Wicks, also called bonks or globs, are extra-thick locs. Instead of dozens of slim dreads, the head carries a smaller number of chunky ones, which gives a bold, sculptural look and makes the style quicker to retwist and wash. This gallery covers the main ways of building and wearing them: box wicks parted in even squares, flat wicks that sit close to the head, crochet and freeform techniques, barrel-twisted wicks, and short, pyramid-shaped starters made from natural hair alone.
You will also see styling options for when the locs are long and heavy, such as a half-up arrangement and a low loc knot, along with colour ideas including bright tips, black-to-brown ombré and three-tone wicks mixing brown and blonde. Several looks are paired with a fade or a sharp line-up for contrast.
Wicks suit coily and kinky hair that already locks well. Think about weight before choosing size and length: thick, long extensions are heavy and can pull on the scalp, so starter or mid-length wicks are wiser if your edges are delicate. Many versions are created by combining existing dreads, so discuss with your loctician whether to start fresh or convert what you have.
1. Chunky Bonks
Chunky bonks have become a strong signature look for many Black men who want their natural hair to make a statement. Because each loc is so thick, there are far fewer of them on the head than with classic dreads, which makes washing, retwisting and everyday wear noticeably easier.
Inspiration: @val_tuffcuts
2. Colorful Locs
Bright tips give these wick locs a playful finish. Stylists usually weave in coloured extensions to add bulk and shape each loc, and the same method lets you adjust thickness and length later on. It is an easy way to experiment with colour without dyeing your own hair.
Inspiration: @lgt_the_only_one
3. Medium Wicks with Line Up
Medium wicks are a smart next step after traditional dreads. Kinky strands are blended together so loose hairs are smoothed into evenly twisted locs that fall to the shoulders. A crisp line-up at the front sharpens the whole style and frames the face.
Inspiration: @val_tuffcuts
4. Wick Trunks
Trunks are the thickest, longest form of wicks, and their name reflects their elephant-trunk size. Around four locs per side are enough to display all the fullness and texture of the hair. This is a true statement style that needs a confident wearer.
Inspiration: @essenceofjillizm
5. Box Wicks
Box wicks are made by dividing the hair into even square sections, much like the parting for box braids. Existing locs can be cut, reshaped and reattached to create them. Depending on length, the wicks will either stand up or lie flat against the head.
Inspiration: @pretty_gal__bria
6. Half Up Wick Dreads
Long, heavy wicks are easier to live with when you know how to put them up. Gathering the top section into a half updo keeps the locs out of the eyes and looks neat and intentional. It also gives the scalp a break from the full weight hanging down.
Inspiration: @tashuanity3lt.llc
7. Flat Wicks
Flat wicks make an excellent first try. They sit close to the head, do not weigh the hair down and leave the roots easy to reach for future retwists. Start with shorter versions to get used to the look, then move on to bigger or longer styles if you like it.
Inspiration: @wreathofrose
8. Freeform Wicks
The freeform method creates well-defined dreads. Strands are combed together and twisted at the root, then a needle is worked through each loc to set the shape and tighten any sagging areas. It produces an organic, textured result.
Inspiration: @imastertha_hair
9. Ombre Globs
These chunky wicks get their fullness from kinky bulk hair that mimics natural texture. Mixing black and brown extensions creates a soft ombré that looks dimensional rather than flat. Ask for the lighter shade toward the ends for the most natural blend.
Inspiration: @naetoriouslocs
10. Braided Interloc Style
Small wicks interlocked and joined into larger sections suit anyone who enjoys experimenting. Worn half up and half down, the style gives you braided roots plus loose ends that can be twisted, tied or left to hang. It is versatile and full of texture.
Inspiration: @lqueenoflocs
11. Fade Wick Dreads
Wicks can be layered at the back just like a haircut, adding depth and volume. Combined with a clean shaved fade at the sides, the contrast between smooth skin and thick locs looks bold and modern. Keep the fade fresh with regular barber visits.
Inspiration: @loadedlocs
12. Small Wick Dreads
Small wicks resemble regular dreads but bring more definition and visual detail. The finer sections show how loc size can change the way a style frames the face. They are lighter on the scalp and a good choice for those who prefer subtler locs.
Inspiration: @essenceofjillizm
13. Three-Tone Wicks
Black is not the only option. Adding brown and blonde extensions creates three-tone wicks with a dimensional, creative look. Keep the sides closely trimmed so the colourful locs take centre stage and the overall shape stays sharp.
Inspiration: @locdupbyash
14. Extra Long Wick Style
Extra-long extensions transform bonks into a dramatic, refined look. Long locs on men feel striking and sophisticated, especially when kept neat at the roots. Remember that length adds weight, so tie them up from time to time to rest the scalp.
Inspiration: @wreathofrose
15. Crochet Wicks
Crochet wicks are formed with a hook that pulls loose strands into thick, tight locs. The technique gives a firm, secure finish, especially at the rounded ends, which helps prevent frizz and breakage. It is also a quick way to tidy roots between sessions.
Inspiration: @imastertha_hair
16. Loc Knot Style
Jumbo wicks tied into a low knot at the back act like a ponytail. Although large locs can feel heavy, the knot keeps them in place and away from the face. It is a tidy option for work, workouts or warm days.
Inspiration: @locdupbyash
17. Thick Locs
Mid-length wicks slightly thicker than classic dreads highlight natural texture and help protect hair from breakage. A quality hair oil keeps the locs and scalp moisturised and smooths flyaways. This size is a comfortable balance between impact and weight.
Inspiration: @imastertha_hair
18. Wicks with Barrel Twists
Here small dreads are bound together using a version of the rubber band method to create bigger wicks. Rather than leaving them as is, the stylist wraps extensions tightly around the base of each loc, finishing with a neat barrel-twist effect.
Inspiration: @franhaircreations
19. Short Spiky Starter Wicks
Short, pyramid-shaped wicks made from natural hair alone give this style its spiky look. It is a great starting point for anyone new to wicks and a fresh take on traditional styles for Black men. The short length is light, comfortable and easy to maintain.
Inspiration: @essenceofjillizm
Caring for chunky locs
Thick locs hold more water than slim ones, so drying is the biggest care challenge. Wash every one to two weeks with a residue-free shampoo, squeeze out water with a microfibre towel and let the wicks dry completely, using a hooded dryer if needed. Locs left damp can develop odour and mildew inside.
- Oil the scalp lightly with a non-greasy product; avoid heavy waxes that build up in the core of the loc.
- Retwist or crochet the roots every four to eight weeks, not more often, to avoid thinning at the base.
- Cover with a satin scarf or bonnet at night to limit lint and frizz.
Choosing your wick size
Count the sections before you commit: fewer, larger sections mean more weight on each root. If you want trunks or extra-long extensions, ask your loctician about lighter fibre and plan to tie the locs up regularly to give your scalp a break. Starter or flat wicks are an easy way to test the look first.