8 Hairstyles for Every Pickleball Girly

The start of a new year brings fresh energy to the pickleball court, and while perfecting your serve and strategy takes time, elevating your on-court style can happen instantly. For many pickleball players, the matching outfit and accessories are already dialed in, but finding the right hairstyle that balances function with flair often gets overlooked. The reality is that your hairstyle matters just as much as your footwork when you’re spending hours under the sun, moving quickly, and working up a sweat.

Hair management on the pickleball court presents unique challenges. Unlike casual activities, pickleball demands constant movement, quick directional changes, and intense focus. Your hair needs to stay secure through aggressive volleys, stay off your face during crucial points, and still look presentable when you’re taking that post-match photo. The professional players have figured this out, combining practical hair solutions with personal style statements that have become part of their signature looks.

What makes these hairstyles work for pickleball specifically is their ability to withstand the sport’s demands while complementing the athletic aesthetic that has become central to pickleball culture. These aren’t just generic athletic hairstyles—they’re looks that have been tested on professional courts and recreational play alike, proven to hold up during marathon tournament days and casual weekend sessions. Let’s explore eight hairstyles that deliver both performance and style.

The Three-Strand Braid: Classic Elegance Meets Functionality

The three-strand braid represents timeless simplicity in athletic hairstyling, and professional player Anna Leigh Waters has demonstrated how this traditional style can look both polished and practical on the pickleball court. This isn’t just about keeping hair contained—it’s about creating a clean, professional appearance that holds up through intense play without requiring constant adjustment or maintenance between games.

The beauty of the three-strand braid lies in its versatility and reliability. Unlike more complex braiding techniques that can loosen or unravel during aggressive movement, the three-strand braid maintains its structure remarkably well. The technique distributes tension evenly throughout the braid, which means it stays tight and secure even when you’re reaching for difficult shots or diving for balls. This even tension also prevents the headaches and scalp discomfort that can come from styles that pull too tightly in specific areas.

To achieve this look effectively, start by pulling your hair into a high ponytail at the crown of your head. The height of the ponytail matters more than you might think—positioning it too low can result in the braid hitting your back and becoming a distraction during play, while too high can create unnecessary tension on your scalp. Once you have the ponytail secured, divide it into three equal sections. The key word here is equal—uneven sections will result in a lopsided braid that doesn’t hold as well.

The braiding pattern follows a simple alternating sequence: cross the right section over the middle section, then cross the left section over the new middle section. Continue this pattern consistently, maintaining even tension as you work your way down the length of the ponytail. When you reach the end, secure it with a hair tie that matches your hair color for a seamless look, or use a colorful elastic to add a pop of personality to your court appearance.

The High Ponytail: Sleek Simplicity That Delivers

The high ponytail stands as perhaps the most universally adopted hairstyle in women’s athletics, and player Parris Todd exemplifies how this straightforward style can look sophisticated on the pickleball court. What makes the high ponytail so effective isn’t just its ability to keep hair completely off your neck and face—it’s the psychological boost that comes from a sleek, pulled-together appearance that says you’re ready for serious competition.

The execution of a proper high ponytail requires more attention to detail than simply gathering your hair and securing it. The positioning matters tremendously: you want the ponytail at the crown of your head, which is the highest point of your skull. This placement keeps the ponytail from swinging into your peripheral vision during play and prevents the weight of your hair from pulling uncomfortably on your scalp. The tightness of the ponytail should be firm enough to stay secure but not so tight that it causes tension headaches during long playing sessions.

Creating volume and texture in your high ponytail can elevate it from basic to refined. Before smoothing out the ponytail, gently tease the hair at the crown of your head to create lift. This prevents the flat, slicked-down look that can occur when hair is pulled too severely. Once you’ve achieved the desired height and fullness, smooth out any bumps or irregularities using a brush or your hands, then secure everything tightly with a quality hair elastic—preferably one designed for athletic activity that won’t slip or break under stress.

The finishing touch involves managing flyaways and ensuring longevity. A light application of hairspray provides hold without making your hair stiff or crunchy. For players with particularly fine or slippery hair, wrapping a small section of hair around the base of the ponytail and securing it with a bobby pin creates a polished look while adding extra security to prevent slippage during play.

