15 Cute Volleyball Hairstyles for Girls That Stay Put All Game

If you play volleyball, you already know how fast your hair can ruin a good rally. A loose strand in your eyes, a ponytail that slides down halfway through a set, or a bun that falls apart after your first dive, and suddenly you are fixing your hair instead of watching the ball. That is why the right volleyball hairstyles matter so much. A good style keeps your hair off your face, stays tight through every jump and spike, and still looks cute in the team photos.

It is also a safety thing, since loose hair can get tangled with a teammate’s during a scramble for the ball. In this guide, you will find 15 cute volleyball hairstyles for girls, from quick ponytails to braided buns. Some are volleyball hairstyles easy enough for a rushed school morning, and others take a few extra minutes for tournament days.

You will also find volleyball hair ideas that work for short, medium, and long hair, so whatever your length, there is a look here for you.

1. High Ponytail

The high ponytail is the classic for a reason. It sits above your neck, so it will not stick to your sweaty skin, and it stays out of the way when you dive or look up for a high ball. Brush your hair back, gather it at the top of your head, and wrap a strong elastic around it twice. Spiral hair ties work well because they grip without pulling too hard. If your ponytail tends to droop, add a second elastic about an inch below the first one. This is one of the easiest volleyball hairstyles for girls, and it takes less than two minutes. Add a team-colored scrunchie or ribbon if you want a little extra style.

2. Low Ponytail

A low ponytail is a smart choice if a high one gives you a headache or bounces too much when you jump. Gather your hair at the back of your neck, tie it tight, and smooth the top with your fingers. Some players like to slide a small bobby pin in on each side to catch the short pieces around the ears. Because it sits low, it will not get in the way of a headband. Just make sure the ponytail does not whip your back when you block. If it does, twist it once and tie it again so it stays shorter. It is simple, neat, and a great fit for medium hair.

3. Double Dutch Braids

Double Dutch braids, also called boxer braids, are a favorite with serious players. You part your hair down the middle, then make a Dutch braid on each side, crossing the strands under instead of over. The braids sit snug against your head, so nothing flies around when you move fast. They also hold for hours, which is perfect for long tournament days. Start the braids close to your hairline and pull firmly as you go. Finish each one with a small elastic at the bottom. For extra grip, spray a little hairspray over the braids before you walk onto the court.

4. French Braid Ponytail

This style mixes two good ideas into one. Start with a French braid at the top of your head, adding small sections as you go, and stop when you reach the crown. Then pull all the hair into a high ponytail and tie it tightly. The braid keeps the front flat, so there are no loose hairs falling into your face, and the ponytail keeps the length off your neck. It looks neat and works especially well for long hair. It takes a little practice, but after a few tries you will be able to do it in about five minutes without even looking in a mirror.

5. Fishtail Braid

A fishtail braid looks fancy, but it is also very secure. Because the strands are woven tightly together, the braid rarely comes loose, even after a long match. Make a ponytail first, split it into two sections, then take a thin strand from the outside of one section and cross it over to join the other. Keep going until you reach the end and tie it off. Gently tugging on the sides after you finish makes the braid look fuller. A fishtail works well for game day and looks lovely in photos. Just braid it tight enough so it does not swing around while you play.

6. Messy Bun

The messy bun is the go-to for players who want something quick. Pull your hair into a high ponytail, twist it around the base, and wrap another elastic around it to hold the bun in place. Push a few bobby pins around the edge to tuck in the loose ends. If you have been searching for volleyball hairstyles with a bun, this is the easiest place to start. The trick is to keep the bun small and tight rather than big and floppy, or it can bounce when you jump. If your hair is fine and slippery, a little texture spray at the start gives it something to grip.

7. Low Bun

A low bun sits at the back of your neck and stays neat all game long. Tie a low ponytail, twist the hair into a coil, wrap it around the elastic, and pin it flat. It works well for medium hair, because you do not need a lot of length to make a small bun. Smooth the top with a bit of gel or hairspray for a clean finish. This style is also very comfortable if you wear a headband. The only thing to watch is that the bun should not sit so low that it presses into your neck when you look up. If it does, move it up a little. If your hair is thin, try a sock bun for extra fullness: cut the toe off a clean sock, roll it into a donut shape, and wrap your hair around it.

8. Top Knot

The top knot is quick, tidy, and keeps all of your hair off your neck, which helps a lot on hot gym days. Flip your head upside down, gather your hair into a high ponytail, then twist it and wrap it around itself. Secure it with an elastic and a few pins. Wear it high and tight rather than loose, so it stays put when you spike. This one also works for guys on the team, so if you are looking at volleyball hairstyles men can wear too, a small top knot is a good option for anyone with longer hair.

