Hey there, fellow beauty lovers! It’s Ella, and I’m so happy you’re here at TressNails.com. As someone who loves both looking good and staying active, I know the struggle of keeping your hair looking fantastic while you’re getting your sweat on. Especially on the tennis court!
Trying to serve an ace with hair flopping in your face? Not ideal, right? Finding hairstyles that actually stay put during a match can feel like a sport all its own. Over the years, I’ve tried just about everything to keep my hair secure without sacrificing style.
That’s why I’m so excited to share my ultimate list of 15+ ace tennis hairstyles with you. We’re going to explore secure braids, ponytails, and buns that are built for the court. My mission is to help you feel confident and beautiful, whether you’re playing a friendly game or competing.
I’ve personally tested so many looks, and I can tell you, the right hairstyle makes a huge difference. Let’s find your perfect court style together!
Your Go-To Tennis Hairstyles
Ready to find your perfect match-day hair? I’ve rounded up some of the best hairstyles that are both practical and super secure for hitting the court. These looks are designed to keep your hair out of your face so you can focus on your game.
Let’s dive into the list! We’ll start with a simple classic that many players rely on.
22. Simple Low Ponytail
This is a go-to for a reason. It’s incredibly easy to create and works for almost any hair length or type. Just gather your hair at the nape of your neck and secure it tightly with a strong elastic hair tie. It keeps your hair contained and out of your way during rallies.
21. High Ponytail with a Wrap
Take the basic ponytail up a notch! After securing your high ponytail, grab a small section of hair from underneath. Wrap this section firmly around the base of your ponytail to hide the elastic. Secure the end with a bobby pin tucked neatly underneath. This adds a touch of polish and extra hold, especially for longer hair.
20. Bubble Ponytail
Looking for something fun but still secure? The bubble ponytail is it! Make a regular ponytail, then add elastics down the length, creating “bubbles” of hair in between. It looks playful and the elastics keep everything nicely contained, stopping your hair from bouncing too much.
19. Half-Up, Half-Down with Braided Top
If you like some hair down but need the front secured, try this. Take the top section of your hair, but instead of a simple half-up ponytail, braid it back. A French or Dutch braid works well here. Secure the braid with bobby pins or an elastic. This keeps hair out of your face while leaving the rest loose.
18. Double French Braids
A classic for active days! Divide your hair down the middle and create a French braid on each side, starting right from your hairline. Braid tightly all the way down and secure the ends. This style keeps all your hair neatly tucked away and is super secure for lots of movement.
17. Dutch Braids
Dutch braids are like inverted French braids, making them stand out more. You braid the sections under instead of over. They offer the same great security as French braids, keeping hair close to the scalp. Practicing helps you get even tension for a smooth look.
16. Fishtail Braid Ponytail
Start by putting your hair in a regular ponytail. Then, braid the ponytail into a fishtail braid. This gives your classic ponytail a cool, textured update while still being very secure. Use a clear elastic at the end for a seamless finish.
15. Side Braid
Sometimes, simple is best. A side braid is quick and easy. Just sweep your hair to one side and braid it down. It keeps your hair managed and off your neck on one side, which can feel nice on a warm day. Make sure to use a strong elastic at the end.
14. Crown Braid Bun
This style looks elegant but is also very functional. You braid your hair around your head, creating a crown effect, and then gather the rest into a bun at the back or side. It keeps hair up and off your neck entirely. A little hairspray can help keep flyaways in check.
13. Low Bun
A simple low bun is a timeless and secure choice. Gather your hair at the nape of your neck and twist or wrap it into a bun. Secure it with bobby pins. It feels classic and keeps your hair firmly in place throughout your match.
12. High Bun
Putting your bun high on your head keeps your neck completely clear, which is great for staying cool. Gather your hair into a high ponytail and then twist or wrap it into a bun. Secure with bobby pins. A hair donut can give it more volume if you like that look.
11. Messy Bun
Don’t be afraid of a little imperfection! A messy bun can still be very secure. The key is to make the base tight. Gather your hair high or low, twist it loosely, and secure with an elastic and bobby pins. Embrace the slight messiness; it adds to the charm.
