Best Hair Clips for Thick Hair: Claw Clips That Actually Hold

The best hair clips for thick hair are extra-large claw clips of about 5 inches or more, with strong springs and wide, interlocking teeth, and the Kitsch 5-inch Large Claw Clips are our top pick for dependable hold from a known hair-accessory brand, with the ZYTJ 5-inch Extra Large 4-pack as the runner-up for people who want several clips at a low cost. Thick, long or curly hair needs a clip that is physically big enough to wrap around the whole twist, so size matters more than style. Below you will find seven main picks, a size guide, a short look at the best curler for thick hair and a buying guide for choosing claw clips for thick hair that will not slip by lunchtime.

This guide is research-based. We did not personally use these products; it draws on listing details, maker descriptions and common hair-care advice. Sizes and counts come from the listings, and where something is not stated, we write “not listed”. As a pet-grooming site, we know that a good hair clip is also a groomer’s friend: it keeps long hair out of your face while you bathe, brush and trim, which is one reason these accessories get so much use in our readers’ routines.

LuSeren Hair Clips for Women 4.3 Inch Large Hair Claw Clips for Women Thin Thick Curly Hair, Big Matte Banana Clips,Strong Hold jaw clips,Neutral Colors

Chosen because it specifies Big Matte Banana Clips and Strong Hold jaw clips.

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5 Inch XL Jumbo Large Claw Clips, 4-Pack Oversized Rectangle Big Hair Clips for Women, Non-Slip Dark & Light Leopard

Chosen because it specifies 4-Pack Oversized Rectangle Big Hair Clips for Women and Non-Slip Dark & Light Leopard.

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ZYTJ 5 Inche Extra Large Claw Clips for Thick Hair and Long Hair, 4 Pack Xl Jumbo Claw clips, Oversized Matte Non-slip Rectangle Hair Clips for Women, Big Strong Hold Jaw Clip,Neutral Color

Chosen because it specifies 4 Pack Xl Jumbo Claw clips and Oversized Matte Non-slip Rectangle Hair Clips for Women.

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Nalodu Hair Claw Clips 5 Inch Unbreakable Square Rectangle Clip Clamp Neutral Colors for Thick Curly Long Hair Women - 2 Pack

Chosen because it specifies 2 Pack.

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Top Picks at a Glance

• Best Overall: Kitsch 5-Inch Large Claw Clips for Thick and Long Hair (2-piece, black and tortoise).
• Best Value Multipack: ZYTJ 5-Inch Extra Large Claw Clips (4-pack, matte).
• Best Oversized Statement Clip: Hydigoo 5.9-Inch Extra Large Butterfly Claw Clips (glossy).
• Best Neutral Everyday Set: Nalodu 5-Inch Unbreakable Square Claw Clips (neutral colours).
• Best Pattern Multipack: SEVEN STYLE 5-Inch XL Jumbo Claw Clips (4-pack, leopard patterns).
• Best Budget Brand-Name Clip: Scunci by Conair Jaw Claw Clips in black and tortoise.
• Best Creaseless Double Clip: GIMME Beauty XL Rectangle Claw Clip Duo in black.

Comparison Table

Price tiers are relative, not exact figures. Always check the listing for the current size, count and colour options.

Which Clip Size Matches Your Hair?

These ranges are a practical rule of thumb, not a standard. Hair texture, density and styling method all change the right clip size, so treat the table as a starting point.

1. Kitsch 5-Inch Large Claw Clips: Best Overall

• Size: 5 inches
• Count: 2 clips (black and tortoise)
• Marketing: strong grip, jumbo hair clips for thick and long hair
• Brand: Kitsch, a hair-accessory brand

Best for: thick, long hair that needs a clip with a dependable grip. Skip if: you want a large pack of clips for the price.

Kitsch is a recognised brand in hair accessories, and this listing is targeted directly at thick and long hair, which is why it earns the top spot. A 5-inch clip is large enough to wrap around a thick twist without squeezing the hair too tightly. Wide teeth help distribute pressure, and the spring needs enough tension to hold the weight of a heavy twist without pulling.

Black and tortoise are neutral colours that work with most outfits and match both casual and work looks. Two clips give you one for daily use and one spare, though if you lose clips often you may prefer a multipack.