9. Space Buns

Space buns are cute, fun, and surprisingly secure. Part your hair down the middle, make two high ponytails, and twist each one into a small bun. Keep them tight and use a few bobby pins on each. They look playful, which makes them a great pick for team spirit days or friendly tournaments. Because the weight is split between two buns, they do not pull on your head as much as one big bun does. Add colored hair ties that match your jersey for an extra touch. Keep the buns small, because large ones can bump into each other when you turn your head quickly.

10. Braided Bun

A braided bun takes the messy bun and makes it stronger. Make a high ponytail, braid it in a simple three-strand braid, then wrap the braid around the base and pin the end underneath. The braid adds grip, so the bun feels firmer than a plain twist. It looks polished and a little fancy, so it is perfect for game day and tournaments. It also works great for long, heavy hair that tends to loosen a regular bun. Use plenty of bobby pins in a matching color and press them in from different angles so the bun stays locked down.

11. Half-Up Twist Back

Not everyone likes tying all their hair up, and that is fine. If you want to keep some of it down, this style is for you. Take two small sections from the front, twist each one back, and join them at the back of your head with a strong elastic. The rest of your hair stays loose, but your face stays clear. It is a good idea for volleyball hairstyles for medium hair, because you do not need much length to make it work. Use an elastic instead of a clip if you jump a lot, since clips can slip. This one is best for practice and warm-ups.

12. Braided Headband

A braided headband is a pretty way to keep your hair off your face. Make a thin braid on one side near your hairline, wrap it across the top of your head like a headband, and pin it behind the opposite ear. Then pull the rest of your hair into a ponytail or bun. The braid stops the shorter pieces at the front from falling out. It looks sweet and goes well with a high ponytail. Use small clear elastics to keep the braid thin, and add a couple of bobby pins on each side. It is also a great trick for short hair, because it holds the front pieces in place.

13. Bubble Ponytail

The bubble ponytail is a fun twist on the classic that also happens to be very secure. Start with a high or mid-height ponytail, then tie small elastics down the length every two or three inches. Gently pull each section outward so it puffs up into a round bubble. The extra elastics hold the hair in place, so nothing flaps around when you dive or jump. It is a great option for long hair, because it stops the ponytail from swinging into your face or onto your shoulders. Pick elastics in your team colors for a cute look, or choose small clear ones if you prefer something more subtle.

14. Mini Ponytails

Short hair does not have to be a problem on the court. Mini ponytails are perfect for chin-length and shoulder-length hair. Part your hair into three or four small sections, tie each one with a small elastic, and let them stick out at the back. For the front, use bobby pins or a thin headband to hold back your bangs. These are great volleyball hairstyles for short hair, and they also keep your neck cool. If your hair is too short to tie, a wide sports headband and a few pins will do the job. A little gel on the baby hairs gives you a clean look.

15. Pineapple Updo

The pineapple updo is ideal for curly, wavy, or very thick hair, since it keeps your curls out of your face without squashing them. Flip your head forward, gather all your hair at the very top of your head, and tie it loosely with a soft scrunchie. Let the curls fall around. For volleyball, tie it a bit tighter than you normally would, and add a wide, stretchy headband around your hairline to catch loose pieces. It is comfortable to play in and easy to refresh between matches. After the game, you can even sleep in it to protect your curls overnight.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best hairstyle for volleyball?
A high ponytail or a pair of tight braids is usually the best choice, because both stay secure and keep hair off your face.

How do I keep my hair from falling out during volleyball?
Use spiral hair ties, a few bobby pins, and a little hairspray or gel, and always start with brushed, tangle-free hair.

What are the best volleyball hairstyles for short hair?
Mini ponytails, a braided headband, or a wide sports headband with pins work well for short hair.

Which volleyball hairstyle is best for fine, thick, or curly hair?
Fine hair holds well in a high ponytail or bun with a little texture spray, thick hair does best in braids, and curly hair works nicely in a pineapple updo.

Can guys use these volleyball hairstyles?
Yes, a top knot, a low ponytail, or a simple headband works well for guys with longer hair.

Final Thoughts

The best volleyball hairstyles are the ones that feel comfortable, stay in place, and make you feel confident when you step on the court. Whether you love a quick high ponytail, a strong braided bun, or cute space buns, there is a style here for every hair length and every kind of game. Try a few of these before your next practice, and see which one holds up best when you dive, jump, and spike. Save your favorite ideas, share them with your teammates, and keep your hair out of the way so you can focus on the game.