Shoulder tattoos are one of the most popular tattoo ideas for men. The best shoulder tattoos can be awesome, stylish, and meaningful all at the same time, especially when the design gives your shoulder, arm, back and chest a badass look. Fortunately, because there are so many cool shoulder tattoo ideas, guys have a number of unique tattoo designs and styles to choose from.

For example, shoulder tattoos can extend from the deltoid to the trap on either the left or right side. You can even decide if you want a top, back or front shoulder tattoo. Given the large canvas space, these over the shoulder tattoo designs can be rich, elaborate pieces of artwork. Similarly, some guys want across the shoulder tattoos that connect both sides through the neck, back, or chest.

For the ultimate male tattoo enthusiast, you can pick a full sleeve, back, chest and shoulder tattoo that inks multiple body parts. These intense tattoo ideas can be half or full sleeve designs that incorporate the hand, wrist, forearm, bicep, shoulder or any combination of areas.

Whether you want a full or half sleeve on the arm that crosses onto your shoulder and into your chest and back or just a small and simple design, different shoulder tattoos for guys feature different styles, shapes, sizes, and colors. If you’re getting inked for the first time, we recommend a small shoulder tattoo because it can be easily hidden or worked into a collage of art. Another tip for first timers is to be prepared and knowledgeable about the tattoo healing process.

Nevertheless, from 3D and tribal designs to geometric shapes, words, names, armor, dragons, wings, and skulls, there are limitless possibilities on the shoulder.

Cool Shoulder Tattoo Ideas

If you’re thinking of getting inked and are exploring a tattoo on your shoulder, check out our collection of the best shoulder tattoos. These shoulder tattoo designs for men will certainly inspire you to get tattooed this year!