Pros: intended for thick and long hair; neutral colours; known brand; strong grip wording. Cons: only two clips; higher cost per clip than multipacks; specific materials not listed in this listing title.

2. ZYTJ 5-Inch Extra Large Claw Clips (4-Pack): Best Value Multipack

• Size: 5 inches
• Count: 4 clips
• Finish: matte, non-slip
• Shape: oversized rectangle

Best for: people who want several clips to keep in a bag, car and bathroom. Skip if: you prefer a single higher-quality clip from a known brand.

A 4-pack of 5-inch clips removes the pressure of losing one. Matte finishes are easier to grip, and they tend to hide fingerprints better than glossy plastic. The listing describes the clips as non-slip and intended for thick and long hair. For daily wear, rotating clips can also reduce wear on the spring.

Multipacks from lesser-known brands can vary in spring tension from clip to clip, so test each one when it arrives by clipping up a full twist and shaking your head gently. If one feels loose, keep it as a backup for lighter styles and use the strongest for thick twists.

Pros: four large clips; matte finish; low cost per clip; suits thick and long hair. Cons: limited brand detail; spring strength may vary; colours depend on the option you choose.

3. Hydigoo 5.9-Inch Extra Large Butterfly Claw Clips: Best Oversized Statement Clip

• Size: 5.9 inches
• Finish: glossy
• Shape: butterfly
• Use: thick, long hair; non-slip and strong, per the listing

Best for: very thick or long hair and anyone who likes a bold look. Skip if: your hair is fine or shoulder length; at this size it may feel oversized.

This is the biggest clip on our list. A 5.9-inch length gives extra room for very long twists or a high-volume bun. The butterfly shape adds a decorative look, which can be a fashion accessory as well as a practical clip. Glossy surfaces show scratches more than matte ones, so keep it away from keys in a bag.

Large clips are heavier than small ones, so check that the clip sits comfortably on your head after an hour or two. If the weight pulls on your scalp, try placing the clip lower on the head or choose a lighter 5-inch design.

Pros: largest size; decorative butterfly shape; suited to long, thick hair; non-slip wording. Cons: may be too large for medium hair; glossy finish scratches; heavier.

4. Nalodu 5-Inch Unbreakable Square Claw Clips: Best Neutral Everyday Set

• Size: 5 inches
• Shape: square or rectangle
• Colours: neutral colours
• Marketing: unbreakable, for thick, curly, long hair

Best for: everyday wear for thick, curly hair. Skip if: you need a defined pack count; it varies by listing option.

The word “unbreakable” in a listing is a marketing claim, so treat it as “built to be sturdy” rather than a guarantee. The more useful detail is the square shape and neutral palette, which suit work, school and weekend styles. Square clips tend to hold a flat, wide section of hair, which can feel more secure for thick hair than a rounded clip.

If you have curly hair, wide-toothed clips avoid snagging and help keep curl patterns intact. Open the clip wide, gather the hair at the nape, twist it up and close the clip at the back, keeping the teeth angled toward the crown.

Pros: neutral colours; sturdy wording; suitable for curly, thick hair; square shape holds wide sections. Cons: pack size depends on option; durability claims unverified; basic design.

5. SEVEN STYLE 5-Inch XL Jumbo Claw Clips (4-Pack, Leopard): Best Pattern Multipack

• Size: 5 inches
• Count: 4 clips
• Shape: oversized rectangle
• Pattern: dark and light leopard
• Marketing: non-slip

Best for: people who like patterned accessories and want a set for different outfits. Skip if: you want plain neutral clips.

Leopard prints are a recurring fashion trend, and a four-clip set means you can mix patterns without worrying about losing one. The 5-inch size matches the common standard for thick hair. As with other multipacks, check each clip for spring strength and any rough edges on the teeth when they arrive.

Patterned plastic looks best when kept clean. Wipe clips with a damp cloth to remove hair products, and avoid leaving them in a hot car where plastic can warp.

Pros: four clips; large 5-inch size; patterns add variety; non-slip wording. Cons: pattern may not match every outfit; limited detail on materials; spring strength may vary.

