When you are playing soccer, your focus should be on the ball, your teammates, and the game, not on fixing your hair every five minutes. The right hairstyles can help keep hair out of your face, stay secure through headers and sprints, and even show off a little personal style. Soccer players at every level have found hairstyles that are both practical and comfortable. Here are some of the best hairstyles to use when playing soccer.
Ponytail
One of the most popular hairstyles in soccer is a ponytail. It is simple, quick, and works for baby hair lengths. A high ponytail keeps hair off the neck and away from the face, which can be especially helpful in hot weather. Some players prefer a low ponytail because it feels more secure and moves less while running. Using a strong hair tie, tightly secure the hair tie around your hair. For extra security, especially for those who have thick, long hair, add a second hair tie to the pony tie. This can prevent the ponytail from loosening during the game.
Braid
Another common hairstyle amongst soccer players is the braid. Braids are great because they keep hair tight and controlled from start to finish. A single braid down the back world is good for long hair. While double braids, often called boxer braids or French braids, are even more secure. These styles are popular amongst competitive players because they do not come loose easily and are comfortable under a headband. Braids also reduce distraction since there’s less hair moving around during play. Avery Runk, a Pennridge High School soccer player, prefers the braid. She says it “keeps my hair tight throughout the game, even when I have to head the ball, I don’t have to worry about my hair messing up.” Another braid that has become popular over the past few years is a bubble braid. Not only do these braids look stylish, but they are comfortable and keep the player’s hair secure. Start by creating a regular ponytail, securing it tightly using two hair ties. Then add an elastic band at regular intervals down the ponytail; this is what creates the bubbles. This hairstyle offers a secure, stylish look without requiring complex braiding skills.
Bun
A strong option, especially for players with thick or curly hair, is a bun. A tight bun keeps hair completely secured and prevents it from swinging or sticking to sweat. However, it is important to make sure the bun is not too loose, or it could fall apart during physical play. Some players prefer placing the bun lower on the head so it’s more comfortable when heading the ball. Start with either a high or low ponytail, depending on where you want your bun. Secure the ponytail tightly with a hair tie. Then, tightly twist the hair into a neat bun, securing with another hair tie and even some bobby pins. Lastly, add some texturizing spray to keep all the fine, baby hairs from flying in your face.
Slick Back
A hairstyle that is quickly gaining popularity amongst so many soccer players is a slick back. Slick backs keep your hair tightly against your head, allowing the hair to not touch your neck or get in your face. To ensure that the hairstyles are slicked back, add a thick layer of either gel or a thick hair mask. Use a slick back brush to lay the hair flat against your head. Pull your hair into a tight ponytail, either high on your head or low, whichever you prefer. Add another hair tie to ensure that the hair does not move during play. Slick backs are so versatile because you can put the hair coming out of the ponytail in a braid, bun, or leave it in a ponytail. Erin Corbett, a soccer player for Pennridge High School, says that she prefers a slick back. She says it “keeps my hair secure and I don’t have to worry about it during the game.” Like Erin Corbett, many players prefer not to have to worry about their hair during the game.
Short Cut
For players with shorter hair, a short cut or fade is often the easiest option. Short hairstyles require little to no maintenance during games and practices. Many professional male and female players choose clean fades or cropped cuts because they stay in place and do not interfere with vision. A short style can also help players feel cooler during intense matches.
Ultimately, the best soccer hairstyle is one that feels comfortable and stays secure for the entire game. Every player is different, so it may take some trial and error to find what works best for you. Whether it’s a simple ponytail, tight braids, or a clean short cut, the right hairstyle can help you play confidently and distraction-free on the field.
