25 Game-Ready Softball Hairstyles That Keep Hair Out of Your Face
Playing softball requires focus, agility, and nothing getting in your way – especially your hair!
Finding the right hairstyle can make all the difference between striking out and hitting a home run.
Whether you’re stepping up to bat or diving to catch a fly ball, these 25 sporty softball hairstyles will keep you looking good while staying practical on the field.
Ready to up your hair game while dominating the diamond? Let’s dive into these field-tested styles that combine function and flair!
1: The Classic High Ponytail

The high ponytail remains a softball staple for good reason. Simply gather your hair at the crown of your head and secure with a strong elastic.
Add a headband to catch flyaways or braid your front sections for extra security. This style keeps hair completely off your face and neck during those hot summer games.
For thick hair, try using a strong hair tie with hooks for extra staying power throughout your game.
2: French Braid Pigtails

French braid pigtails provide excellent hold even during the most intense innings. Start by dividing your hair down the middle and french braid each side.
Secure the ends with covered elastics that won’t snag during slides. These braids distribute weight evenly and stay put no matter how much you move.
Add colored elastics in your team colors for a spirited touch to this practical style.
3: Dutch Braid Headband with Ponytail

Create a dutch braid along your hairline like a headband, then gather the remaining hair into a ponytail.
This combination offers the security of a braid with the simplicity of a ponytail.
The front braid keeps wisps out of your eyes while adding a stylish element to your game-day look. Use bobby pins to secure any loose sections if needed.
This style works for all hair lengths as long as your front pieces can reach into a braid.
4: Bubble Ponytail

Transform your basic ponytail by adding elastics every 1-2 inches down your length, gently pulling each section outward to create “bubbles.”
This style secures hair while adding a fun element.
The multiple elastics ensure your hair stays contained through all seven innings. Use small, clear elastics for a more subtle look.
This style is especially great for medium to long hair and can be customized with as many or few bubbles as you prefer.
5: Crown Braid with Low Ponytail

Create a half-crown braid on each side of your head, then join them together at the back before gathering all hair into a low ponytail.
This elegant yet functional style keeps hair secure.
The crown braid prevents front and side pieces from falling forward when you’re catching or batting.
For extra security, use bobby pins with the ridged side down.
This sophisticated style transitions well from game to post-game celebrations.
6: Softball Cap Braids

Style two braids positioned to sit perfectly under your softball cap. Start the braids at your temples and braid straight back or angled slightly downward.
These braids work perfectly with your cap, preventing hair from bunching up or becoming uncomfortable. They also keep your neck cool during hot games.
You can secure the ends together at the back for a unified look or leave them separated.
7: Four-Strand Braid Ponytail

Elevate your ponytail by creating a four-strand braid instead of the traditional three-strand version.
This creates a thicker, more secure plait that stays intact through diving catches.
The additional strand creates a tighter weave that’s less likely to come undone during play. Use a bit of texturizing spray before braiding for better grip.
This intricate-looking style is surprisingly quick once you master the technique.
8: Boxer Braids

Create tight, neat cornrow-style braids running from your forehead to the nape of your neck.
These sleek braids lie flat against your head, making them perfect under helmets and caps.
They’re sweat-resistant and can last through multiple games if properly maintained. Apply a light gel before braiding for better hold and neater lines.
Boxer braids work for most hair lengths and can be customized with your team’s colors woven in.
9: Twisted Rope Bun

Create a high ponytail, split it into two sections, and twist them around each other.
Wrap this rope around the base of your ponytail and secure with pins for a stay-put bun.
The twisting technique creates a secure hold that withstands running, sliding, and diving. Add a few extra bobby pins in a cross pattern for maximum security.
This style works well for medium to long hair and keeps everything completely off your neck.
10: Half-Up Crown Twist

Twist small sections from each temple and secure them at the back of your head, then gather the remaining hair into a ponytail or braid.
This style offers the perfect balance between security and comfort.
The front twists keep hair out of your face while the remaining style can be adjusted based on your position and preference. Use small clear elastics for a seamless look.
This versatile option works for most hair lengths and looks polished for team photos.
11: Triple Flip Ponytail

Create a ponytail at the crown, then make two more ponytails below it, flipping the hair through each one as you go down. This creates a secure chain that controls long hair.
The flipping technique locks hair in place, preventing it from swinging around and distracting you during crucial plays.
Each section helps distribute the weight of heavy hair.
This style is particularly good for very long or thick hair that’s hard to contain in standard styles.
12: Braided Space Buns

Part your hair down the middle, create two high ponytails, braid each one, then wrap them into compact buns on either side of your head.
Secure with pins and spray for ultimate hold.
These buns sit high enough to be comfortable with caps and helmets while keeping hair completely contained. The braiding before wrapping adds extra security.
Add colorful elastics or wrapped sections to match your team colors.
13: Five-Strand Dutch Headband

