
Dreadlock Beads - finding the right fit!
What size dread beads do you need?
There are so many dreadlock beads out there it’s no surprise we often get the question ‘what size beads will fit my dreads?’
Dreadlock beads are sorted by hole size diameter. Measure across the dread to work out how thick your dreads are. We suggest buying beads that are slightly smaller than your dread width so they stay nicely in place.
How to measure your dreads
Using a ruler or tape measure,
- Choose the spot on the dread where you want the bead to sit.
- Lay the ruler across the dread and measure straight across the width, not around it.
- Note the number, whichever unit your ruler uses.
Dreads are rarely all the same size. They change thickness along their length, and no two are identical. Measure three or four in different spots so you know your range rather than a single number.
The same method works for all locs, sisterlocks, braids and beards.
Measuring in inches?
Every bead hole we stock sits inside the first inch. Find your measurement on the inch scale, then read straight down to the millimetre underneath. That number is the one you filter by.

Some dread beads are adjustable and they open up and close around the dread. Others are fixed size and slide up the dread into place. Generally speaking larger beads can often be worn further up, where as small hole beads may sit more towards the end of your dreads.
It’s common to have quite a few different sized dreads. Here at Mountain Dreads we offer some Dread Bead Mixes which have a variety of sizes.
There are also Small, Medium and Large bead categories so you can search by hole size as well.
MM to inch Conversions

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Use the Filter to search by hole size.
If you purchase beads that are not the right fit for your dreads we do accept returns. You can check out our Returns Policy here.
Do you have any questions about Dread Beads or Dread Care? Please don’t hesitate to get in contact via email at hello@mountaindreads.com
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