35 Cool Forearm Tattoos For Men

September 09, 2024

The forearm is one of the best places to show off a tattoo. It’s a highly visible spot which can also be easily concealed with a long sleeve shirt. There are many tattoo designs and styles that look great on this area. Here are some of our favorite designs to help inspire you.

1. Rose Forearm Tattoo

For a classical look, you can’t go wrong with a Rose tattoo. Roses represent love and beauty, so they are a great way to show your more affectionate side. A rose with thorns or falling petals, however, serve as a reminder of the loss of a loved one, or the grief you may carry from a painful period in your life.

2. Wolf Forearm Tattoo

Wolves are one of the fiercest, yet most loyal and protective animals. More often than not, a wolf design is best used if you want to express your loyal and caring side. You can combine your wolf design with any other style to produce a really cool effect.

3. Cross Forearm Tattoo

The Cross is the most recognizable and sacred symbol in Christianity. If you’re a Christian and take your faith seriously, you’ve probably given some thought to this design. Inking the Cross on your forearm is a way to affirm your beliefs publicly, while reminding yourself that God is always with you.

4. Compass Forearm Tattoo

A compass forearm tattoo signifies that you’re always seeking or trying to head in the right direction. If you love a good adventure, or are passionate about discovering and experiencing new cultures, you’ll always feel at home with this design on your forearm.

5. Forearm Name Tattoo

A meaningful way to pay tribute to a particular person in your life is by getting a name tattoo on your forearm. Usually, it’s the name of a loved one who has passed away, and the inking of their name allows the wearer to always keep them near. But a name tattoo doesn’t always need to have such a somber story behind it. It can be used simply to honour a loved partner or your children.

6. Religious Forearm Tattoo

Religion is often seen as uncool or boring – well what better way to dispel that stereotype than with a religious themed tattoo? And by putting it on your forearm you can show that you’re not afraid to make a statement. To make your design more interesting, combine your favorite religious symbols with other emblems or motifs that you like.

7. Graffiti Forearm Tattoo

If you’re in love with the streets, maybe a graffiti tattoo will be to your liking. You can have it inked to show how far you’ve come, or where you feel you will always belong.

8. Arrow Forearm Tattoo

If you have a target in life and want to aim straight for it no matter what, this symbol can represent your drive towards that goal. The arrow is also a Native American symbol, so if you’re looking for something tribal it’s worth considering. An arrow tattoo fits the shape and contours of your forearm perfectly so it’s one of the best designs to choose for it.

9. Abstract Forearm Tattoo

There are some seriously trippy designs out there which can be interpreted in so many different ways. If you want to convey something deep or an idea that is hard to put in words, an abstract design can help you achieve that aim.

10. Quotes Forearm Tattoo

Quotes can be powerful motivators. If you have a favorite that is of particular significance to you, consider it for your next tattoo. The forearm is a great location for a quote tattoo because it stretches wide enough to fit at least two lines of text that will be large enough to read clearly.

11. Flower Forearm Tattoo

There are so many different flowers with their own meanings that you can be spoilt for choice when it comes to choosing one. We recommend running a google search for “flower” plus a personality or behaviour that you want to express. Once you’ve found the flower for you, you can have it inked on your forearm in one of the many different styles available.

12. Skull Forearm Tattoo

One of the most iconic and popular tattoo designs for men is the skull. If you’re a bad boy at heart then you’ll be naturally drawn to this image. Skulls aren’t all just about death and destruction though — they can be quite symbolic and tackle deep existential themes such as the unachievable nature of immortality.

13. Tree Forearm Tattoo

Trees symbolize life and growth. That’s why if you’re going through a new phase in your life and are looking to develop yourself into something better, getting a tree tattooed over your forearm can be a visible reminder that you have yet to grow many more branches.

14. Wing Forearm Tattoo

Wings are best known as symbols of flight and freedom! They are best tattooed on the shoulder, upper arm and back. The forearm isn’t the best place for an isolated wing tattoo piece. However, if you can integrate it into a larger piece that spans the aforementioned areas, then it could have some serious potential.

15. Angel Forearm Tattoo

Angels are a symbol of innocence and purity. They are beloved and revered symbols in many faiths and are considered to be protective, watchful guardians. Angels were very common in paintings during the Renaissance so you can also get one if you’re going for that classical look.

16. Cloud Forearm Tattoo

Clouds look great on the arm as they can wrap around the curvature of your muscles. You can start with the forearm and work your way up. Different cloud styles can mean different things — white clouds represent peace, while dark clouds represent storms and calamity

17. Clock Forearm Tattoo

Clocks symbolize time – and how precious it is. A classical timepiece will look particularly elegant on your forearm – great if you’re going for an old fashioned vibe.

