20+ Sports Hairstyles That Are Both Functional and Chic

Let’s be real—no one wants their hair sticking to their face mid-workout.

Whether you’re crushing it at the gym, running laps, or dominating the field, you need a hairstyle that can keep up. I’ve put together a list of sporty styles that are equal parts functional and fun.

Say goodbye to hair struggles and hello to styles that actually stay in place.

Functional and Beautiful Sports Hairstyles

1. Sleek High Ponytail

The sleek high ponytail is a classic hairstyle that never goes out of style.

It’s the go-to favorite for athletes because it keeps hair neatly secured while you hustle through your workout. For a polished look, use a hair gel to tame any flyaways and secure your ponytail high on your crown. This style works beautifully for all hair types, whether you’ve got straight locks or playful curls.

– Start with clean, dry hair for the best hold.
– Use a hairbrush to smooth your hair back before securing it with a hair tie.
– Wrap a small section of hair around the base to conceal the hair tie for an added touch of elegance.

This hairstyle can take you from a morning jog to brunch with friends without missing a beat!

2. Messy Bun

Effortless and chic, the messy bun is a perfect solution for those busy days.

Simply gather your hair into a bun and let a few strands fall free for that effortlessly stylish vibe. It’s great for keeping your hair up and out of the way while you’re fully focused on your game or workout. Plus, this style offers a quirky balance of laid-back and pretty!

How to Achieve the Perfect Messy Bun:
– Gather your hair into a loose ponytail and twist it into a bun.
– Secure it with a few bobby pins, allowing some pieces to stick out for that messy look.
– Don’t worry about perfection; the messier, the better!

Perfect for everything from spin class to lounging at home, you’ll find this bun suits any occasion.

3. Braided Crown

Elevate your sporty look with a braided crown that’s both elegant and functional.

Perfect for keeping your hair off your face while adding a touch of femininity, the braided crown feels regal and pretty. You can keep it tight or loosen it for a more relaxed vibe—either way, it looks fantastic!

Steps for the Braided Crown:
– Separate your hair into two sections, braid each section, and then wrap the braids around your head.
– Secure with bobby pins, adjusting as needed to keep everything in place.
– Use a bit of hairspray for extra hold if desired.

Ideal for yoga or casual outings, this style will have you feeling like royalty without sacrificing comfort.

4. Double Dutch Braids

Double Dutch braids are a fun and fresh way to keep your hair stylishly out of the way.

These braids can take your sporty look to a whole new level! They keep hair secure while you’re moving around, making them perfect for running or intense workouts. Plus, they’re an eye-catching way to show off your personality.

– Start with slightly damp hair for a better grip.
– Divide your hair into two sections and braid each side tightly.
– Secure with clear elastics.

This hairstyle is perfect for those wanting to channel their inner athlete while looking effortlessly chic!

5. Side Braid

The side braid is versatile and can be dressed up or down, making it perfect for both workouts and casual outings.

This style keeps your hair neatly tucked away on one side, allowing for easy movement. Whether you opt for a loose, relaxed braid or a tighter, more refined look, it’s a style that pairs well with just about anything.

– Gather your hair over one shoulder and start braiding from the base.
– Secure with a hair tie and you’re good to go!
– Feel free to pull out a few strands to frame your face.

This hairstyle will have you looking stylish while you’re on the go!

6. Low Bun

For those longer hair days, the low bun is an easy and sophisticated option.

Pulling your hair back into a low bun keeps it off your neck while adding a touch of elegance. It’s particularly great for those warm days when you want your hair contained but still looking cute!

How to Create the Low Bun:
– Gather your hair at the nape of your neck and twist it into a bun.
– Use bobby pins to secure it and finish off with some hairspray.

This hairstyle transitions seamlessly from gym time to coffee dates. You’ll love how fresh and polished it looks!

7. Half-Up, Half-Down

The half-up, half-down style is a perfect blend of cute and functional.

