17 Volleyball Hairstyles For Medium Hair With Bubble Braids

Volleyball requires intense movement and constant focus on the court.

Your hair should never be a distraction during a crucial match.

Bubble braids offer the perfect mix of security and style.

They keep medium-length hair contained through every jump and dive.

Discover the best 17 volleyball hairstyles for medium hair with bubble braids.

1. Classic High Bubble Ponytail

The classic high bubble ponytail is a staple for any serious athlete. It starts with a high base that keeps hair completely off the neck.

By adding elastics every few inches, you prevent the hair from whipping into your eyes. This is essential for maintaining visibility during high-speed plays.

For medium hair, this style is particularly effective at managing layers. Each bubble captures shorter strands that might otherwise escape a traditional ponytail.

2. Double Bubble Braids

Double bubble braids involve splitting the hair into two even sections. This distributes the weight of the hair across the scalp for better comfort.

These pigtail-style bubbles are incredibly secure during lateral movements. They stay close to the head, reducing the risk of the hair getting caught in netting.

This look works wonders for medium hair because it maximizes the available length. It creates a symmetrical, sporty aesthetic that looks professional on the court.

3. Half-Up Bubble Crown

A half-up bubble crown focuses on securing the top section of the hair. This prevents bangs or shorter front layers from falling into your face.

The bottom half remains loose but controlled, which works well for medium lengths. It offers a lighter feel while still providing necessary facial clearance.

This style is ideal for practice sessions where you want a balance of function and ease. It is quick to assemble and requires very few elastics.

4. Dutch-Style Bubble Braids

Dutch-style bubble braids start with a traditional Dutch braid transition at the crown. Once it reaches the nape, it transforms into segmented bubbles.

This hybrid approach provides maximum security at the roots. It prevents the hair from shifting even during the most aggressive jump serves.

For medium-length athletes, this style ensures that even the shortest hairs at the nape are tucked away. It is a robust choice for championship matches.

5. Side-Sling Bubble Pony

The side-sling bubble pony moves the hair to one side of the neck. This can be a strategic choice depending on which side you typically hit from.

It uses the same bubble technique to keep the hair gathered tightly. Moving the mass to the side can sometimes prevent the hair from hitting the back.

This style adds a unique flair to your uniform without sacrificing performance. It remains tight and structured through multiple sets of play.

6. Triple Row Bubble Mohawk

The triple row bubble mohawk involves three distinct lines of bubbles running front to back. This is the ultimate “power” look for the court.

Having three rows ensures that every single strand is locked into place. It is nearly impossible for hair to come loose with this much reinforcement.

This is a favorite for medium hair that has many different lengths. It creates a textured, tiered look that stays perfectly in place during dives.

7. Low Nape Bubble Braid

A low nape bubble braid starts at the base of the skull. This is a great option for players who prefer a lower center of gravity.

Because it sits low, it doesn’t pull on the scalp as much as high styles. This can reduce the risk of tension headaches during long tournaments.

For medium hair, a low bubble braid looks thick and full. It creates a neat, organized appearance that communicates readiness and discipline.

8. Criss-Cross Bubble Pigtails

Criss-cross bubble pigtails involve crossing sections of hair from one side to the other. This creates an “X” pattern before starting the bubbles.

This added tension makes the style even more secure than standard pigtails. It locks the hair against the scalp to prevent any bounce.

It is a visually striking style that looks great in team photos. The medium length allows the “X” pattern to be the star of the show.

9. The Wrapped Bubble Base

The wrapped bubble base uses a small section of hair to cover the first elastic. This adds a touch of sophistication to the sporty look.

The rest of the hair is then bubbled as usual down the length. This creates a polished appearance while maintaining the functional benefits of the bubbles.

This style is perfect for players who want a “clean girl” aesthetic on the court. It proves that sports hair can be both tough and elegant.

10. Diagonal Pull-Through Bubbles

Diagonal pull-through bubbles move across the head at an angle. This unique geometry helps distribute the tension of the elastics.

It is a great way to manage hair that grows in different directions. The diagonal path captures hair from the forehead to the opposite ear.

Medium hair benefits from this because the angle creates an illusion of more length. It is a dynamic style that matches the energy of the game.

11. Multi-Elastic High Pony

The multi-elastic high pony uses dozens of small elastics placed very close together. This creates many small, tight bubbles.

