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Pop Smoke braids are taking social media by storm in 2026. A quick search of the hashtag on both Instagram and TikTok will reveal so many stunning styles, looks, and quirks, making this style a must-have option for black men and women in 2026.
But what exactly are Pop Smoke braids? How do they work? And what different styles can you go for?
Here, we explain everything you need to know about this hairstyle and introduce you to 6 Pop Smoke braid styles to try in 2026.
What are Pop Smoke braids?
Given their name after the legendary rapper Pop Smoke, who rocked this style, Pop Smoke braids are cornrow stitch braids.
Though there are several variants of Pop Smoke braids, most styles begin with groups of 4 Pop Smoke braids on each side of the head.
This is a protective hairstyle that can be worn by both men and women, and it’s popular with black people in the Americas and other parts of the world.
If you’re keen to try this signature look in 2026, below are 6 unique Pop smoke braids styles you can ask your hair stylist to create this year.
How long do Pop Smoke braids last?
For most people, pop smoke braids will last for at least 4 weeks, but if you look after them and maintain your braids, you can reasonably expect them to last for up to 6 weeks.
When it comes to protecting pop smoke braids, wrap them in a scarf or hat before you go to bed to reduce friction and prevent them from getting wet.
Amazing features of pop smoke braids!
✅ It’s a protective hairstyle that helps to reduce friction and breakage.
✅ If you maintain your braids correctly, you can expect them to last for 4-6 weeks.
✅ Pop smoke braids are very much in style in 2026 and are a great choice for men and women.
✅ This is a very versatile look and is great for all lengths of hair.
✅ Provided that you wrap them at night, pop smoke braids require very little ongoing maintenance.
Top 6 trending Pop Smoke braid ideas
From dreads to the classic look favored by the rapper, let’s take a look at 6 awesome pop smoke braid ideas to rock in 2026:
1. Pop smoke braids with dreads
Braids and dreads can undoubtedly complement one another, and we have seen iconic pop smoke braids combined with shoulder-length or even back-length dreads.
Though this is a confluence of styles, it’s a particularly great look for men, and is a great way to wear your pop smoke braids in 2026 for something a little different.
2. Pop smoke braids for men
Classic pop smoke braids for males are a great choice for any guy with Afro-textured hair (Read up to how to blow out Afro-textured hair).
Classic pop smoke braids can be created on all lengths of natural Afro hair, but medium-long hair works particularly well, and you can run the braids down to your shoulders.
For a slightly more daring look, consider pop smoke braids with a fade, which really accentuates the braided style with short hair beneath.
This style is a great option for men, but some women also like to add a fade to their braids for something a little different.
3. Pop smoke braids with weave
If you want to add length and volume to your pop smoke braids, a weave is the best way to go about it.
You can use your own hair or opt for extensions to create the weave, depending on how long and thick your hair is.
We also recommend adding color or beads to the weave for an awesome, inventive style.
Though each look will appeal to different people, we recommend this style as the best pop smoke braids for females.
4. Pop smoke braids for short hair
One of the reasons that this look is so popular is that it is incredibly versatile, and classic pop smoke braids can work brilliantly for people with short hair.
Pop Smoke himself showcased this style with short-medium hair, and it works great with the braids hanging down just over your ears.
Given that this is a protective style, pop smoke braids are excellent for reducing friction and breakage
5. Pop smoke braids with color
Instagram is full of posts from men and women with colorful pop smoke braids.
We’ve seen everything from Valentine’s red to sky blue, as there are so many ways to add your unique personality to this style through color.
The trick is to buy colored extensions for your pop smoke braids – this is something that your stylist can help you with if you’re unsure of the color to go for.
6. Zig zag pop smoke braids
This look is actually a combination of two trending hairstyles right now – the zig zag and the braids.
Zig Zag braids are distinguished by the clear middle parting, with 2 or even 3 zig zags running down your hair.
Your stylist achieves the zig zag look with a wide tooth comb, but it will take longer to achieve this look.
Still, we think it’s worth it, and it’s a particularly great look for women looking for an iconic pop smoke braids look this year.
Do pop smoke braids to make you pop?
So, what are you waiting for? 2026 is the awesome year to rock this iconic style, so choose your pop smoke braids style from above and ask your hair stylist to create your preferred look!
FAQs
1. What are Pop Smoke braids?
Pop Smoke braids are a center-parted cornrow hairstyle inspired by rapper Pop Smoke. The braids are medium to large in size and neatly divided down the middle. It makes a symmetrical look that works well for both men and women.
2. Are Pop Smoke braids suitable for women?
Yes, Pop Smoke braids are very popular among women. They can be styled in many ways, including longer lengths, added accessories, or softer parting patterns. The style offers a balance between edgy and elegant.
3. How long do Pop Smoke braids usually last?
Pop Smoke braids last between two to four weeks. Keeping the scalp moisturized and avoiding excessive tension can help extend the lifespan of the braids.
4. Do Pop Smoke braids work on all hair types?
Pop Smoke braids work best on textured hair types, including curly and coily hair. However, with proper preparation and technique, they can also be done on looser textures. Adding extensions can help achieve the desired thickness and length if needed.
5. How do you maintain Pop Smoke braids?
To maintain Pop Smoke braids, regularly moisturize your scalp with lightweight oils, cleanse with diluted shampoo, and protect the style at night with a silk or satin bonnet.
6. Can Pop Smoke braids be styled differently?
Yes, Pop Smoke braids are very versatile. They can be worn straight back, tied into a bun or ponytail, accessorized with beads or cuffs, or customized with different braid sizes. This flexibility makes them easy to adapt to personal style preferences.
