Volleyball requires focus and intensity. Hair shouldn’t be a distraction on the court.
Secure braids keep strands out of your face. They stay put during every dive and spike.
These game-ready styles combine durability with athletic flair. Find your perfect match for the next match.
1. Classic Double Dutch Braids
Double Dutch braids are a quintessential choice for competitive sports. By weaving the strands under instead of over, the braid sits prominently on top of the hair.
This style is exceptionally secure for long matches. It gathers all layers of hair tightly against the scalp, preventing flyaways from obstructing your vision during a serve.
To ensure they last through five sets, use a small amount of styling gel while braiding. Finish the ends with thick elastics that won’t snap during high-impact movements.
2. High Ponytail with Bubble Braids
The bubble braid is a modern twist on the standard ponytail that offers superior control. It involves placing elastics at equal intervals down the length of the hair.
This look is ideal for players who want the movement of a ponytail without the tangles. The “bubbles” prevent the hair from whipping into your eyes during a quick transition.
For the best results, use colorful elastics to match your team jersey. Gently tug at the sides of each section to create a fuller, more voluminous appearance.
3. Triple Dutch Mohawk Braids
Triple Dutch braids offer an extra level of security by dividing the hair into three distinct sections. One center braid is flanked by two smaller braids on the sides.
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Secure all three braids into a single low ponytail or bun at the nape of the neck. This prevents the ends from flapping around while you are jumping at the net.
4. French Braid into a Low Bun
A French braid that transitions into a low bun offers a sophisticated and functional look. It keeps the hair sleek from the forehead all the way down to the neck.
The bun ensures that no loose hair touches your shoulders, which can be a major distraction during intense play. It is a compact style that stays out of the way.
Use several bobby pins to lock the bun in place. Choosing a heavy-duty scrunchie for the final wrap will provide an extra layer of security for the entire match.
5. Fishtail Pigtails
Fishtail braids provide a tighter weave than standard three-strand braids. This intricate pattern creates a flat, wide surface that rests comfortably against the head.
While they take a bit longer to create, the staying power is unmatched. The small sections of hair used in a fishtail are less likely to slip out during a dive.
Spritz the finished braids with a salt spray or texturizer for added grip. This prevents the weave from loosening when you are moving at high speeds on the court.
6. Cornrow-Style Accent Braids
Accent braids involve creating small, tight cornrows on just one side of the head or along the hairline. The rest of the hair is then pulled into a ponytail.
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For a professional finish, ensure the parts are straight and clean. This look works well for players who prefer the classic feel of a ponytail but need extra security.
7. Pull-Through Braid
The pull-through braid is technically a series of interconnected ponytails. It mimics the look of a thick, lush braid but is much more durable for physical activity.
Because every section is secured with its own elastic, the “braid” cannot come undone even if you hit the floor. It is virtually indestructible during a championship game.
This style is perfect for players who want a bold look that stands out on the court. Use clear elastics for a seamless appearance or team colors for spirit.
8. Four-Strand Box Braid
The four-strand braid creates a rounder, more 3D shape than the traditional flat braid. It is sturdy and less prone to “pancaking” or flattening out over time.
This style is great for players with very long hair who find that three-strand braids become too thin at the ends. It keeps the bulk of the hair contained.
Focus on maintaining even tension throughout the braiding process to ensure the pattern stays consistent. A light coating of hair wax can help keep the strands together.
9. Reverse French Braid Bun
A reverse French braid starts at the nape of the neck and works its way up to the crown. The remaining hair is then tied into a top-knot bun.
This is a functional choice for defensive specialists who spend a lot of time low to the ground. It prevents the hair at the neck from becoming sweaty and tangled.
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18 Protective hairstyles for 4c hair braids — Read moreThe top-knot placement keeps the weight of the hair centered on the head. This helps maintain balance when you are jumping for a block or a spike.
10. Wrap-Around Halo Braid
The halo braid involves one or two braids that wrap entirely around the circumference of the head. This creates a “crown” that keeps all hair tucked away.
This is arguably the most secure style for volleyball as there are no loose ends. It is ideal for tournament weekends where you need your hair to stay put for hours.
Use plenty of pins to secure the tail of the braid under the starting point. This creates a continuous loop that looks polished and stays incredibly tight during movement.
11. Side-Swept Dutch Braid
A side-swept Dutch braid starts at one temple and curves around the back of the head. It ends in a side ponytail or a side-braid over the shoulder.
