Cheerleading demands a rare combination of athletic intensity and polished aesthetics. Your hair needs to withstand backflips, stunts, and high-energy routines without losing its shape.
Finding the perfect balance between massive volume and a locked-in hold is essential for any performance. These styles ensure you look camera-ready from the first cheer to the final pyramid.
Discover how to achieve maximum height while keeping every strand in place. Here are 16 hairstyles for cheer with high volume and secure hold that will last through any competition.
1. The Classic High Pony with Mega Tease
The foundation of cheer aesthetics starts with the iconic high ponytail. To achieve maximum volume, section the hair at the crown and tease the under-layers before smoothing the top over.
Security is maintained by using a high-tension elastic or even two elastics stacked together. This prevents the weight of the ponytail from sagging during high-impact jumps or tumbling passes.
Finish the look with a generous coating of firm-hold hairspray. For extra flare, wrap a small section of hair around the base to hide the elastic and add structural integrity.
2. Double Dutch Braids into a High Pony
This style is perfect for those who need absolute security at the scalp. Two Dutch braids start at the hairline and move toward the crown, locking in flyaways and shorter layers.
Once the braids reach the top of the head, they are gathered into a single, high ponytail. This transition allows for the lower half of the hair to be teased for explosive volume.
Because the braids are tight against the head, this style resists the “loosening” effect that often happens during tumbling. It provides a sleek front view while maintaining a massive profile from the back.
More Amazing Ideas
18 Hairstyles for Twists Braids in High Buns and Half Up — Read more
15 Hairstyles for Soft Locs from Half Up to High Buns — Read more
16 Cheer Hairstyles for Games with High Ponies and Big Bows — Read more
17 Mom Hairstyles for Wedding Days with Classic Volume — Read more
17 Sport Hairstyles for Short Hair with Secure and Practical Styling — Read more3. The Triple Bubble Braid
The bubble braid is a modern favorite because it creates the illusion of extreme thickness. By placing elastics every two inches and pulling the hair outward, you create “bubbles” of high volume.
To keep this secure for cheer, use small, clear orthodontic-style elastics that won’t slip. Each section should be anchored firmly to ensure the “bubbles” don’t deflate during a routine.
This style is particularly effective for performers with long hair who want to avoid the tangling often associated with a traditional loose ponytail. It stays contained yet looks larger than life.
4. Sky-High Top Knot with Under-Braid
For athletes who prefer their hair completely off their neck, the under-braided top knot is an elite choice. An upside-down French or Dutch braid starts at the nape of the neck.
The braid travels up the back of the head and meets a high ponytail at the crown. The remaining hair is then teased and wrapped into a voluminous, secure bun.
This “upward” tension keeps the hair from bouncing or falling down. It is one of the most secure options for flyers who need to maintain a clear line of sight and balance.
5. Half-Up Half-Down with Criss-Cross Elastics
If you want the movement of loose hair but the security of a ponytail, the half-up style is the answer. The top section is secured into a mini-pony with criss-cross elastic detailing.
The “down” portion of the hair should be curled and backcombed at the roots to match the volume of the top section. This creates a cohesive, high-energy look that flows during dances.
More Amazing Ideas
18 Fun Hairstyles for Kids with Bubble Braids and Colors — Read more
15 Hairstyles for School Straight Hair That Hold All Day — Read more
19 Long Bob Hairstyles for Fine Hair with Volume and Movement — Read more
17 Athletic Hairstyles for Curly Hair That Stay Secure — Read more
18 Hairstyles for Braids with Curls in Boho Updos and Buns — Read moreUsing a strong grip gel on the top sections ensures that the intricate elastic work stays sharp. It provides a decorative element that is also functional for keeping hair out of the face.
6. Side-Swept Braided Ponytail
This variation moves the focal point to one side, offering a dynamic look during turns. A thick braid travels along the side of the head, leading into a side-placed high pony.
The ponytail itself should be heavily teased to ensure it has enough “bounce” to be seen from the front. The side-swept nature adds a level of sophistication to the standard cheer look.