18. Cool Forearm Tattoo

Forearm tattoos never go out of style. They are one of the coolest (and sexiest) parts of the male body, and getting a tattoo there will only give it more appeal. Slender or muscular forearms will look extra cool when inked.

19. Mandala Forearm Tattoo

The Mandala is a Buddhist and Hindu symbol for balance, harmony, and eternity. The word Mandala vaguely translates to “circle” in Sanskrit, which is why it has a circular shape. If you’re going for a spiritual vibe, this will definitely look the part.

20. Jesus Christ Tattoo

This tattoo symbolizes one’s faith and determination to their religion, showing that you have the hope that your life will eventually get better. After all, you have faith in him and that he’s always with you in your hardships.

21. Geometric Forearm Tattoo

Geometric tattoos look very modern and give off a futuristic vibe. They look both simple and complex at the same time due to the thin straight lines which join together to form intricate patterns. Some attributes associated with geometric designs are balance, symmetry, intelligence and mystery. Very cool indeed.

22. Forest Forearm Tattoo

Forests are one of natures treasures, and often hide many mysteries within. That’s why this tattoo design symbolizes those things, representing growth, serenity, life, and rejuvenation. You’ll definitely give off nature vibes with a forest landscape inked across your arm.

23. Flame Forearm Tattoo

Flaming tattoos were popular in the 90s, but are now making a comeback. Flames represent fire and chaos within, and are often favored by wild guys with a rebellious streak. The forearm is an awesome place to put one because you can integrate the design seamlessly to make it look like flames are shooting out and away from your wrist.

24. Anchor Forearm Tattoo

Traditionally, anchor tattoos represent stability and balance, as well as safety and security. And of course, they have been a symbol for sailors for as long as humans have sailed the high seas. If both of those ideals are to your liking, you may feel right at home with one or more of these tattooed onto your body.

25. American Flag Forearm Tattoo

Getting a national flag tattoo is a great way to show off your love for your country. It’s also a favorite among military men. It can be a wonderful way to remind yourself of home while you’re active on duty.

27. Bear Forearm Tattoo

The bear is an animal that’s very loving towards its pack, often overprotective of its family, making it an excellent tattoo option for men looking to express their love and care for their families. Plus, bear tattoos, in general, look fantastic. Depending on the design you go for, a bear tattoo can look ferocious or calm and protective.

28. Phoenix Forearm Tattoo

Phoenix are legendary birds which according to mythology, die and are reborn in fire. Doesn’t get any more badass than that. They symbolize strength and renewal. Having one of these inked on your forearm is an amazing way to express you will always rise with more life and vitality than ever, should you ever fall.

29. Bee Forearm Tattoo

Bees are one of the most hardworking animals in the world, so if you’re a busybody, it might be a design of interest. Bees can also sting, if threatened, so it’s also a way to give fair warning!

30. Owl Forearm Tattoo

Owls are commonly known for being wise. It’s on of the more popular bird tattoo designs for men. Since their eyes can be quite unsettling, it’s a good choice for those who want to get inked with something extremely eye-catching.

31. Blue Whale Forearm Tattoo

This tattoo is often associated with tranquility and peace, similar to the ocean environment. It’s a great tattoo design for gentlemen looking to symbolize their inner peace, showing off to the world that they’ve found “themselves.” Plus, if you love the animal or sea creatures generally, this tattoo design is an excellent choice.

32. Dog Forearm Tattoo

Dogs are known for their love, affection, and loyalty. It’s a great tattoo choice for anyone who wants to honor their beloved pet dog.

33. Lion Forearm Tattoo

Lions represent a strong and courageous spirit. They have an innate ability to command respect, and they are truly majestic to behold. Getting a lion inked on your forearm is a way to show off your confidence and embody this vibe.

34. Dragon Forearm Tattoo

Fans of ancient culture, fantasy and mythology will be drawn to this mythical creature. Many cultures have their own styles of dragon, each with their own stories. Two popular dragon types to consider are Chinese and Celtic dragons. Generally, the Eastern countries consider dragons to be a symbol of luck, while Western countries have historically viewed dragons as symbols of power, or evil.

35. Tiger Forearm Tattoo

Tigers are known to be fierce, brave, and independent. If you go for a full head design, it will look stunningly eye-catchy.

FAQ

How painful is a forearm tattoo?

The forearm is one of the least painful places to have a tattoo. There is a variation in how a person feels the pain of tattooing, but all things considered, the forearm is tattoo friendly.

How long does it take to make a forearm tattoo?

The length of time to do a forearm tattoo depends on the size and design of the tattoo. Generally, a small tattoo with a simple can take an hour or two. Larger and more complex designs can take up to four hours to ink.