During 2016 Kaepernick gained global media attention as a civil rights activist due to his refusal to stand at NFL games. His hair mostly in an Afro further making a political statement. This inadvertently caused major scrutiny around Colin Kaepernick braids as well as other aspects of his personal life.
Outside of the controversy this caused we have documented archives of him alternating to braids which our gallery shows.
Colin Kaepernick Braids and previous Hairstyles
Buzz Cut
During the 2011 NFL draft we saw the athlete sporting his relatively low buzz cut. This style would be the introduction to fans and media for the initial phase of his career. He began to grow his hair out years after.
Colin Kaepernick Afro
During the 60s and 70s the afro hairstyle became a powerful political symbol which reflected black pride and a rejection of police brutality. The effects of the civil rights movement continue to present itself through contemporary Athletes such as Kaepernick.
Outside of its political meaning his hair is well-rounded, thick, big aswell as being his signature look. This would set the foundation for all his braided hairstyles to follow.
Braids
Similar in appearance to Nipsey Hussle Braids, Kaepernick braids are achieved with installing Stitch cornrows.
Within this protective style the hair is sectioned into thin or thick horizontal lines as we can see below throughout the archives.
Colin Kaepernick Braids Highlighted in Netflix Series
In response to the controversy surrounding Kaepernick back in 2016 Netflix partnered with Kaepernick to tell his life story and journey.
Within the 1st episode entitled cornrows we see the young athlete’s decision to get cornrows whilst simultaneously having to deal with the reaction from his white parents and students.
Ava DuVernay (Break Down Importance of Cornrows within this piece.
How to Maintain your braids
Having braids installed is a great feeling as it gives you a new look and confidence. To ensure you maximise your hairs lifeline it’s imperative the proper care and maintenance is applied to your braids. We have provided some tips below to ensure that they stay neat, tidy and clean.
Make sure Braids aren’t too tight
If you experience the pain of tight braids, this is your body informing you they need to be loosened or redone. Not only do tight braids damage your hair but you increase your chances of getting braid bumps and infected follicles which we want to avoid. This could lead to temporary or permanent hair loss, something we want to avoid of course!
Moisturize your scalp
We like to explain it like this, your scalp is an extension of your skin, and therefore it requires hydration and care. A good moisturizing routine helps it keep your hair bouncy, defined and healthy, but most important not dry. Find one best suited for your hair type.
Oil your Scalp
We mostly forget to apply oil on our scalp as were too busy focusing on the ends and length, yet it’s our scalp that hair grows from, therefore an oil routine is super important and non-negotiable.
Protect your hair while sleeping with a Durag
The main purpose of Du-rags and head wraps is to prevent stray hairs from becoming loose or tangled which creates the messy look. Protecting your hair at night keeps it in check.
Ensure you take your Hair out every 6 Weeks
As we mentioned before you’re going to have to ensure you let your hair breathe, then washed and it’s been advised for years that the 6-week mark is the sweet spot.
This is nothing short of good hygiene! Your hair has been exposed to multiple layers of dirt and environmental factors which requires upkeep! Wash days are your best friend and it will repay you which shiny, clean hair.
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