Welcome to the ultimate guide to Pop Smoke braids, the iconic protective hairstyle inspired by the late rapper Pop Smoke. Known for its bold, chunky cornrows and versatile designs, this unisex style has taken the world by storm. 

Whether you’re rocking classic cornrows or experimenting with vibrant beads and zig-zag patterns, Pop Smoke braids offer endless possibilities for self-expression. 

At  IPF Braiding  Hair  , our premium human hair extensions make achieving these looks seamless and long-lasting. 

You can log into the IPF Hair website to access exclusive content, book appointments, or purchase extensions. 

In this blog, we explore 33 stunning Pop Smoke braid hairstyles, their costs, and answer your burning questions to help you slay this trend in 2025.

Pop Smoke braids are a trendy, protective hairstyle inspired by the late American rapper Pop Smoke, known for his bold music and distinctive style. 

Characterized by chunky cornrows with a signature middle part, these braids typically feature four to eight thick braids on each side of the head, often styled with or without extensions. 

This unisex hairstyle has gained global popularity for its low-maintenance appeal, versatility, and cultural significance, making it a staple in urban fashion and a tribute to Pop Smoke’s legacy. 

• Structure : Medium to large cornrows, usually eight in total (four per side), parted cleanly down the middle for symmetry.
  
  

• Variations : Includes classic cornrows, knotless braids, zig-zag partings, or styles with added beads, cuffs, or colorful extensions.
  
  

• Hair Type : Ideal for 3C, 4A, 4B, or 4C braiding hair textures, though adaptable to other types with extensions.
  
  

• Length : Can be short, medium, or long, depending on natural hair or added extensions.
  
  

• Cultural Roots : Draws from African and Caribbean braiding traditions, blending tradition with modern streetwear aesthetics.

The price varies depending on the location, the stylist's skill level, the size of the braids, and whether hair extensions are used. Based on 2025 market trends, typical prices are as follows:

• Common Prices : Generally between $50–$250. Using high-quality hair extensions, such as IPF Hair, to create a medium-sized Pop Smoke braid usually costs between $100 and $150.
  
  

• Premium Price Range : In locations such as New York or Los Angeles, or for complex designs such as zig-zag or sparse styles, costs may approach $200–$250.
  
  

• Budget-Friendly Price Range : Simple styles or services by student stylists may start at $50–$100, which is ideal for those on a tight budget.

Pop Smoke braids are primarily called "Pop Smoke braids," a name directly associated with the late rapper Pop Smoke, who popularized the style. 

They are also sometimes referred to as "jumbo tribal braids," "rattail braids," or "boxer braids" in some contexts. 

The style is characterized by eight (sometimes more or fewer) large, symmetrical feed-in cornrows—typically four on each side of a distinct middle part—that frame the face and extend to the back, often worn with braiding hair extensions. 

The style was popularized by rapper Pop Smoke and is rooted in hip-hop culture.

It has evolved as a symbol of artistic expression, identity, and resilience within the Black community, blending fashion and music influences.

Pop Smoke braids are also valued as a protective style, helping to shield natural hair from environmental damage and reduce daily manipulation.

From classic cornrows to bold, beaded designs, here are 33 Pop Smoke braid hairstyles to inspire your next look. 

Many of these styles feature scalp braids, which are braided close to the head for a sleek and defined appearance. Each style can be enhanced with IPF Braiding Hair extensions for a flawless finish.

Based on the standard Pop Smoke braids, a few shorter braids or loose strands are left at the forehead to create a “bangs” effect, framing the face and adding softness.

This style pays homage to the traditional braiding patterns of African tribes while showcasing Pop Smoke's iconic look. 

Hair extensions (IPF human braiding hair) are added to increase length and volume, resulting in a smooth, shiny finish.

The iconic thick cornrows of the Pop Smoke logo are seamlessly combined with intricate mesh patterns that extend from the shoulders to the waist. The design is available in multiple lengths.

These braids feature the bold, structured cornrows of classic Pop Smoke braids and are tightly woven close to the scalp. 

Wooden, metal, or colorful plastic beads can be added to the ends or throughout the braids to enhance their texture and visual appeal.

This hairstyle involves dividing the hair into neat square or rectangular sections at the scalp (like traditional box braids), forming a clean, grid-like base. 

Each braid is then tightly woven onto the scalp in a cornrow style to create the thick, smoky look that is currently popular.

Classic Pop Smoke braids usually consist of four to eight braids (for example, 2 or 4 on each side), arranged with a central parting or simple linear pattern to create a bold geometric appearance. 