It allows you to wear your hair down while keeping it away from your face, making it ideal for workouts or casual outings. You can add a twist or a braid for extra flair!

How to Style Half-Up, Half-Down:
– Grab the top half of your hair and secure it with a clip or hair tie.
– Play around by adding loops, twists, or braids to the secured section for a unique touch.

This hairstyle is approachable and doesn’t require much time—perfect for those busy mornings!

8. Fishtail Braid

The fishtail braid is a stunning yet effortless choice that looks intricate.

Don’t be fooled by its appearance; this braid is surprisingly easy to create! It adds a bohemian vibe to your sporty look and keeps everything in check while you’re active.

Steps to Create a Fishtail Braid:
– Divide your hair into two sections.
– Take a small piece from the outside of one section and cross it over to the other section.
– Repeat, alternating until you reach the end and secure with a hair tie.

Perfect for any athletic endeavor, this braid will definitely turn heads!

9. Ponytail with Braided Detail

Add a stylish twist to your classic ponytail with a braided detail.

This hairstyle combines the functionality of a ponytail with the flair of a braid, making it perfect for those who love to stand out while staying active. It’s easy to do and makes a simple ponytail feel special.

– Start by braiding a small section from the front and secure it.
– Gather the rest of your hair into a ponytail and secure with a hair tie.
– Wrap the braided section around the base for a cute finish.

This hairstyle is a great option for everything from dance classes to brunch with friends!

10. Top Knot

The top knot is an ideal hairstyle when you want to keep your hair completely out of the way.

This style is especially popular during workouts because it’s super easy to create and looks effortlessly chic. Plus, it gives that polished look without a lot of fuss.

Steps for a Top Knot:
– Gather all your hair at the top of your head and twist it into a bun.
– Secure with a hair tie and bobby pins as needed.
– Adjust for volume or a sleek appearance based on your style preference.

Effortless and cute, this hairstyle is designed for those who love to keep things simple!

11. French Twist

The French twist is a timeless hairstyle that oozes sophistication while being functional.

It’s perfect for a sports event or any active outing where you want to look a little more put together. This elegant style can be achieved in just a few minutes, making it perfect for those busy schedules.

Steps for a French Twist:
– Gather your hair at the nape of your neck and twist it upwards.
– Tuck the ends into the twist and secure with bobby pins.
– Adjust as needed for a sleek look.

This hairstyle transitions beautifully from workouts to evenings out!

12. Headband Braid

The headband braid is an adorable way to keep your hair secure and add charm to your look.

It’s great for those days when you want your hair off your face without sacrificing style. Plus, you can create it with just a small section of hair, leaving the rest flowing free.

How to Create a Headband Braid:
– Braid a section of hair from one side of your head and secure it with a small elastic.
– Place it across the top of your head and secure the ends behind your ear with bobby pins.
– Let the rest of your hair flow freely!

This playful style is perfect for everything from workouts to weekend brunches!

13. Classic Braid

The classic braid is a simple yet effective hairstyle that keeps your hair out of the way while looking super cute.

It’s a go-to for any active lifestyle, whether you’re at the gym or just running errands. It’s versatile and can be styled tight or loose, depending on your mood.

Steps for the Classic Braid:
– Divide your hair into three equal sections.
– Cross the right section over the middle, then the left over the new middle section.
– Continue down to the end and secure with an elastic.

This timeless style is quick to create and will keep you looking stylish all day!

14. Twisted Ponytail

The twisted ponytail adds a unique flair to the typical ponytail.

This easy style keeps your hair secure while looking elegant and fun. Whether you’re going for a workout or a casual outing, this ponytail variant is sure to catch eyes.

How to Create a Twisted Ponytail:
– Gather your hair into a ponytail and secure it with a hair tie.
– Take a section of hair from the ponytail, twist it around the base, and secure it with bobby pins.
– Adjust the twist for volume or sleekness.

