Finding the perfect balance between style and function is a challenge for curly-haired athletes. On the volleyball court, your focus should be on the ball, not your flyaways.
Texture provides natural grip, which is a major advantage. However, curls can also be prone to frizz and tangling during high-intensity jumps and dives.
Secure hairstyles prevent mid-match distractions. These 16 options ensure your curls stay put from the first serve until the final match point.
1. High Pineapple with a Wide Band
The pineapple is a classic for a reason, as it gathers all curls at the very top of the head. This keeps the weight of the hair centered, preventing it from swinging and hitting your face during a spike. By using a wide, non-slip athletic band, you provide extra surface area to compress the curls and prevent sliding.
To execute this, flip your head forward and gather the hair at the highest point possible. Use a silk or cushioned scrunchie to secure the base without snapping the delicate curl pattern. Then, slide the wide band from the forehead back to catch any loose baby hairs or shorter layers.
This style is particularly effective for those with tighter coils who want to maintain volume without the “poodle” effect. The band acts as a secondary anchor, ensuring that even during aggressive diving saves, the ponytail remains stationary. It is a quick, functional look that transitions easily from the locker room to the court.
2. Double Dutch Braids to Low Buns
Dutch braids are ideal for curly hair because they sit on top of the scalp, providing a tighter grip on the roots. By braiding from the hairline down to the nape of the neck, you control the volume and reduce the risk of tangling. Finishing the look with low buns keeps the hair completely off the neck.
Start by parting the hair down the center and performing a three-strand Dutch braid on each side. Pull the sections tight but comfortably to ensure the curls are locked in place against the scalp. Once you reach the base of the neck, wrap the remaining hair into two compact “cinnamon roll” buns.
The dual-bun finish prevents the hair from bouncing against your back, which can be distracting during a fast-paced set. Because the hair is braided, the curls are protected from sweat and friction. This is one of the most secure options for long-duration tournaments where you might play multiple matches in a single day.
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The bubble ponytail is a modern favorite for curly hair because it utilizes multiple anchor points. Instead of relying on one single hair tie at the top, this style segments the hair into sections. This prevents the “sagging” that often happens with heavy, thick curls after an hour of movement.
Begin by securing a high or mid-level ponytail with a strong elastic. About two to three inches down the length of the hair, add another elastic, then gently tug the section to create a “bubble” of curls. Repeat this process until you reach the ends of the hair, ensuring each elastic is tight.
This style is exceptionally secure because if one elastic shifts, the others hold the structure in place. It also prevents the hair from knotting into a single mass during high-impact movement. It is visually striking and keeps the hair streamlined, making it easier to move through the air when jumping for a block.
4. Triple French Braid Crown
If you have layers that frequently fall out of traditional ponytails, the triple French braid is the solution. By creating three distinct rows of braids across the top of the head, you catch every short curl. These braids then merge into a single secure point, creating a unified and aerodynamic look.
Section the hair into three even vertical rows from the forehead to the crown. French braid each section tightly, pulling in hair from the sides to keep the scalp tension even. Once all three braids reach the back of the head, join them together into one solid ponytail or a braided bun.
The beauty of this style is the distribution of weight, which reduces tension headaches during long matches. It also creates a flat surface on the head, which is helpful if you need to wear any protective headgear or sweatbands. Curls remain compressed and protected from the humidity of an indoor gym.
5. Slicked-Back Top Knot with Edge Control
For those who prefer a minimalist look, the slicked-back top knot provides maximum security and a clean profile. This style focuses on pulling the curls tight against the head to minimize wind resistance and friction. Using a firm-hold gel or edge control is key to keeping the perimeter smooth and stationary.
Apply a styling cream or gel to the roots of the hair while damp to help tame the curls into a smooth finish. Brush the hair upward to the crown and secure it with a heavy-duty elastic. Twist the remaining length into a tight coil and pin it down with U-shaped hairpins for extra reinforcement.
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This hairstyle is nearly indestructible once set, making it perfect for liberos who are constantly diving and rolling on the floor. It keeps the hair entirely away from the eyes and neck, allowing for a full range of motion. The top knot also stays out of the way of the shoulders during overhead serves.
6. Twisted Side-Row Ponytail
The twisted side-row ponytail offers a more intricate look that provides excellent grip for loose curls. Instead of braids, this technique uses two-strand twists along the sides of the head to pull hair back. This is often easier to do quickly on curly hair than a traditional three-strand braid.
