Pomades – If you’re anything like me, you know that finding the right pomade can be a bit of a journey. There’s no shortage of options out there, but let’s be real: some of them are total flops. I’ve tried more than my fair share of pomades, from the ones that leave my hair feeling greasy to those that make it look like I’m about to step into a wind tunnel. It wasn’t until I figured out what I really wanted in a pomade – strong hold and a decent shine – that I started finding products that worked for me.
So, after plenty of trial and error (and a few bad hair days), I’ve rounded up the five best pomades for 2025 that give you that perfect combination of strong hold and a shiny finish. Trust me, these will keep your style in check all day without leaving you feeling like you’ve been dipped in oil.
Best Pomades for a Strong Hold and Shine in 2025
1. Suavecito Pomade Firme Hold
Let’s kick things off with a classic: the Suavecito Pomade Firme Hold. Now, if you’ve never tried this stuff, you’re in for a treat. This pomade is a staple in the barber world, and for good reason. It’s known for its strong hold – and I mean strong. I’ve worn it through some serious heat, and this pomade hasn’t budged.
What really sold me on Suavecito, though, was the shine. It gives a nice, glossy finish without being over-the-top shiny. Some pomades leave your hair looking like a greasy mess, but Suavecito gets it just right. It’s not too wet looking, but it’s still got that healthy shine that makes your hair look fresh. And, I’ll be honest, the scent is a big plus too – it’s not overpowering, but it smells clean and sharp.
One thing I will say is that it’s water-soluble, so it’s easy to wash out. Some pomades can leave your scalp feeling like it’s been coated in cement, but Suavecito rinses out pretty easily. Definitely a top contender for anyone who needs a strong hold that lasts.
2. American Crew Firm Hold Styling Cream
If you prefer a bit more of a matte look but still need that strong hold, the American Crew Firm Hold Styling Cream is a great option. Now, this one is a bit different from the usual pomade because it’s more of a cream-based product, which means it provides a more natural finish. But don’t let that fool you – it holds up like a champ.
I personally like this one for my more textured styles. It works wonders for pompadours or combed-back looks where you want the volume to stay put without looking too shiny. The hold is strong enough to keep things in place, but not so stiff that it makes your hair feel crunchy. Plus, it has a really subtle, masculine scent that I absolutely love. It’s not as intense as some of the other pomades I’ve tried, but it still gives you that polished, sleek look.
If you’re not into the shiny, slick look but still want something that keeps your hair in check, this one’s for you. It’s great for guys who want something a little more low-maintenance but still want that strong hold.
3. Baxter of California Hard Water Pomade
Next up, Baxter of California’s Hard Water Pomade is a personal favorite of mine. This stuff is ideal if you want a strong hold without having to worry about your hair going limp halfway through the day. I’ve tried it in all sorts of weather, and it hasn’t let me down yet.
What I love about Baxter is that it’s great for achieving a slick, shiny style without making it look like you’ve piled on product. It’s got that high-gloss finish that I love for formal or business looks, but it doesn’t feel heavy or greasy. The hold is top-notch, and it’s perfect for guys who want to achieve a clean, structured look that lasts all day.
The only downside I’ve found is that it’s a bit harder to wash out compared to water-based pomades. But, hey, if you don’t mind using a little more shampoo at the end of the day, it’s definitely worth it for the hold and shine you get.
4. Layrite Super Hold Pomade
If you’re looking for something that really holds your hair in place, Layrite Super Hold Pomade is one to consider. This one is no joke – I’ve used it on some of my most extreme hairstyles, and it’s never let me down. Whether I’m going for a slicked-back style or something with a little more height, Layrite keeps everything in place without any weird flaking or stiffness.
The shine is on point too – it’s not overly glossy, but it gives your hair that healthy, just-groomed look that’s perfect for any occasion. I’d say it’s got one of the best holds out of all the pomades on this list. Even when I’m sweating or running around doing errands, my hair stays exactly how I styled it in the morning.
The texture is a bit thicker than other pomades, which means you’ll need to work it through your hair a bit more, but that’s just part of the process for getting a strong, lasting hold. And it’s water-soluble, so it’s easy to wash out at the end of the day.
5. Imperial Barber Classic Pomade
Last but not least, we’ve got Imperial Barber’s Classic Pomade. This one’s a bit of a hidden gem. It’s got a firm hold and a really nice, medium shine that’s perfect if you want something that’s not too heavy but still gives you that polished look. What I appreciate about Imperial Barber is that it’s not as stiff as some of the other pomades I’ve tried – you can still run your fingers through your hair without it feeling like a brick.
It also works really well for different hair types, from thick and curly to fine and straight. I’ve used this on a few friends, and it always gives them a smooth, controlled finish. It’s versatile, it smells great, and the hold lasts without feeling like your hair is glued together.
One thing to keep in mind is that this one’s not as easy to wash out as water-based pomades, but it’s manageable. If you don’t mind a little extra shampoo at the end of the day, it’s a great option for keeping your hair styled the way you want it.
Final Thoughts
Choosing the right pomade for strong hold and shine ultimately comes down to your personal preference – do you like something slick and glossy, or more of a matte finish with a natural look? No matter what, though, these five pomades are some of the best on the market for 2025, and they’ve all worked wonders for me.
Whether you’re after something with serious staying power, or just want a bit of shine without the fuss, these products will help you get the job done. And remember, sometimes it takes a bit of experimenting to find the perfect one for your hair type and style. But trust me, once you get it right, you’ll never look back. Happy styling!