This technique provides the highest level of control possible for medium hair. It leaves no room for flyaways or loose strands.

Athletes who dive frequently often prefer this style for its durability. It stays sleek regardless of how much sweat or friction it encounters.

12. Messy Sporty Bubble Braid

The messy sporty bubble braid isn’t actually “messy” in terms of being loose. Instead, it features pulled-out bubbles for maximum volume.

This style gives a “big hair” look that still functions as a braid. It is great for players with thinner medium hair who want more presence.

Despite the voluminous look, the elastics keep the hair strictly under control. It provides a relaxed but ready vibe for game day.

13. Tight Segmented Pigtails

Tight segmented pigtails use very small sections to create a “beaded” look. The elastics are placed every inch to maximize grip.

This is a high-performance style designed for maximum intensity. It is the go-to for liberos who are constantly hitting the floor.

For medium hair, this style ensures that the pigtails don’t fray at the ends. It keeps the hair looking sharp from the first whistle to the last point.

14. The “Waterfall” Bubble Braid

The waterfall bubble braid incorporates small sections of hair into a main bubble stream. It resembles a waterfall of elastics.

This style is excellent for keeping hair out of the eyes without a full ponytail. It gathers the “fringe” area and pulls it back into the main structure.

It works exceptionally well for medium-length hair with growing-out bangs. It keeps the player’s field of vision clear at all times.

15. Top-Knot Bubble Hybrid

The top-knot bubble hybrid features a small bun at the top that transitions into a bubble braid. This adds extra height and style.

The top knot acts as a secondary anchor for the rest of the hair. This double-anchoring system is incredibly resilient against jumping.

Medium hair is the perfect length for this because the bun isn’t too heavy. It remains balanced on top of the head throughout the match.

16. Zig-Zag Parted Bubbles

Zig-zag parted bubbles focus on the scalp design before the bubbling begins. The hair is parted in a sharp zig-zag pattern.

This isn’t just for looks; it prevents the scalp from getting sunburned during outdoor beach volleyball. It also helps grip the hair better.

Once the part is set, the hair is bubbled down the sides as usual. It is a fun, geometric take on the classic volleyball look.

17. The Sleek Competition Braid

The sleek competition braid uses hair gel to smooth everything back before bubbling. This is the most professional and aerodynamic option.

By removing all frizz and flyaways, you ensure that nothing distracts you. The bubbles are kept small and uniform for a streamlined profile.

This style is perfect for medium hair during high-stakes tournaments. It looks intentional, fierce, and completely unshakeable on the court.

Which elastics are best for volleyball?

The best elastics for volleyball are “no-slip” silicone bands or small TPU elastics. These provide a much tighter grip than traditional cloth-covered bands. They are less likely to slide down the hair during high-impact jumps or quick dives. Always look for “snag-free” options to protect your hair from breakage.

How do I stop bubbles from sagging?

To stop bubbles from sagging, ensure each base ponytail is tight against the scalp. Use a “pull-through” method where you split the hair above the elastic and pull the tail through. This creates a natural anchor that prevents the bubble from sliding. Applying a light-hold hairspray before fluffing the bubbles can also add structural integrity.

Can I do these styles with layers?

Yes, bubble braids are actually one of the best styles for layered medium hair. The frequent elastics act as “checkpoints” that catch shorter layers before they can pop out. If you have very short layers, use a small amount of hair wax or gel. This helps the shorter pieces blend into the main bubble sections.

How do I prevent hair breakage?

Prevent breakage by using snag-free elastics and avoiding over-tightening at the scalp. When removing the elastics after a match, it is often safer to snip them with a small cutter. This prevents you from pulling and snapping the hair while trying to unwind them. Applying a leave-in conditioner before styling can also provide a protective barrier.

Will these stay through a five-set match?

These styles are specifically designed for long-duration athletic performance. The multiple points of contact provided by the elastics make them much more durable than a single braid. For maximum longevity, use a Dutch-style start at the crown. This secures the hair at the root, which is usually the first place a hairstyle fails.

How long does it take to style?

Most bubble braid styles take between five and ten minutes once you have the technique down. The classic high bubble pony is the fastest, taking only a few minutes. More complex styles like the triple row mohawk may take closer to fifteen minutes. They are generally much faster to execute than traditional French or fishtail braids.

17 Volleyball Hairstyles for Medium Hair with Bubble Braids