50 Awesome Sporty Hairstyles Ideas for Women in 2022

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Sporty hairstyles combine functionality with style, offering active women practical solutions that keep hair secure and comfortable during workouts while maintaining a polished, athletic aesthetic. These versatile styles are designed to withstand movement, sweat, and activity while ensuring you look confident and put-together whether you’re hitting the gym, playing sports, or living an active lifestyle.

The best sporty hairstyles prioritize security and convenience without sacrificing style, featuring techniques and accessories that keep hair out of your face while allowing for easy styling transitions from workout to daily activities. From classic ponytails with modern twists to intricate braided styles that stay put during the most intense activities, these 50 sporty hairstyle ideas will keep you looking athletic and elegant.

Classic Sporty Ponytails

1. High Athletic Ponytail

The high athletic ponytail remains the gold standard for sporty hairstyles, offering maximum security and sweat management during intense workouts. Position the ponytail at the crown of your head to avoid interference with headgear while creating lift and movement that looks polished and professional.

2. Sleek Low Ponytail

A sleek low ponytail works perfectly for activities that require helmets or headgear, positioning hair at the nape to avoid bulk while maintaining a sophisticated appearance. This versatile style transitions easily from gym to office, making it ideal for busy, active lifestyles.

3. Side Swept Ponytail

The side swept ponytail adds asymmetrical interest while keeping hair secure and functional for athletic activities. This style flatters most face shapes and provides a modern twist on the classic ponytail that works for both casual workouts and competitive sports.

Athletic Braided Styles

4. Dutch Braid Ponytail

Combining a Dutch braid with a ponytail creates ultimate security for high-impact activities while adding textural interest and style. The braid keeps shorter layers controlled while the ponytail manages length, creating a sophisticated athletic look that photographs beautifully.

5. Double Dutch Braids

Double Dutch braids offer maximum control and a trendy athletic aesthetic that’s perfect for running, cycling, or any activity requiring complete hair security. This style keeps all hair contained while creating symmetrical lines that look intentional and stylish.

6. French Braid Crown

A French braid crown keeps hair off the face and neck while creating an elegant, athletic look perfect for tennis, golf, or other precision sports. This style works beautifully with headbands and visors while maintaining sophistication throughout activity.

Secure Athletic Buns

7. High Messy Bun

The high messy bun combines practicality with effortless style, creating a secure updo that looks intentionally undone while keeping hair completely contained during workouts. This versatile style works for all hair types and transitions easily from gym to casual outings.

8. Low Athletic Bun

A low athletic bun positions hair at the nape to avoid interference with equipment while providing secure styling that withstands movement and activity. This classic style works particularly well for activities requiring headgear or helmets.

9. Braided Bun Combo

Combining braiding techniques with a secure bun creates the ultimate athletic hairstyle that manages both length and shorter layers while adding textural interest. This style works exceptionally well for dance, gymnastics, or any activity requiring both security and style.

Sporty Hairstyles for Different Hair Lengths

Short Hair Athletic Styles

Short hair offers unique advantages for athletic activities, requiring minimal styling while providing maximum comfort and functionality. Use headbands, clips, and texturizing products to keep short styles controlled and polished during workouts while embracing the natural movement and texture.

Medium Length Sporty Styles

Medium-length hair provides the perfect balance for athletic styling, offering enough length for secure ponytails and braids while remaining manageable and quick to style. Focus on half-up styles, low ponytails, and braided accents that work with your natural texture.

Long Hair Athletic Management

Long hair requires strategic styling for athletic activities, with emphasis on secure techniques that prevent tangling and provide comfort during movement. Braided styles, high buns, and wrapped ponytails offer the security needed while showcasing length when appropriate.

Quick 5-Minute Sporty Styles

The Ultimate Quick Ponytail

Master the art of the perfect quick ponytail with these time-saving techniques:

Gather hair at your desired height using a brush for smoothness
Secure with a strong elastic that matches your hair color
Take a small section from the ponytail and wrap around the elastic
Secure the wrapped section with a bobby pin underneath
Gently tug at crown sections for added volume if desired

Fast Braided Styles

Quick braided styles perfect for rushed mornings include the simple three-strand side braid, loosely braided low ponytail, or quick Dutch braid that starts at the crown and ends in a ponytail. These styles provide security without requiring extensive time or complex techniques.

Sport-Specific Hairstyles

Running and Cardio Styles

Running and cardio activities require hairstyles that manage sweat and movement while preventing hair from interfering with breathing or vision. High ponytails, tight braids, and secure buns work best, with emphasis on styles that won’t loosen during repetitive movement.

Swimming and Water Sports

Water sports require special consideration for hair protection and post-activity styling. Tight braids, secure buns, and protective products help minimize chlorine damage while ensuring hair stays controlled in and out of water.

