So you’ve decided to cut off the dreads or the low fro and step into your grown man era. You’re rocking the clean low cut now, brushing in the waves, maybe even rocking the durag in the evening like it’s 2004 again. But there’s one big question staring you in the face—what pomade should you be using to get those waves spinning without making your hair feel like you dipped it in axle grease?
Back in the day, a lot of us started with Murray’s Superior Hair Dressing Pomade. It’s the OG. Thick, sticky, and capable of locking your hair down tighter than a vice grip. But here’s the problem—it’s too good at locking things down. You’d brush your hair, put on your durag, wake up with waves… and a head that felt like it was still rocking a full fro. Murray’s could weigh your hair down for days, sometimes weeks, if you didn’t hit it with some serious shampoo and patience.
Then there was Sportin’ Waves—the go-to for a lot of brothers in the ‘90s and early 2000s. It had a lighter feel, gave a clean shine, and didn’t leave your hair feeling like a brick. But now? It’s practically a relic. You can still find it if you’re lucky (or shop overseas), but for most folks, it’s harder to come by than a parking spot at a family reunion.
The wave game has evolved since then. Brothers are looking for products that lay the hair down, give definition, and keep the hair healthy. You want shine without the grease, hold without the helmet, and a smell that makes you want to lean in when someone compliments your cut. And if possible, you want products that wash out without a fight.
After digging into sales data, reviews, and community buzz, here are the top three wave products Black men are using right now—lightweight, modern formulas that will have you looking fresh, light, and clean with bussin’ waves.
1. SheaMoisture Men’s Waves Pomade (Argan Oil & Shea Butter)
If Murray’s is the old-school granddad of wave pomades, SheaMoisture Men’s Waves Pomade is the well-dressed younger cousin who showed up to the cookout in a tailored suit. This one’s built for the modern man who wants waves and hair health in one package.
Why it’s Dope:
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Lightweight hold that doesn’t cake up.
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Moisturizes while styling, so your hair stays soft and healthy.
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Natural oils help with scalp care and overall hair strength.
Key Ingredients: Argan oil (for shine and strength) and fair-trade shea butter (for moisture and softness).
Texture: Smooth and creamy—glides into the hair without that heavy drag you get from older petroleum-based pomades.
Best For: Brothers who want a natural look with healthy hair underneath. Works especially well if your hair tends to be dry or brittle.
Price & Where to Cop: Around $8–$10 at Walmart, Target, or Amazon.
Wave Pro Tip: Because this pomade is lighter, you’ll need to be consistent with your brush sessions to really set the waves in place. But the payoff is worth it—your hair will feel as good as it looks.
2. Ocean View Deep Waves Pomade (Water-Based)
Ocean View has made a big splash—pun intended—especially online. It’s one of the most recommended pomades in wave forums, TikTok tutorials, and YouTube wave checks.
Why it’s Dope:
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Strong hold without greasy buildup.
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Water-based, so it washes out easily.
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Keeps waves “seasick” deep while letting your hair breathe.
Key Ingredients: Beeswax for hold, plus natural oils for moisture.
Texture: Smooth with a slightly firm body—gives you control without that heavy, stuck-together feel.
Best For: Wavers who want that deep, tight pattern but hate the hassle of scrubbing out thick grease. Perfect if you’re brushing daily and want a product that refreshes clean.
Price & Where to Cop: Around $12–$15, mostly online (Amazon or the official brand site).
Wave Pro Tip: Use this when you’re in “wolfing” mode—growing your hair longer before a cut to deepen the wave pattern. Ocean View will hold the hair in place without clumping or suffocating it.
3. WaveBuilder “Spin’n Waves” Wave Cream
WaveBuilder has become the #1 waving brand for a reason—they give you the results without the mess. Spin’n Waves is their flagship cream, and it’s perfect if you want an everyday styler that’s easy to apply and rinse out.
Why it’s Dope:
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Lays waves down smooth without the heavy wax feel.
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Packed with proteins and nutrients to keep hair strong.
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Easy to brush in and wash out—no long shampoo battles.
Key Ingredients: Water-based blend with strengthening proteins.
Texture: Light cream that melts into the hair.
Best For: Everyday use, maintaining waves between cuts, and keeping hair healthy while styled.
Price & Where to Cop: $6–$8 at Walmart, beauty supply stores, or Amazon.
Wave Pro Tip: Great for beginners learning the wave game—it’s forgiving, easy to use, and won’t lock you into a heavy, greasy look.
Final Word
Today’s wave pomades are built for style and hair health. SheaMoisture Men’s Waves Pomade gives you conditioning and a natural shine. Ocean View Deep Waves Pomade brings the deep, tight pattern without the grease. WaveBuilder Spin’n Waves offers an easy, everyday solution that keeps your hair healthy and defined.
Choose one based on your hair type, your routine, and how much hold you want—and then brush like your life depends on it. Your waves will thank you.
With the right product, a disciplined routine, and a little patience, you’ll have your 360s on swim—fresh, light, and clean.
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