To ensure the ponytail doesn’t shift toward the back, use bobby pins to anchor the base of the pony to the scalp. This maintains the intentional asymmetry throughout the performance.
7. The Mega-Volume Topsy Tail
The topsy tail involves flipping a ponytail through itself, creating a natural “lift” at the base. By stacking three or four of these on top of each other, you create incredible vertical volume.
Each “flip” adds a layer of security, as the hair is essentially knotted into place. It produces a textured, cascading effect that looks complex but is very sturdy.
This style works well for those with medium-length hair who struggle to get a traditional pony to stay high. The stacked sections provide multiple anchor points for the hair.
8. Boxer Braids into Low Voluminous Buns
When the routine involves intense floor work, low buns offer a different kind of security. Two tight Dutch braids (boxer braids) lead into two large, teased buns at the nape.
The volume comes from “pancaking” the braids (pulling them wider) and using “donut” mesh inserts for the buns. This ensures the buns look huge even if the hair is thin.
More Amazing Ideas
16 Volleyball Hairstyles for Medium Hair That Stay Secure — Read more
16 Hairstyles for Dirty Hair Long Braids and Sleek Buns — Read more
17 Hairstyles for Plus Size Women with Flattering Volume — Read more
18 Navratri Hairstyles for Short Hair That Hold While Dancing — Read more
16 Hairstyles for Little Boys from Classic Side Parts to Fades — Read moreBecause the weight is distributed at the base of the skull, there is less centrifugal force pulling on the hair during spins. This is a favorite for high-speed performers.
9. Wrapped High Pony with Hidden Elastic
A polished, professional cheer look often features a wrapped base. After securing the high pony, a thick section of hair is wrapped around the elastic and pinned underneath.
This isn’t just for looks; the wrapped hair acts as a structural brace that keeps the ponytail standing upright. It prevents the “droop” that happens after several minutes of jumping.
For maximum volume, curl the ponytail in large sections and brush them out together. This creates a solid “wall” of hair that moves as one unit.
10. Mohawk Braided Pony
The Mohawk braid features one large, thick Dutch braid running down the center of the head. This creates immediate height at the crown before transitioning into a ponytail.
The sides are slicked back tightly with pomade, which creates a sharp contrast to the voluminous braid. This contrast makes the hair appear even higher than it is.
This is an excellent choice for performers with a lot of heavy hair. The central braid distributes the weight evenly along the skull, reducing tension headaches and slippage.
11. Fishtail Crown into High Pony
Fishtail braids offer a more intricate texture than standard braids. Wrapping a fishtail braid around the crown of the head creates a “halo” effect that supports a high ponytail.
The “halo” acts as a shelf for the ponytail to rest on, giving it an extra inch of natural lift. This style is highly photogenic and looks great under stadium lights.
More Amazing Ideas
19 Hairstyles for Half Saree Function Looks with Long Braids — Read more
15 Hairstyles for Passion Twist Braids in Updos and Half Up — Read more
18 Half Pony Hairstyles for Short Hair for Instant Lift — Read more
18 Hairstyles for Teachers Who Need All Day Classroom Hold — Read more
17 Basketball Hairstyles with Secure Styling for Active Play — Read moreTo ensure it stays secure, use a light “texturizing powder” on the braid. This gives the hair “grip,” preventing the fishtail from unraveling during high-velocity movements.
12. Pull-Through Braid Pigtails
Pull-through braids are the ultimate “cheat” for volume. Instead of a traditional braid, you use a series of small ponytails looped through each other.
This creates a massive, 3D effect that is impossible to achieve with standard braiding. Because every section is held by its own elastic, it is virtually impossible for this style to fall out.
This is widely considered the most “secure” high-volume style for cheer. Even if one elastic snaps, the rest of the structure remains intact for the duration of the routine.
13. Twisted Halo with High Volume Crown
For those who find braiding difficult, twists are a great alternative. Two rope twists start at the temples and meet at the back, pulling the hair tight away from the face.
The hair at the crown is heavily backcombed before the twists are pinned over the top. This “locks” the volume in place so it cannot deflate or shift.
The remaining hair can be left in a ponytail or a large bun. The twisted halo provides multiple points for bobby pins to grab onto, ensuring the style is rock-solid.