You’ll love how quick and stylish this hairstyle is!

15. Sleek Bun with Headband

Add a little flair to your sleek bun by incorporating a headband.

It’s a quick way to elevate your look while keeping hair neat and out of the way. Plus, it adds a pop of color or pattern to your athletic ensemble!

Steps for Sleek Bun with Headband:
– Create a sleek bun by gathering your hair tightly at the back of your head.
– Secure it with bobby pins and a hair tie.
– Add a colorful headband across your forehead for an extra touch!

This hairstyle works well whether you’re at the gym or out with friends!

16. Loose Waves with a Scrunchie

For those who love a relaxed vibe, loose waves secured with a scrunchie are a great choice.

This hairstyle is playful and keeps your hair stylishly off your face while staying trendy. It’s perfect for a laid-back day or even a quick workout session—you’ll find it compliments any look!

How to Achieve Loose Waves:
– Use a curling wand to create loose waves throughout your hair.
– Gather half of your hair into a loose ponytail and secure it with a scrunchie.
– Let the rest flow freely for a fun, casual look.

You’ll enjoy the effortless charm this hairstyle brings!

17. Sleek Side Part

The sleek side part is a minimalist but chic option for keeping hair tame while looking polished.

This hairstyle is especially great for short hair but works on long hair too! It gives you that sophisticated vibe while being super easy to manage during your workouts.

Steps for a Sleek Side Part:
– Apply a bit of gel or pomade to control flyaways.
– Part your hair to the side and use a brush to smooth it down.
– You can tuck one side behind your ear for that effortless style.

Simple yet effective, this hairstyle transitions well from gym to office!

18. Beachy Waves

Beachy waves are the ideal mix of casual and chic, and they look amazing no matter the occasion!

This hairstyle can be achieved with minimal effort, keeping your hair stylish while you’re out and about. It’s a great look for days when you want to feel free and breezy!

How to Create Beachy Waves:
– Use a sea salt spray on damp hair and scrunch it with your hands.
– Allow it to air dry or use a diffuser for extra volume.
– Finish with a bit of hairspray to hold the waves.

This playful hairstyle is perfect for those who love to keep things light and fun!

19. Vintage Victory Rolls

Channel your inner vintage queen with classy victory rolls that are surprisingly easy to create!

This hairstyle keeps your hair neat while offering a unique twist for those looking to stand out. It’s perfect for casual outings or special events.

How to Achieve Victory Rolls:
– Divide your hair into sections and curl them tightly.
– Roll each section inward and pin them to secure.
– Adjust and shape as needed.

This retro look is sure to leave a lasting impression while keeping your hair out of your way!

20. Curly Updo

A curly updo allows you to mix elegance with sportiness in one fabulous hairstyle.

This style keeps your hair securely in place while looking stunning for any occasion—from fitness classes to a night out! You’ll love how it adds volume and character to your look.

Steps to Create a Curly Updo:
– Start with curls or create them using a curling wand.
– Gather your curls into an updo and secure with bobby pins.
– Allow a few curls to fall freely for a relaxed touch.

This hairstyle is both charming and functional, making it great for your active life!

21. Chic Clip-Up

Bring a modern twist to your hairstyle with a chic clip-up.

This style allows you to secure your hair neatly while still looking fashionable and fresh. It’s perfect for those who want an easy hairstyle with a touch of creativity.

How to Create a Chic Clip-Up:
– Gather your hair into a half-up style and secure it with a stylish clip.
– Leave the rest flowing freely or add waves for extra flair.

This quick hairstyle is perfect for busy days when you want to keep it cute and casual!

---

These 21 sports hairstyles are not just practical but also a fun way to express your style while staying active.

From sleek ponies to luxurious braids, there’s something for every taste and occasion. Adapt these styles to fit your personality and make them your own. So why wait? Try out a few of these looks and step into your next workout with confidence and flair!

Frequently Asked Questions