When applied to lightweight IPF human hair, this style helps to reduce tension on the scalp.

The braids feature bold color combinations, such as red and black, gold and black, or dark brown butterflies, adding vibrant accents that enhance a trendy, individual style.

Cornrow Pop Smoke braids, also known as giant tribal braids, rat tail braids, or boxer braids, are a protective hairstyle popularized by the late rapper Pop Smoke.

Dyed Pop Smoke Braids are a vibrant interpretation of classic smoky braids, incorporating colored hair extensions or dye to enhance the look.

It features the top two or three plaits on each side tied into high buns (e.g., ponytails), with the remaining plaits left to fall naturally. 

It is paired with hair dye in vibrant colors such as gold, red, and blue, or gradient colors. Dyeing the ends or creating full-color plaits adds a vibrant touch.

Cornrows are usually arranged around the sides or top of the head, while box braids tend to be found at the back. This creates a contrasting texture.

Comb the giant cornrows into an elegant yet protective bun with an uneven finish.

Search this on social media to find tight cornrows or buns in bright colors. Men's hairstyles tend to be paired with ombré colors, whereas women's hairstyles may feature beads or ombré effects.

Pop Smoke's braids, decorated with wooden, metal, and plastic beads at the ends, add layers and eye-catching elements to create a more personalized look.

This style effortlessly combines the striking cultural identity of Pop Smoke's braids with the expressive potential of accessories, complementing the vibrancy of IPF Hair’s human hair braids and their compatibility with accessories perfectly.

This style combines the cultural vibe of Pop Smoke braids with the versatility of braiding, making it ideal for displaying IPF Hair’s real human hair braids in vibrant, accessory-filled hairstyles.

Incorporate elements of the Fulani braiding style into Pop Smoke's oversized cornrows. 

Transform them into finer cornrows featuring curved or zig-zag partings, as well as mixed loose or square braids, which can be 4-12 inches long.

Creating a side part gives a modern, asymmetrical look. Tight cornrows can start at the side part and extend towards the back of the head on one or both sides. 

The other side can then be left natural to create different styles.

Unlike the straight or side partings commonly seen in Pop Smoke braids, the zig-zag design adds a fashionable touch with its sharp, angular lines.

The scalp area is styled with cornrows, and the ends are braided with curly IPF human braiding hair for a playful, flowing look.

The base layer consists of six to eight larger cornrows (3 to 4 on each side), separated by a center parting or zig-zag pattern. 

The second layer is created by adding smaller cornrows or micro-braids above or between the cornrows of the base layer, to create a layered texture effect.

Named after the late rapper Pop Smoke, this protective hairstyle typically consists of six to eight cornrows (3 to 4 on each side).

With unique designs such as hearts, stars, or tribal patterns incorporated into the parting or braid patterns.

Use creative partings or small plaits to outline a heart shape. 

For a playful effect, weave one or more overlapping heart patterns at the center or side of the head.

With their origins in African braiding traditions and popularized by Pop Smoke, cornrow braids offer a modern interpretation of the traditional style and are a low-maintenance option.

Cornrows are created using the stitch braiding technique, which involves weaving them neatly into the scalp to achieve clean, crisp lines.

With four Pop Smoke braids, installation is easier and they are ideal for displaying IPF Hair’s braiding products in a simple yet striking way.

In the cornrow braiding technique, strands of hair are woven in a criss-cross pattern to form an 'X' shape or grid on the scalp. This technique produces clean, crisp lines that enhance the sharpness of the pattern.

This hairstyle involves plaiting long hair (natural or IPF extensions) in a way that allows it to cascade down the back and shoulders. 

Suitable for all genders, it accentuates both length and scalp texture. It suits most face shapes, particularly oval and round ones.

This is a complex, multi-dimensional variation on the classic Pop Smoke braid. 

It features three distinct layers of cornrows: larger ones at the bottom, medium-sized ones in the middle, and smaller ones forming intricate designs at the top.

Knotless cornrows are created using a feed-in braiding technique that doesn't require any knots. 

Lightweight hair or IPF extensions are gradually incorporated to create smooth, flat roots, resulting in a comfortable and fashionable look.

After incorporating the popular Smoke braids into the wavy curls, gently pull the hair strands to create a butterfly effect.

Popular variations include adding transparent beads, using colored extensions (like burgundy or lemon yellow), zigzag parts, stitched braids, side parts, and bohemian styles with loose or wavy strands.

Absolutely! Add beads, colorful extensions, or creative partings (e.g., hearts, zig-zags) for a personalized look. IPF Hair offers vibrant, high-quality extensions to elevate your style.