50 Best Tattoos For Men: Inspiring Ink Ideas

When at first started getting tattoos for men, guys snuck off their military ships at the ports and usually opted for standard pieces of flash art. Some of these well-known designs included roses, pink-up girl tattoos, tigers, and let us not forget the heart tattoos paying tribute to Mom. Because the world of art is always evolving, tattoo styles for men have become personalized, custom, and unique. Take a look at some of our favorite tattoos for men. They’re sexy, masculine, and worth all the pain.

Crow Tattoo

@koray_karagozler

There are many meaningful tattoos for men but a crow tattoo is arguably one of the most popular. And there is a good reason for this. The inked crow most often signifies wisdom. But it has other meanings too. It is also a harbinger of transformation. Thus, if some change is coming your way or has already happened to you, you can never go wrong with the crow tattoos design for men to demonstrate it.

Wolf Tattoo

@robcarvalhoart

Feeling a little wild? Why not pay homage to the animal kingdom and choose a tattoo style that roars? Lions, wolves, tigers, and bears…they’re all a call to your ferocious and brave spirit.

Koi Fish Tattoo

@lukovnikovtattoo

For China and Japan, Koi fish means much more than just a fish. So, when a person gets a Koi fish tattoo, it suggests that they are determined, strong and persevering. What is more, thanks to a great number of species existing, it can give you plenty of unique tattoo ideas. The color of the Koi fish tattoo matters too. If you get it in red, it will symbolize desire and love, orange or yellow is believed to bring luck and wealth, while blue is linked to reproduction and masculinity.

Skull Tattoo

@robcarvalhoart

For the classic design enthusiast, a skull tattoo never fails. Firefighters and policemen often choose this design because it’s a reminder of their occupational risks. Skull tattoos are also a popular men’s tattoo ideas within the biker crowd.

Music Tattoo

@robcarvalhoart

Music tattoos for men are a great way to show your passion for good sound. To get it inked, you should not necessarily be a musician yourself. You may be into music even without playing a musical instrument. There are multiple music tattoo ideas men can choose to embellish their bodies, like musical notes or instruments, phrases from their favorite songs or even their music idols.

Mountain Tattoo

@neskatattoo

Guys who prefer tattoos that are meaningful should opt for a mountain tat. While it may represent various things, the most common message that mountain guy tattoos deliver is that you are adventurous, keen on traveling and determined. So, if you have an accomplishment that you want to have visual evidence of, a mountain tattoo is a good idea.

Feather Tattoo

@irenebogachuk

Who sometimes does not want to be as light as a feather to fly high up in the sky from all the troubles and bustles of everyday life? If you are a dreamer and looking for good tattoo ideas, then a feather tattoo is your sure bet. Feathers may also represent spiritual tattoos. Christians believe that it symbolizes virtue and Indigenous peoples of the US give it a spirit and soul meaning.

Small Tattoo

@chloejanetattoos

When it comes to the choice of the best tattoos, the size does not really matter. There are plenty of small tattoo ideas for men that look cool and impactful. Inking just a small image is also a great option for first tattoo ideas when you are not sure whether it is going to work for you or if you will be able to handle the pain.

Bug Tattoo For Men

@ lukovnikovtattoo

This tattoo features a detailed beetle design filled with vibrant graffiti-style artwork. The combination of natural and urban elements creates a striking, modern piece that stands out for its creativity and bold expression.

Simple Tattoo

@chloejanetattoos

Simple tattoos are your way to go if you prefer the minimalistic style and do not want to pay many visits to your tattoo artist. Because they can be performed in one session, you will be able to flaunt your freshly inked tat as soon as it heals. Besides, you will most definitely end up with the desired result, as simple tattoos for guys do not require any special skills on your tattooist’s part.

Lion Tattoo

@lukovnikovtattoo

A lion symbolizes power and strength, which is why it is one of those tattoo designs men choose to emphasize their masculinity and vigor. It can be a realistic image or something more creative, depending on your preferences and the skillfulness of the person inking you. Also, you can make it in color for a bolder image or keep it low key by going for black ink only.