10. Braided Bun
For added texture and security, braid your ponytail before twisting it into a bun. This works for both high and low buns. The braid helps keep the hair more compact and less likely to loosen. Secure the end of the braid before forming the bun.
9. Space Buns
Why have one bun when you can have two? Divide your hair down the middle and create a bun on each side of your head. Make them tight and secure for playing. It’s a fun, sporty style that keeps hair completely off your neck and shoulders.
8. Pigtails
Simple, effective, and keeps your hair divided and managed. Part your hair down the middle and create a ponytail on each side. Secure them with strong elastics. It’s a straightforward look that works well for keeping hair out of your face.
7. Braided Pigtails
Take your pigtails up a notch in security. After dividing your hair, braid each section before securing with an elastic. Braiding the sections makes them much more secure than simple ponytails, especially for vigorous play. Braid tightly from the top.
6. Cornrows
Cornrows are a fantastic protective style that offers maximum security for tennis. They are braided flat against the scalp and can last for a while. This keeps all your hair completely contained and won’t budge during a match. Remember to keep your scalp moisturized.
5. Boxer Braids
These are basically two inverted French braids running along the scalp. They are incredibly popular for sports because they are so secure and keep hair tightly controlled. Use a little styling product for better grip as you braid.
4. French Twist
An elegant option that can also be very secure. Twist your hair up the back of your head, securing it with bobby pins as you go. It keeps your hair off your neck in a sleek way. Using longer bobby pins can help hold thicker hair.
3. Low Braided Ponytail
Combine the security of a low ponytail with the hold of a braid. Create a low ponytail, then braid the tail. This double dose of security makes it very reliable for active play. Make sure the elastic at the base of the ponytail is tight.
2. High Braided Ponytail
Similar to the low version, but the high placement keeps your neck even clearer. Gather your hair into a high ponytail, then braid the tail. The height combined with the braid means your hair is going nowhere. Use a strong elastic at the base for good support.
1. Tight French Braid
If I need my hair to be absolutely, 100% secure for a really intense match, I go for a single, tight French braid down my back. It keeps every single strand contained and close to my head. It’s my ultimate go-to when I can’t have any distractions. I remember one match where it was super windy, and this was the only thing that kept my hair perfectly in place the whole time.
Frequently Asked Questions About Tennis Hairstyles
Okay, now that we’ve covered some amazing styles, let’s chat about some common questions you might have. I get asked these a lot, and they are super helpful for keeping your tennis hairstyles looking great and staying put.
Getting the right hold is key, and sometimes a simple elastic isn’t enough. Let’s dive into some solutions.
What products are best for keeping my tennis hairstyle in place?
To really lock things down, especially those secure braids and buns, a good hairspray is your friend. A medium to strong hold works well. For extra slickness or to control frizz around your hairline, a little bit of gel or styling cream can make a big difference depending on your hair type.
How can I prevent my hair tie from slipping during a match?
This is a common frustration! Make sure you’re using strong, good-quality elastic hair ties. Avoid ones that are too stretchy or worn out. Sometimes, simply doubling up on a regular elastic gives you extra security. Spiral hair ties are also fantastic because they grip the hair without causing creases and tend to stay put better during activity.
Are there any hairstyles that are better for short hair when playing tennis?
Absolutely! Even with shorter hair, you have options. Headbands are your best friend for keeping hair out of your face. You can also try small braids along your scalp, like mini French braids near your hairline. Small pigtails on either side can work too, especially if your hair is just long enough to gather.
Finding Your Perfect Court Look
Finding the absolute best tennis hairstyle for you is all about trying things out! Don’t be afraid to experiment with these different secure braids, ponytails, and buns. What works perfectly for my hair might be slightly different for yours.
Think about your hair type, length, and how much it tends to move. The most important thing is that your hairstyle feels comfortable and stays put so you can focus on playing your best game. Find the styles that give you confidence on the court!
Leave a Reply