Team Sports and Competition

Team sports often have specific hair requirements for safety and uniformity. Focus on styles that comply with regulations while maintaining team aesthetics, such as matching ponytail heights or coordinated braided styles that look polished for competition.

Athletic Hair Accessories

Functional Hair Elastics

Invest in high-quality hair elastics designed for athletic activities. Look for seamless elastics that won’t snag, extra-strong options for thick hair, and spiral elastics that provide secure hold without leaving dents or causing breakage.

Sports Headbands and Clips

Athletic headbands serve both functional and aesthetic purposes, keeping shorter layers controlled while adding style to simple ponytails or buns. Choose moisture-wicking materials and non-slip designs that stay in place during activity.

Bobby Pins and Hair Pins

Quality bobby pins are essential for secure athletic hairstyles. Choose pins that match your hair color exactly, invest in extra-strong options for thick hair, and use multiple pins inserted at different angles for maximum security during movement.

Post-Workout Hair Care

Sweat Management Techniques

Proper post-workout hair care prevents damage and maintains style longevity. Use dry shampoo at roots to absorb excess oil, gently blot sweat with a clean towel rather than rubbing, and allow hair to air dry when possible before restyling.

Quick Refresh Methods

Transform your post-workout hair quickly with strategic techniques: release ponytails and shake out for volume, use texturizing spray for renewed grip, and employ strategic bobby pinning to address any loose sections without complete restyling.

Sporty Hairstyles for Different Face Shapes

Round Face Athletic Styles

Round faces benefit from athletic styles that add height and elongate features. High ponytails, voluminous buns, and styles with height at the crown create flattering proportions while maintaining athletic functionality.

Square Face Sporty Looks

Square faces are enhanced by softer athletic styles that don’t emphasize angular features. Side-swept ponytails, loose braids with face-framing pieces, and asymmetrical styles create balance while maintaining sporty appeal.

Oval Face Athletic Options

Oval faces can wear virtually any athletic hairstyle successfully. Take advantage of this versatility to experiment with different sporty looks, from sleek high ponytails to intricate braided styles, choosing based on activity requirements and personal preference.

Professional Athletic Styling Tips

Preparation Techniques

Successful athletic hairstyling starts with proper preparation. Work with slightly dirty hair for better grip, use texturizing products for hold, and ensure you have all necessary accessories before beginning styling to create efficient, long-lasting results.

Securing Methods

Master professional securing techniques for athletic styles: twist sections before gathering for added grip, use multiple elastics for extra security, and employ the bobby pin X-technique where pins cross each other for maximum hold during activity.

Frequently Asked Questions About Sporty Hairstyles

How do I prevent my ponytail from falling during workouts?

Prevent ponytail slippage by using multiple elastics spaced throughout the length, choosing elastics with better grip, teasing hair slightly before gathering for added texture, and ensuring the ponytail is positioned correctly for your activity type and duration.

What’s the best sporty hairstyle for very thick hair?

Thick hair works best in braided styles that distribute weight evenly, such as Dutch braids, multiple smaller braids, or braided buns that provide security without creating excessive bulk. Use strong elastics and extra bobby pins for additional security.

How can I make my athletic hairstyle look polished after working out?

Refresh post-workout hair by gently releasing the style and shaking out for volume, using dry shampoo at the roots, smoothing any flyaways with a small amount of styling cream, and strategic re-pinning to address any loose sections.

What hair products work best for athletic hairstyles?

Athletic hairstyles benefit from texturizing sprays for grip, light-hold gels that won’t flake with sweat, dry shampoo for oil control, and leave-in conditioners that provide moisture without weighing hair down. Avoid heavy products that can become sticky during activity.

How often should I wash my hair when exercising regularly?

Washing frequency depends on your hair type and activity intensity, but generally 2-3 times per week is sufficient for most active individuals. Use dry shampoo between washes, focus cleansing on the scalp rather than lengths, and consider co-washing for gentle cleansing without stripping natural oils.

Conclusion

Sporty hairstyles prove that athletic functionality and style can coexist beautifully, offering active women practical solutions that maintain elegance and sophistication during any physical activity. These versatile styles adapt to different sports, hair types, and personal preferences while ensuring comfort and security throughout your most intense workouts.

The key to successful sporty styling lies in choosing techniques and accessories appropriate for your specific activities while maintaining styles that transition seamlessly from gym to daily life. With proper preparation, quality accessories, and the right techniques, you can maintain polished, professional-looking hair that supports your active lifestyle without compromise.

Ready to elevate your athletic hair game? Start with mastering the perfect ponytail and gradually build your repertoire of sporty styles that keep you looking confident and put-together during every workout!

Richard L. Greene

Richard is fascinated by everything that has to do with styling techniques and how technology can play an important part in the industry’s development. He started out his career as a barber, and later found his passion for both men and women’s hairstyles. Richard now works as a writer for fashion magazines, blogs, and is actively taking steps toward launching his own online platform!