Long Curly Hairstyles for Men: 13 Modern Cuts That Hit

Written by: Rick Attwood January 3, 2025 Time to read 17 min

Black and white portrait of a man with voluminous long curly hair styled in loose waves, showcasing a bold and textured long curly hairstyle for men.

Long curly hairstyles for men aren’t just about length—they’re about texture, structure, and control. When shaped well and groomed consistently, curls become a standout feature that elevates your entire look.

In this guide, we break down the best long curly hairstyles for men in 2025—covering bold cuts, practical styles, grooming strategy, and expert-level care. Whether you wear loose waves or dense coils, this is how to grow, shape, and own the look with presence.

Best Long Curly Hairstyles for Men

Let’s explore the standout long curly hairstyles men are wearing well in 2025—each one tailored to highlight natural texture with precision and intent.

Curly Undercut – A Sharp Long Curly Hairstyle for Men

A bold and modern take on the curly undercut, featuring a man with one side of his head shaved clean while the other side showcases long, thick, and defined curls cascading down his shoulder. The dramatic contrast between the shaved section and the voluminous curls creates a striking, edgy appearance. His sharp features and confident expression enhance the contemporary vibe of the hairstyle. This look exemplifies long curly hairstyles for men seeking a daring, high-fashion statement. The monochromatic background emphasizes the texture and structure of the haircut.

The curly undercut delivers contrast and control in one sharp move. With short faded sides and long curls up top, it’s a bold choice that doesn’t compromise texture.

Sharp sides highlight the volume and shape of your curls
Works best with medium to thick hair for visual impact
Style with curl cream or gel for definition and hold
Ideal for men who want structure without losing personality

Long Curly Wolf Cut Hairstyle

The curly wolf cut leans into bold, unstructured texture with serious style. With a shaggy crown and longer length in back, it’s high-volume and unapologetically different.

Ideal for thick curls that need movement and shape
Shorter top layers prevent bulk while enhancing definition
Pair with mousse or a curl spray to keep it lifted and styled
Works well for guys after a fashion-forward, untamed finish

Loose Middle-Parted Long Curly Hairstyle for Men

Portrait of a man with loose, middle-parted long curly hair—soft natural curls styled for a relaxed and balanced look.

A center part with long, loose curls creates a natural frame that highlights bone structure and brings symmetry to your style. This laid-back look works best when curls are hydrated and defined, not weighed down.

Enhances balance and draws attention to facial features.
Low-maintenance yet polished—perfect for everyday wear.
Best with lightweight leave-in conditioner or curl cream to avoid heaviness.
Suitable for oval, square, and heart-shaped faces.

Long Curly Ponytail Hairstyle for Men

A black-and-white image of a man viewed from behind, showcasing a long, thick curly ponytail. His hair is sleek and smooth at the top, tied neatly at the back of his head, with the curls cascading down his back in a natural, textured flow. The man is wearing a crisp white shirt, and his well-groomed beard is partially visible from the side, adding a touch of refinement to his appearance. The minimalistic background and lighting emphasize the clean lines of his style and the contrast between the sleek top and the voluminous curls.

The curly ponytail is a clean, practical way to manage length while showcasing texture. Whether worn low or mid-height, it offers control without sacrificing character.

Keeps curls contained without flattening volume.
Works well during workouts or hot weather.
Use a soft hair tie and light hold product to minimize breakage and frizz.
Easy to transition from casual to professional settings.

Shoulder-Length Curly Hair for Men

Man with shoulder-length curly hair wearing casual layered outfit—defined, medium-length curls styled for modern men’s long curly hairstyles

Shoulder-length curls strike the ideal balance—long enough to show off natural texture, short enough to stay manageable. Layers add shape and reduce bulk, giving curls room to move without losing structure.

A timeless choice that suits most face shapes and curl types.
Layers help prevent the dreaded triangle shape and enhance flow.
Best styled with curl-enhancing creams and regular trims to avoid frizz.
Versatile for both professional and relaxed looks.

Messy Curly Man Bun Style for Men with Long Hair

Man with a messy curly man bun hairstyle wearing a brown coat, showing a relaxed and stylish long curly hair look for men.

The messy man bun is all about relaxed control—tying your curls back without trying too hard. It keeps the look rugged, effortless, and full of volume.

Ideal for second- or third-day hair when curls are loose and lived-in.
Pull back loosely and secure with a soft hair tie or scrunchie to avoid breakage.
Let a few curls fall freely to soften the face and avoid looking too tight.
Works well with beards or natural stubble for a balanced look.

Voluminous Long Curly Layers

Man with voluminous long curly layered hair, showcasing defined curls and natural movement styled for texture and fullness.

Long curly layers are built to enhance your hair’s natural body while maintaining control. The result is structured volume—ideal for thicker curls that need shape, not weight.

Layers reduce bulk and create dynamic movement throughout the length.
Helps curls fall into place naturally without forming dense clumps.
Great for men who want a more polished take on long curls.
Use lightweight curl creams or foams to define shape without adding heaviness.

Free-Flowing Long Curly Hair (The Mane)

Man with free-flowing long curly hair wearing a black t-shirt, showcasing a bold and voluminous long curly hairstyle for men

For men who want to wear their curls unapologetically, the long curly mane makes a bold impact. This is about growing it out, letting it flow, and making volume your signature.

Best for dense, coarse curls that hold shape naturally.
Requires consistent hydration, deep conditioning, and gentle detangling.
Regular trims prevent split ends without compromising length.
Pairs well with minimalist outfits to keep the hair as the focal point.

