10 Softball Hairstyles for Curly Hair
Curly hair can look amazing on the softball field, but it also needs a style that stays put through warmups, swings, sprints, and long innings. This list covers 10 practical softball hairstyles for curly hair that balance comfort, hold, and shape without making your curls feel stiff or flattened. You will find options for short, medium, and long curly hair, plus styles that suit round, oval, heart, and long face shapes. Most of these looks need only a few basics, like a strong hair tie, bobby pins, a curl cream, and a little gel for the hairline. The goal is simple: keep your curls secure, keep flyaways under control, and still let your natural texture show. Whether you like a ponytail, braid, puff, or bun, these game-day ideas are easy to wear and simple to recreate at home.
Quick List
- High Curly Ponytail Softball Hairstyle
- Double Dutch Braids Softball Hairstyle
- Low Braided Ponytail Softball Hairstyle
- Curly Puff Softball Hairstyle
- Half-Up Curly Bun Softball Hairstyle
- Twin Braided Pigtails Softball Hairstyle
- Low Curly Bun Softball Hairstyle
- Side Braid Ponytail Softball Hairstyle
- Bubble Ponytail Softball Hairstyle
- Headband Tucked Curls Softball Hairstyle
High Curly Ponytail Softball Hairstyle
This game-day look keeps your curls lifted, secure, and out of your face while still showing off your natural texture. A high curly ponytail works well when you want bounce without loose strands sticking to your neck during practice or a full game. It gives a sporty, confident feel and looks especially good when your curls have a bit of definition and volume. You can make it sleek at the base or leave it softer around the crown for a more relaxed finish. This style is easy to refresh between innings with a little water or curl cream. Pro tip: wrap a small curl around the hair tie and pin it underneath for a cleaner finish that still feels simple and athletic.
How To Style
Smooth the edges with gel.
Gather hair high at the crown.
Secure with a strong elastic.
Fluff the ponytail and define a few front curls.
Best For
Oval, round, heart face shapes; curly and coily hair types
Tools & Products
Strong hair tie, edge gel, curl cream, spray bottle, brush
Pinterest Hashtags: #softballhairstyles #curlyhairideas #sportyhair #gamedayhair #ponytailhairstyle
Double Dutch Braids Softball Hairstyle
Double Dutch braids are one of the most reliable choices for curly hair on active days. This look keeps the hair close to the head, holds up during fast movement, and helps reduce tangles after the game. It has a strong, sporty vibe but still lets your texture show through the braid pattern and curly ends if you leave a little length out. This is a smart pick for longer curls that need more control during fielding and batting. You can braid tightly for maximum hold or keep it slightly fuller for a softer finish. Pro tip: add a little curl cream before braiding so the sections stay smoother and your part lines look cleaner without feeling stiff.
How To Style
Part hair down the middle.
Start a Dutch braid on each side from the hairline.
Braid down to the ends and secure.
Tug lightly on the braid loops for fullness.
Best For
Oval, long, heart face shapes; curly, coily, and thick wavy hair
Tools & Products
Rat-tail comb, curl cream, elastics, styling gel, sectioning clips
Pinterest Hashtags: #softballbraids #curlyhairstyles #dutchbraids #sportsbraids #activehair
Low Braided Ponytail Softball Hairstyle
A low braided ponytail is a great option when you want your curls controlled without pulling them too tightly at the crown. It sits comfortably under a visor or cap and works well for players who prefer a neater, more grounded style. The braid helps stop the ponytail from whipping around too much while running, and it also keeps your ends from puffing up in humid weather. This style has a clean, practical feel and is easy to redo if needed. You can keep the top sleek or let a little texture stay visible. Pro tip: use a soft brush and a little gel at the nape so the base stays tidy through the whole game.
How To Style
Gather hair into a low ponytail.
Secure at the nape.
Braid the ponytail down to the ends.
Add a little gel to smooth the hairline and nape.