Wings Tattoo

@robcarvalhoart

Are you a person who values freedom? Why not express it by means of popular tattoos for men? You can hardly think of a better option to do this than getting a wings tattoo. The best places to get wings are considered your chest and back, as they allow you to get a symmetrical image.

Dog Tattoo

@robcarvalhoart

A dog tattoo is a popular form of body art that showcases a person’s love and connection with their canine companion, often featuring realistic or stylized depictions of dogs. These tattoos can symbolize loyalty, companionship, and the deep bond between humans and their pets.

Compass Tattoo

@robcarvalhoart

A compass is one of the best tattoo ideas for men who travel a lot. It can denote a really deep meaning, like wherever you go, it will always show you the way back home. Also, it can be paired with some cool quote tattoos for men for added emphasis.

Scorpio Tattoo

@firstjing

You should not necessarily be born under the Scorpio sign to get a scorpion tat. Regardless of its placement, it will create a strong impression. So, getting one guarantee that your tattoo will not go unnoticed.

3D Tattoo

@evgenymel

Ankle tattoos for men look especially impressive when they feature 3D images. Not every tattooist is able to deliver such an intricate design, so you should take care to search for a very skillful one. Also, keep in mind that 3D tattoos require quite a lot of time and effort to create, so you should get ready to commit to it.

Heart Tattoo

@lukovnikovtattoo

Featured prominently is a unique tattoo design that combines a heart and skull motif, surrounded by colorful flowers and letters, showcasing the creativity and personal significance often found in men’s tattoos.

Tiger Tattoo

@amanda.mypreciousink

Tigers are beautiful and majestic. They are usually associated with strength, supremacy and independence. Thus, a tiger tattoo will also have a powerful vibe no matter where it is or how it is depicted. You may go for a solo image covering your whole limb or match it to other tattoos ideas.

Owl Tattoo

@uncl_paul_knows_upk

If wisdom and intelligence are your top priorities, then you can convey thia by means of a tattoo. And an owl imagery is one of the best ways to do it. The size, design and color are less important in this case, as the meaning comes first. Get a huge owl on your whole back or ink a barely there owl on the inner part of your finger, you are free to choose absolutely any owl tattoo style.

Elephant Tattoo

@koray_karagozler

The elephant never forgets. An elephant tattoo depicts the strength and courage of this gentle beast. You carry the weight of the world on your feet. An elephant tattoo makes an excellent back piece, shoulder blade tattoo, and for the (so inclined) an intimate design that hints towards your manliness.

Rose Tattoo Men

Don’t call them girly. A rose is one of the most popular flower tattoo designs for men. You can incorporate a rose into a black and grey tattoo sleeve, add the name of your beloved, or place one right on your kneecap for an incredibly cool look.

Star Tattoo

Often serving to offer balance, guidance, and protection, star tattoos can be simplistic or can cover vast areas of the body. Think of constellations, the galaxy, and shooting stars, and find a place to ink a few of these shining symbols.

Cross Tattoo

Wear your faith on your sleeve, on your chest as a rosary, or even on your neck. A cross is one of the most popular Christian tattoo designs and will serve as a constant reminder of your beliefs.

Eagle Tattoo

@irenebogachuk

The eagle signifies freedom, prey, and bravery. A popular patriotic tattoo design for veterans, the eagle is an excellent tattoo design for those with a warrior spirit. Eagle tattoos reflect the chaotic and hectic rhythm of the modern world. It reminds of a gigantic comic book featuring numerous vivid caricatures of animals and other incredible images. We have super cool tattoos for men. This one is on top of them all for sure, don`t you agree?

Dragon Tattoo

@kottattoo.studio

The mythical dragon makes an excellent full backpiece design for men. Whether you’re paying tribute to your Chinese astrological symbol or are a fan of Asian style tattoos, a dragon is a fierce and fiery choice.

