Whether you’re hitting the gym, heading to practice, or gearing up for game day, having the right hairstyle can make all the difference. A good athletic hairstyle not only keeps hair out of your face but also helps you stay cool and focused during intense physical activities. In this article, we’ll explore 17 versatile and stylish athletic hairstyles that are perfect for workouts and sports events. From classic braids to innovative updos, these hairstyles will keep you looking great while you give your all on the field, court, or at the gym.
1. Sleek Dutch Braids into Small Buns
This hairstyle combines the security of Dutch braids with the compact style of buns, making it perfect for high-intensity workouts. Start by creating two Dutch braids from your forehead to the nape of your neck. Once you reach the nape, twist each braid into a small, tight bun and secure with bobby pins. This style keeps all your hair in place and looks incredibly chic, making it suitable for both practice sessions and game days.
Features and Tips:
- Secure and long-lasting hold for intense activities
- Keeps hair off the neck for better cooling
- Use a strong hold gel for a sleeker look
- Great for medium to long hair
- Can be customized with colorful elastics or pins for team spirit
2. Gym Space Buns
Space buns are not just trendy; they’re also incredibly practical for workouts. This style involves creating two high buns on either side of your head, resembling Princess Leia’s iconic hairstyle. To achieve this look, part your hair down the middle and create two high ponytails. Twist each ponytail and wrap it around its base to form a bun, securing with bobby pins. This playful yet functional style keeps hair completely off your face and neck, allowing for unrestricted movement during your workout.
Features and Tips:
- Fun and trendy look suitable for various sports
- Keeps hair off face and neck for maximum comfort
- Works well for medium to long hair
- Use texturizing spray for added grip and hold
- Can be made sleeker or messier depending on preference
3. Long Ponytail with Multiple Braids
For those with long hair who want to keep some length while ensuring their hair stays put, this style is ideal. Start by creating several small braids throughout your hair. Then, gather all your hair, including the braids, into a high ponytail. The braids add texture and interest to the ponytail while also helping to keep shorter layers or flyaways secure. This style is perfect for sports that involve running or jumping, as it allows for movement while maintaining control.
Features and Tips:
- Combines security of braids with the ease of a ponytail
- Great for very long hair or layered cuts
- Use clear elastics for a seamless look
- Spray with hairspray for extra hold
- Can be customized with different braid types or patterns
4. Twisted Fauxhawk and Low Pony
This edgy yet practical style is perfect for athletes who want to stand out. Create a fauxhawk effect by twisting sections of hair from the front of your head towards the back, securing each twist with bobby pins. Once you reach the crown of your head, gather all your hair, including the twists, into a low ponytail. This style not only looks impressive but also keeps hair secure and off the face during intense physical activities.
Features and Tips:
- Edgy look that’s still functional for sports
- Works well for short to medium length hair
- Use a strong hold gel for defined twists
- Great for showcasing team colors with colored bobby pins
- Can be adapted to a full updo for even more security
5. Braided Bun
The braided bun is a classic athletic hairstyle that combines the security of a braid with the neatness of a bun. Start by creating a French braid or Dutch braid from your forehead to the nape of your neck. Once you reach the nape, continue braiding the remaining hair into a regular three-strand braid. Then, wrap the braid around itself to form a bun, securing it with bobby pins. This style is incredibly secure and works well for all types of sports and workouts.
Features and Tips:
- Highly secure style suitable for all sports
- Keeps all hair off face and neck
- Works best for medium to long hair
- Use a hair donut for a fuller bun if desired
- Can be dressed up with a ribbon or scrunchie for competitions
6. Two Braids and “Y” Fishtail
This unique style combines traditional braids with a eye-catching fishtail for a look that’s both functional and stylish. Start by creating two French braids or Dutch braids on either side of your head. When you reach the nape of your neck, combine the two braids into a single fishtail braid, creating a “Y” shape. This style is perfect for athletes who want a secure hairstyle that also makes a statement on game day.
Features and Tips:
- Secure style with an interesting visual element
- Great for medium to long hair
- Use clear elastics for a seamless transition between braids
- Apply a smoothing serum for a polished look
- Can be customized with different braid types for variety
7. Athletic Fishtail Plaits
Fishtail braids are not only beautiful but also incredibly secure, making them perfect for athletic activities. Create two fishtail braids, one on each side of your head, starting from the crown and working your way down. Secure the ends with clear elastics. This style keeps hair neatly contained while adding a touch of elegance to your athletic look. It’s ideal for sports where you need your hair completely out of the way, such as swimming or gymnastics.
Features and Tips:
- Secure and elegant style suitable for various sports
- Works best for medium to long hair
- Use a texturizing spray for better grip while braiding
- Can be made tighter or looser depending on preference
- Great for showcasing highlighted or colored hair
8. Four Strand Braid
The four strand braid is a step up from the traditional three strand braid, offering a more intricate look and even better hold. This braid is created by dividing the hair into four sections and weaving them together in a specific pattern. While it may take some practice to master, the result is a secure and visually interesting braid that’s perfect for any athletic activity. This style works well for medium to long hair and stays put even during the most intense workouts.
Features and Tips:
- More secure than a traditional three strand braid
- Unique look that stands out on the field or court
- Use a lightweight oil for shine and frizz control
- Can be worn as a single braid or two side braids
- Practice is key to perfecting this technique
9. Two Twists and Bun Updo
This elegant yet practical style is perfect for athletes who need their hair completely off their face and neck. Start by creating two twisted sections on either side of your head, working from the front to the back. Gather these twists along with the rest of your hair into a high ponytail. Then, twist the ponytail and wrap it around itself to create a bun, securing with bobby pins. This style is not only secure but also looks polished enough for competitions or games where appearance matters.
