Did Vikings Wear Man Buns: Busting Viking Hair Myths

28 Aug 2024

Picture a Viking warrior. You're probably imagining a fierce individual with braided hair, a wild beard, and...a man bun? The image of the rugged Viking has captivated imaginations for centuries, often depicted with elaborate hairstyles. But how much of that is rooted in reality? Did Vikings actually wear man buns, or is that a modern invention Hollywood loves to portray?

The answer, like many things historical, isn't so simple. While the "man bun" as we know it today might not be entirely accurate, there's evidence suggesting Vikings cared about their appearance and sported various hairstyles, including tied-back styles. Let's unravel the threads of history and separate fact from fiction when it comes to Viking hair.

Our primary sources of information about Viking hairstyles come from archaeological discoveries and the accounts of those who encountered them. Excavations have revealed combs, tweezers, and other grooming tools, indicating a focus on personal appearance. Descriptions from the period, while often biased, offer glimpses into Viking hairstyles. However, direct evidence of specific styles, like the "man bun," is scarce.

One key description comes from the account of an Arab traveler and scholar, Ahmad Ibn Fadlan, who encountered a group of Vikings known as the Rus' in the 10th century. He noted their cleanliness and meticulous grooming habits, mentioning they combed their hair every day. While he doesn't explicitly describe man buns, the fact they paid attention to their hair suggests they likely styled it in some manner.

Adding to the intrigue is the discovery of the "Lindow Man," a remarkably well-preserved bog body found in England, believed to be from the Iron Age or early Roman period. The Lindow Man sported a neatly styled hairstyle, with his hair tied back, which some interpret as a precursor to the modern man bun. While not technically from the Viking Age (roughly 793 AD to 1066 AD), the discovery suggests that tied-back hairstyles were present in the broader cultural context.

While conclusive evidence of Vikings sporting man buns remains elusive, it's highly likely they tied their hair back in various ways for practicality and style. Long hair, while aesthetically pleasing, could be a hindrance during raids, battles, or even daily chores. Tying it back would have been essential for keeping it out of their faces and avoiding any unfortunate accidents in the heat of the moment.

The image of the Viking warrior with braided hair and a tied-back style continues to fascinate us today. While the modern "man bun" might not be a perfectly accurate representation, it's safe to say Vikings cared about their appearance and likely sported various hairstyles, including tied-back styles that served both practical and aesthetic purposes. The lack of definitive evidence only adds to the mystery and allows us to imagine the diverse and fascinating world of Viking hairstyling.