Snake Tattoo

They slither and they can depict evil, but that doesn’t stop the popularity of a serpent tattoo. Wrap one on your bicep or leg for a sexy tattoo design that’s quite tempting. Here is one of the most inspirational tattoos we have come across lately. As we said before, forearm tattoos form a very unique and wholesome piece of design and this nun tattoo with a bit of horror air is a vivid example of this fact.

Japanese Tattoo

@robcarvalhoart

Japan has been a source of inspiration for many industries and tattoo is no exception. Irezumi, a Japanese tattoo style, is still very popular. Moreover, it has set off many modern takes on traditional artworks. It is characterized by extensive designs, covering your whole body, except for the head.

Portraiture

@the_bloody_butcher

Portraiture never seems to lose its popularity. Getting a person who is significant to you inked on your body is one of the highest degrees of admiration. Renditions are detailed and realistic, with a play of color or monochrome, which allows for a great variety of unique tattoo designs.

Horror Tattoo

@lukovnikovtattoo

Almost any sketch can be designed in accordance with the Horror Tattoo Style. A tattoo artist can use any tchniques and combinations. Yet, the most popular are those made with detailed and realistic precision. There are no restrictions when it comes to the Horror Style. You are allowed to ink any part of your body using any color palette. Yet, images are usually deep, dark and high-contrast. Also, black and gray horror tattoos for men are known to be very popular.

Blackwork

Blackwork has origins in the ancient Tribal Tattoo Style. Images consist of bold and thick lines forming a wide range of geometric patterns. As the style never stops to evolve, more elaborate designs and shapes are appearing. Obviously, Blackwork warrior tattoos are not for guys who like minimalistic style. Thus, if you are looking for ideas for small tattoos for men, then this is not an option for you. However, in case you are ready to adorn your body with these amazing tattoos, then you can rest assured that you will not go unnoticed.

Biomechanical Tattoo

@uncl_paul_knows_upk

When opting for a Biomechanical tattoo, you can rest assured that it will come out unique and personalized. The main feature of the style is that the image is adjusted to the curves of your body. Not only that, but the tattoo looks as if your skin hides pieces of machinery underneath, which gives a very strong, out-of-this-world impression.

Trash Polka

@uncl_paul_knows_upk

You will not confuse Realistic Trash Polka with any other tattoo style, as it has very distinctive features. The structure resembles a collage, with elaborate imagery borrowed from the press, books and other printed sources.

Watercolor Mens Tattoo Ideas

@koray_karagozler

The Watercolor Tattoo Style is all the rage now, being especially popular with millennials. As you can guess from its name, the style is characterized by pastel-like imagery and blurry colors. Although it may look pretty easy at first sight, this effect is actually quite hard to achieve. Yet, the final result fully pays off with admiring gazes of everyone who sees these masterpieces.

Tribal Tattoo

Being the world’s oldest tattoo style, Tribal tattoo designs feature a number of versatile styles as well as worldwide traditions. Despite looking pretty similar for a common person, a real pro will easily tell the difference between Maori, Polynesian and Marquesan tattoos. Still, they all have some similar features, such as intricate patterns inked in black shades.

Indian Tattoo

@irenebogachuk

Simple but beautiful Indian tattoos for men have a lot of meaning. We love how attractive these tattoos look on the skin.

A sleeve tattoo is a great option for guys who are not afraid to stand out in the crowd. If you want to express yourself through mens tattoos, then there is hardly a better way for you. For a start, you can try shoulder tattoos and when you decide that you like the way it comes out, you can proceed with a forearm tattoo.

Chicano Men’s Tattoos

Not only was the Chicano Style influenced by many different cultures but it itself has had a great impact on various styles. Initially, it emerged in prison, with artists depicting missed and loved things, using those limited resources that were in their possession. Chicano tattoos typically feature thin lines and use a black and gray color palette, resulting in outstanding designs.

