When it comes to staying active, the right hairstyle can make all the difference. Whether you’re lifting weights, hitting the trail, or practicing yoga, a sports hairstyle should keep hair secure, low-maintenance, and, ideally, sweat-proof. The best sports hairstyles combine style and functionality, helping you look good while you perform at your best. In this guide, we’ll explore 20 easy and stylish sports hairstyles that are perfect for any fitness activity.
20 Sports Hairstyles
Here are 20 sports-friendly hairstyles that are practical and stylish, ensuring you stay comfortable and focused during your activities:
Classic High Ponytail
The high ponytail is a go-to for many athletes, keeping hair pulled back and off the face. This hairstyle is perfect for running and high-intensity workouts because it secures the hair tightly without causing tangles. Add a scrunchie or hair tie with a strong grip to ensure it stays in place, even during high-impact movements.
French Braid
French braids are versatile and elegant, keeping hair neatly braided from the top of the head to the bottom. This style is ideal for activities requiring helmets, like biking or skateboarding, as it keeps hair compact. French braids work well with medium to long hair, offering a chic look that’s equally functional.
Low Bun
The low bun is a timeless hairstyle, especially suited for low-intensity workouts like yoga and Pilates. It keeps hair close to the neck, minimizing distractions and allowing freedom of movement. Use bobby pins to secure any loose strands for a clean, polished look.
Dutch Braids
Similar to French braids, Dutch braids add a bit of volume since the braid is woven outward rather than inward. They’re ideal for running or team sports, keeping hair tight and secure. Dutch braids add a sporty edge to your look and help prevent post-workout frizz.
Braided Ponytail
A braided ponytail combines the sleekness of a high ponytail with the structure of a braid. Ideal for both high and low-impact sports, this hairstyle keeps hair neat while adding a trendy twist. It’s perfect for long hair, reducing the likelihood of knots and tangles.
Top Knot
A top knot is both stylish and practical, keeping hair entirely off the neck and face. This hairstyle is ideal for intense workouts, like CrossFit or dance classes, as it prevents hair from falling forward. A top knot also minimizes friction, reducing breakage from repetitive movements.
Double French Braids
Double French braids offer a classic yet sporty vibe, keeping hair tightly in place. This hairstyle is ideal for activities like cycling or martial arts where hair can easily get in the way. Double French braids are especially great for keeping medium to long hair from tangling during intense movement.
Fishtail Braid
The fishtail braid offers a sleek and stylish option for athletes. It holds hair tightly in place, and its unique texture provides a fresh twist on traditional braids. Perfect for sports where helmets are necessary, this braid is secure and reduces the need for constant readjustment.
Low Ponytail
A low ponytail is a simple and classic style that keeps hair controlled while maintaining a relaxed look. This hairstyle is ideal for low-impact exercises like walking or strength training, offering both ease and minimal maintenance.
Half-Up, Half-Down
The half-up, half-down style gives the best of both worlds, keeping hair out of your eyes while allowing some flow. Ideal for sports like hiking or casual biking, it combines function with a relaxed, stylish vibe.
Braided Crown
The braided crown is a feminine and functional choice that keeps hair completely out of the face. This hairstyle is perfect for light to medium-impact activities, like aerobics or Zumba, adding a touch of elegance to your sports look.
Double Buns
Double buns are a playful yet practical hairstyle, especially for high-energy activities. They keep hair tightly secured, minimizing distractions. Great for dancers and gym-goers alike, double buns add a fun touch while providing structure.
French Twist
The French twist is an elegant option for light sports activities. Perfect for barre classes or yoga, this hairstyle secures hair in a compact, twisted shape that won’t interfere with your movement, while adding a polished look.
Headband Braid
A headband braid is a great way to keep bangs or shorter layers away from the face. Ideal for any sport, this hairstyle offers added support at the front, with a braid that holds hair securely in place. It’s especially helpful for runners or cyclists who need full vision.
Side Braid
The side braid is a chic, low-maintenance style that stays secure even during long-distance running or hiking. It keeps hair to one side, preventing it from interfering with backpacks or sports gear, and is easily adjustable for comfort.
Cornrows
Cornrows offer a highly durable and low-maintenance option for intense workouts. Perfect for all hair types, cornrows stay intact through high-impact sports and don’t need frequent adjustment, making them a favorite among athletes.
Bubble Ponytail
The bubble ponytail adds a trendy twist to the traditional ponytail by segmenting hair with elastics. This style is secure and fashionable, ideal for sports like tennis or soccer, where a standard ponytail might shift with movement.
Boxer Braids
Boxer braids offer a bold, athletic look that stays in place through the toughest workouts. Perfect for activities like boxing or HIIT, these double braids keep hair tightly bound, minimizing distractions and adding a fierce edge.
Pulled-Back Headband Style
Using a headband to secure hair adds both style and functionality. Ideal for shorter hair lengths, it keeps flyaways in check and prevents hair from falling onto the face. This style works for all types of sports and is easy to achieve with minimal styling.
Messy Bun
The messy bun is a casual yet secure style that’s perfect for a variety of sports. It offers flexibility, allowing you to adjust it as needed, and keeps hair out of the way. The messy bun works well for both long and short hair, providing a relaxed, sporty vibe.