14. Double High Buns (Space Buns) with Glitter Roots
Space buns are a high-energy style that offers double the volume. By splitting the hair into two high ponytails and teasing them into large spheres, you create a wide, impactful silhouette.
Securing the base with hair-colored elastics and then using “u-pins” to anchor the buns ensures they won’t wobble. This style is particularly effective for synchronized team looks.
More Amazing Ideas
19 Hairstyles for Club Night Dancing That Hold Through Heat — Read more
19 Hairstyles for High Foreheads with Soft Fringe and Layers — Read more
16 Braid Hairstyles for Birthday Trips and Party Nights — Read more
16 Up Down Hairstyles for Black Women with Weaves and Braids — Read more
18 Boho Hairstyles for Long Hair from Braids to Loose Waves — Read moreApplying a gel-and-glitter mix to the part line doesn’t just add sparkle; the gel helps “glue” the roots in place. This prevents flyaways from appearing at the part during a performance.
15. French Braid Faux Hawk
The French braid faux hawk uses three parallel braids to create a structured, high-volume ridge. The center braid is kept loose and voluminous, while the side braids are tight.
All three braids feed into a single ponytail at the back. This creates a look of incredible height and “edge” that stands out on the competition floor.
Because there are three distinct braids, the hair is anchored at multiple points across the scalp. This prevents the “sagging” that can happen with a single heavy ponytail.
16. The Bow-Tie High Pony
This style uses the hair itself to create a “bow” at the base of a high ponytail. It’s an iconic cheer look that combines volume with a built-in accessory.
The “loops” of the bow are stiffened with extra-hold hairspray and pinned flat against the head. This provides a very wide, stable base for the rest of the ponytail to flow from.
This style is perfect for routines where a physical bow might be prohibited or likely to fall off. It offers the same aesthetic appeal with much higher structural security.
How do I keep my ponytail from sagging during a routine?
To prevent sagging, use the “two-elastic” method. Secure your hair with one elastic, then place a second elastic directly on top of the first. You can also insert two bobby pins vertically through the elastic and into your hair at the base of the pony to act as “kickstands” that keep the hair upright.
More Amazing Ideas
19 Fun Hairstyles for Short Hair with Space Buns and Clips — Read more
18 Hairstyles for Girls Braids in Fun and Neat Patterns — Read more
16 Braided Hairstyles for Boys in Simple and Cool Patterns — Read more
19 4 Braid Hairstyles for Black Women in Neat Designs — Read more
16 Formal Hairstyles for Men with Classic Cuts and Polished Styling — Read moreWhat is the best way to add volume to thin hair for cheer?
The most effective method for thin hair is the “pull-through braid.” Because this technique uses multiple elastics to create “bubbles” of hair, it creates the illusion of thickness without needing a lot of natural hair density. Using a texturizing spray before styling also helps the hair appear fuller.
How can I secure flyaways without making my hair look greasy?
Instead of applying gel directly to your head, spray a clean mascara wand or a soft toothbrush with high-hold hairspray. Gently brush over the flyaways at the hairline. This tames the “baby hairs” and provides a secure hold without the heavy, wet look of excess gel.
Are braids or ponytails more secure for tumbling?
Braids are generally more secure for tumbling because they anchor the hair closer to the scalp, reducing the “pull” of gravity during flips. A combination of the two—braiding the hair at the scalp and ending in a ponytail—offers the best of both worlds: security and high-volume movement.
How do I remove heavy-duty cheer hairspray without damaging my hair?
After a competition, don’t try to brush out the “crunchy” hairspray while it’s dry, as this can cause breakage. Instead, soak your hair in the shower and apply a generous amount of conditioner before shampooing. The conditioner helps break down the polymers in the hairspray, making it slide off easily.
Can I use hair extensions for cheer hairstyles?
Yes, but they must be secured properly. For cheer, “clip-in” extensions can be risky as they may slip during stunts. If using clips, tease the hair at the root and apply hairspray before clipping them in. Many athletes prefer “halo” extensions or sewn-in wefts for maximum security during high-intensity movements.
