19 Volleyball Hairstyles for Long Hair That Do Not Whip Around

Long hair is a major asset on the court, but it can also be a significant distraction during intense rallies and diving saves.

Finding a style that stays put is essential for peak performance and maintaining a clear line of sight during a match.

This guide features 19 Volleyball Hairstyles for Long Hair That Do Not Whip Around to ensure your focus remains entirely on the ball.

1. Classic Dutch Braids

Dutch braids are a staple for any athlete with long hair because they anchor the strands close to the scalp. By crossing the hair under rather than over, the braid sits prominently on top, providing a secure grip.

This style is particularly effective at preventing the “whip” effect during quick lateral movements. Because the hair is locked in from the hairline to the nape, there is no loose weight to shift.

To finish the look, secure the ends with high-traction elastics. This ensures that even during a heavy spike or a block, the braids remain tight and flush against the head.

2. Double Bubble Pigtails

Double bubble pigtails offer a modern alternative to traditional braids while providing incredible stability. By placing elastics every few inches down the length of the hair, you eliminate the momentum of a swinging ponytail.

This style works by sectioning the hair into manageable “bubbles” that act as anchors. Each section prevents the lower half of the hair from gaining enough speed to hit your face during a jump.

It is a very fast style to implement before a match. It requires nothing more than a handful of clear or colored elastics to keep everything perfectly in place through five sets.

3. Low Braided Chignon

The low braided chignon is one of the most secure 19 Volleyball Hairstyles for Long Hair That Do Not Whip Around. It involves braiding the hair and then pinning it into a flat, compact coil at the nape.

By keeping the mass of the hair low and centralized, the center of gravity remains stable. This prevents the hair from pulling on the scalp when you are jumping or landing.

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Use U-shaped pins or a strong hair tie to flatten the bun against the neck. This “zero-swing” approach is ideal for back-row players who spend a lot of time diving and rolling.

4. The Tucked-Under French Braid

A tucked-under French braid starts as a standard braid but ends with a clever concealment trick. Once the braid reaches the ends, it is folded upward and tucked into the base of the braid.

This creates a seamless, aerodynamic look that has no loose ends whatsoever. It is impossible for the hair to whip around because there is no tail left exposed to the wind.

It is a professional-grade look that withstands the most rigorous movements on the court. Athletes prefer this for its clean silhouette and the total lack of interference with peripheral vision.

5. Multi-Sectioned Low Ponytail

This style utilizes multiple elastics to create a rigid structure for a standard low ponytail. Instead of letting the hair hang free, you add bands every two inches to create a “stiff” tail.

The added weight of the elastics actually helps keep the hair pointing downward rather than flailing outward. It limits the range of motion for the hair, protecting the eyes during quick transitions.

This is an excellent choice for those who find braiding difficult or time-consuming. It offers the same “anti-whip” benefits as a braid with half the styling effort.

6. Crown Braid into a Bun

The crown braid into a bun starts by wrapping hair around the perimeter of the head. This distributes the weight of the long hair evenly rather than concentrating it at one single point.

As the braid reaches the back, the remaining length is twisted into a tight, flat bun. This creates a very sturdy foundation that resists the centrifugal force of a spinning jump.

Because the hair is pinned so closely to the skull, it provides a sense of lightness. Players often feel more agile when their hair is integrated into the shape of their head.

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7. Tight Fishtail Braid

The fishtail braid is known for its intricate look, but when done tightly, it is exceptionally functional. The smaller sections of hair create a denser, heavier braid that resists wind resistance.

A loose fishtail may fall apart, but a sport-tension version keeps every strand locked in. This prevents the “flyaway” effect that often happens with standard three-strand braids.

To maximize the “no-whip” factor, start the fishtail high on the head. This integrates the hair sooner and keeps the entire length under control from the moment you step on the court.

8. The Pull-Through Braid

A pull-through braid isn’t actually a braid but a series of linked ponytails. This creates a thick, textured look that is incredibly durable and holds up through sweat and movement.

Because every section is secured with its own elastic, the braid cannot unravel during a match. It stays perfectly vertical and refuses to whip toward the face during a serve.

This style is perfect for players with very thick, long hair that usually breaks standard elastics. The distributed tension makes it comfortable to wear for hours of tournament play.

9. Sleek High Topknot

The high topknot is a classic for a reason: it moves the hair completely out of the strike zone. By securing the bun at the very top of the head, the hair cannot reach the eyes.

To make this “volleyball proof,” the base must be very tight. Use a gel or pomade to slick back the sides so no shorter strands escape during high-velocity movements.

This style is particularly beneficial for players who need a completely clear field of vision for setting. There are no side-tails or low-hanging braids to distract the peripheral view.

10. Triple French Braid into Bun

This style divides the hair into three vertical sections, each French braided from the forehead to the nape. The three braids are then merged into a single, secure bun at the base.

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By dividing the hair into three, you create more anchor points against the scalp. This creates a “web” of hair that is much more stable than a single braid would be.

It is a high-performance style that handles the G-forces of jumping and landing with ease. The bun at the end ensures that the long ends are never a factor during play.

11. Double Low Space Buns

Double low space buns distribute the volume of long hair into two smaller, more manageable packages. Placing them low at the nape keeps the weight off the top of the head.

These buns are less likely to “wobble” than a single large bun because they are smaller in diameter. They sit snugly behind the ears, staying well away from the face and shoulders.

For extra security, braid each pigtail before wrapping it into a bun. This adds a layer of structural integrity that prevents the buns from loosening during a dive.