Divide the side sections of your hair and create two or three flat twists on each side, moving toward the back. Secure these twists into a central ponytail at the mid-head level. The twists create a “ribbed” texture that helps the hair stay pinned against the scalp even during heavy exertion.
Because twists are less prone to “frizzing out” than braids for certain curl types, this style maintains its integrity longer. It effectively manages volume at the sides of the head, which can otherwise obstruct peripheral vision. It is a stylish yet highly functional choice for any position on the court.
7. Braided Mohawk Bun
The braided mohawk bun is designed for athletes who want to keep the sides of their head completely clear. By braiding the center section of the hair and pulling the sides in tightly, you create a very stable central anchor. This prevents the hair from shifting side-to-side during lateral movements on the court.
Create a wide French or Dutch braid starting from the forehead and moving straight back down the center of the head. As you braid, pull the hair from the sides in very firmly to create a sleek silhouette. Once you reach the nape or the crown, gather all the hair into a single, dense bun.
This style is particularly good at managing very thick, heavy curls that might otherwise weigh down a standard ponytail. The central braid acts as a backbone for the hairstyle, distributing the weight vertically. It is a high-performance look that withstands the most intense rallies.
8. Low “Crossover” Braid
The low crossover braid is an evolution of the traditional ponytail, designed to stop the “hair whip” effect. When curly hair is long and loose in a ponytail, it can hit the athlete in the face during quick turns. This style crosses sections of hair over each other to create a dense, heavy braid that stays behind the back.
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16 Curly Hair Headband Styles for Quick Accessorizing — Read moreSecure the hair into a low ponytail first to create a solid base at the nape of the neck. Then, divide the hair into three sections and braid it as tightly as possible, using a small elastic at the very tip. If the braid is still too long, fold it upward and secure the end to the base of the ponytail.
This style is excellent for maintaining the curl pattern while preventing the knots that come from hair rubbing against a jersey. The low center of gravity ensures the hair doesn’t bounce much during jumps. It is a reliable, professional-looking choice for competitive play.
9. The “Box” Braid High Bun
For those with protective styles like box braids or twists, a high bun is the ultimate court-ready solution. These styles already have built-in security, but the length can be a hazard during play. Gathering them into a structured bun ensures they don’t swing and cause a distraction or a foul at the net.
Gather all the braids at the top of the head and secure them with a “stretchy” extra-large hair tie. Divide the braids into two sections and wrap them around each other to form a large, stable bun. Use a second large elastic or several heavy-duty pins to lock the bun in place.
The weight of box braids can be significant, so centering them on top of the head is the most ergonomic choice. This prevents the braids from pulling on the scalp during sudden stops or changes in direction. It provides a clean, focused look that is very popular in professional leagues.
10. Quadruple Cornrow Low Pony
Cornrows provide the absolute maximum level of security for curly hair by locking the hair directly to the scalp. By creating four rows, you ensure that even the shortest hairs at the temples and the nape are caught. These rows then feed into a low ponytail that stays tucked out of the way.
Part the hair into four equal quadrants from front to back and braid each tightly against the skin. Use a light pomade or gel to keep the parts clean and the curls from lifting during the process. Secure the ends of the four braids into a single elastic at the nape of the neck.
This hairstyle is “set it and forget it,” as it will not move regardless of how many times you dive for a ball. It is also excellent for heat management, as it exposes more of the scalp to the air. This is a top-tier choice for tournament weekends where you have limited time for hair maintenance.
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11. The Wrapped Fishtail Braid
The fishtail braid is more secure for curly hair than a standard braid because it uses smaller sections. These smaller sections interlock more tightly, which is perfect for hair with a lot of “spring” or texture. Wrapping the finished braid into a bun adds a final layer of security for the court.
Start by pulling your hair into a ponytail at the back of the head. Divide the ponytail into two sections and perform a tight fishtail braid, pulling the strands firmly with each cross. Once finished, wrap the braid around the base of the ponytail and secure it with pins.
The intricate weave of the fishtail prevents individual curls from popping out mid-match. It creates a very dense structure that resists wind and movement. This style also looks very elegant, transitioning well from the court to post-game events.
12. Zig-Zag Part Space Buns
Space buns are a fun yet functional way to split the weight of heavy curly hair. By dividing the hair into two equal parts, you reduce the strain on any one part of the scalp. A zig-zag part adds extra security by interlocking the hair at the scalp, making it harder for the sections to shift.
Use a rat-tail comb to create a zig-zag part from the forehead to the nape. Secure each side into a high ponytail on the upper corners of the head. Twirl the curls into tight buns and secure them with multiple elastics to ensure they don’t unravel during a serve.