This asymmetrical style is functional because it clears hair away from your dominant hitting side. It offers a unique silhouette that looks great in action photos.
Ensure the braid is tight against the scalp to prevent it from sagging. Finish the style with a strong elastic and a ribbon in your team’s primary color.
12. Infinity Braid Ponytail
The infinity braid uses a figure-eight pattern to weave two sections of hair together. When added to a ponytail, it creates a very dense and secure structure.
This style is less likely to fray or become “fuzzy” during high-intensity cardio. It keeps the hair compact, reducing the “whip” factor during quick head rotations.
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This braid looks best on straight or slightly wavy hair where the pattern is visible. Use a smoothing serum before braiding to eliminate any static or flyaways.
13. Box Braids with Ribbon Integration
Integrating a ribbon into your braids adds both structural support and team spirit. The ribbon acts as an extra “strand” that helps keep the braid tight.
This is a popular choice for school or club games. The ribbon can be tied into a bow at the end for an extra touch of athletic personality.
Choose a ribbon that has some grip, like grosgrain, rather than satin. Satin ribbons are slippery and may slide out of the braid during a vigorous rally.
14. Snake Braid into Low Pigtails
The snake braid is a variation where you pull one strand of a three-strand braid to “scrunch” it up. It creates a textured, secure look that is visually striking.
When transitioned into pigtails, it provides a balanced feel for the athlete. The low placement ensures that the hair doesn’t interfere with any overhead movements.
This style works exceptionally well for those with layered hair. The scrunched nature of the snake braid helps to lock in shorter pieces that might otherwise escape.
15. Five-Strand Dutch Braid
The five-strand Dutch braid is for the athlete who wants a wide, flat, and extremely secure braid. It uses more anchor points on the scalp than a standard braid.
This width makes the braid feel very stable against the head, reducing movement. It is a great choice for players who find narrow braids uncomfortable or wiggly.
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Practice is key for this style as it requires more finger coordination. Once mastered, it provides one of the most durable finishes for any court sport.
16. Braided Space Buns
Braided space buns involve creating two Dutch braids that end in high buns on either side of the head. This distributes the hair’s volume and weight.
Space buns are excellent for keeping hair completely off the neck and face. They provide a fun, high-energy look that matches the vibe of a competitive game.
Use spiral pins (also known as spin pins) to hold the buns in place. These are more effective than standard bobby pins for keeping heavy buns from falling.
17. Diagonal French Braid
A diagonal French braid starts at one top corner of the forehead and runs across to the opposite nape of the neck. It creates a sleek, aerodynamic look.
The diagonal path allows the braid to pick up hair from every part of the scalp efficiently. It is a very tight style that resists loosening during dives.
This style is particularly effective for players with medium-length hair. It gathers all the strands into one single, controlled unit that stays out of the way.
How do I keep flyaways down during a volleyball match?
The best way to manage flyaways is to apply a light hair wax or gel to your strands before you begin braiding. Once the braids are complete, use a firm-hold hairspray to set the style. For extra stubborn baby hairs, use a clean mascara wand dipped in hair gel to smooth them down.
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What are the best braids for short hair in volleyball?
Dutch braids and cornrows are the most effective for short hair because they grip the hair closest to the scalp. If your hair is too short for a single braid, try multiple small braids that feed into a small ponytail. This prevents shorter layers from falling out during the game.
Will these braids stay in during a sand volleyball game?
Yes, most of these styles are excellent for sand volleyball. However, avoid styles like the “pull-through” braid which uses many elastics that can trap sand. Stick to tight Dutch or French braids, as they have fewer openings for sand to settle into during a dive.
How can I make my braids last through an all-day tournament?
To ensure longevity, braid your hair while it is slightly damp for a tighter grip. Use high-quality, snag-free elastics that won’t break under pressure. You can also sleep in your braids using a silk scarf or pillowcase if you have a multi-day tournament to minimize frizz.
Do braids help prevent hair damage from sweat?
Braids help by keeping the hair contained and reducing the surface area exposed to sweat and salt. By keeping the hair tied back, you also prevent the mechanical damage caused by constant friction against your shoulders or jersey. Just be sure to wash and condition your hair thoroughly after your match.
Can I wear a headband with these braided styles?
Absolutely, many volleyball players use a non-slip grip headband in conjunction with braids. The headband helps catch any very short flyaways at the hairline that the braids might miss. This combination provides the ultimate level of security for players with lots of layers or bangs.