We all adore the ponytail—it’s the undisputed queen of versatile hairstyles. But if you’ve been wearing it to the gym on repeat, we’ve got a little something for you. With just a little effort, you can keep your hair out of your face, look cute during your workout or practice and have fun with your style.
Ahead, 20 sports hairstyles for different hair types and lengths to try the next time you’re working up a sweat.
1. Bubble Braid Ponytail
The easiest way to upgrade a regular pony is to turn it into a bubble braid ponytail. It’s cute, it’s practical and it will take you far beyond sports activities. In fact, it might become your new favorite hairstyle.
2. Pineapple Hairstyle
The pineapple is the quickest hairstyle for curly hair: simply pile your hair on top of your head and gently secure it. Mini scrunchies are a great choice of hair tie for this style because they won’t damage your hair.
3. Space Buns
Space buns are quirky and cute, but they’re also super functional. They keep even short hair in place and look fabulous on all hair types.
4. Boxer Braids
Guaranteed to keep your hair in place, boxer braids are the hairstyle of choice for many athletes. Depending on your hair type, skill and preference, you can choose cornrows, Dutch braids, or any other braiding style to create this look.
5. Top Knot
Everyone can do the top knot in seconds—it’s one of those styles you can do without even looking in the mirror, and it always turns out great. It works best with long hair, but for shorter hair you can use bobby pins to stay secure.
6. Low Bun
The low bun can fit so many aesthetics and purposes that it’s really one of the most universal styles around. Make it sleek or messy, tight or loose or dress it up with accessories—it’s a hairstyle for any occasion.
7. Half-Up Space Buns
If your hair is too short for full space buns, try half-up space buns. They keep the top half secure while letting the rest flow freely, and bonus: they’re incredibly cute!
8. Dutch Braid
A full Dutch braid will keep your hair exactly where you want it. For a slight variation, try swapping it for a French braid!
9. Side Twist Into Ponytail
If the hair near your face keeps escaping you ponytail, try braiding or twisting it on the side before adding it to the pony. With many options and styles to play with, you can have lots of fun with this look.
10. Headband Hairstyle
A simple cotton headband will keep your hair out of your face, prevent sweat from getting in your eyes and add a pop of color to your look. You can add it to other hairstyles or wear it on its own, with any hair length.
11. Braided Low Buns
Here’s a super-secure hairstyle: braided low buns. Part your hair in the middle, braid each side, and wrap into buns at the nape of your neck.
12. Bubble Braid Into Ponytail
Love the braid-into-ponytail look but struggle with braiding? Try a bubble braid ponytail instead. Use hair ties to create sections that hold your hair in place—no braiding skills required.
13. Bandana Hairstyle
A bandana is super versatile and flexible. You can wrap it around your head, use it as a headband or scarf, or simply as a cute accessory.
14. Dutch Braid Into Ponytail
Dutch braids may look tricky, but they’re easier than you think. If you know how to French braid, just reverse the direction and weave under instead of over to create a Dutch braid.
15. Ballerina Bun
The sleek ballerina bun is both functional and trendy. If you want a snatched, high-fashion look, imagine drawing a line back from your cheekbone and place the bun where the line ends at the back of your head.
16. Braided Ponytail
Make your ponytail more stylish and practical simply by braiding it. You can do a simple three-strand braid or go for something fancy like a fishtail braid—either way, this look always works.
17. Faux Hawk
Section your hair horizontally and tie each section into small buns to create a faux-hawk hairstyle. This is a great option for bob-length hair or hair with lots of layers when you want to keep it out of your face.
18. Half-Up Ponytail
Add a cute touch to your half-up ponytail by creating tiny twists in the front section and securing them with elastics. It’s a fun little detail that keeps the hair in place.
19. Double Bubble Ponytails
Double bubble ponytails combine style and function. Tie your hair into low pigtails, then create a bubble ponytail from each one.
20. Low Double Buns
Low double buns are perfect for wearing under a baseball hat. They keep your hair secure, but still peek out and look super cute from the front.