6. Scunci by Conair Jaw Claw Clips: Best Budget Brand-Name Clip

• Type: jaw claw clips
• Colours: black and tortoise
• Marketing: for thick hair
• Size: not stated in the title

Best for: shoppers who want a simple, familiar brand in a basic style. Skip if: your hair is very long and heavy; confirm the clip length before ordering because the title does not state it.

Scunci has been selling hair accessories for years, and this listing positions the jaw claws for thick hair. Because the listing title does not state a size, check the product page for the clip length and compare it to the size table above. If it is under 4 inches, it may suit medium-thick hair better than very thick or long hair.

Jaw clips tend to be a good choice if you want a simple style for quick updos and ponytails. For heavier hair, pair a jaw clip with a hair tie to take some of the weight off the clip.

Pros: familiar brand; neutral colours; budget-friendly; suitable for quick styles. Cons: size not listed in the title; may be too small for very thick hair; fewer extra features.

7. GIMME Beauty XL Rectangle Claw Clip Duo: Best Creaseless Double Clip

• Size: XL rectangle (exact length not listed in the title)
• Count: 2 clips, black
• Marketing: creaseless, firm hold for daily wear

Best for: people who want to avoid dents in their hair when they take the clip out. Skip if: you need a very large clip; confirm the size on the product page.

“Creaseless” refers to a design meant to reduce visible kinks in hair after you remove the clip. Whether this works depends on hair type and how tightly you clip, so treat it as a design goal and not a promise. For thick hair, a good method is to clip at a loose twist and avoid sleeping in the clip.

The XL rectangle shape holds hair in a wide section. Check the product page to confirm the exact length before ordering if you have very thick hair.

Pros: creaseless design goal; XL rectangle shape; two clips; firm-hold wording. Cons: exact size not listed in title; only two clips; effectiveness depends on hair type.

Best Curler for Thick Hair: A Short Guide

Many people searching for hair clips for thick hair are also looking for a curler that can handle the same volume. Thick hair holds heat and curl well once set but takes longer to heat through, so a larger barrel and a good heat setting matter.

• Barrel size: a 1.5-inch barrel makes loose waves; a 1-inch barrel makes tighter curls. Conair sells both in its double-ceramic line.
• Extended barrel: Hot Tools offers extended-barrel irons in 1.5 inches and 2 inches that are marketed for loose curls and waves; they cost more but cover more hair per pass.
• Section size: work in thin sections, no wider than the barrel length, to make sure the heat reaches every layer.
• Heat protection: use a heat-protectant product and follow the maker’s temperature guidance, since high heat can damage hair.

We have not personally used these tools, so confirm barrel length, heat range and warranty on each product page. Curling irons and claw clips pair well: curl in sections, pin each section up with a clip as you go, then release when finished.

Also Consider

Kitsch Octopus Hair Clips (Black and Tortoise, 2-Piece)

A recycled-plastic octopus-style clip with a wide spread of teeth, marketed for large and thick hair.

LuSeren 4.3-Inch Large Claw Clips

Matte banana-style clips described for thin, thick and curly hair; a slightly smaller option for medium-thick hair.

TOCESS 8-Pack Big Hair Claw Clips

An 8-clip set in neutral colours at 4.33 inches, per the listing, for people who want many clips at a low cost.

Conair Double Ceramic Curling Iron, 1.5-Inch

A basic ceramic curling iron with a 1.5-inch barrel for medium to long hair, for readers who want a simple curler to pair with clips.

How We Chose

This guide is research-based. We did not personally use these products. Here is the process:

• We searched the product store for claw clips and curling irons for thick hair and sorted results by length, count and intent.
• We kept only products that are currently sold, named exactly as listed, with no more than one main pick per brand.
• We recorded sizes, counts and finishes as stated in the listings and wrote “not listed” where information was missing.
• We compared the listings with general hair-care advice about clip size, tension and styling method.
• We ranked picks by fit to the search intent, hold for heavy hair and value.

Buying Guide: How to Choose Claw Clips for Thick Hair

Size: aim for 5 inches or more

The clip needs to be long enough to wrap around the twisted section of hair. For thick hair, a length of about 5 inches is a good starting point. Fine hair can do well with smaller clips, but a small clip on thick hair will pinch, slip or snap under the load.

