Whether you’re spiking at the net, diving for a dig, or serving an ace, the last thing you need is your hair falling in your face. Finding the perfect volleyball hairstyle isn’t just about looking cute on the court—it’s about performance, comfort, and confidence.
You need styles that can withstand intense movement, stay secure through sweat, and still look great in those team photos. If you’ve ever struggled with loose strands, broken hair ties, or ponytails that won’t stay put, you’re in the right place.
This guide features 15 game-tested hairstyles specifically designed for volleyball players, from quick 5-minute styles for practice to tournament-ready looks that combine function with flair. Whether you have long, medium, or short hair, you’ll find secure, stylish options that let you focus on your game, not your hair.
Why Your Hairstyle Matters in Volleyball
Your hairstyle directly impacts your performance on the court. Loose hair can obstruct your vision during crucial plays, distract you from the ball, and even cause safety issues when going up for blocks or hitting.
Beyond functionality, a secure hairstyle boosts your confidence—when you know your hair is locked in place, you can play aggressively without worry. The right volleyball hairstyle also keeps you cooler during long matches and prevents the post-game headache that comes from overly tight ponytails.
What Makes a Good Volleyball Hairstyle?
Before diving into specific styles, let’s understand what makes a hairstyle volleyball-ready:
- Security: Must withstand jumping, diving, and quick lateral movements
- Comfort: No painful pulling or tension headaches during play
- Hair-free face: Keeps all strands away from eyes and mouth
- Sweat-proof: Stays intact even when you’re dripping with sweat
- Quick to create: Practical for daily practice schedules
- Team-approved: Follows any uniform or safety regulations
High Ponytail with Double Hair Ties
The classic high ponytail remains a volleyball staple for good reason. Position your ponytail at the crown of your head, securing it with two hair ties instead of one. The double-tie method prevents slippage and distributes tension more evenly. For extra security, wrap the second hair tie in the opposite direction of the first.
Pro Tip: Use one thick hair tie followed by a thin one for maximum hold without excessive tightness.
Dutch Braid Ponytail Combo
This hybrid style combines the security of braiding with the classic ponytail silhouette. Start with a Dutch braid (reverse French braid) from your hairline back to the crown, then gather all hair—including the braid—into a high ponytail. This keeps flyaways controlled and adds a cute, athletic aesthetic.
Best For: Players with long, thick hair that tends to slip out of regular ponytails.
Double Dutch Braids
Two Dutch braids running from your hairline to the nape of your neck create one of the most secure volleyball hairstyles. This style keeps every strand locked down and looks incredibly polished for games and tournaments. The tight braiding distributes weight evenly, preventing the single-ponytail headache.
How Long It Lasts: These braids can stay perfect through multiple games and practices.
The Volleyball Bun (High Bun)
A high bun positioned at the crown keeps hair completely off your neck and shoulders. After securing a high ponytail, twist the hair and wrap it around the base, securing with multiple bobby pins in an X-pattern. Finish with a hair tie around the bun for extra security. Use a hair net for tournament days when you need absolute security.
Essential Tools: 6-8 bobby pins, 2 hair ties, optional hair net
French Braid into Low Bun
This elegant yet functional style works beautifully for players who find high buns uncomfortable. French braid your hair from the crown backward, then secure the remaining hair into a low bun at the nape of your neck. This style sits below helmet-line for players who practice hitting and won’t interfere with any movements.
Braided Ponytail
After creating a high or mid-height ponytail, braid the entire length and secure the end. This prevents the ponytail from whipping around during play and keeps the weight controlled. It’s especially useful for players with hair past their shoulders.
Quick Version: Do a simple three-strand braid for 2-minute styling before practice.
Rope Braid Ponytail
Similar to a regular braided ponytail but with a twist—literally. Divide your ponytail into two sections, twist each section in the same direction, then wrap them around each other in the opposite direction. Secure the end. This creates a rope-like texture that’s incredibly secure and visually interesting.
Styling Time: 3-4 minutes
Space Buns (Double Buns)
Divide your hair into two sections, creating two high buns on either side of your head. This playful style is extremely secure and keeps hair completely controlled. Perfect for players who want personality on the court while maintaining function.
