When you’re on the track, your hairstyle needs to be secure, sweat-proof, and stylish. Whether you’re training, competing, or just working out, the right hairstyle can keep hair out of your face while adding a touch of style.
Here are 10 track-friendly hairstyles that balance functionality and fashion for runners, sprinters, and athletes!
1. High Ponytail – Sleek & Sporty
✔ Best for: Long hair, everyday track training
Why It Works:
- Keeps hair off your face and neck
- Prevents tangles and distractions
- Works for all hair types
How to Style:
1️⃣ Brush hair into a tight, high ponytail.
2️⃣ Secure with a strong, no-slip hair tie.
3️⃣ Apply gel or hairspray to keep flyaways in place.
✔ Bonus: Wrap a strand of hair around the elastic for a polished look!
2. Braided Ponytail – Secure & Sweatproof
✔ Best for: Medium to long hair, intense workouts
Why It Works:
- Prevents hair from getting tangled during sprints
- Looks sleek and stylish
- Lasts through long training sessions
How to Style:
1️⃣ Tie hair into a high ponytail.
2️⃣ Braid the ponytail all the way down and secure with an elastic.
3️⃣ Use a small amount of gel to smooth edges.
✔ Bonus: Try a fishtail or Dutch braid for a stylish twist!
3. Boxer Braids – Trendy & Functional
✔ Best for: All hair types, long-lasting hold
Why It Works:
- Keeps hair tight and secure
- Distributes tension evenly across the scalp
- Perfect for multi-day training sessions
How to Style:
1️⃣ Part hair down the middle.
2️⃣ Create two Dutch or French braids down each side.
3️⃣ Secure with small elastics at the ends.
✔ Bonus: Great for low-maintenance track days!
4. Low Bun – Classic & No-Fuss
✔ Best for: Short to medium hair, races or competitions
Why It Works:
- Prevents excess movement while running
- Keeps hair off the neck
- Perfect for athletes with shorter hair
How to Style:
1️⃣ Brush hair into a low ponytail.
2️⃣ Twist the ponytail into a tight bun and pin it down.
3️⃣ Use strong-hold hairspray or gel for extra grip.
✔ Bonus: Wear a headband for extra sweat control!
5. Cornrow Braids – Protective & Long-Lasting
✔ Best for: Natural hair, track meets, and long-term wear
Why It Works:
- Protects hair from breakage and sweat damage
- Can be styled into a bun, ponytail, or let down
- Lasts for days or weeks with proper care
How to Style:
1️⃣ Section hair into rows and create tight braids.
2️⃣ Secure the ends with small elastics or leave unbraided.
3️⃣ Moisturize scalp regularly to keep it healthy.
✔ Bonus: Add beads or cuffs for a stylish touch!
6. Space Buns – Fun & Trendy
✔ Best for: Medium to long hair, casual track training
Why It Works:
- Distributes weight evenly for a comfortable hold
- Keeps hair secure while adding a cute touch
- Works well for curly or wavy hair
How to Style:
1️⃣ Part hair into two equal sections.
2️⃣ Tie each section into high ponytails and twist into buns.
3️⃣ Secure with pins or hair ties.
✔ Bonus: Try braided space buns for extra hold!
7. Low Braided Pigtails – Secure & Cute
✔ Best for: All hair types, youthful and fun look
Why It Works:
- Keeps hair neat without too much tension
- Works well for shorter or layered hair
- Can be worn tight or loose for comfort
How to Style:
1️⃣ Part hair down the middle.
2️⃣ Braid each side into low pigtails.
3️⃣ Secure with elastic bands.
✔ Bonus: Add colorful hair ties or ribbons for extra style!
8. Claw Clip Updo – Quick & Stylish
✔ Best for: Quick track days, easy styling
Why It Works:
- Keeps hair out of your face effortlessly
- Great for shorter hair that doesn’t fit into a ponytail
- Adds a touch of style with minimal effort
How to Style:
1️⃣ Gather hair into a twist at the back.
2️⃣ Secure with a large claw clip.
3️⃣ Adjust strands for a relaxed or tight look.
✔ Bonus: Use a matte-finish clip for a sporty aesthetic!
9. Headband & High Bun – Minimal & Effective
✔ Best for: Short to medium hair, intense workouts
Why It Works:
- Keeps sweat away from the forehead
- Holds hair firmly in place
- Great for high-impact training
How to Style:
1️⃣ Wear a wide sports headband.
2️⃣ Pull hair into a tight high bun.
3️⃣ Apply gel for extra hold and flyaway control.
✔ Bonus: Use a moisture-wicking headband for extra sweat absorption!
10. Mohawk Braids with Ponytail – Edgy & Cool
✔ Best for: Thick or textured hair, standout styles
Why It Works:
- Combines braids and a ponytail for extra security
- Keeps hair pulled back with stylish details
- Works great for thicker, curly, or coily hair
How to Style:
1️⃣ Create small, tight braids on each side of the head.
2️⃣ Gather the middle section into a high ponytail.
3️⃣ Secure with a strong elastic band.
✔ Bonus: Try a braided or curled ponytail for extra volume!
✨ Final Tips for Track Hairstyles
✔ Use sweat-proof hair ties – Elastic bands with a no-slip grip work best.
✔ Moisturize scalp & edges – Keep natural hair hydrated with leave-in conditioner.
✔ Choose low-tension styles – Avoid tight ponytails or braids that cause breakage.
✔ Secure with extra pins & gel – Keeps hair locked in place during high-impact activity.
✔ Invest in a good headband – A moisture-wicking headband helps control sweat and flyaways.
With these track-friendly hairstyles, you can run, train, and compete in style while keeping your hair secure and comfortable! Which one will you try first? Let me know! 🏃♀️✨💇♀️