A Viking beard is best described as one of the most bold, burly, and bushy beard styles out there. A long length, fully grown out Viking beard is different than the shorter hipster, spade, and chin curtain styles because it reaches your neckline.
A buzz cut paired with a full beard creates a rugged and practical look, ideal for those who want a low-maintenance style while still embracing the Viking aesthetic. Shaving the sides and leaving the top longer for a knot or small braid adds a modern twist to the traditional Viking styles.
The Ragnar look, based on the character Ragnar Lodbrok, might be the most popular. To get this hairstyle for yourself, grow out your hair so it's at least shoulder-length. Shave the sides and back of your head, leaving the hair long on top. Make 3 braids with the top hair for the rough, Vikings look.
As it's characterised by length and fullness, a Viking beard demands plenty of facial hair. So, depending on how much you have to begin with, it could take a few months to a year to grow it out. Sit tight - you'll soon be sporting a legendary beard.
Viking beard beads were a sign of power and were given as gifts to Vikings by other Vikings to show respect. They would often have their beard beads made from different materials, including wood, bone, ivory, or stone.
The Viking mohawk is another classic Nordic warrior hairstyle that was used to evoke fear into enemies. With shaved back and sides, a long mohawk will stand out and emphasize the strip of hair in the middle.
Generally, the hair should be shoulder-length or longer to create Viking braids. This is because the braids are created by taking sections of hair and crossing them over one another, and there needs to be enough hair to work with to create a braid that looks full and thick.
To achieve this look, ask your barber to keep the sides and back of your hair short while leaving the hair on top longer. Use a pomade or wax to sweep the hair to the side, and you're good to go.
Growing a Viking beard means no shaving or trimming until you have the desired length and volume, but it doesn't mean you don't take its care during this time. Pay attention to any ingrown hair, use beard shampoo and make sure to moisturise daily.
There are a few different ways that people today can test for their Viking heritage. One option is to research their family history and look for any ancestors who may have had Viking ancestry. Another option is to take a viking DNA test from a company that includes Viking ancestry in its analysis.
Modern fitness science concludes that muscle growth is the product of three components: training, recovery, and diet. The Norse had the recovery component ingrained in their culture, with a seasonal approach to living and a “work hard, play hard” mentality. But they also had the other two components in ample supply.
The key to getting a Viking beard is having that strong jawline. Start with the back of your beard close to the ear, then take your comb and line it up horizontally at the bottom of your beard. Take your electric trimmer without a guard and cut the hair under the comb line.
Genetics, testosterone levels and lifestyle choices all have a part to play. The average growth rate for hair is around half an inch per month, so a full beard could take anything from three months to a year, depending on what kind of style you want.
While Viking tattoos remain a mystery, historians generally agree that the Vikings most likely used body and face paint in several aspects of day-to-day life.
Braids are worn by women of all ages and races. There are various ways to braid your hair. Braids can be elegant and styled for an event like a wedding or they can be used to keep your hair out of your face while you exercise.
While braids were certainly a common hairstyle among Vikings, a lesser-known but equally impressive style was the Viking dreads. This unique and bold hairstyle not only embodied strength and honor but also had significant cultural and religious significance for the Vikings.
"The examination of skeletons from different localities in Scandinavia reveals that the average height of the Vikings was a little less than that of today: men were about 5 ft 7-3/4 in. tall and women 5 ft 2-1/2 in.
A wolf cut combines elements of both a shag and a mullet, but it's a modern cut with none of the features which date its 1980s predecessors'. It's characterised by its voluminous layers, choppy texture, and a mix of short and long lengths.
Red- or blonde-haired Vikings? Genetic research has shown that the Vikings in West Scandinavia, and therefore in Denmark, were mostly red-haired. However, in North Scandinavia, in the area around Stockholm, blonde hair was dominant.
Understanding the Fork in Beards
The reason could be as simple as the natural direction of hair growth. Some men's facial hair grows straight down, while others might grow sideways or upwards. This can cause the beard hair to diverge, resulting in a fork eventually. Your grooming habits can also play a role.
Generally, your beard should be at least 4 inches long to achieve a braided style. However, some shorter beard styles, such as goatee braids, can be achieved with less length.
However, the beard was a symbol of social status in Norse culture and therefore some of us feel called to wear one. It's just another means of showing connection to the gods and/or ancestors. So, as with many things in our tradition, it's up to the individual.