Best For: Medium to long hair; players with a fun, energetic style
Fishtail Braid
A fishtail braid creates an intricate look while providing excellent security. Start with a ponytail, divide into two sections, and alternately pull small pieces from the outer edge of one section to the inner edge of the other. This creates a herringbone pattern that holds remarkably well.
Difficulty Level: Intermediate, but worth learning for game days
Bubble Ponytail
This trendy style uses multiple hair ties spaced evenly down your ponytail, creating “bubbles” of hair. Each section is secured separately, preventing any slippage. Gently pull each bubble section to create volume and a fuller appearance.
How To: Secure a high ponytail, then add hair ties every 2-3 inches down the length, pancaking each section.
Crown Braid with Low Ponytail
Braid a section of hair from one ear, across the top of your head like a crown, to the other ear. Secure the end, then gather all remaining hair into a low ponytail. This keeps front sections away from your face while maintaining a feminine, polished look.
Perfect For: Game days when you want to look extra put-together
Twisted Side Braid
Separate hair into two sections on one side of your head. Twist each section individually, then twist them around each other, working your way down. Secure at the end. Create the same style on the other side, then join both at the nape into a low ponytail or bun.
Styling Time: 5-6 minutes
Sleek Low Ponytail with Hair Wrap
A low ponytail can work for volleyball when properly secured. Add a hair wrap by taking a small section of hair from the ponytail and wrapping it around the hair tie to conceal it. Secure the end with a bobby pin. Use gel or mousse to slick down any flyaways at the hairline.
Best For: Players with shorter hair (shoulder-length) or very straight hair
Dutch Braided Top Knot
Combine a Dutch braid starting at the hairline and working backward, then gather all hair (including the braid) into a high top knot. This creates maximum security while looking trendy and athletic. The braid controls front sections while the knot keeps length contained.
Tournament-Ready: Add a touch of hairspray for all-day hold
Essential Hair Products for Volleyball Players
To make these hairstyles last through intense games, stock your gym bag with:
- No-slip hair ties: Fabric-covered elastics or spiral hair ties prevent slipping
- Bobby pins: Match your hair color and use the wavy side against your scalp
- Dry shampoo: Adds texture and grip to freshly washed hair
- Hair gel or mousse: Tames flyaways and baby hairs
- Hairspray: Light hold for finishing touches
- Hair nets: Tournament essential for extra security
Tips for Making Volleyball Hairstyles Last Longer
Start with day-old hair—freshly washed hair is often too slippery to hold styles well. Apply dry shampoo at the roots for added texture and grip. When creating ponytails, tip your head upside down to gather hair tighter. Always use professional-quality hair ties designed for athletic activity, not cheap elastics that break easily.
For braids, pull each section tight as you work—loose braiding unravels quickly during play. Secure the end of any braid or ponytail with two hair ties for double protection. If you have layers or shorter pieces around your face, use small bobby pins or clips to secure them before creating your main style.
Hairstyles for Different Hair Lengths
Long Hair (past shoulders): All 15 styles work beautifully. Focus on braided options or buns to manage length.
Medium Hair (shoulder-length): High ponytails, braided ponytails, space buns, and top knots work best.
Short Hair (above shoulders): Low ponytails with hair wrap, double Dutch braids secured at the nape, or strategic pinning with multiple bobby pins.
Game Day vs. Practice Hairstyles
For daily practice, prioritize speed and comfort. A simple high ponytail with double hair ties or a quick braided ponytail gets you court-ready in under three minutes. Save more elaborate styles like Dutch braids, crown braids, or bubble ponytails for game days when you have extra time and want to look polished.
Your volleyball hairstyle should empower your performance, not hinder it. Experiment with these 15 styles during practice to find your favorites, then perfect them for game day. Remember—the best hairstyle is one that makes you feel confident, comfortable, and ready to dominate on the court. Now grab your hair ties and get styling!
Final Image Prompt: “Collage of all 15 volleyball hairstyles on different players, grid layout, action shots and close-ups, professional sports photography”
Pin This Post! Save these volleyball hairstyles to your Pinterest board so you’ll always have game-day hair inspiration ready. Which style will you try first? Comment below with your go-to volleyball hairstyle!