Spring strength and hinge design

Tension comes from the spring in the hinge. A weak spring means the clip opens slightly and slides down during the day. Squeeze the clip open a few times when you receive it. It should snap shut firmly and not feel loose. A metal spring is generally stronger than a plastic-only hinge, but the listing does not always state the construction.

Teeth shape and spacing

Wide, interlocking teeth hold more hair and spread the pressure, which helps avoid tension at the scalp. Teeth with sharp edges can snag, so run a finger along them when the clip arrives. Rounded tips are more comfortable and less likely to pull.

Finish and material

Matte finishes give a better grip and are less slippery on hair. Glossy finishes look polished but can slide more. Recycled plastic and cellulose acetate are common materials in higher-priced clips; most budget clips use standard plastic.

Count and replacement

Clips wear out as springs lose tension. A multipack lets you rotate them and keep spares. If you wear clips daily with thick hair, plan to replace them every few months, or whenever the clip stops closing firmly.

How to Put In a Claw Clip So It Does Not Slip

1. Brush the hair and gather it at the back of the head with your hand.
2. Twist the hair in one direction until it coils up against the head, like a loose cinnamon roll.
3. Open the clip wide and place the back teeth against the scalp under the twist.
4. Close the clip so the teeth catch both the twist and a small piece of hair near the scalp, then angle the clip slightly upward.
5. For very thick hair, use two clips: one at the nape and one at the crown, or split the hair in half and twist each half separately.

If a clip still slips, try a larger size, a stronger spring or dampening the hair slightly. Avoid slick conditioners or oils on the ends of your hair before clipping, since they reduce grip.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Choosing a decorative clip that is too small for the amount of hair.
• Clipping too tightly or sleeping in a clip, which can cause tension on the scalp and creases in the hair.
• Putting a clip on wet, heavy hair without supporting it with a twist or hair tie.
• Leaving plastic clips in a hot car, where they can warp.
• Ignoring discomfort: if a clip causes pain or headaches, remove it and try a lighter design.

Frequently Asked Questions

What size claw clip is best for thick hair?

Choose about 5 inches or larger. Very thick or long hair may need 5.9 inches or an octopus-style clip. The clip should wrap around the whole twist without squeezing it.

What are the best claw clips for thick hair?

Our top picks are the Kitsch 5-Inch Large Claw Clips and the ZYTJ 5-Inch Extra Large Claw Clips, with Hydigoo for very long hair. They are chosen for size, grip wording and value.

Why does my claw clip keep slipping?

Usually the clip is too small, the spring is weak or the hair is too smooth. Try a larger clip, twist the hair before clipping and avoid putting oils or silicone products on the section you are clipping.

Do claw clips damage thick hair?

Occasional use should not cause problems for most people, but wearing a very tight clip daily or sleeping in one can cause tension and breakage along the clip line. Vary the position of the clip and keep the twist loose.

What is the best curler for thick hair?

A curling iron with a 1.5-inch or larger barrel and adjustable heat is a common choice. Work in thin sections and use a heat protectant. Check the product page for barrel length and heat settings before buying.

Are bigger clips always better for thick hair?

No. A clip that is much larger than necessary can feel heavy and slide. Pick the smallest clip that holds your hair comfortably with a firm closure.

How many claw clips should I buy?

Two to four is a practical number for most people: one in use, one in a bag and one spare. A multipack is cost-effective if you lose clips often.

Which One Should You Buy?

Choose the Kitsch 5-Inch Large Claw Clips for a dependable, brand-name option. Choose the ZYTJ 4-pack if you want value and spares. Choose the Hydigoo 5.9-inch clip for very long, heavy hair. Choose Nalodu for neutral everyday wear, SEVEN STYLE for patterns, Scunci for a familiar budget clip and the GIMME duo if you care about creaseless styling. Whatever you choose, check the clip length, test the spring when it arrives and keep a spare on hand.

Sources

• Kitsch, Scunci by Conair and GIMME Beauty product pages
• ZYTJ, Hydigoo, Nalodu and SEVEN STYLE product listings
• Conair and Hot Tools curling iron product pages
• General hair-care guidance from professional stylist resources

Last updated: October 2026