Top 15 Hair Styling for Sports – Hair is an important consideration for athletes, especially those who participate in sports that require speed, agility, and unobstructed vision. The right hairstyle can help optimize performance by keeping hair securely out of the face and minimizing distractions. Choosing a sport-appropriate cut and styling strategy enables athletes to focus on playing their best game.
This article will explore 15 of the top hairstyles for sports. For each look, we’ll review key features, best sports applications, and styling tips to achieve the look. Whether you’re searching for a low-maintenance ponytail, sleek braids, or an eye-catching updo, these athletic hairdos keep hair in check so you can concentrate on crushing your goals in the game.Top 15 Hair Styling for Sports
1. The Ponytail
The ponytail is a no-fuss classic for a reason – it’s easy, quick, and keeps hair back. Simply pull hair up and secure with an elastic band. For sports, choose a snug, centered pony placed at the crown of the head. Wrap a section of hair around the elastic to conceal it for a polished finish.
Best for: The ponytail’s versatility makes it suitable for just about every sport, including soccer, basketball, tennis, volleyball, running, and gymnastics.
Pros: Keeps hair securely pulled back and off the neck. The tight positioning minimizes flyaways and stray hairs for minimal distractions.
Cons: Those with thinner hair may find ponies too slack for active sports. Wrapping hair over the elastic can lead to breakage if done too tightly.
Read Also: 15 Major Nigerian Cities with Historical Significance
2. The Ballerina Bun
This elegant, rounded bun is a mainstay in dancers. But the ballerina bun’s smooth, neat appearance also suits runners, gymnasts, figure skaters, and yogis. Pull hair neatly into a ponytail first before coiling the length into a bun. Secure with bobby pins and hair elastics, then tuck and flatten any loose ends.
Best for: Ballet, gymnastics, figure skating, running, yoga
Pros: The tight coil and flat positioning keep hair perfectly still, ideal for sports requiring complex footwork or frequent inversion. Looks polished.
Cons: Time-consuming to create a smooth finish. Can strain hair if too tight.
3. Braids
Braiding hair restrains every strand, ideal for active sports. For a basic braid, divide hair into three sections then weave together. Vary the pattern or number of sections for creative variations like French, Dutch, fishtail or crown braids. Intricate styles provide fuller coverage to keep hair off the face and neck.
Best for: Versatile braids suit long-distance running, tennis, basketball, softball, soccer, swimming, and hiking.
Pros: Prevents hair from loosening or blowing into face. Keeps hair off neck to stay cool. Withstands weather and moisture.
Cons: Intricate braiding can take time. Can pull on hair roots if too tight. Requires maintenance as hair grows out.
4. High Ponytail
The high ponytail places an athletic twist on the traditional pony. Simply create a ponytail higher on the head, positioning the tie atop or near the crown. Pull hair tightly into an elastic band and wrap any additional length into a bun for added security. For further smoothing, slick perimeter hair back with gel.
Best for: High ponies contain hair for running, tennis, soccer, softball, hurdles, and flag football.
Pros: Keeps hair extra tightly restrained and lifted up for minimal interference and optimal vision. Gives a polished effect.
Cons: Can feel too tight on the scalp for some. Tricky to position just right.
Read Also: Top 15 Busiest Markets in Nigeria
5. Cornrows
Flat braids like cornrows lay neatly against the scalp for a low-profile look. Part hair into straight rows then braid each section close to the roots. Keep braids tight for maximum security. Though intricate, cornrows last through sweat and activity while allowing natural movement.
Best for: Popular for basketball, soccer, rugby, swimming, hurdles, tennis, and long runs.
Pros: Distributes tension evenly across the head to avoid strain. Allows full mobility. Long-lasting and low maintenance.
Cons: Time-intensive initial styling. Can irritate scalp if braided too tightly at roots.
6. Space Buns
Double top knots give a playful twist suitable for fierce competitors. Divide clean, dry hair into two even sections (or three for triple buns). Brush back neatly from the hairline before securing into rounded buns atop the head with elastics and bobby pins. For glossy shine, apply smoothing serum before styling.
Best for: Ideal for cheerleading, gymnastics, skating, volleyball, and basketball.
Pros: Prevents loose or dangling hair from interfering with vision and performance. Cute style displays team spirit.
Cons: Can come loose if not securely pinned and smoothed. Bun elastics can dig in and cause tension headaches.
7. Headbands
Simple padded headbands offer an unfussy option to control hair. Look for wide designs that wrap fully around the head to keep every strand securely at the hairline. Sweat-wicking microfiber and silicone-grip interiors help maintain stability through active play.Good morning My Love Message
Best for: Headbands suit sports like tennis, basketball, softball, soccer, field hockey, running, and gymnastics.
Pros: Quick and easy to put on. Provide full coverage at the hairline. Absorbent, non-slip materials.
Cons: Some find headbands uncomfortable with extended wear. Cannot contain extremely thick or long hair.