12. Reverse French Braid Bun

The reverse French braid starts at the nape of the neck and works its way up to the crown. This is an ingenious way to manage the “under-hairs” that often fall out of high ponytails.

Once the braid reaches the top of the head, the remaining hair is tied into a firm bun. This creates a vertical tension that keeps the hair pulled tight from the bottom up.

This style is legendary for its staying power during overhead motions. Whether you are serving or blocking, the hair is pulled away from the neck and eyes simultaneously.

13. The Ladder Braid

The ladder braid involves a main braid with smaller strands “runged” in from the sides. It creates a very wide, flat surface area that hugs the back of the head.

Because the hair is spread out across the scalp, there is no heavy “rope” of hair to swing around. It functions more like a cap, keeping the hair perfectly stationary.

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This is a more advanced technique but offers one of the most unique looks on the court. It is specifically designed for athletes who find traditional braids too bouncy.

14. Four-Strand Box Braid

A four-strand braid creates a square, rope-like structure that is significantly heavier than a flat braid. This extra weight sounds counterintuitive, but it actually keeps the braid from flying.

The square shape catches less wind and has a more predictable movement pattern. It stays centered behind the back even during the most chaotic rallies.

It is a sophisticated look that signals a high level of preparation. The density of the braid also means it is less likely to fray or become “fuzzy” mid-match.

15. Segmented High Braid

The segmented high braid starts with a very tight high ponytail. The tail is then braided, but an elastic is added every few inches to “segment” the braid.

This prevents the braid from bending too much at the base, which is often where the “whip” begins. It creates a semi-rigid structure that stays directed behind the shoulders.

It is highly effective for players who want the height of a ponytail without the danger of hair hitting their eyes. The multiple elastics act as shock absorbers for the hair’s movement.

16. Knot-Secured Low Braid

This style uses the hair itself to create “knots” before starting a traditional braid. By tying small sections of hair into soft knots at the base, you create a very friction-heavy start.

This friction prevents the braid from sliding down the scalp as you sweat. The braid stays anchored at the exact height you started it, preventing any late-game sagging.

A low braid is ideal for those who wear headbands, as it doesn’t interfere with the band’s placement. It keeps the hair neatly tucked away from the face and the jersey.

17. Side-to-Side Dutch Wrap

The side-to-side wrap involves braiding the hair horizontally across the back of the head. This keeps the mass of the hair wide rather than long, eliminating the “tail” altogether.

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By wrapping the hair around the curve of the skull, you utilize the head’s natural shape for stability. There is nothing hanging down to whip against the neck or shoulders.

This is a favorite for competitive players who find long braids distracting against their skin. It creates a totally “hands-free” and “hair-free” sensation during play.

18. Cornrow-Style Accent Braids

For those with extremely long or heavy hair, accent braids provide extra grip. By creating 4 to 6 small braids along the scalp, you secure the hair at multiple points.

These small braids can then be fed into a larger braid or a bun. This “multi-anchor” system is the most secure way to handle hair that usually pulls out of single elastics.

It also helps manage bangs or shorter layers that would otherwise whip into the eyes. Every strand is accounted for and locked into the overall structure of the style.

19. The Infinity Braid

The infinity braid uses a figure-eight pattern that creates a very tight, flat, and non-rotational braid. It is specifically designed to sit flush against the spine.

Because of the way the hair is woven, the braid has very little “spring.” It doesn’t bounce up and down during jumps, which is a common cause of hair whipping.

This is the ultimate “set it and forget it” style for a long day of tournament play. Once the infinity braid is locked in, it rarely requires adjustment between matches.

How do I keep short flyaways from escaping the braids?

The best way to manage flyaways is to apply a light-hold gel or hair wax to damp hair before you begin braiding. This helps the shorter layers stick to the longer strands, ensuring they stay tucked inside the braid. For extra security, you can finish the style with a high-performance hairspray that is resistant to sweat and humidity.

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Are these styles safe for diving and rolling?

Yes, these styles are specifically chosen because they sit close to the head or are tucked away. Buns at the nape of the neck or flat braids are generally the safest for diving because they do not have protruding parts that could snag on the court. Always ensure your hair pins are the flat, “bobby pin” variety rather than sharp decorative clips to avoid injury during a roll.

How many elastics do I need for most of these styles?

While a standard braid only requires one elastic, many of these “no-whip” styles require between 3 and 10 elastics. For styles like the bubble pigtails or the segmented braid, having a pack of small, high-stretch rubber bands is essential. Using more elastics distributes the tension and provides more anchor points to prevent the hair from shifting.

Can these styles be done on wet hair?

Braiding or styling hair while it is slightly damp can actually result in a much tighter and more secure hold. However, be careful not to pull too hard, as hair is more prone to stretching and breaking when wet. If you style it wet, the hair will often “set” in that position, providing even more stability once it dries during the match.

How do I prevent hair breakage while wearing these styles?

To prevent breakage, avoid using elastics with metal joiners, as these can snag and snap long hair. Instead, use seamless fabric ties or silicone “no-snag” bands. Additionally, try to vary the placement of your buns and braids from one match to the next so that you aren’t always putting tension on the exact same spots of your scalp.

Do I need professional help to achieve these looks?

Most of these styles can be mastered with a little bit of practice in front of a mirror. Styles like the Dutch braid or bubble pigtails are very beginner-friendly. For more complex styles like the infinity braid or ladder braid, you might want to practice with a teammate before a big game to ensure you can get it tight enough for competition.