Best For
Round, oval, long face shapes; curly and wavy hair types
Tools & Products
Hair tie, brush, light gel, curl cream, small elastic
Pinterest Hashtags: #braidedponytail #softballhair #curlysportsstyle #lowpony #easyhairstyle
Curly Puff Softball Hairstyle
The curly puff is a simple favorite for game days because it gets the hair up fast and lets your curls stay full and natural. It is especially useful when you want a quick style that does not need a lot of sectioning or braiding. The puff creates a fun, energetic shape and keeps your hair off your neck while you move. It works best when the sides are smooth and the curls at the top or back are lightly fluffed for balance. This style can look bold, playful, and very clean at the same time. Pro tip: use a stretch band instead of a tight elastic if you want hold without pulling too hard on your roots.
How To Style
Brush the sides upward gently.
Add gel around the hairline.
Gather hair into a puff at the crown.
Adjust the curls for shape and volume.
Best For
Heart, oval, round face shapes; curly and coily hair types
Tools & Products
Stretch band, edge brush, gel, water spray, curl butter
Pinterest Hashtags: #curlypuff #softballstyle #naturalcurlyhair #sportslook #easycurlyhairstyle
Half-Up Curly Bun Softball Hairstyle
This half-up style gives you the best of both worlds: the front stays controlled while the rest of your curls keep their shape and movement. It is a nice choice for shorter or medium curly hair that may not all fit into one tight ponytail. The bun on top helps keep hair away from your eyes during play, while the loose curls underneath add softness and texture. This look feels youthful, sporty, and easygoing without being messy. It is also a great style for practice days when you want something quick but still polished. Pro tip: twist the top section into a firm bun, then pin any shorter curls around it so the style stays balanced through activity.
How To Style
Section off the top half of your hair.
Twist it into a small bun at the crown.
Pin or tie it securely.
Scrunch the loose curls underneath for definition.
Best For
Oval, heart, long face shapes; short to medium curly hair
Tools & Products
Hair tie, bobby pins, curl cream, light gel, wide-tooth comb
Pinterest Hashtags: #halfuphairstyle #curlybun #softballhairideas #curlygamedayhair #easyupdo
Twin Braided Pigtails Softball Hairstyle
Twin braided pigtails are a playful but hardworking choice for softball, especially when you want every section of hair controlled from root to end. This style spreads the weight of thick curls evenly, which can feel more comfortable than one heavy ponytail. It also stays secure during long games and holds up well in wind or humidity. The finished look feels sporty, fresh, and youthful, with enough structure to stay neat but enough texture to still suit curly hair. You can keep the braids tight for a more athletic finish or loosen them slightly for softness. Pro tip: part the hair neatly and add a little styling cream before braiding so each side looks smooth and even.
How To Style
Create a center part.
Make a ponytail on each side.
Braid each section and secure the ends.
Lightly pull the braids wider if needed.
Best For
Round, oval, heart face shapes; curly, wavy, and coily hair
Tools & Products
Comb, elastics, styling cream, clips, edge gel
Pinterest Hashtags: #braidedpigtails #softballhairstyles #curlybraids #sportycurlyhair #gamedaystyle
Low Curly Bun Softball Hairstyle
A low curly bun is ideal when you want a secure style that feels simple and comfortable for a full day on the field. It works well under a cap or visor and helps keep curls from tangling in windy conditions. This style has a clean and calm look, but it still feels soft because the bun keeps some curl texture visible instead of flattening everything down. It is especially helpful for medium to long curly hair that needs a controlled shape. You can make it sleek or leave a few natural curls around the bun for texture. Pro tip: twist the ponytail loosely before wrapping it so the bun keeps some fullness instead of looking too tight.
How To Style
Pull hair into a low ponytail.
Twist the length and wrap into a bun.
Pin securely around the base.
Smooth edges and check the nape.
Best For
Oval, long, heart face shapes; medium to long curly hair
Tools & Products
Hair tie, bobby pins, gel, brush, curl cream
Pinterest Hashtags: #lowbunhairstyle #curlybun #softballlook #easygamedayhair #securehairstyle
Side Braid Ponytail Softball Hairstyle
The side braid ponytail adds a little detail while still giving you the hold you need for softball. A small braid along one side of the head helps control front layers and keeps shorter curls from falling into your face. The rest of the hair goes into a ponytail, so the style still feels fast and practical. This is a great choice when you want something sporty with a little extra shape. It works nicely on medium or long curls and looks especially flattering with a side part. The finished style feels fresh and active without taking too much effort. Pro tip: keep the side braid firm, then fluff the ponytail so the overall look stays balanced.
