
Lacrosse is a game of speed, agility, and intense contact. Your equipment is essential for safety, especially those snug-fitting goggles.
Finding a hairstyle that stays secure and fits comfortably under your protective gear can be a challenge. You need something that won’t budge during a sprint.
These 18 hairstyles are designed specifically for performance. They ensure your goggles sit perfectly on your face without any painful pulling or sliding.
1. Classic Low Dutch Braids

Dutch braids are the gold standard for high-intensity sports because they keep hair extremely tight to the scalp. By braiding underneath, you create a 3D effect that looks sharp.
This style is perfect for goggles because the braids sit flat against the head. The goggle straps can rest easily over or between the braids without creating uncomfortable pressure points.
To finish the look, secure the ends with heavy-duty elastics. This ensures that even after a full game of mid-field transitions, your hair remains exactly where you started it.
2. Segmented Bubble Ponytail

The bubble ponytail is a modern favorite that offers more security than a standard pony. By adding elastics every few inches, you prevent the hair from tangling or whipping around.
For lacrosse players, this style keeps the weight of the hair centered. The initial tie should be low enough to allow the goggle strap to wrap around the crown unobstructed.
Use clear elastics for a sleek look or team colors to show your spirit. This style works exceptionally well for those with very long hair that needs extra management.
3. Double French Braids into a Low Bun

This combination offers maximum security by tucking the ends of your hair away entirely. French braids keep the top and sides sleek, while the bun keeps hair off your neck.
When wearing goggles, a low bun is essential. It prevents the back strap from sliding upward, ensuring your eye protection stays firmly in place during aggressive ground ball battles.
Apply a small amount of gel before braiding to catch any flyaways. This prevents hair from poking into your eyes or getting caught in the goggle padding during the game.
4. Sleek Low Ponytail with Wrap

A low ponytail is a minimalist choice that focuses on speed and simplicity. By wrapping a small section of hair around the elastic, you add extra grip and durability.
The sleek nature of this style allows goggle straps to sit flush against the head. There are no bumps or textures to interfere with the tension of the goggle adjustment.
Use a high-quality “no-slip” hair tie to prevent the ponytail from sagging. This is a great option for players who want to get ready in under five minutes.
5. Triple Braided Mohawk

This style involves three tight braids running from the hairline to the nape of the neck. It creates a balanced distribution of hair that feels lightweight and secure.
The side braids keep hair away from the temples, which is where goggle frames often sit. This prevents the “pinched” feeling that occurs when hair is trapped under the foam.
This look is fierce and functional, making it a popular choice for defenders. It stays tight even when you are wearing a helmet or additional protective headgear.
6. The “Lax” Traditional Single Braid

A single Dutch or French braid down the center is a timeless lacrosse look. It is simple to execute and provides a singular point of focus for your hair.
The strap of the goggles can easily sit on either side of the braid. This prevents the goggles from shifting left or right when you are running at full speed.
If your hair is particularly thick, a single braid keeps everything contained in one dense unit. This prevents individual strands from flying out and distracting you during a play.
7. Low Fishtail Braid

The fishtail braid is surprisingly sturdy and holds together better than a standard three-strand braid. It creates a flat profile that looks intricate but performs like a workhorse.
Because the fishtail is flatter than a round braid, it doesn’t interfere with the goggle strap at all. It provides a smooth surface for the equipment to rest against.
This style is ideal for medium-to-long hair lengths. It provides a sophisticated look that transitions perfectly from the locker room to the victory celebration after the game.
8. High-Volume Space Buns (Low Placement)

Space buns offer a fun, symmetrical look that balances the weight of your hair. By placing them low at the nape, you keep the crown clear for your goggles.
The goggle strap can sit perfectly in the “valley” between the two buns. This creates a natural anchor that prevents the strap from sliding down during high-impact movement.
Use bobby pins to flatten the buns against your head as much as possible. This ensures they don’t snag on an opponent’s stick or your own equipment during play.
9. Twisted Low Pigtails

If you aren’t a master at braiding, twisted pigtails are a fantastic alternative. They offer a similar level of control by tightly winding the hair into two secure sections.
Pigtails keep the hair split, which allows the goggle strap to have direct contact with the back of the head. This maximizes the “snug fit” required for safety.
To keep the twists from unraveling, use two elastics on each side—one at the top and one at the bottom. This double-reinforcement is key for aggressive lacrosse players.
10. Multi-Level Cornrows

Cornrows are perhaps the most secure hairstyle available for any athlete. They sit directly against the scalp, eliminating all bulk and providing a completely flat surface.
Goggles fit perfectly over cornrows because there is zero interference with the frames or straps. This is the ultimate “set it and forget it” style for long tournaments.
This style also helps manage sweat by keeping the scalp exposed and breathable. It is a high-performance choice that lasts through multiple games without needing to be redone.
11. Pull-Through Braid

The pull-through braid uses a series of small ponytails looped through one another. It is incredibly durable because it relies on multiple elastics rather than just hair tension.
This braid stays very flat against the head, which is ideal for the back strap of your goggles. It won’t loosen or sag, even if you take a bump.
Because each section is independently secured, if one part comes loose, the rest of the style stays intact. This reliability is vital for mid-fielders who run the most.
12. Braided Headband with Low Pony

