, comment on them, sometimes even judge them. If you’re going for this look, wear it with confidence. For me, it became a part of my identity — not just a hairstyle.

Conclusion

Looking back, getting high top dreads was one of the boldest style choices I’ve ever made. It gave me confidence, taught me discipline with hair care, and helped me express my personality in a way no other style could. But it also came with challenges — regular upkeep, unexpected costs, and moments of frustration.

If you’re thinking about starting this journey, my best advice is simple: know what you’re signing up for, prepare for the commitment, and embrace the process. High top dreads aren’t just a hairstyle; they’re an experience. If you’re ready for both the beauty and the responsibility, then trust me — the journey is worth it.

Disclaimer:
This article is based on personal experiences and general research about high top dreads. It is not professional medical or hairstyling advice. Results may vary depending on hair type, maintenance routine, and professional guidance. For personalized recommendations, always consult a licensed loctician or hair care specialist.