The Afro: Bold Volume with Cultural Weight

The afro is more than a hairstyle—it’s a statement of identity, texture, and presence. Especially popular among Black men, it celebrates natural volume with shape and pride.

Worn rounded or sculpted for clean, symmetrical impact.
Requires consistent hydration and detangling to maintain health.
Use a wide-tooth comb or pick to shape without breaking curls.
Pairs well with a fade, line-up, or beard for added contrast.
Symbolic, stylish, and unapologetically bold.

Curly Half-Up, Half-Down Style

The half-up, half-down look strikes a smart balance—keeping curls off the face while letting the length do the talking. It’s equal parts practical and stylish.

Works best on shoulder-length or longer curls.
Pull the top half into a bun or ponytail and secure gently.
Keeps your features visible without sacrificing texture or flow.
Great for casual settings, and events.

Twist Outs – Defined Long Curly Hairstyles for Afro Hair

Close-up of a Black man with defined twist outs on medium-length afro hair, wearing a chain necklace and black shirt in an urban setting.

Twist outs deliver definition, stretch, and control—especially for men with tight curls or coils. The technique adds texture and shape while reducing shrinkage and frizz.

Start with damp, conditioned hair and twist small sections evenly.
Let the twists dry fully before unraveling to maintain structure.
Enhances curl uniformity while giving a more elongated look.

Curly Shag with Fringe – Long Curly Hair with Volume

Man with a curly shag haircut and fringe, showcasing voluminous long curly hair styled in soft layers with bangs.

The curly shag gives long curls shape, lift, and movement, especially when paired with a light fringe. It's a throwback cut with modern confidence.

Features layered volume at the crown and looser curls down the sides.
A curly fringe softens the forehead while framing the face.
Ideal for medium to long lengths with natural bounce.
Regular shaping keeps the look intentional—not messy.

Long curly hairstyles for men offer more than just length—they bring shape, volume, and personality. From bold cuts to natural flow, the right style lets your texture lead with confidence. When groomed well, long curls don’t just stand out—they define your look.

How to Maintain Long Curly Hairstyles for Men

Long curly hairstyles for men demand more than just good genetics—they require a focused care routine. Consistency, moisture, and protection are non-negotiable if you want curls that hold shape and stay healthy.

Hydrate Daily to Keep Curls Defined and Soft

Curly hair loses moisture quickly, so daily hydration is key to preventing dryness and frizz.

Use a sulfate-free shampoo 2–3 times per week.
Condition every time you wash your hair.
Apply a leave-in conditioner or curl cream daily.
Deep condition weekly for bounce and elasticity.

Detangle Gently to Avoid Breakage and Preserve Shape

Pulling through curls can wreck your hair—detangle with care to keep structure intact.

Detangle when damp, not dry.
Start from the ends and work upward.
Use fingers or a wide-tooth comb only.
Add a detangler or leave-in to reduce tension.

Protect from Heat and Friction to Maintain Curl Pattern

Rough drying or high heat can flatten curls and create frizz—minimize both to stay sharp.

Air dry or use a diffuser on low heat.
Pat dry with a microfiber towel or T-shirt.
Sleep on a silk or satin pillowcase.

Trim Regularly to Keep Your Style Clean and Controlled

Even long curls need structure—trimming helps maintain shape and stop split ends.

Schedule trims every 8–10 weeks.
Ask your barber to shape without removing length.
Fresh ends improve definition and manageability.

Keep long curly hairstyles defined and healthy with consistent care. Hydration, structure, and smart habits are what make curls truly stand out.

Common Mistakes to Avoid with Long Curly Hair

Even the best curls can lose shape fast if you’re making the wrong grooming moves. Avoid these mistakes to keep your long curly hairstyle looking sharp, defined, and healthy.

Over-Washing Strips Away Natural Oils

Curly hair dries out fast—washing too often leaves it frizzy and brittle.

Limit washes to 2–3 times per week.
Use a sulfate-free shampoo when you do wash.
Rinse with water or co-wash between shampoo days.

Skipping Trims Causes Split Ends and Loss of Shape

Long curls need structure—regular trims keep your style intentional and controlled.

Book trims every 8–10 weeks.
Ask for shape maintenance, not length removal.
Clean ends help curls fall naturally and resist tangles.

Brushing Dry Curls Creates Frizz and Breakage

Dry brushing breaks the curl pattern and adds unwanted volume in the wrong places.

Only detangle when damp, never dry.
Use fingers or a wide-tooth comb only.
Add a detangler or leave-in to reduce tension.

Using the Wrong Products Damages Curl Health

Harsh ingredients lead to dryness, buildup, and weak curl definition.

Avoid sulfates, parabens, and drying alcohols.
Stick to curl-specific, moisture-rich formulas.
Check labels for ingredients like shea butter, aloe, or glycerin.

Sleeping Without Curl Protection Flattens and Tangles Hair

Your pillowcase can work against you—friction ruins definition overnight.

Tie curls loosely in a low bun or pineapple style.
Sleep on a silk or satin pillowcase.
Apply a drop of leave-in or oil before bed to maintain hydration.

Avoiding these mistakes is what keeps long curly hairstyles for men looking intentional, not accidental—well-formed, hydrated, and built to last.

Final Thoughts: Own Your Long Curly Hair with Confidence

Long curly hairstyles for men aren’t just about looks—they reflect patience, precision, and self-expression. With the right cut, care, and routine, curls become a defining strength.

From bold undercuts to layered manes, every style in this guide is built to elevate your natural texture—not hide it. Stick to smart grooming habits, protect your length, and trim with intent. Your curls don’t need taming—they need the structure to thrive.

Choose your look, master the routine, and let your long curly hair speak with clarity and confidence.