This is a review of the best braided wigs in 2023.
Protective styles are a great way to protect your natural hair and they don’t always have to be painless or time-consuming to do.
My name is Lauren, and I have been braiding hair for over 10 years, and while I’ve worked in various salons, I have encountered so many types of braided hairstyles. However, when it comes to convenience, braided wigs are the way to go.
If you are looking for a braided wig that is lightweight and natural-looking, then the Beauart Knotless Box Braided Wig is the best overall choice. This wig is made with the best quality Japan-made synthetic fibers that offer a natural luster with volume and thickness.
They are also knotless box braids that are very much in trend now and look like your own natural hair being braided.
Of course, there are other options we will also explore to find the best braided wig for you. I will guide you through them one by one in this article.
Keep reading to learn more!
Quick Summary
- Beauart Knotless Box Braided Wigs (Best Overall)
- RDY 13×4 Hand Braided Lace Front Wig (Best for Cornrows)
- Shining Star Handmade Micro Braided Wig (Best for Color)
3 Best Braided Wigs Reviewed
In this section, check out my top recommendations for the best braided wigs with a detailed review for each option below.
Beauart Knotless Box Braided Wigs
- Key features: 13×6 swiss lace, knotless box braids, 100% handmade
- Volume: 14.9 oz
- Length: 30 inches
- Best for: Overall
This knotless box braided wig is definitely in trend and will look like it is coming from your scalp on its 13×6 swiss lace. You get 100% handmade braids with this wig that will last and give the impression that they are professionally done.
You can wear this wig up in a bun or down your back with its 30-inch length. They have a natural luster and just the right amount of fullness at 150% density.
There are baby hairs for a seamless blend into your hairline. It comes in a medium cap size that fits most head sizes. With a flexible and breathable mesh cap, combs, and adjustable straps, you get a comfortable and secure fit with this wig.
This wig is just about perfect. The only downside is that it only comes in black, which can be too harsh for lighter skin tones. If you have a different hair color other than black, then I will not recommend this wig for you.
RDY 13×4 Hand Braided Lace Front Wig
- Key features: hand braided cornrows, heat resistant fibers, pre-plucked
- Volume: 1.2 lbs
- Length: 18, 24 inches
- Best for: Cornrows
Having cornrows in the front and box braids in the back is a very detailed style and also very popular. With this RDY wig, you get just that on a 13×4 swiss lace without the pain of having hand-braided cornrows.
This wig is made with heat-resistant fibers, which makes it suitable for blow drying after you wash it. It is pre-plucked with baby hairs to give you a natural and realistic hairline that will blend perfectly into your scalp.
The density is 180% and is very full and thick throughout. This wig comes in 18 and 24 inches for a very natural look.
Unfortunately, the cornrows are only one style and cannot be changed. If you are looking for another detailed style, then this wig is not for you.
Shining Star Handmade Micro Braided Wig
- Key features: Pre-plucked, baby hairs, small braids
- Volume: 300g
- Length: 30 inches
- Best for: Color
This Shining Star braided wig offers original box braids with a pre-plucked hairline and baby hairs to lay across your edges. This wig offers small braids that look natural and fall to 30 inches long.
You will get fullness with this wig and best of all color. You can customize this wig to get ombre, highlights, or any other colors besides black.
The braids are very neat and the ends are braided to the tip, offering a very professional look. This wig is soft and comfortable to wear.
This wig only has a lace in the middle and doesn’t go from ear to ear. The braids are also more at the top and not in the back. If this is an issue for you, I would suggest trying another wig.
Best Braided Wigs – Buying Guides
Take into consideration the following factors for screening out the best braided wigs.
Hair Textures
Most braided wigs will come in synthetic hair like you would get with normal braids. Some vendors offer heat-resistant fibers, kanekalon, and premium fibers with their wigs.
Kanekalon is the top choice for extensions when it comes to braiding hair. However, if you plan on using heat with your braided wigs, you may want to try one with heat-resistant fibers.
Hair textures are just a preference and really depend on how you wear and use the wigs. It’s great to know the options out there just in case.
Color
Many braided wigs will come in natural colors or just one. It can be difficult to choose a braided wig when the color options don’t suit your natural hair color or skin tone.
You can always double-check with a vendor about making a wig that is closer to your hair color if it is not advertised. Sometimes they will have additional colors but only show the popular or best-selling ones.
Always ask if in doubt and see what alternatives are there for your next braided wig.
FAQs
Here are some commonly asked questions relating to braided wigs and their quick answers.
Can you sleep in braided wigs?
If possible, avoiding sleeping in your braided wigs is the best way to maintain your wig in its best condition.
However, if you have applied glue to your wig, you can wrap the wig with a silk scarf before going to bed.
How long does a braided wig last?
If you take good care of your braided wig, they can last for up to 2 years. If you have your braided wigs installed at a salon with glues and adhesives, it is advised you go there for a revisit every 4 to 5 weeks.
Why do braided wigs?
Braided hair is beautiful, but if you braid your hair too tight, you apply a lot of pressure to your natural hair. Which may cause your hair to break or even cause alopecia. A braided wig can protect your hair against extra tension and sore spots.
My Verdict
Braided wigs are a fun protective style that is lightweight, versatile, and long-lasting if you take good care of them. Having a quality braided wig can save you so much time and money from having to sit in a salon chair for hours.
I found that Beauart Knotless Box Braided Wigs is the best overall choice for braided wigs, it’s 100% handmade, lightweight, and natural looking.