Shoulder Tattoos For Men
Shoulder tattoos look really cool and amazing because of the new look and style it gives your shoulder. They are really attractive and help add appeal to your personality. This is the first and most popular reason to get shoulder tattoos for men; to make the shoulder look attractive and very appealing.
As the name suggests, these tattoos are very curvy and sharp, and depict many things to the tattoo holder and people looking at it. These tattoos have various origins and come in plain black ink or vivid colors which all make the tattoo look really cool.
Men have been inking cool shoulder tattoos since ancient time; but today there is an increased popularity and demand for these tattoos. It is presumed that in the past, tattoos on shoulder were considered a masculine tattoo to be sported only by men. There are of course also various reasons and causes for this demand for shoulder tattoos on guys.
Increased visibility and designs for men
The second reason to get a tattoo on the shoulder is because it is both very visible and can also be totally concealable. You need not walk out half naked to display them; you can show off your tattoo when you are bare-chested at the beach or while exercising at the gym. And if you are in a strict work environment, you can always cover and hide the tattoo with a full sleeve or half sleeve shirt.
The location is another reason to get some cool shoulder tattoo designs. The large shoulder area makes it the perfect location for creating a great masterpiece. Designs for men shoulder tattoos vary from intricate designs to tribal designs from African or Indian tribes to Celtics.
It’s however suggested to get a large sized tattoo for your shoulder, especially if you are looking for something tribal or floral with intricate petal designs. However it’s better to avoid excessive tribal tattoos as you will get bored with it pretty soon.
Small sized tattoos with intricate designs are not suggested as they look messy after some years. Wings are also a popular choice amongst men which is why they are fascinated by wings of dragonflies, angels, fairies, butterflies and some birds too.
Muscular and well-built men should get dark and large men tattoos on their shoulder like dragon and tribal concept of designs. Depending on your personality, you can also opt for Celtic and zodiac designs.
Shoulder Tattoo for Increased flexibility
Flexibility is the fourth reason for a shoulder tattoo. By flexibility, it means the design can be easily extended later on, if and when required. Shoulder tats have lots of meaning and need not always be big. The tattoo can be used to create a part of a shoulder sleeve tattoo or just have a smaller and more meaningful tattoo.
Another reason for men getting front shoulder tattoos is to have something important representing an important part of their lives tattooed on it like their college Alma matter, a military affiliation or even a club or group membership.
Now that you know the many reasons men opt for shoulder tattoos, you also know why its better you get yourself a shoulder tattoo for men if you ever opt to get a tattoo!
Check out some great shoulder tattoo images for men
Shoulder tattoos are all the rage, and for good reason. They look amazing, and this is the perfect example of that. The beautiful and intricate design filled with bold, strong lines is what captures the eye. Moreover, the melange of shapes and styles in black ink is truly beguiling.
Tattoos are all about creativity and uniqueness. So while intricate black ink designs and fantastic creatures are extremely popular, this unique tattoo steals the show. With splashes of color and beautiful shades in a circular black background, this one is perhaps one of the best shoulder tattoos out there!
Here is a simple yet captivating tattoo. Rather than covering the entire shoulder, the well spaced out design has a charm of its own. Done in black ink, it includes some unique patterns meant to bring out the contrast between the skin and ink. This, in turn, places an emphasis on the beautiful tattoo.
While different designs are all the rage, here is a gorgeous phoenix flying across the shoulder. Done in black, each of the feathers is shaded to maximize its impact. Extremely realistic, this is a tattoo sure to make heads turn.
While dragons, birds, and skulls are extremely popular tattoo ideas, wolves aren't to be left far behind. Popularized by their wild, free nature, this one depicts a more dangerous side. As he appears to be letting out a howl, the wolf head, shaded in black, gray, and blue, is bordered by beautiful red roses. The bright red forms a strong contrast with the rest of the image, making the wolf stand out.
Here, the skin of metal armor upon the red insides brings out the warrior in you. Moreover, the sharp contrast between the black and grey armor along with the red and black insides is what makes this tattoo distinctive.
This beauty covers part of the upper arm along with the shoulder, and is truly a work of art. Designed to perfection, the intricacy is astounding. Starting from the inner corners of the circular design to the outer bubbles, the bold lines, strong shading, and fearless use of black is sure to make people do a double take.
A tattoo for the traveler, this one emphasizes the true meaning of wanderlust. It has the essence of the sailor because of the rope wrapped around the shoulder, but with the world map in the background and the compass in the foreground, it works just as well for those bitten by the wander-bug. It is shaded in earthy tones, and depicts the power of the world itself.
