Low-Maintenance Volleyball Hairstyles for Curly Hair

High Curly Ponytail

Honestly, this is the first style I reach for when one of my volleyball girls walks in stressed about sweat, frizz, and flyaways. A high curly ponytail just works. I’ve found that lifting the curls up and away from the neck keeps them lighter during long matches and prevents that sticky, weighed-down feeling. In my opinion, it also shows off natural curl patterns beautifully, especially when the curls are properly hydrated before styling. I always tell my players this isn’t about pulling the hair painfully tight—it’s about control without tension.

To be fair, the secret is all in the prep. I usually smooth a lightweight curl cream through damp hair, then gather it using my fingers instead of a brush. That keeps the curls clumped and defined. I’ve seen girls finish an entire tournament and still have bounce left in their ponytail, which honestly feels like a small victory every time.

Low Curly Puff

The low curly puff is one of those styles that looks effortless but is actually very intentional. I recommend this a lot to players who hate anything pulling on their hairline. I’ve noticed that keeping the puff lower reduces tension and frizz around the edges, especially for tighter curl types. In real life, not everyone wants a sleek look during practice, and this style embraces that natural, slightly messy curl vibe.

When I create this look, I usually moisturize first, then gently gather the curls at the nape using a soft band. I don’t over-smooth—honestly, that ruins the charm. I’ve had players come back saying this was the first time their curls didn’t feel dry after practice, which tells me the style is doing its job without fighting their texture.

Braided Ponytail with Curls

This one is a favorite of mine for match days when you want hair to stay put, no excuses. I’ve found that adding a braid into a ponytail gives extra security without sacrificing curl definition. Personally, I love how the braid controls the front while the curls still move freely in the back. It feels sporty but still polished, which a lot of athletes appreciate.

I usually braid the front or sides first, then pull everything into a mid or high ponytail. To be fair, this style survives jumping, diving, and constant movement better than most. I’ve seen curls hold their shape through multiple sets, and that’s when I know the balance between structure and softness is just right.

Double Braids into Puff

Double braids into a puff is one of those styles that makes me smile because it works for all ages. I’ve done this on younger players and older teens, and it always feels playful but practical. In my experience, the two braids keep the hairline neat while the puff allows curls to breathe. It’s especially great for players who sweat heavily around the front.

I usually part the hair cleanly, braid each side back, and let the rest form a full puff. Honestly, I don’t aim for perfection here. Slight texture and frizz make it look real. I’ve had players tell me they forgot about their hair completely during the game, which is exactly what a good volleyball hairstyle should do.

Curly Bun with Braided Base

This style feels a bit more serious, and I mean that in a good way. A curly bun with a braided base is something I suggest for tournaments or important matches. I’ve found the braid gives a strong foundation, while the bun keeps curls compact and protected. In my opinion, it’s one of the safest styles for long playtime.

I usually braid around the base first, then twist the curls into a loose bun. To be fair, I never flatten the bun completely—curls need space. I’ve watched players take this style from warm-up to final whistle without touching their hair once, and that reliability makes it a staple in my styling routine.

Half-Up Half-Down Curly Style

Not every player wants all their hair up, and honestly, I get it. The half-up half-down curly style is perfect when someone wants movement but still needs vision and control. I’ve found this works best for practices or lighter matches where comfort matters more than maximum hold.

I usually secure the top half loosely and let the rest of the curls fall naturally. In my experience, using a scrunchie instead of an elastic makes a big difference. The curls stay soft, not dented. I’ve had athletes say this style makes them feel more confident, which always reminds me that hair and mindset are closely connected.

Cornrow Front with Loose Curls

This style is all about smart placement. Cornrowing the front keeps sweat and flyaways away from the face, which, honestly, can be a game-changer. I’ve seen players constantly adjust their hair until we switched them to this style. In my opinion, it’s one of the best blends of performance and style.

I usually cornrow just the front section and leave the rest curly and loose. To be fair, this gives the scalp a break while still offering control. The curls in the back stay defined longer, and I’ve noticed less frizz overall after matches, which tells me the hair is being respected, not stressed.

Pineapple Ponytail

The pineapple ponytail isn’t just for sleep—it works surprisingly well for volleyball too. I’ve used this on players with looser curls who want volume without flattening. Honestly, it keeps curls lifted and prevents friction around the shoulders and neck.

I gather the hair high and loose, usually with a satin scrunchie. I’ve found that tighter isn’t better here. The goal is protection and bounce. I’ve had players finish practice with curls that still look like they did at the start, and that’s when I know the pineapple did its job right.

Bubble Ponytail for Curly Hair

This one is fun, but it’s also practical. A bubble ponytail adds structure without pulling curls apart. I’ve found it especially helpful for longer curly hair that tends to tangle during play. In my opinion, it also adds personality, which athletes love.

I create a basic ponytail, then add bands down the length, gently puffing each section. To be fair, I never over-tighten. The bubbles should feel soft. I’ve seen players run, jump, and dive without the ponytail collapsing, which makes this style surprisingly game-ready.

Twisted Low Bun for Curly Hair

This is my go-to recommendation for players who want something calm and secure. A twisted low bun sits comfortably and doesn’t bounce around, which I’ve found helps with focus. In my experience, it’s perfect for thick curls that feel heavy when worn high.

I twist sections loosely and pin them low at the nape. Honestly, I leave some texture visible—it shouldn’t look stiff. I’ve had players say this style made their hair feel protected instead of restrained, and that’s always my goal when styling curly hair for volleyball.