8. Low Bun
For a neatly contained look, pull hair into a low bun at the nape of the neck. Make a ponytail first, then twist into a spiral bun. Pin any loose ends and flyaways flat. Hair should be smoothed with gel or cream first for a slick appearance that won’t budge.
Best for: Yoga, cheerleading, gymnastics, skating, running, and dance styles like ballet.
Pros: Stays put through poses and technical moves. Keeps hair off neck to prevent overheating. Sleek edge is stylish.
Cons: Leaves hair less secure than high styles. Can come loose if not tightly pinned.
Read Also: 15 Most Famous Nigerian Markets
9. French Braid
Intricately braiding hair at the crown before continuing into one tight braid makes this a reliable choice. It helps restrain shorter layers and baby hairs most likely to loosen. Ensure the braid feels snug but not too strained.
Best for: Tennis, softball, hurdles, soccer, basketball, long jumps, swimming, and more.
Pros: Prevents shorter layers from escaping. Distributes tension evenly across scalp. Withstands weather and sweat.Romantic love message
Cons: Tricky technique to master. Can irritate scalp if too tight. Needs occasional rebraiding as new growth appears.
10. Bandana Wrap
Wrapping a bandana or scarf around hair contains it without damage from breakage-prone elastics. Fold a large bandana diagonally into a triangle. Position the middle at the nape of the neck, then tie the ends at the crown. Adjust until flat and secure.
Best for: Tennis, running, hiking, soccer, baseball, long jump, and field sports.
Pros: Comfortable, protective containment without elastics. Absorbs sweat to keep hair dry. Lets hair breathe.
Cons: Requires specific tying technique. Some slipping can occur on smooth hair.NYSC Portal
11. Buzz Cut
Among the most low-maintenance haircuts, buzz cuts are cropped extremely short for a cool, aerodynamic style. Use clippers to cut hair to a uniform 1⁄8 to 1⁄4 inch length. Eliminating nearly all hair removes distractions and lets athletes focus on their physical pursuits.JAMB portal
Best for: Low friction and upkeep suit swimming, wrestling, hurdles, football, rugby, and powerlifting.
Pros: No need to style or restrain hair. Cooling effect. Reduces drag in water. Minimal upkeep.
Cons: Not suitable for those wanting to maintain length or fullness. Requires very regular trims.
12. Bantu Knots
Bantu knots contain washed, conditioned hair into many petite coils pinned flat to the scalp. Part hair into square sections then twist each one into a tight coil secured near the roots. Sit under a hooded dryer until completely dry and set.Information guide Nigeria
Best for: Track and field, basketball, rugby, football, swimming, hiking, camping, and fishing.
Pros: Protective style lasts through dirt, sweat, and weather. Distributes tension evenly across scalp. Reduces knots and tangles.
Cons: Requires significant styling time and patience. Can irritate scalp if tied too tightly. Limited style versatility.
Read Also: 15 Most Popular Leather Supplier in Nigeria
13. Boxer Braids
Also called Dutch braids, boxer braids start at the hairline and braid back into two low ponytails. The crossover pattern helps restrain short flyaways and wispy hair around the face. Secure ends tightly with elastics. For added control, use gel to slick perimeter hair.
Best for: MMA, boxing, running, tennis, softball, soccer, lacrosse.
Pros: Keeps hair from face and retains peripheral vision. Less strain on hair than high ponytails. Lasts several days when well braided.
Cons: Tricky, tight braiding technique. Can unravel with extremely silky or thick hair.
14. Mesh Bun Cover
For a quick bun that won’t budge, wrap hair in a mesh cover before twisting into a bun. Mesh contains every strand securely while absorbing sweat and oil. Look for coated elastic edging for non-slip stability that stays put through activity.
Best for: Yoga, cheer, gymnastics, running, volleyball, tennis, dance.
Pros: Ultra-secure hold without damaging tension. Smooth, non-absorbent fabric. Soft elastic for comfort.
Cons: Less aesthetically interesting than intricate braids. Not adjustable once applied.
15. Half Up Style
Pulling up just the top section of hair keeps it contained without heaviness on the neck and head. Brush the top cleanly away from the face then tightly secure the crown hair in a bun or pony. Let the rest hang freely below the tie.
Best for: Running, tennis, basketball, softball, soccer, field hockey.
Pros: Allows both hair control and comfortable movement. Easy to do for thick or thin hair. Stay put once secured.
Cons: Loose lower hair can still blow into eyes or face. Styling needed to smooth flyaways.
Read Also: Top 15 Ship with Outstanding Sea-keeping Capabilities
Conclusion
With the right hairstyle, athletes can confidently attack the field, court, or gym knowing their hair will stay in place. While high, tightly secured styles best restrain long or thick hair, those with short locks also benefit from scrape-proof cuts and low-profile wraps. Testing different braiding patterns, placements, and accessories helps determine preferences based on hair properties, sport movements, and desired appearance. Since improperly restrained hair causes frustrating distractions, it’s worth taking time to strategize the ideal sporty style before game day arrives.
Check JAMB Result
Check and Confirm: How much is Dollar to Naira