Create a thick dutch braid using five strands along your hairline, then gather the remaining hair into a ponytail or bun.
The additional strands create a more secure and prominent braid.
This impressive-looking style actually serves the practical purpose of capturing every little flyaway along your hairline.
Use a light hairspray for extra hold.
The five-strand technique creates a braid that lies flatter against your head than traditional braids.
14: Twisted Side Ponytail

Create two or three twists on one side of your head, then gather all hair into a ponytail positioned slightly to that same side.
This asymmetrical style offers security with a unique look.
The twists capture shorter layers and bangs that might otherwise escape during play.
Position the ponytail strategically based on whether you’re right or left-handed.
This style works well for medium-length hair and those growing out layers or bangs.
15: Criss-Cross Pigtails

Part your hair down the middle at the crown, then create a criss-cross pattern with small sections before forming two low pigtails. This pattern locks hair in place.
The woven pattern at the top creates a secure base that prevents the pigtails from loosening during play.
Add clear elastic every few inches down each pigtail for extra security.
This playful style distributes hair evenly and works well under caps.
16: Braided Top Knot

Create a high ponytail, braid it tightly, then wrap it around itself to form a secure top knot.
This style keeps hair completely off your face and neck while staying put through intense plays.
The braiding step prevents the bun from loosening throughout your game.
Use U-shaped pins inserted in opposite directions for maximum hold.
This style looks neat and polished while being completely functional for any position on the field.
17: Zigzag Part with Double Dutch Braids

Create a zigzag part down the center of your head, then dutch braid each side.
The zigzag pattern provides better hold than a straight part and adds a fun detail.
The unique parting helps the braids stay secure by anchoring more hair at the roots. This style prevents any hair from falling forward during crucial plays.
Add small butterfly clips or team-colored elastics along the zigzag for extra flair.
18: Fishtail Braid Ponytail

Gather your hair into a ponytail, then create a fishtail braid. This technique creates a tight, flat braid that controls hair movement during active plays.
The woven pattern of the fishtail provides excellent hold that lasts throughout your game.
Apply a texturizing spray before braiding for better grip.
This elegant yet sporty style transitions well from game to post-game activities.
19: Hidden Braid Ponytail

Create a basic ponytail, then take a small section from underneath and braid it.
Wrap this braid around the elastic to hide it and secure with a bobby pin for a polished look.
This simple addition provides extra security while elevating your basic ponytail.
The wrapped section prevents hair from sliding out of the elastic during play.
This quick style takes just a minute longer than a regular ponytail but looks much more put-together.
20: Cornrow to Ponytail

Create several cornrows from your hairline back to the crown of your head, then gather all hair (including the ends of the cornrows) into a ponytail.
This style offers maximum security.
The cornrows control front pieces while the ponytail keeps the back neat.
This style works particularly well for layered hair that might escape other styles.
These braids can last through multiple games if properly maintained.
21: Infinity Braid Ponytail

Create an infinity braid (a figure-8 pattern) along both sides of your head before joining them into a ponytail.
This decorative yet functional style secures shorter layers.
The weaving pattern captures hair that might otherwise fall out during play.
This style distributes tension evenly across your scalp for comfort during long tournaments.
Add a second elastic halfway down your ponytail for extra security.
22: Twisted Headband Bun

Create two twisted sections from your temples back to the crown, then gather all hair into a bun.
The twisted sections act as a headband to keep front pieces secure.
This style keeps hair off your face and neck completely, making it perfect for hot days or intense games.
Use spin pins for the bun portion for maximum hold.
This elegant style works well for all hair types and transitions perfectly from game to team dinner.
23: Pull-Through Braid Ponytail

Create a half-up ponytail, then continue creating sections and pulling the top section through for a chunky, secure braid effect.
This technique controls hair without actual braiding skills.
The multiple elastics ensure hair stays put throughout your game.
This style works particularly well for thick hair that’s difficult to braid traditionally.
Add small elastics in team colors for a spirited touch to this functional style.
24: Lace Braid Into Messy Bun

Create a lace braid along one side of your head (incorporating hair only from one side of the part), then gather all hair into a messy bun.
This style combines security with a relaxed look.
The lace braid keeps hair from falling forward while the bun controls the bulk of your hair. Use texturizing spray for better grip and hold.
This versatile style works for various hair lengths and transitions well to post-game activities.
25: Double Twisted Ponytail

Create two twisted sections on either side of your head, join them at the back, then gather all hair into a ponytail.
The twists provide extra security for front pieces.
This style keeps hair off your face without the tightness of braids, making it comfortable for a full game.
Add a decorative elastic or ribbon in team colors.
The double twists distribute tension evenly for a style that’s both secure and comfortable.
Conclusion
Now you’re equipped with 25 field-tested hairstyles that keep you looking great while playing your best.
Remember to practice your favorite styles before game day for the perfect sporty look!