What Is a Ragnar Beard and How to Get It

Epic beards and Vikings have become synonymous with each other in pop culture media thanks to hit shows like Vikings and The Last Kingdom. Facial hair enthusiasts have painstakingly imitated the style characters from these shows use, giving birth to Viking-inspired beards such as the “Ragnar Beard.” 

Named after Ragnar Lothbrok, the main character of Vikings, this style seeks to imitate the man’s powerful look as much as possible. Although there are many Viking-style beards, this one is iconic. 

Whether you’re a big fan of the show, of Icelandic lore or want a style that unleashes your inner warrior, you can’t go wrong with the Ragnar.

Why Get a Ragnar Beard?

One of the main draws of the Ragnar is its bold, naturally unkempt look that evokes manliness. This also means that it’s low maintenance — no frills or decoration, just like the warriors of old. You only need some beard oil every now and again to prevent dandruff and itchiness. 

The look of the Ragnar is also versatile. It can be as long or as short as you want and can be in any style that fits you. The Ragnar is for men who want to look as masculine as possible, so it’s perfect for guys who love beards and working out. Sideburns, topknots and shaved hairstyles can complement Ragnar a good deal.

Of course, as will any beard style, there are some limitations. As you might have guessed, the Ragnar is a full beard — so you’ll need to be able to grow plenty of hair. It’s also not meant for guys with spotty or uneven facial hair.

Some places and people might not readily accept the wild look of the Ragnar. Certain jobs might ask that you shave it off if you’re looking for employment. In addition, some ladies might not look kindly on its unkempt look. Like a true Viking, donning the Ragnar might lead to a life of challenges.

Overall, the Ragnar beard is for guys who want to feel the rugged confidence of a Viking warrior for themselves. As with every facial-hair style, you have to put in the work to own it. It might not be for everyone, but it will look fantastic for those that can master it. 

How to Get a Ragnar Beard

The Ragnar is typically a full beard, so you’ll need some time to grow it out. The longer the beard, the better. 

Once your beard is the right size and you have a style in mind, it’s time to start trimming. The Ragnar has short, uniform slides, so you want to start by making the sides of your beard symmetrical. Make sure not to trim too much.

Next, use grooming scissors to remove stray hairs on the chin and the sides. The cheek lines should be left untrimmed to give your face a rugged look. Finally, apply some beard oil to prevent itching and dandruff and soften your facial hair.

How to Maintain the Ragnar

Maintaining a full beard like the Ragnar can be a simple, if time-consuming task. All you need is the right tools and accessories. Just because the Vikings of old had to live without beard care products doesn’t mean you have to. 

One of the fun things about having a full beard is there are many options for styling. You only need a strong beard wax and quality beard balm to make your style. Just remember not to style too much — the point of the Ragnar is its unkempt Viking look. 

The same goes for cleaning and combing. Although keeping your beard clean and protecting it from damage is essential, you don’t want to go overboard. The rule of thumb is to wash your Ragnar using a quality beard shampoo every three days. Water-soluble hair pomade can be a substitute that can also keep the beard moisturized. 

Regular combing is also essential for full-beard maintenance. Like combing your hair, combing your beard will keep it strong and allow it to grow how you want it to. Make sure to trim the sides if it looks like they’re growing out too much. 

Finally, those who want to go the extra mile should eat a healthy diet of Omega-3 and Omega-6 fatty acids. These nutrients accelerate facial hair growth and promote robust, healthy-looking beards fit for an Icelandic warrior.

Different Styles for the Ragnar

There are many different styles and variations of the Ragnar. You can even customize your style to give yourself a unique look. Just remember that the key to the Ragnar is its wild nature, so how the rest of your face appears needs to be just as rugged to match.

Short Top and Long Back Style

A short style and shaved sides characterize this style. The bottom is kept long and tied back with a hair braid or rope. This style is perfect for making the Ragnar the centerpiece — drawing eyes to your full, lustrous facial hair.

Tied Back Hair and Beard

Topknots and braided hair go exceptionally well with the Ragnar. Shaved sides and braided hair long in the back gives you that classic look you see in any Viking movie or show. This kind of look goes well with beards on the shorter side. Other variations like braided tops and bound ponytails are also good options.

Buzzcut and Full Beard

If you’re living somewhere with typically hot and humid weather, a buzz cut might be a better option. Buzzcuts and a full Viking beard can give you that intense, confident look that gives you the “I’m up for anything” vibe.

Shaved Head and Ragnar Beard

Of course, you can never go wrong with the shaved head and Viking-style beard. If you’re up for it or are just naturally bald, growing out a Ragnar beard will make you look like an honorable Jarl and cunning warrior.

The Perfect Look for the Modern-Day Viking

Taking on the Ragnar beard is a choice to embrace masculinity and wildness. Like its namesake, those who take on this beard live by their own rules and won’t bow to anyone else. If that sounds like you, then you’re the kind of man the Ragnar is meant for.