Viking Beard Styles: 7 Powerful Looks That Command Respect

The 7 Most Legendary Viking Beard Styles

1. The Full Norse Warrior Beard

This is the OG of viking beard styles—the look that launched a thousand longships. We’re talking full, thick coverage from sideburns to chin, typically ranging from 4 to 8 inches in length.

How to Achieve It:

• Commit to at least 4-6 months of growth (no cheating with the trimmer)
• Keep the cheek line natural but clean up the neck weekly
• Use beard oil daily to prevent the “itchy phase” from derailing your progress
• Trim the mustache so it doesn’t interfere with eating (Vikings were practical, after all)

The key here is patience. Your genetics play a huge role, but most men can achieve a respectable full beard with time. If you’ve got patchy areas, strategically longer growth can help create the illusion of fullness.

2. The Braided Beard

Now we’re talking serious Viking energy. Archaeological finds and historical texts suggest braiding was common among Norse men, particularly for longer beards.

Braiding Techniques:

• Single Central Braid: Perfect for beginners with 4+ inches of length
• Double Side Braids: Requires 6+ inches and looks incredibly distinctive
• Multiple Mini Braids: Advanced technique that creates amazing texture

Pro Tip: Use small, clear elastic bands rather than the chunky colored ones your niece wears. Also, apply a small amount of beard balm before braiding to keep everything manageable.

Expert Insight: According to master barber James Wellington, who specializes in historical beard styling: “Braiding isn’t just aesthetic—it was practical for Vikings during raids and manual labor. It kept the beard out of the way while still displaying their status.”

3. The Bearded Berserker

This style combines a full, wild beard with a deliberately rugged appearance. Think less “corporate grooming” and more “I just wrestled a wolf and won.”

The berserker look isn’t actually unkempt—it’s carefully maintained chaos. You’re aiming for that natural, untamed appearance while still keeping things clean and healthy underneath.

Maintenance Strategy:

• Wash with beard shampoo 2-3 times weekly
• Apply beard oil to keep it soft (harsh beards are uncomfortable, not authentic)
• Trim quarterly to maintain shape without losing the wild aesthetic
• Brush daily to prevent matting

4. The Ragnar Lothbrok Style

Made famous by the TV series “Vikings,” this look combines a medium-length beard with distinctive side braids and a shaved or very short-trimmed top and sides.

Here’s what you need to know: While the show took creative liberties, this hybrid style actually works phenomenally well for modern men. It’s professional enough for most workplaces while still maintaining that Norse warrior edge.

Styling Steps:

1. Grow your beard to 3-4 inches minimum
2. Keep sides of your head short (a #2 or #3 guard works well)
3. Create two side braids starting at the sideburns
4. Apply beard balm for hold and definition
5. Trim the mustache and chin area every 2-3 weeks

5. The Beaded Warrior Look

Vikings adorned their beards with beads made from bone, metal, and wood—both as decoration and to signify status or achievements. This style works with medium to long beards and adds incredible visual interest.

Choosing Your Beads:

• Metal beads look amazing but can be heavy (start with aluminum, not steel)
• Wooden beads are lightweight and authentic
• Bone beads are historically accurate and surprisingly affordable
• Size matters: Choose beads that fit your hair thickness

This style features:

• Full coverage maintained at a shorter length
• Strong, defined lines along the cheeks and jawline
• A natural, slightly rounded bottom edge
• Complementary mustache that connects seamlessly

Why It Works: The short Viking crop gives you Norse aesthetic without the maintenance nightmare of longer styles. It’s perfect for professional environments while still maintaining that warrior vibe.

7. The Jarl (Chieftain) Beard

This is the most sophisticated of viking beard styles—a long, well-maintained beard that speaks of status and authority. Historical jarls (Norse nobility) could afford the time and resources for meticulous grooming.

Characteristics:

• 6+ inches in length, often much longer
• Perfectly maintained with regular trims
• Often combined with elaborate braiding or beading
• Requires daily grooming and high-quality products

Real Talk: This style is a commitment. You’re looking at 15-20 minutes of daily maintenance plus regular barber visits. But the payoff? You’ll look like you could lead a Viking raid or chair a board meeting with equal confidence.