10 Softball Hairstyles for Curly Hair
Curly hair and softball can work together beautifully when you choose styles that hold shape, control frizz, and stay comfortable from warm-up to the last inning. This list covers easy, game-ready looks for players who want their curls secured without flattening all the texture that makes curly hair special. You will find options for short, medium, and long curls, with choices that suit round, oval, heart, and long face shapes. These hairstyles are practical for practice, school games, and full tournament weekends. Before styling, start with slightly damp or refreshed curls, smooth in a light leave-in or curl cream, and keep a few basics nearby like soft hair ties, bobby pins, and a strong headband. The goal is simple: protect your curls, keep hair out of your face, and still look put together on the field.
Quick List
- High Curly Ponytail Hairstyle
- Double Dutch Braids into Puff Hairstyle
- Low Curly Bun Hairstyle
- Braided Crown Ponytail Hairstyle
- Half-Up Curly Puff Hairstyle
- Tight Side Braid Bun Hairstyle
- Curly Bubble Ponytail Hairstyle
- Headband Wash-and-Go Hairstyle
- Double Curly Puffs Hairstyle
- French Braids into Low Ponytail Hairstyle
High Curly Ponytail Hairstyle
High Curly Ponytail Hairstyle is a simple game-day look that lifts your curls up and away from your neck while keeping your style full and bouncy. This option works well when you want good visibility on the field and less hair sticking to your face during practice or long innings. The height adds a sporty feel, and the natural curl texture gives the ponytail movement instead of making it look stiff. It is especially helpful on humid days because your curls stay gathered and easier to manage. You can keep the front smooth or leave a few soft curls at the hairline for a more relaxed finish. Pro tip: use a soft stretch tie and secure the ponytail in two passes first, then adjust for comfort before the final wrap.
How To Style
Gather curls high at the crown.
Smooth the sides with a little curl cream or gel.
Secure with a soft hair tie.
Fluff the ponytail and pin any loose front pieces if needed.
Best For
Oval, round, and heart face shapes; medium to long curly hair
Tools & Products
Soft hair tie, curl cream, edge brush, bobby pins
Pinterest Hashtags: #softballhairstyles #curlyhairideas #sportyhair #gamedayhair #curlyponytail
Double Dutch Braids into Puff Hairstyle
Double Dutch Braids into Puff Hairstyle gives you a locked-in front section with a soft curly finish in the back. It is a strong choice for active play because the braids keep hair close to the scalp while the puff lets your natural texture stay visible. This style feels neat, athletic, and fun without taking too much time once you learn the braid pattern. It works especially well for players who want secure roots but do not want every curl pulled tight. The contrast between the braids and the puff adds shape and makes the style stand out in team photos too. Pro tip: braid with gentle tension so the scalp stays comfortable through a full game and practice session.
How To Style
Part the hair down the middle.
Create two Dutch braids from the front to the crown.
Gather the remaining curls into one puff.
Adjust the puff for even volume.
Best For
Round, oval, and long face shapes; medium to long curly hair
Tools & Products
Rat-tail comb, soft hair ties, styling gel, puff cuff, water spray
Pinterest Hashtags: #softballhair #curlyhairstyles #dutchbraids #curlypuff #sportsbraids
Low Curly Bun Hairstyle
Low Curly Bun Hairstyle is a dependable option for softball days when you want a clean, secure look that still feels soft and feminine. The bun sits close to the neck, which makes it comfortable under a visor or cap and helps keep curls contained during running and fielding. This style is great for thick curly hair because it spreads the volume low instead of piling it all on top. It also works nicely on second- or third-day curls when you need a quick refresh before heading out. Keep the bun neat or slightly loose depending on how much movement you want. Pro tip: twist the ponytail loosely before wrapping so the bun keeps a fuller shape instead of looking flat.
How To Style
Pull hair into a low ponytail.
Twist the length gently.
Wrap into a bun and secure with a tie or pins.
Smooth the front and set flyaways.