Features and Tips:
- Keeps all hair securely off face and neck
- Elegant look suitable for competitions
- Works well for all hair lengths
- Use a strong hold hairspray for lasting hold
- Can be accessorized with a scrunchie or ribbon in team colors
10. Sporty Fishtail Mohawk
For a bold and edgy athletic look, try the sporty fishtail mohawk. This style involves creating a series of small ponytails down the center of your head, then fishtail braiding each section and connecting them to form a mohawk-like structure. The sides can be slicked back or braided close to the scalp. This hairstyle is not only eye-catching but also incredibly secure, making it perfect for high-impact sports and activities.
Features and Tips:
- Edgy style that keeps hair secure
- Works best for medium to long hair
- Use a strong hold gel for defined sides
- Can be customized with different braid types
- Great for standing out during team sports
11. Crown Braid with Low Buns
This regal-looking style combines the elegance of a crown braid with the practicality of low buns. Create a French braid or Dutch braid along the crown of your head, from one ear to the other. Divide the remaining hair into two sections and twist each into a low bun at the nape of your neck. This style not only keeps hair secure but also distributes weight evenly, making it comfortable for long periods of wear during all-day tournaments or events.
Features and Tips:
- Elegant yet functional style for all-day wear
- Suitable for medium to long hair
- Use bobby pins that match your hair color for a seamless look
- Apply a smoothing cream for a polished finish
- Can be adapted with one central bun instead of two
12. Gym Cornrows
Cornrows are an excellent choice for athletes, offering maximum security and minimal maintenance. These tight, close-to-the-scalp braids can be styled in various patterns and directions. For a gym-friendly look, try straight-back cornrows that gather into a low ponytail or bun at the nape of the neck. This style can last for several days, making it perfect for athletes with busy training schedules.
Features and Tips:
- Long-lasting style that requires minimal daily styling
- Suitable for all hair types, especially textured hair
- Use edge control gel for a neat, polished look
- Can be customized with different patterns or colors
- Protect the style with a silk or satin scarf while sleeping
13. Workout Bandana Bun
Combine practicality with style by incorporating a bandana into your workout hairstyle. Start by tying a bandana around your head, leaving the ends loose at the nape of your neck. Gather all your hair, including the bandana ends, into a high ponytail. Twist the ponytail and wrap it around itself to form a bun, tucking in the ends. This style not only keeps hair and sweat off your face but also adds a touch of personality to your workout look.
Features and Tips:
- Keeps hair and sweat off face effectively
- Works for all hair lengths
- Choose a moisture-wicking bandana for best results
- Can be customized with different bandana colors or patterns
- Great for outdoor activities or sports in hot weather
14. Low Twisted Ponytail
The low twisted ponytail is a quick and easy style that’s perfect for athletes on the go. Start by creating two or three twists from your forehead to the nape of your neck. Gather these twists along with the rest of your hair into a low ponytail. For added security, you can twist sections of the ponytail and pin them around the base. This style is not only practical but also looks polished enough for post-workout events.
Features and Tips:
- Quick and easy style suitable for all hair types
- Works well for short to medium length hair
- Use a texturizing spray for better grip and hold
- Can be dressed up with a decorative hair tie
- Great for transition from workout to everyday wear
15. Thin Cornrows into a Ponytail
This style combines the security of cornrows with the simplicity of a ponytail. Create several thin cornrows from your forehead to the crown of your head. Gather these cornrows along with the rest of your loose hair into a high ponytail. This style keeps the front and top sections of your hair completely secure while allowing for some movement in the ponytail. It’s perfect for sports that involve a lot of running or jumping.
Features and Tips:
- Secure front with movable back for versatility
- Suitable for all hair types and textures
- Use edge control gel for neat cornrows
- Can be styled into a bun for even more security
- Great for showcasing hair accessories in the ponytail section
16. Athletic Double Braids
Double braids, also known as pigtail braids, are a classic athletic hairstyle for a reason. They’re simple, effective, and suitable for almost any sport. Part your hair down the middle and create two French braids or Dutch braids, one on each side of your head. Secure the ends with elastic bands. This style keeps hair completely off your face and neck, allowing for maximum focus during your workout or game.
Features and Tips:
- Classic style that works for all sports
- Suitable for medium to long hair
- Use a lightweight serum for smooth, frizz-free braids
- Can be tucked under a helmet for cycling or other sports
- Easy to transition into a messy bun for post-workout wear
17. Flat Braid
The flat braid, also known as a lace braid or a Dutch flower braid, is a beautiful and functional style for athletes. This braid lies flat against the head, incorporating all of your hair as you go. Start at the nape of your neck and braid upwards, adding hair from the sides as you go, until you reach the crown of your head. Finish with a regular braid and secure the end. This style is not only secure but also elegant enough for competitions or performances.
Features and Tips:
- Sleek, flat style that works well under helmets or hats
- Great for medium to long hair
- Use a strong hold gel for a neater look
- Can be customized with different parting patterns
- Perfect for showcasing hair color or highlights
Remember, the key to any great athletic hairstyle is security and comfort. Always use good quality hair ties and pins, and don’t be afraid to experiment with different styles to find what works best for your hair type and sport. With these 17 athletic hairstyles in your repertoire, you’ll be ready to tackle any workout or game day with confidence and style!