Lettering Tattoo

@chloejanetattoos

Lettering tattoos have been very popular in recent years. They usually feature movie and philosophers quotes, significant postulates, names or any other important phrases inked in the most intricate fonts. Yet, the color palette is usually limited to black and gray colors.

Religion Tattoo For Men

@ksuarrow_tattoo

Christian tattoos for men are not a simple image on their bodies. In most cases, they have a deep sacral meaning. Besides, Christian tattoos offer you a multitude of design options, from crosses and Bible verses to icons and faces of the saint.

Minimalism

@obcarvalhoart

A minimalistic design makes a mysterious and simple guy tattoo. You can choose from a geometric shape, lines, or a scripted verse to define your physique in subtle art. (Just be ready to explain its meaning to everyone!)

Greek Style

Serving as an ode to mythical Greek figures and creatures, Greek tattoos are powerful and carry significant meaning. Some of the most popular Greek God tattoos include Apollo, Hermes and Ares. If you’re a tattoo artist, why not celebrate your craft and draw up your very own Hephaestus tattoo? This God of artisans can help inspire you to keep drawing any of these awesome tattoos for men.

Samurai Tattoo

@barberking_kh

A Samurai tattoo is one of the most popular forearm tattoo ideas among men for good reason. It signifies power, courage and honor. So, if these virtues resonate with you, then why not get this elite Japanese warrior inked on your body? The forearm is one of the best placements for it, as it allows you to show off and hide your tat whenever you want.

Warrior Tattoo

Yet, to highlight your strength and masculinity, you do not have to stick to any specific type of warrior tattoos. Choose whatever style you like, be it a mighty Viking or a noble ninja. As for the placement, it is up to you. However, it often requires more space, so consider it as one of your mens forearm tattoos.

Praying Hands Tattoo

@robcarvalhoart

In case you are devoted to higher forces and want to emphasize it, praying hand tattoos men or women – it does not really make a big difference in this case – are always a great idea. You are free to choose any style, size and placement. It all depends on your preferences.

Anime Tattoo Ideas

@uncl_paul_knows_upk

Are you a fan of the anime genre? Take your hobby to another level by getting one of these cool hand tattoos inked on your arm, chest or another part of the body. Though, we bet you have your favorite character, so you may simply ask your tattoo artist for it.

Gothic Tattoos

@robcarvalhoart

Want something mystical and unique? You can never go wrong with gothic inspired tattoos ideas for men. Yet, make sure to find a really skillful tattooist, as they will need a lot of experience and a sturdy hand to deliver the desired image. Alternatively, you can get something small and easy first and then upgrade it to a whole masterpiece.

Tarot Card Tattoo

@ksuarrow_tattoo

If you believe in a tarot reading, then you may want to have yours imprinted on your body. It would be great if the person tattooing you also offers some spiritual practices that can be done during your inking session. Tarot cards make really cool arm tattoos with a deep meaning.

Leaf Tattoo

@chloejanetattoos

You should not think that leaf tattoos for men are inked just for aesthetic purposes. While they can, this is not necessarily the case. Sometimes getting leaf back, chest, arm or wrist tattoos for men can be associated with freedom from any social standards, vitality, the power of nature, etc.

Sun & Moon

@chloejanetattoos

This tattoo symbolizes the balance between opposites, such as day and night or masculine and feminine energies. This design can be both visually striking and deeply meaningful, representing harmony, duality, and the interconnectedness of all things.

Airplane Tattoo

@alisa_tesla_art

In case you are fond of traveling, you will love these airplane arm tattoos for men. They are made for adventurous people who choose to take risks and achieve their goals, who know what they want in life and who make the most out of it. Sounds like you? Then an airplane tat is your sure bet.

African Tattoos

 

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There are plenty of ways to pay tribute to your heritage with tattoos being one of the most popular. African back tattoos for men allow them to tell a lot about their legacy. Plus, as there is plenty of room to incorporate even the most extensive tattoo with a lot of detailing, you can give it multiple meanings.

