The age-old understanding that the details make the difference still rings true in 2026. As important now as it’s ever been. The demands for your time and attention are fierce and many, but don’t let ritual and routine get lost in the shuffle.
Small luxuries lend themselves to major improvements. Or at least they can add a sense of calm to the ever-amplified hustle and bustle. That goes for your grooming routine as well as the thought behind your next #OOTD.
In the same way you lace up your boots with care, cuff your jeans just-so, and pick out the perfect shawl cardigan for a brisk winter’s morn, I’m of the mind you should resolve to pay more attention to what goes into your hair these days, too.
The best pomades for men are leading the charge: Better hold, better styling potential, more available options than ever before.
Want more volume or more hold? Want a pomade with shine, but not too much shine? Spoiler. First entry has you covered.
Want something that’s both enriching and aesthetically pleasing? There are those pesky details I was talking about. Even the best pomades can bring something to the table (or rather, the cabinet) in matters of both packaging and the ingredients within.
Look for organic or naturally sourced ingredients where possible, and note the level of shine (matte finish, shine finish, and so on) and the level of hold (strong, medium, and onward) based on your desired look.
The best men’s pomades might go a long way towards that “new year, new me” feeling. It’s a small upgrade to your daily routine that makes a big difference in your 2026 haircare.
Photo via Patricks
Best Overall Pomade: Patricks Matte Finish Medium Hold Pomade
I’m not entirely sure what pomade James Bond uses, but if we had to guess, he might invest in the utterly exceptional Patricks Matte Finish M2 Pomade. It hits all the right notes for most guys: A matte finish that’s well-suited for everyday wear and crisp looks, with a medium hold that doesn’t overdo it. Best of all is the ultra-sleek, modern and streamlined packaging. As cool to look at as it is to use.
It’s not a bargain-bin buy, but then again, if you’re paying good money for a top-quality cut, why not splurge a little on a small luxury this year? Note that Patricks offers a variety of holds and shine factors for those who want a dressier look.
Photo via Church California
Best Pomade for Volume: Church California Coastal Creme Pomade
A lighter hold pomade can work wonders when it comes to adding volume, according to Ryan Gonzalez, the owner and founder of all-natural men’s grooming line and barbershop Church California. A pomade with a light hold is “great for everyday, touchable hair that you can restyle by running your hands through your hair throughout the day,” Gonzalez told me. Lighter hold pomades in general “provide a natural look, a perfect fit for people who don’t want to look like they’re trying too hard,” Gonzalez added.
An added bonus. You might even say all the cool kids, or at least those in the know, are using Church California’s wonderful lineup of product (note the eye-catching packaging and color schemes!). Take it from this writer: Church California product boasts longevity, exceptional scent quality, and the kind of performance that’ll draw compliments towards your ‘do.
Photo via Blind Barber
Best Pomade for Short Hair: Blind Barber 90 Proof Pomade
There’s a wide world of pomades out there, and what’s curious seems to be that (at least in my humble opinion), some pomades can work well for both short and medium-length hair. While those with short hair might be tempted to opt for a slick gel of sorts, pomade is the more refined choice, especially this number, built with a strong hold and matte finish.
Used in ultra-cool Blind Barber locations from coast to coast, beer hops add flair to this water-based pomade, which also forgoes artificial dye and sulfates. The next best thing to getting a cut at a Blind Barber shop might be using this pomade.
Photo via Uppercut Deluxe
Best Pomade for Medium Hair: Uppercut Deluxe Matte Pomade
Medium hair can be tricky to style with a pomade, as can longer hair, make no bones about it. And yet, if you’re prone to flyaways or unruly hair, or if you simply want to add some shape and control to a wavy, medium-length look or to a major set of curls, a matte pomade might be just what your barber prescribes.
Particularly a matte pomade with a medium hold, like this fantastic-smelling Uppercut Deluxe pomade, should suit your follicles.
The brand takes an old-school barbershop approach to grooming, right down to its bold red-and-black tin designs, which can prove fun to have around as you shape up your next classic hairstyle. Uppercut Deluxe even sells special combs to work the pomade through your ‘do as evenly as possible.
Photo via Jack Henry
Best Pomade for Long Hair: Jack Henry Hair Clay
Using the best pomade for men with long hair requires a delicate touch. Just the right amount of control, volume, and texture make for a nicely coiffed look without overdoing it. Of course, mixing and matching the amount of pomade used in your hair depends on your look. A slicked-back pompadour is different than a beachy, wavy look.
As with any grooming routine, a Goldilocks-esque balance is key, so search for a just-right pomade that amps up the volume and texture.
Sea salt sprays can also prove helpful in this regard, but every guy needs a great pomade in his arsenal, yes? Jack Henry’s hair clay resists humidity and sweat, packing in antioxidants that work well with your hair and scalp. It’s also made naturally in California, a perfect place to summon some inspiration for your next long-haired and surf-approved look.