Headband with Loose Hair: Effortless Style Meets Sweat Management

For players who prefer keeping their hair down, the headband offers the perfect compromise between style and functionality. Player Alix Truong has made this look her signature, demonstrating how a simple accessory can transform loose hair from a liability into an asset. The key is choosing the right headband—not all headbands are created equal when it comes to athletic performance.

Sweat-wicking fabric makes all the difference in headband selection. Cotton headbands absorb moisture but then become saturated and uncomfortable, while synthetic moisture-wicking materials pull sweat away from your forehead and allow it to evaporate. This keeps you more comfortable during extended play and prevents sweat from dripping into your eyes at critical moments. The width of the headband also matters: narrower bands can slip more easily, while wider bands provide more coverage and security but can feel restrictive if too tight.

The styling approach for this look celebrates natural hair texture rather than fighting against it. Whether you have straight, wavy, or curly hair, letting it flow naturally while using the headband for containment creates an authentic, confident appearance. The headband’s primary job is keeping hair off your forehead and managing the hairline area where sweat tends to accumulate. For players with longer hair, consider a quick loosely gathered style at the back to prevent hair from sticking to your neck while maintaining that flowing aesthetic.

Positioning the headband correctly ensures it stays put during play. Place it approximately one to two inches back from your natural hairline, which provides optimal coverage without creating excessive pressure on your forehead. The headband should feel secure but not uncomfortably tight—you shouldn’t feel it digging into your head or creating a tension headache. Some players prefer to position the headband over their ears for extra security, while others tuck their ears out for better court awareness and communication with their partner.

Double Dutch Braids: Maximum Hold with Trending Appeal

Double Dutch braids have surged in popularity among pickleball players, and influencer Sydney Steinaker showcases how this style combines serious functionality with contemporary athletic fashion. The Dutch braiding technique creates an inverted effect compared to regular braids, sitting on top of the head rather than blending in, which provides superior hold and creates a distinctive visual statement on the court.

The mechanics of Dutch braiding involve crossing sections under rather than over, which is what creates that raised, three-dimensional effect. This technique distributes hair more evenly across the scalp and creates more points of contact with your head, resulting in braids that simply don’t move no matter how active you get. For pickleball players who struggle with other hairstyles coming loose during intense play, double Dutch braids offer unparalleled security that lasts through multi-hour tournament sessions.

Creating these braids starts with a clean center part dividing your hair into two equal sections. Working with one section at a time, begin at the hairline near your forehead. Take a small section of hair and divide it into three strands. The Dutch braid pattern involves crossing the right strand under the middle strand, then the left strand under the new middle strand. As you continue braiding, incorporate small amounts of hair from the surrounding area into each section before crossing it under. This gradual addition of hair is what keeps the braid tight against your scalp.

The tightness of your braiding requires careful calibration. Braids that are too loose will slip and shift during play, defeating the purpose of this style. Braids that are too tight can cause significant discomfort and even damage hair follicles over time. Aim for firm tension that feels secure but doesn’t pull uncomfortably on your scalp. Once you reach the nape of your neck and have incorporated all available hair, continue braiding the remaining length in a standard pattern and secure with elastic hair ties. The result is a style that literally stays put from your first serve to your final point of the day.

Space Buns: Playful Personality with Serious Function

Space buns might seem whimsical, but professional player Jessie Irvine proves this style delivers legitimate performance benefits while making a bold personal statement. The symmetrical buns positioned high on the head create a unique silhouette that stands out in tournament photos while keeping every strand of hair completely secured and off your neck—a crucial consideration during summer pickleball sessions.

The structural advantage of space buns comes from how they distribute the weight of your hair. Instead of having all your hair’s weight pulling down from a single point like a standard ponytail, space buns split that weight between two locations, reducing strain on any single area of your scalp. This weight distribution becomes increasingly important for players with thick or heavy hair who often experience discomfort from traditional ponytail styles. The elevated positioning also maximizes airflow around your neck and head, contributing to better temperature regulation during play.

Executing space buns properly begins with creating a precise center part from your forehead to the nape of your neck. The symmetry of your part directly affects the final appearance, so take time to ensure each section contains approximately equal amounts of hair. Pull each section into a high ponytail, positioning them where you want the finished buns to sit. The higher the ponytails, the more playful and youthful the final look; lower positioning creates a more subdued version of the style.