Primarily captured in cool colors, it shows a fish about to devour its prey. Since it portrays a fish, it's hardly a wonder that most of it has been created in shades of blue, but the bright red of the worm on the hook is what makes this a brilliant tattoo design. It depicts the unknown danger that lurks ahead of ignorance and greed.
Unleash the warrior within with this incredible tattoo. Here, the shoulder sees the chain mail along with the various parts of the armor in grey and black. The insignia as well as some intricately carved designs are present upon this in red, creating a sharp contrast. Moreover, the small axe in the middle of it all is what shows the detail that has gone into this shoulder artwork.
More shoulder tattoos for men on the next page...
This 3-D design is perfect for anyone looking for a great shoulder tattoo idea. If you aren't looking to tattoo something in particular, and small intricate designs aren't for you, the perfect shading in this might be the way to go. The dark tones as well as the bold design make this a great tattoo idea for men.
Designs are captivating. They can fascinate and enthrall the viewer, and this one is no different. With a skillfully crafted turtle swimming in the pool of designs, this black ink tattoo is stunning. The simple lotus patterns at the top and bottom only add to its astounding charm.
Hyper-realistic, this is what tattoos are all about - letting your creativity and imagination run free. Seeing the lion on the shoulder, you can almost hear the roar escape its mouth. Entirely in black ink, the careful shading, strong strokes, and wonderful detailing have come together to capture a moment in time.
Eagles are majestic, powerful, and the ultimate predators. They also make for stunning tattoos such as this one. Shaded in black, you can see a realistic creation of the bird as it comes close to capturing its prey - talons out!
Simple black ink designs can look downright awful when not created and placed properly. This, however, is an example of tattooing done right. With the tail of the design extending onto the chest, the ink doesn't clutter the shoulder. In fact, the circular patch of bare skin within only emphasizes the perfection of the tattoo itself.
This one is a great idea for men looking to get an extended shoulder tattoo. It covers the shoulder as well as the back. It comprises of the combination of simple lines and strokes, along with shading which gives it a 3-D effect. The shading also gives it a metallic texture, while the reddish-brown tint simply emphasizes the tattoo, differentiating it from bare skin.
Designs can be anything, ranging from fish to dragons, and even scorpions. This unique tattoo depicts the shoulders with beautifully detailed black ink epaulets. These also sport a small skull, right on the edge. Moreover, the two holy figures on the chest create a band of tattoos, immediately drawing all eyes upon them.
Here is something every fighter needs - an armor. This one is clearly broken (perhaps because of a previous battle), but has been sufficiently patched. Since all of us have been through a battle of sorts in life, this tattoo is an incredible symbol of survival. The simple dark shades around the edges of the design depict that the skin itself is your armor.
A unique animal, here you can see the octopus in all its magnificence as it stays stuck to the shoulder. A beautiful tattoo, it is a cool idea for anyone who loves and admires these sea creatures.
Emphasize your muscles with cleverly placed tattoos. Overdoing the ink will only hide all that's beautiful underneath. Instead, this tattoo achieves the perfect balance of ink and bare skin to show off the muscles as they flex.
More shoulder tattoos for men on the next page...
The fire-breathing awe of this fearsome beast has been bewitchingly captured onto the shoulders. The dark background along with the detailed scales and shaded face make the Chinese dragon come alive in front of your eyes.
While designs are amazing, this tattoo adds a little more to them. Here, you see worn out designs that span the shoulders and upper chest. Simple shapes have been transformed into a captivating tattoo idea with this unique twist.
There is no doubt that body armor tattoos look incredible. This one, however, takes this to a whole new level. The detail within the image such as the squares, carvings, and twirled lines, all give it a 3-D appeal, whereas the red and brown shading ensures that the image comes to life. Instead of becoming a part of you, this one stands out, like an armor protecting you.
The bold shapes which come together to form this beautiful design shows just how attractive shoulder tattoos can be. The black ink, intricate motifs, and perfect harmony of all the little parts within is what makes this rather large tattoo one of the most beautiful creations.
Another twist on the regular designs, this one is done entirely in black. With proper shading, many of the patches look as though they have been impressed into the skin. Moreover, while the design itself is mesmerizing, it is the skull that will capture your eye.
This shoulder tattoo shows that simple can be beautiful. Clear black lines and a color detail at the bottom are a perfect combination of a subtle and powerful design. Nothing too shabby, but a very beautiful tattoo.
What is absolutely awesome with this tattoo is the fingerprints, but also a dynamic combination of various types of graphic techniques at the same time. Despite the different patterns, they fit together perfectly. The cherry on top is of course the nicely incorporated typography.