Best For
Heart, oval, and long face shapes; medium to long curly hair
Tools & Products
Hair tie, bobby pins, leave-in cream, smoothing gel
Pinterest Hashtags: #curlybun #softballstyle #sportsreadyhair #curlyupdo #gamedaylook
Braided Crown Ponytail Hairstyle
Braided Crown Ponytail Hairstyle keeps the front polished while letting the back stay lively and curly. A braid along the hairline helps control shorter layers, baby hairs, and front pieces that usually fall forward when you move. The ponytail keeps the rest of the hair secure, so this style balances hold and softness in a very wearable way. It looks a little more detailed than a basic ponytail, which makes it nice for players who want a sporty style with extra shape. It can also transition easily from school to practice without needing a full restyle. Pro tip: make the crown braid slightly curved instead of too straight so it follows the natural hairline and feels more comfortable.
How To Style
Create a side or front hairline braid.
Gather all hair into a mid or high ponytail.
Secure well and fluff the curls.
Pin the braid end into the ponytail base.
Best For
Round, heart, and oval face shapes; medium to long curly hair
Tools & Products
Hair tie, bobby pins, curl refresher, comb, light gel
Pinterest Hashtags: #braidedponytail #curlysoftballhair #protectivehairstyle #sportspony #curlygamehair
Half-Up Curly Puff Hairstyle
Half-Up Curly Puff Hairstyle is perfect when you want some curls off your face but still want to wear your hair down. The top section gets pulled up for better visibility and comfort, while the rest of the curls stay free and soft. This style feels light, playful, and easy for practice days, batting drills, or low-pressure games. It also helps show off curl definition because the top lift creates shape without hiding the length. You can make the puff high and bold or keep it smaller for a more subtle finish. Pro tip: refresh the bottom section with a little water mist first so the loose curls look defined and balanced with the top.
How To Style
Separate the top half of your hair.
Gather it at the crown into a puff.
Secure with a soft tie.
Fluff both the puff and the loose curls.
Best For
Oval, heart, and long face shapes; short to long curly hair
Tools & Products
Soft tie, curl spray, wide-tooth comb, edge brush
Pinterest Hashtags: #halfuphairstyle #curlypuff #softballhairideas #curlysportsstyle #easycurlyhair
Tight Side Braid Bun Hairstyle
Tight Side Braid Bun Hairstyle gives you a secure style with strong hold for competitive games and windy days. A side braid helps lock in one section of the hair, while the bun keeps the rest tucked away so it does not shift much during movement. This style is especially useful if your curls are dense or prone to expanding in humidity. It looks neat, focused, and practical without being boring. Because the braid adds detail, the overall look feels a bit more polished than a plain bun. Pro tip: braid the fuller side of your hair so the finished style feels balanced and the bun does not pull unevenly during wear.
How To Style
Create a deep side part.
Braid one side back toward the nape.
Gather all hair into a low bun.
Pin firmly and smooth loose pieces.
Best For
Round, oval, and heart face shapes; medium to long curly hair
Tools & Products
Rat-tail comb, hair tie, bobby pins, styling gel, curl cream
Pinterest Hashtags: #braidedbun #curlyathletehair #softballbun #securehairstyle #curlybraidideas
Curly Bubble Ponytail Hairstyle
Curly Bubble Ponytail Hairstyle is a fun way to make a basic ponytail more secure and more playful. The sections help control the length of the ponytail, which can be useful if your curls swing around too much while running or batting. Each bubble gives shape and keeps the style from collapsing through the day. It is also a smart option for thick curly hair because it spreads volume down the ponytail instead of collecting it in one spot. This look feels youthful, sporty, and a little different from the usual game-day styles. Pro tip: gently pull each bubble outward after securing it so the shape looks soft and full instead of tight.
How To Style
Make a mid or high ponytail.
Add extra hair ties down the length.
Space them evenly.
Gently puff each section for a rounded bubble effect.
