Hair Pins, Claws & Clips

Top Men’s Hair Clips, Pins, Grips & Claws: A Complete Buying and Styling Guide

Why men’s hair accessories deserve more credit

Think hair accessories are just for the ladies? Think again. A small clip or a sturdy hair grip can transform a messy morning into a polished look in seconds. Whether you’re chasing a laid-back surfer vibe, keeping hair out of your face during a workout, or adding a quirky touch with a novelty clip, the right accessory is a game-changer. This guide walks you through the types, packs, materials, and styling tips so you can shop smarter — and style faster.

Common types explained: pins, clips, grips and claws

Before you buy, it helps to know what you’re looking at. Hair pins and grips are designed for precision and hold, clips are convenient and fast, and claws offer a comfy grip for thicker sections. Knowing the strengths of each type lets you match the tool to your hair texture and the look you want.

Hair clips (including novelty designs)

Hair clips range from slim snap clips to larger fashion barrettes. There are playful options like hair clips with fake hair or novelty prints — think a clip that features a tiny tuft of synthetic hair or a flag motif for events and fandom. Those novelty designs are great for casual wear, festival days, or adding a conversation-starting detail to an outfit.

Hair grips and bobby pins

Hair grips (bobby pins) are the secret weapon. They’re slim, almost invisible when matched to your hair color, and excellent for securing small sections or keeping short layers back. A pack of grips is useful if you sculpt a tidy top knot, slick back bangs, or pin a side sweep in place.

Claw clips and banana clips

Claw clips are ideal if you want to grab a lot of hair quickly. They clamp with a spring mechanism and come in sizes from about 2 inches for small sections up to 4 inches or more for full pony-style holds. Banana clips offer a different silhouette, giving a smooth, elongated hold for medium-to-long hair.

Product formats you’ll see: sets and multi-packs

Many brands now sell hair accessories as multi-packs: 6-pack hair clips, 4-pack hair clips, 2-pack options, or complete 6-piece hair sets. Bulk buying is smart if you lose clips often or like rotating colors and sizes. It’s also a budget-friendly way to try different styles without committing to a single pricey item.

Why a 6-pack or 4-pack can be smarter than a single clip

When you buy a 6-pack of hair clips, you’re getting variety and redundancy. Different sizes let you match function to need — small clips for fine details, larger clips for practical holds. Plus, if one snaps, you’ve got backups. A 2-pack is perfect for minimalists or those who want matching pairs for symmetrical looks.

How to choose the right size and material

Size matters. For short hair, clips that measure around 1.5 to 2 inches work best. If your hair is medium to long, aim for 3 to 4 inches depending on how much hair you want to secure. Materials also change the experience: metal clips tend to be slimmer and offer firm hold, while plastic can be lighter and more comfortable for all-day wear.

Metal vs. plastic: durability and hold

Metal clips and pins usually grip hair more tightly and last longer, but they can be heavier and sometimes show through thin hair. Plastic clips are gentler on the scalp and come in a wider range of shapes and colors. If you sweat a lot or need a clip for sports, choose a non-slip finish or rubberized edge to keep things in place.

Styling ideas for men using clips and grips

Once you’ve got the tools, what do you do with them? Here are practical ideas for everyday looks and special occasions, with quick steps you can repeat in the mirror without thinking twice.

Quick casual: the half-up with a mini clip

Want something that looks intentional but effortless? Pull the top half of your hair back and secure it with a 2- to 3-inch clip. It keeps hair out of your face and creates a layered, textured effect that works well with messy or slightly wavy hair.

Sporty hold: using hair grips for workouts

If you’re heading to the gym, use hair grips or a tight hair grip set to secure small sections at the crown. The idea is to distribute pressure so nothing slips. Choose metal grips or coated clips that resist sweat and won’t slide.

Smart casual: slicked back with a discreet barrette

For a tidier, more upscale look, comb hair back and use a slim barrette or clip behind the crown to hold hair flat. This works great with medium-length hair and gives a clean silhouette for evenings out.

Special mention: Hair clips with fake hair and novelty designs

Novelty clips — like those that include a small piece of fake hair or feature a flag pattern — are fun for events, sports games, and personal style experiments. They’re often lightweight and intended for accent rather than heavy-duty hold. If you want a statement piece, pair it with a neutral outfit so it becomes the focal point.

Care and maintenance: keep them functioning longer

Clips and grips don’t require much, but a little care goes a long way. Wipe plastic clips with a damp cloth to remove styling products. For metal items, dry thoroughly to avoid rust, and squeeze the spring once in a while to keep tension consistent. Store packs in a small pouch so you don’t lose pieces between uses.

Cleaning tips for long-term use

Use warm water and mild soap to clean dirty clips, then lay them flat to dry. Avoid high heat — a clip left near a hot dryer vent can warp. For metal pins, a tiny drop of light oil on the hinge every few months keeps them snappy.

How to shop smart: value, packs, and comparisons

Buying a 6-piece hair set or a 6-pack of clips may look like a lot, but the per-item cost often beats buying singles. Think about what you’ll actually use: if you rotate styles daily, a larger pack gives flexibility. If you’re trying a new accessory type, a 2-pack lets you test without spending much.

Look beyond price: check size, material, and reviews

Don’t choose a clip just because it’s cheap. Look at the listed size in inches, read reviews to see if clips break easily, and check if a brand offers a mix of colors and sizes in the set. A well-rated 4-pack that holds all day is better value than a low-cost 10-pack that fails after one use.

Top picks by use case: what to buy and why

Here are quick recommendations depending on your need: for quirky style, go for a novelty hair clip with a flag or fake hair accent; for everyday backups, choose a 6-pack of assorted sizes; for gym and high-movement days, pick coated metal grips; and for travel, a compact 6-piece hair set gives everything you need in one pouch.

Minimalist pick: 2-pack small clips

If you prefer clean lines and minimal pieces, a 2-pack is perfect. Keep one in your gym bag and one at home. Select matte finishes or neutral colors so they blend with most outfits.

All-rounder pick: 6-pack mixed sizes

A mixed 6-pack covers nearly every situation. It usually includes small snap clips, medium barrettes, and one or two larger clips for thicker sections. These are the most versatile and great for households sharing accessories.

Packing and travel: pack light and smart

Travelers, listen up — a compact 6-piece hair set is your best friend. Toss it into your toiletry bag; it’s lighter than carrying multiple single items and ensures you’ve got a clip for any hairstyle or weather condition while on the go. Pick a kit that includes a small pouch so nothing rattles around your luggage.

Final thoughts and quick checklist before buying

Before you hit the buy button, check these must-haves: measurements in inches, material (metal vs. plastic), pack size (2-, 4-, or 6-pack), and user reviews about hold and durability. Also consider whether you want fashion-forward novelty pieces or heavy-duty functional clips. The right choice depends on how you style your hair most days and how active you are.

With the right mix of grips, clips, and a reliable claw or two, you can manage any hair length or texture without wasting time each morning. Multi-packs give you options, novelty pieces let you express character, and well-made grips will keep everything in place when it counts.

Ready to build a small arsenal of hair accessories? Start with a 6-pack for everyday needs, add a novelty clip for weekend fun, and keep a few metal grips handy for workouts and neat styles. Simple, effective, and low-cost upgrades that make your grooming routine smoother than ever.

Now that you know what to look for, try comparing offers across reputable comparison sites to find the best price per piece and the mix of styles that matches your life and hair. Happy styling!