This style keeps the center of the head clear, which can be cooler for the athlete. It also provides a balanced feel, which some players find helpful for spatial awareness on the court. Space buns are highly effective at keeping hair away from the neck and face.
13. Front-Twisted Low Ponytail
The front-twisted low ponytail is designed to secure the “fringe” or bangs that often fall out of hair ties. By twisting the front sections of the hair back towards the ears, you create a barrier for loose curls. These twists then anchor into a low ponytail that rests at the base of the neck.
Take a small section of hair near the temple and begin twisting it inward, adding more hair as you move back. Secure the twist with a small clear elastic or pin before doing the same on the other side. Gather the remaining hair and the two twists into a tight low ponytail.
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14. The “Triple Threat” Segmented Bun
The segmented bun uses three stacked ponytails that are eventually merged into one. This is the ultimate “anti-gravity” style for curly hair, as it anchors the hair at the top, middle, and bottom of the head. It is nearly impossible for this style to sag or fall out during a match.
Divide the hair into three horizontal sections: one at the crown, one in the middle, and one at the nape. Secure the top section into a ponytail, then pull that tail into the middle section and secure them together. Finally, pull that combined tail into the bottom section and form a final bun.
By connecting the sections, you create a continuous chain of support. Each hair tie reinforces the one above it, distributing the weight of the curls across the entire back of the head. This is the most secure option for players with extremely thick or long curly hair.
15. Halo Braid with Bobby Pin Lockdown
The halo braid circles the head, keeping the weight of the hair distributed around the perimeter. This is an excellent choice for curly hair because the texture of the curls helps the braid stay “locked” in place. It eliminates the need for a dangling ponytail entirely, making it very streamlined.
Braid the hair in a continuous circle around the head, starting behind one ear. Use a Dutch braid technique to keep the braid raised and tight against the scalp. Once you reach the starting point, tuck the ends of the hair under the beginning of the braid and pin them heavily.
This style is preferred by many athletes because it offers a “weightless” feel. There is no ponytail pulling on the scalp or bouncing against the neck. It is a very secure, professional style that stays intact through multiple sets of intense play.
16. Sculpted High Pony with Braid-Wrap
The sculpted high pony uses a section of the hair to act as its own “tie.” This provides an extra layer of friction and security that a rubber band alone cannot provide. It is a sleek, powerful look that keeps curly hair compressed and controlled.
Secure your curls into a high ponytail using a very strong athletic elastic. Take a small section of hair from the underside of the ponytail and braid it tightly. Wrap this braid around the base of the ponytail multiple times and pin it securely into the center.
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How do I prevent my curls from frizzing during a match?
To minimize frizz, apply a leave-in conditioner or a light-hold gel to damp hair before styling. This creates a barrier against sweat and humidity. Additionally, using a non-slip fabric headband can help absorb sweat before it reaches your curls and causes them to swell.
What are the best hair ties for thick curly hair on the court?
Look for “long-wear” or “athletic” hair ties that are advertised as being extra strong. Spiral-shaped ties or wide, seamless fabric elastics are excellent because they provide a strong grip without cutting into the hair or causing breakage. Avoid thin elastics with metal joiners, as these often snap under the pressure of thick curls.
Can I do these styles if I have short curly hair?
Yes, styles like the triple French braid crown or the quadruple cornrows are perfect for shorter curls. These techniques lock the hair close to the scalp, preventing shorter layers from falling out. For very short hair, using “snap” clips or a high-quality styling wax can help keep stray pieces in place.
Should I style my hair wet or dry before a game?
Styling curly hair while it is slightly damp is usually best for security. Damp hair is more pliable and allows you to create tighter, smoother braids and ponytails. However, make sure the hair is not soaking wet, as the weight of the water can cause the hairstyle to sag once you start moving.
How do I avoid “ponytail headaches” during long tournaments?
Distribute the weight of your hair by using styles with multiple anchor points, such as space buns or the triple-threat segmented bun. Avoid pulling the hair too tight at the temples, as this is where most tension headaches originate. If you feel a headache coming on, try a lower-set style to shift the center of gravity.
How can I refresh my curls after taking down these styles?
Once your match is over, gently undo the style and spritz your hair with a mixture of water and leave-in conditioner. Use your fingers to “scrunch” the curls back into shape rather than brushing them. This will help reactivate the curl pattern and reduce the “compressed” look from the braids or ties.