Motorcycle Tattoos

@robcarvalhoart

Your love for freedom, speed and risk should be rewarded and motorcycle chest tattoos for men are one of the best ways to do it. After all, your iron horse is most likely already in your heart, so it makes sense to get it tattooed close to it. But even if you do not have a bike yet, this may be a great method to manifest it.

How To Get A Tattoo

No matter what design you choose, you should set a few rules for yourself that you have to follow before to get a male tattoo. In our opinion, they will get you as close as possible to having the tattoo of your dreams.

What would you like your tattoo to be like? A beautiful picture of male tattoos that will be your own idea of creativity and imagination, or you would prefer for it to have a deeper meaning? If the last option is what you think of then how much are you ready to show with its help about your personality and inner world? In what form would you like your idea to be? We believe that answering these main questions may help you a lot with figuring out what type of tattoo you would like to get an understanding of how far you can go with creativity.

Tattoos for men have come a long way from their old school ways. New techniques, colorful inks, and increased artist skills have made the world of tattooing exciting and limitless. Although classic flash will always be cool, why not make a more personal statement with the following tattoo ideas?

Deciding on a tattoo takes some thought. After all, you’ll likely be wearing your design for a lifetime. The most attractive tattoo designs accentuate your best features and aren’t chosen on a whim. While you can have tattoos removed through a laser removal process, why go through all that? Many people love the look of tattooed men. So long as you can think it, your artist can ink it. Check out some of our favorite tattoos for men.

Choose The Right Tattoo Artist

What do we mean with this advice? Well, not every tattoo artist is the professional that will be able to ink your skin with a desirable idea, so you have to be responsible here. Find the one that has for sure worked with the kind of technique you would like to have and there will be no difficulty for both of you in understanding each other.

Listen To The Professionals

If your tattoo artist asks you to do something or gives you some advice, be sure to do it all. The person who has worked in this sphere for sure knows some inside secrets that will make the process of healing, for example, faster and less painful.

Select Something With Meaning

Whether you like it to be your main goal that you see in a hot tattoos or no, you should definitely consider your tattoo having a meaning. A personalized tattoo is far more significant for your heart through all your life than a picture you just liked and decided to ink into your skin.

Play It Safe

Be a responsible grown-up man who thinks of his own future. Choose the place for your tattoo and also think if its meaning is appropriate for your future career.

Don’t Worry About The Pain

You may have hurt that the process of tattooing can hurt a bit. However, it is not the end of the world. A bit uncomfortable but bearable. Even if it hurts in sensitive places where skin is thinner, well the results are worth it.

Take Care Of Your Tattoo

Don`t forget to look after your tattoo and do the routine that your tattoo artist advised you to do. Otherwise, the quality of the technique may become smudged, and you can easily get an infection that is not the best thing that can happen to a sensitive spot like that.

Does A Tattoo Make You More Attractive?

Well, it is one of the most demanded questions on the web. Women seem to split into two sides. Those who are crazy about men covered with pictures and  who don`t care or don`t like them that much.

If you want your body to be covered with tattoos, a body suit idea is right here for you. Isn`t it marvelous? Those who look for stomach tattoos for men should consider getting it too.

There are pretty many places for leg tattoo designs for men, from your hip to the ankle. A calf is one of the best areas to get tattoos for men, as they will wrap around intricately. Besides, the space tattoos will cover is quite extensive. Leg tattoos can be both simple and elaborate. No matter what kind you are going to choose, the most awesome tattoos should express your personality. So keep that in mind, when picking out the design for your leg. If you are a complete newbie, then we recommend starting with simple yet cool tattoo ideas.

FAQs

REFERENCES:

• A tattoo is a form of body modification where a design is made by inserting ink, dyes and pigments, either indelible or temporary, into the dermis layer of the skin to change the pigment. Source