How To Style
Create a side part.
Braid one front section back toward the crown.
Gather all hair into a ponytail.
Secure and shape the curls in the tail.
Best For
Heart, oval, round face shapes; curly and wavy hair types
Tools & Products
Comb, elastic, small clear band, curl cream, light gel
Pinterest Hashtags: #sidebraid #ponytailhairstyle #curlysoftballhair #sportyhairstyle #hairideas
Bubble Ponytail Softball Hairstyle
A bubble ponytail is a fun way to keep curly hair organized while still letting the style feel lively and full. The extra elastics divide the ponytail into sections, which helps reduce tangling and keeps the shape controlled during movement. This style works especially well for long curls because it keeps the length manageable without needing a full braid. The finished look feels playful, sporty, and a little different from the usual ponytail. It also photographs well because the sections show off volume. Pro tip: space the elastics evenly, then gently pull each section outward to create soft rounded bubbles without making the style look too loose for active wear.
How To Style
Make a high or mid ponytail.
Add more elastics down the length.
Gently pull each section wider.
Smooth the top and define loose curls.
Best For
Round, oval, long face shapes; medium to long curly hair
Tools & Products
Strong elastics, brush, curl cream, edge gel, water mist
Pinterest Hashtags: #bubbleponytail #softballhairideas #curlyponytail #sportsstyle #easyhairlook
Headband Tucked Curls Softball Hairstyle
Headband tucked curls are perfect for players who want a low-effort style that still keeps the front neat and comfortable. A soft athletic headband holds back the hairline and shorter layers, while the rest of the curls stay gathered or lightly tucked for control. This look is quick, practical, and ideal for practice, warmups, or casual game days. It suits curly hair because it does not fight against texture and lets the curls keep their shape. It also works on shorter lengths that are harder to fully braid or bun. Pro tip: place the headband just behind the hairline, then smooth only the front sections so the rest of the curls still look natural and full.
How To Style
Place a soft headband behind the hairline.
Tuck front curls back neatly.
Gather the rest into a low pony or loose tuck.
Scrunch the visible curls for shape.
Best For
Oval, heart, long face shapes; short to medium curly hair
Tools & Products
Soft headband, curl cream, gel, brush, hair tie
Pinterest Hashtags: #headbandhairstyle #curlyhairideas #softballhair #easycurlylook #activehairstyle
Conclusion
The best softball hairstyles for curly hair are the ones that stay secure, feel comfortable, and still let your texture shine. A good game-day style should keep hair off your face, hold up through movement, and be easy to refresh when needed. Try one braided option, one ponytail option, and one bun option to see what feels best during practice. Once you find your favorite, your pre-game routine gets much faster and easier.
CTA: Pick your favorite softball hairstyle and test it before your next practice so you know exactly what holds best on game day.
FAQs
1. What is the best softball hairstyle for curly hair?
A high curly ponytail and double Dutch braids are two of the best options. They keep curls secure, reduce distractions, and hold up well during active play.
2. How do I keep curly hair from getting frizzy during a game?
Use a little curl cream or gel before styling, especially around the hairline and crown. A soft refresh spray can also help bring curls back into shape after warmups.
3. Are braids better than ponytails for curly hair in sports?
Braids usually give more control and can help prevent tangles, especially for longer curly hair. Ponytails are faster to do and work well when you want more volume and bounce.
4. Can I wear a softball hairstyle with short curly hair?
Yes, shorter curly hair works well with half-up buns, headbands, and mini puffs or braids. The key is choosing a style that secures the front pieces and keeps hair out of your eyes.
5. What products should I use for curly softball hairstyles?
Stick with simple basics like curl cream, light gel, a spray bottle, strong elastics, and bobby pins. These help with hold, shape, and frizz control without making the hair feel too heavy.