This style uses a small braid across the front of the hairline to act as a natural headband. The rest of the hair is pulled back into a low ponytail.
The braided front keeps short “baby hairs” and bangs from getting caught under the goggle padding. This prevents skin irritation and keeps your vision 100% clear.
This is an excellent choice for players who struggle with sweat dripping into their eyes. The braid absorbs moisture and keeps the forehead clear for a better goggle seal.
13. Knotted Low Bun

A knotted bun is more compact than a traditional bun, sitting very close to the base of the skull. It creates a small, dense profile that won’t wobble.
This low profile ensures that the bun doesn’t push the goggle strap upward. It allows for a straight, horizontal line for the strap, which is the most secure position.
Use a “hair donut” or extra pins if you have thin hair to ensure the knot stays firm. A secure knot means you won’t have to adjust your hair mid-quarter.
14. Side-Swept French Braid

The side-swept braid moves hair diagonally across the back of the head. This unique path can help players find a more comfortable spot for their goggle adjustments.
By moving the bulk of the hair to one side, the strap can sit more firmly on the opposite side. This can be a game-changer for players with sensitive scalps.
Make sure the braid starts tight at the opposite temple to keep hair from falling into your face. This style is both functional and visually striking on the field.
15. Short Hair Undercut with Top Knot

For players with shorter hair or undercuts, a small top knot keeps the length out of the way. It focuses all the hair into one small area on the crown.
Since the sides and back are short or shaved, the goggles can grip the head directly. This provides the most stable fit possible for protective eyewear.
Use a strong-hold pomade on the shorter sections to keep them from standing up. This ensures a clean look that remains professional and focused throughout the match.
16. Infinity Braid

The infinity braid is a four-strand technique that creates a very flat, wide braid. It looks complex but is designed to stay extremely close to the head.
The flatness of the infinity braid is its greatest strength for lacrosse. It creates a smooth “track” for the goggle strap to sit on without any slippage.
This style is perfect for players who want to stand out with a unique look. It is robust enough to handle the physical nature of a high-stakes lacrosse game.
17. Tucked-In French Twist

The tucked-in twist is a variation of the French braid where the tail is folded back up and pinned underneath. This creates a smooth, rounded finish at the nape.
This style eliminates the “swing” of a ponytail or braid, which can be distracting during a fast break. It keeps the hair compact and entirely away from the goggles.
This is a great option for rainy game days. Keeping the ends of the hair tucked away prevents them from getting soaked and heavy, which can cause hair to sag.
18. Cross-Over Low Pigtails

Cross-over pigtails involve taking hair from the left side and braiding it into the right pigtail, and vice versa. This creates an “X” pattern that adds extra tension.
The “X” pattern provides a natural cradle for the goggle strap. The strap sits perfectly over the cross, which locks both the hair and the goggles into place.
This is one of the most stable styles for younger players or those with very fine hair. It provides multiple points of security to ensure nothing moves during the game.
How do I stop my goggles from sliding off my hair?
To prevent sliding, choose hairstyles that are flat against the back of the head, such as Dutch braids or cornrows. These styles provide a textured surface that “grips” the silicone or elastic of the goggle strap. Avoid using heavy conditioners or oils on the day of a game, as these can make the hair too slippery for the gear to hold.
Can I wear a headband with my lacrosse goggles?
Yes, many players use thin, “no-slip” silicone-grip headbands underneath their goggles. The headband helps catch sweat and keeps flyaways from interfering with the goggle’s foam seal. Ensure the headband is thin enough that it doesn’t create a gap between your face and the protective padding of the goggles, which could compromise safety.
What is the best hairstyle for short hair in lacrosse?
For shorter hair, a “half-up, half-down” style or small “sprout” ponytails work well to keep hair out of the eyes. If the hair is too short for a ponytail, use a strong-hold sports gel and a thin headband. The goal is to keep the hair flat so the goggle frames can sit flush against your temples and forehead.
How do I prevent “goggle hair” tangles?
Tangles often happen when hair gets caught in the plastic adjustments or the foam of the goggles. To prevent this, always secure your hair in a braid or a sleek ponytail before putting your goggles on. Using “snag-free” elastics and applying a leave-in detangler to the ends of your hair after the game will also help minimize breakage and knots.
Should the goggle strap go over or under my ponytail?
The goggle strap should generally go under the base of your ponytail or braid if you are wearing it at a medium height. However, for a low ponytail, the strap usually sits best directly above the elastic. The key is to ensure the strap makes a straight line around your head to provide the most secure and even pressure.
How can I keep my hair secure during a long tournament?
For long tournaments, styles like cornrows or Dutch braids are best because they can stay in place for multiple days. If you prefer a simpler style, bring extra elastics and a small bottle of hairspray to the sidelines for quick touch-ups between games. Re-tightening your hair between halves can also help maintain a snug goggle fit as the game progresses.





























