8 Hairstyles for Every Pickleball Girly

Pickleball girlies, it’s officially “new year, new you” season.

And while we can’t help you perfect that spin serve, we can help you level up your on-court look.

The matching set? Nailed it. The jewelry and high socks? You’re already there. But now it’s time to talk hair.

Whether you’re bringing the drama with a sleek ponytail or keeping it fun with bubble braids, these hairstyles are here to complement your vibe—and help you ring in 2025 looking fresh.

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1. Three Strand Braid

Why it works: A simple yet stylish braid is a classic choice for pickleball. It keeps your hair out of your face, so you can focus on your game without any distractions. Plus, it adds a touch of elegance to your on-court look. For a more polished look, try the three-strand braid style popularized by Anna Leigh Waters.

How to do it: To create this look, start by pulling your hair into a high ponytail. Divide the ponytail into three equal sections. Cross the right section over the middle section, then cross the left section over the new middle section.

Continue this pattern, alternating the crossing of the sections, until you reach the end of the ponytail. Secure the end of the braid with a hair tie.

2. High Ponytail

Why it works: The high ponytail is a classic and practical hairstyle for pickleball. It keeps your hair out of your face while providing a sleek, sporty look.

How to do it: To achieve a high ponytail like Parris Todd's, gather all your hair at the crown of your head and secure it tightly with a hair tie. For added volume and texture, you can tease the ponytail slightly before smoothing it out. To finish the look, apply hairspray to keep your style in place.

3. Headband with Loose Hair

Why it works: Whether you're rocking long locks or just need to keep the sweat off your face, a headband is the perfect go-to on the court. For players like Alix Truong, it's as simple as throwing it on and tying it up—use code 10DINK for 10% off. Boom, you are court-ready.

How to do it: Style loose waves or natural hair, then add a thick, sweat-wicking headband to keep everything in check while looking stylish.

4. Double Dutch Braids

Why it works: Double Dutch braids offer double the hold and double the style. Plus, they’re great for any weather, which is why pickleball influencer Sydney Steinaker, known for her on and off-court style, loves this look. They keep your hair locked in while giving off a trendy, sporty vibe—perfect for when you're going all out on the court.

How to do it: To get this look, split your hair down the middle into two sections. Start braiding one section at the back of your neck, adding small pieces to each strand as you weave under to create the Dutch braid effect. Secure with a hair tie and repeat on the other side.

5. Space Buns

Why it works: Pro player Jessie Irvine rocks space buns, and they’re both cute and functional. This look keeps your hair secure while making a bold style statement.

How to do it: Part your hair down the middle and create two high ponytails. Twist each ponytail into a bun and secure with bobby pins or elastic hair ties. Use hairspray for extra hold.

6. Messy Top Knot & Low Bun

Why it works: The messy top knot is a laid-back, casual style that keeps your hair completely out of the way while giving off a carefree vibe. It's a great option for quick play or practice sessions. It’s a favorite for players like Lucy Kovalova, who rocks this style on the court.

If you're not wanting to have your hair up, a low bun is a great alternative. It's a classic, elegant style that keeps your hair out of your face and neck. It’s a great option that can be dressed up or down. Pro player Anna Bright often sports this sleek style on the court.

How to do it: Pull your hair into a high ponytail, twist it around itself, and secure it into a loose bun. Let some strands fall out for a more relaxed look, or use pins for a tidier finish. For a low bun, gather your hair into a low ponytail at the nape of your neck, twist it, and secure it into a bun.

7. French Braid

Why it works: The French braid is perfect for keeping long hair under control on the court—just ask "Rapunzel" herself, Callie Smith. Her go-to style isn’t just practical, keeping strands out of her face during matches, it’s also stylish, especially with her trademark colorful ribbons.

Pro player Rachel Rohrabacher, also rocks the French braid on the court. This classic and elegant style complements her on-court look.

How to do it: To get Callie’s look, start a basic braid at the top of your head and gradually add more hair to each section as you weave. When you hit the neck, just keep braiding straight down. Thread in some colorful ribbons for that signature Callie flair. Secure it with a hair tie and maybe a dash of hairspray to keep everything in place.

8. Bubble Braids

Why it works: A fun and playful style that adds a touch of personality. It's also a popular choice among professional pickleball players like Hurricane Tyra Black and pickleball influencer Emily Visnic.

How to do it: Start by braiding your hair into a French or Dutch braid. Once you've finished braiding, use hair ties to secure small sections of the braid, creating bubbles along its length.

Keep Up With the Pickleball Girlies

If you want more hairstyle inspo straight from the source, here’s where you can follow the pros and creators featured above and see how they rock these looks on and off the court:

• Anna Leigh Waters
• Parris Todd
• Alix Truong
• Sydney Steinaker
• Jessie Irvine
• Lucy Kovalova
• Anna Bright
• Callie Smith
• Rachel Rohrabacher
• Hurricane Tyra Black
• Emily Visnic

And if you’re loving the styles in this list, there’s a good chance you’ll recognize a few of these names over for our 120/Life Dink Awards this year.

Many of the women featured here are nominated for an award, and voting has officially been extended until this Sunday, 1/25.