Once you have both ponytails secured, twist each one tightly around its base, coiling the hair in a spiral pattern. As you twist, wrap the hair around the ponytail base to form a bun shape. Secure each bun with additional elastic hair ties or bobby pins, ensuring they feel firmly attached. The buns should feel solid and stable, not loose or wobbly. For extra security and a cleaner finish, cross bobby pins in an X pattern through each bun, anchoring them firmly to your head. A final spritz of hairspray helps any shorter layers stay in place throughout your match.

Understanding Hairstyling for Pickleball: A Beginner’s Perspective

If you’re new to pickleball or athletic hairstyling in general, you might wonder why dedicated hairstyles matter for what seems like a casual sport. The reality is that pickleball, despite its accessible and social nature, involves significant physical activity that creates specific hair management challenges. Understanding these challenges helps you appreciate why certain styles work better than others and why professional players consistently gravitate toward particular looks.

Pickleball requires constant movement in multiple directions—forward, backward, side to side—along with quick changes of direction and sudden stops. Any hairstyle that allows hair to swing freely will result in hair moving into your face and eyes at exactly the wrong moments, potentially interfering with your ability to track the ball or position yourself properly. This isn’t just annoying; it can actually affect your performance and even create safety concerns if you’re distracted during critical points in play.

The sweating factor also plays a major role in hairstyle selection. Pickleball typically involves extended periods of activity, and most courts are outdoors in direct sunlight. As you sweat, loose hair sticks to your neck, forehead, and face, creating discomfort and distraction. Sweat-soaked hair also becomes heavier and more likely to escape from whatever style you’ve attempted. Hairstyles designed for athletic activity address these moisture-related challenges through strategic placement and securing techniques that work with, rather than against, the realities of sweating.

The social and photographic aspects of pickleball culture add another dimension to hairstyle considerations. Pickleball has a strong community element, with many players documenting their experiences through photos and social media. Unlike sports where you disappear into a helmet or uniform, pickleball keeps your personal style visible and central to your identity as a player. A hairstyle that looks good in addition to functioning well contributes to confidence and enjoyment of the sport, which is why so many players invest time in finding their signature look.

Messy Top Knot and Low Bun: Versatile Options for Every Player

The messy top knot represents the intersection of casual style and practical function, and player Lucy Kovalova demonstrates how this deliberately relaxed look works beautifully on the pickleball court. The genius of the messy top knot lies in its forgiving nature—it’s supposed to look somewhat undone, which means it maintains its intended appearance even after hours of intense play. This style communicates a relaxed confidence that aligns perfectly with pickleball’s approachable, fun-focused culture.

Creating an effective messy top knot starts with gathering your hair into a high ponytail, but unlike the sleek high ponytail discussed earlier, you’re not concerned with smoothness or perfection in this gathering process. Natural texture and a few bumps actually enhance the casual aesthetic. Once you have the ponytail secured, twist the hair loosely around the base, allowing the natural volume and texture of your hair to create an organic bun shape rather than forcing it into a tight, controlled coil.

The securing process for a messy top knot requires a lighter touch than more structured styles. Use enough bobby pins or an additional hair tie to ensure the bun won’t fall out during play, but don’t over-secure it to the point where it loses that deliberately casual appearance. Pulling out a few strategic face-framing pieces or allowing some shorter layers to escape the bun enhances the relaxed vibe while still maintaining the functional benefit of getting most of your hair off your neck and face.

For players who prefer a more classic or elegant approach, professional Anna Bright frequently sports a low bun that offers similar functionality with a more refined aesthetic. The low bun positions hair at the nape of the neck rather than at the crown, creating a sophisticated look that works equally well on and off the court. This placement keeps hair completely contained while avoiding the bouncing or swinging that can occur with higher styles during aggressive play.

Executing a polished low bun involves gathering hair into a low ponytail at the base of your skull, then twisting it smoothly and wrapping it around the ponytail base to create a compact bun shape. The key difference from the messy top knot is the level of control—smooth out bumps and flyaways as you work, and secure the finished bun firmly with multiple bobby pins arranged in a starburst pattern for maximum hold. The result is a timeless look that photographs beautifully while keeping you comfortable throughout extended play sessions.

French Braid: Classic Technique with Modern Appeal

The French braid holds a special place in pickleball hairstyling, particularly