Best For
Oval, long, and round face shapes; medium to long curly hair
Tools & Products
Several soft hair ties, leave-in cream, water spray, edge brush
Pinterest Hashtags: #bubbleponytail #curlyponytail #softballhairdo #sportycurlyhair #easygamehair
Headband Wash-and-Go Hairstyle
Headband Wash-and-Go Hairstyle is one of the easiest curly softball looks when you want to keep your natural texture front and center. A wide headband pushes the curls back from your face while the rest of your hair stays free and springy. This is a good choice for shorter curly hair or for players who do not like tight styles. It feels comfortable, quick, and low effort, especially on practice days or casual team events. The key is choosing a secure headband that stays put while you move. Pro tip: place the headband slightly behind the hairline instead of right on top of it so it grips better and looks more natural.
How To Style
Refresh curls with water or leave-in.
Slide on a wide secure headband.
Adjust curls around the band.
Pin the sides only if extra hold is needed.
Best For
Heart, oval, and round face shapes; short to medium curly hair
Tools & Products
Wide headband, leave-in spray, curl cream, bobby pins
Pinterest Hashtags: #washandgohair #curlyheadbandstyle #softballcurls #naturalcurlyhair #quickhairstyle
Double Curly Puffs Hairstyle
Double Curly Puffs Hairstyle is playful, secure, and great for younger players or anyone who likes a fun high-energy look on the field. Splitting the hair into two sections helps distribute volume, which can feel lighter and more balanced than one large puff. This style keeps curls lifted and away from the neck, making it comfortable on warm days. It also works well for medium-length curly hair that does not always fit neatly into one ponytail. The finished look is cheerful but practical, and it stays in place well with the right ties. Pro tip: keep both puffs level with your eyes or slightly above for the most flattering shape.
How To Style
Part the hair down the middle.
Gather each side into a puff.
Secure both sides with soft ties.
Fluff evenly and smooth the parting line.
Best For
Round, oval, and heart face shapes; short to medium curly hair
Tools & Products
Parting comb, soft hair ties, curl cream, edge brush
Pinterest Hashtags: #doublepuffs #curlysoftballstyle #sportyhairstyles #naturalhairideas #curlygameday
French Braids into Low Ponytail Hairstyle
French Braids into Low Ponytail Hairstyle is a strong all-day option for softball players who want maximum control through the front and top of the hair. The braids anchor everything neatly, while the low ponytail keeps the ends together without feeling bulky. This style is helpful for thick curls, active tournament days, or players who wear helmets or visors between plays. It has a clean athletic feel and usually stays secure longer than a loose ponytail. The low placement also reduces pulling, which can make it more comfortable for long wear. Pro tip: do not braid too tightly near the temples, since a little flexibility there makes the style feel better for hours.
How To Style
Create two French braids from the front.
Bring both braids to the nape.
Join them into one low ponytail.
Refresh the ponytail curls and secure flyaways.
Best For
Long, oval, and heart face shapes; medium to long curly hair
Tools & Products
Comb, soft ties, curl refresher, bobby pins, light gel
Pinterest Hashtags: #frenchbraids #lowponytail #softballhairstyles #curlybraids #athletichair
Conclusion
The best softball hairstyles for curly hair are the ones that stay secure, feel comfortable, and let your natural texture still show. Whether you prefer a ponytail, braids, puffs, or a bun, the right style can make game day easier and cut down on distractions. Start with one or two simple looks, test them during practice, and keep the styles that hold up best with your curl pattern and hair length.
CTA: Pick your favorite softball hairstyle from this list and try it at your next practice.
FAQs
1. What is the best softball hairstyle for curly hair?
A high curly ponytail or braided ponytail is usually the easiest place to start. Both help keep hair out of your face while still letting your curls show.
2. How do I keep curly hair from getting frizzy during softball?
Use a light leave-in, curl cream, or gel before styling. Secure the hair well and avoid touching it too much once the style is set.
3. Are braids better than ponytails for curly hair in sports?
Braids often hold longer and keep the front sections more secure. Ponytails are faster to do and still work well when placed tightly and comfortably.
4. Can I wear a softball hairstyle with short curly hair?
Yes, shorter curls work well with headbands, half-up puffs, and double puffs. The key is choosing styles that control the front and sides without forcing all the hair back.
5. What products should I use before styling curly hair for a game?
Start with water or a refresher spray, then add a leave-in or curl cream for moisture. Finish with a little gel on the edges or front sections for better hold.