Nice shoulders can get even nicer with a great tattoo. I think we all agree on that? And a wide male shoulder can beautifuly support a geometric and eternal sun symbol. Sun has always been the source of energy, so if you want a powerful symbol, this one should definitely be your choice.
Having shadows inked on your chest and arm can be a good thing, but having shadows within you, not so much. For every warrior with a dark past, this kind of a shoulder tattoo can be a great way to overcome the inner darkness.
For anyone brave enough to overcome this amount of ink on his shoulder, this tattoo is worth the hours spent on the chair. The great detail with the 3D effect on the skin-steel border, it really gives you the feeling of a second skin.
More shoulder tattoos for guys on the next page...
If you're looking for shoulder tattoos that would seem lighter as the feather and yet powerful, this one is the winner for sure. So many lines, so many patterns and such a light-end effect. It looks as if you would be only covering your shoulder with a paper napkin.
The classic geometric style tattoo, but with enough space to breathe. The skin under and between the spaces is free and it looks very classy any nicely done with the details. Also the feather on the chest is very nicely incorporated into the whole concept.
This one is for all the tree huggers, green warriors and other earthly creatures. Definitely a very organic design and despite a lot of direct black ink, it still feels very natural and tuned in. The brown color nicely highlights the organic feel and you can almost smell the forest.
Very straightforward and clean. If you like things to be transparent and in order, you probably like this tattoo as well. I would though reccomend it to people with firm body lines since the whole concept can loses its purpose if your shoulder isn't fit for such a design.
Classic maori geometrics. This tattoo style is probably one of the most common and yet so timeless. I bet that neither the tattoo masters, neither the clients every get tired of such a beauty. It definitely represents strenghts and confidence.
Tribal motives are very popular especially with men. The clear lines with geometric curves give you a certain serenity when you look at the design. The simple single color ink is nothing more and nothing less of what you need and you have said it all.
Somewhat a combination of tribal design with midevial touch and a lot of shadowing. It shows you that the owner is prone to detail and likes things to be real. Despite armour look, he is prepared to reveal the inside for a fair price.
If you want to go a step further from the classic skelleton, why not add it a bit of a funny, gypsy feel. This is definitely not a classic dark style, which obviously is reflecting the owners fun side. And what would the diamonds in his skelleton's eyes say, if they could speak?
The second skin tattoos are always very powerful, no matter what anyone says. And if you add a symbol for radioactivity, others may very well ask what on earth was the guy thinking. But hey, who are they to judge. The piece of ink and shadow art on your body is very well worth the look.
An unusual piece of ink for sure. But it may be that you are an academic artists or a painter, why not have a piece of art on your shoulder, instead on the canvas? Maybe your muse has left and you can not get her out of your mind. Or maybe you are just looking for a different style.
More shoulder tattoos for men on the next page...
Another tribal design, but this time very gentle and light because of less ink. And not everyone need a big heavy black ink on their body, especially if your body is already strong. This tattoo fits perfectly on the big shoulder as it feels like the lines are dancing around the skin.
The hawk is a powerful animal that represents determination, clear goals and strong mind. This beautiful tattoo is placed on the shoulder but continues to the chest where it spreads the wings. Also a great effect even if you're facing the person directly en face.
A slightly different version of a hawk, but very beautiful. In this case there are more colors used and the placement is completely different. With its face facing forward, this can symbolises the straightforwardness of the owner or even honesty and openness.
If you are looking for a combination of maori style and geometrical spirals, but with less amount of ink, this one is your winner. Despite a big surface it covers, it has slightly modest design but not being dull at all. The spirals add dynamics.
Tattos can mean many things, to many people. What is the story behind the shocking second skin revelation depends on the owner. Many times it may carry a deeper meaning like a rebirth, or new chapter in life.
If you're going for charisma and power, you should consider this shoulder tattoo. It can not fail to impress or leave anyone speechless. The strong black patches and patterns are full of mystery and tribal history of a far away island peoples.
If you can not decide just for one motive, no problem, get them all. Maybe the beauty is in chaos. Maybe you don't want to commit only to one style. Your life is full of stories and small details are what make you unique.
Are you inspired by the great bravery of medieval knights? Do you consider yourself a noble man, worthy of respect and serving others? You might put on an ink armour like this to show your designation.
This is a sharp design but at the same time it also contains very organic shapes which remind us of bones, sea creatures or even saws. Anything is possible with this tattoo. Maybe that is why it is kind of mesmerizing.
For anyone fond of spirals, this is a very suitable tattoo of choice. It is very dynamic but yet it doesn't lose the concept and it feels so lively. It is prefect for anyone who maybe already has a nipple piercing as a combination.