If you have long hair and work out regularly, you already know the struggle. The ponytail that slides down mid-run. The headband that creeps up your head by mile two. The hair tie that leaves a crease so deep it looks like a rubber band attacked you.
I have been running for over 25 years with long hair, which means I have tried just about every hair accessory on the market. Most of them are disappointing. A few of them are genuinely great. This list is the genuinely the best workout hair accessories.
Table of Contents
A Note on Color
One thing I pay close attention to when choosing workout hair accessories is color. As a runner who logs miles on the road, being visible to drivers is not optional – it is a safety issue. Many of the products on this list come in bright neon yellows, oranges, and pinks that make you significantly more visible to cars, especially on early morning or evening runs. I always look for those options first. Whether you are running on a quiet neighborhood street or a busy road, high visibility colors are worth choosing whenever you can.
Best Hair Ties for Working Out
L. Erickson Grab and Go Ponytail Holders
These are my personal favorite and have been for years. L. Erickson hair ties are gentle on hair, hold a ponytail securely through a full run, and do not leave that horrible crease when you take them out. They come in a wide range of colors including neutrals and bright neon options that add a pop of visibility when you are out on the road. Once you switch you will not go back to drugstore hair ties.
Great for: Running, cycling, any high impact workout
Get them here: L. Erickson Hair Ties, 8 Count – Grab & Go Ponytail Holders – No Damage for Thick Hair
Best Headbands for Working Out
Vancrown Headbands
A fantastic find for women who need a headband that actually stays put. The fabric of the Vancrown is thick and durable, keeping it in place without squeezing your head. Because it’s more like a neck gaiter in width, you can adjust how much of your head is covered. On cold days, it keeps your whole head warm.
They come in a great range of colors including bright safety-style shades that are perfect for road runners. Comfortable enough to forget you are wearing one, which is exactly what you want. I love that it can double as something to cover your nose and neck. These are very versatile.
Great for: Yoga, weightlifting, cycling, any workout where you need hair off your face
Get my pick here: Headband Neck Gaiter Head Wrap Headwear Face Mask Magic Scarf Bandana
Best Hair Barrettes for Working Out
Revlon Rubberized Double Grip Hair Clips
I use these every single day. The rubberized coating gives them an extra grip that regular barrettes just do not have, which means they actually stay in place when you are moving. They are also strong enough to hold a healthy chunk of hair without slipping. Simple, affordable, and genuinely reliable. A staple in my routine.
Great for: Quick workouts, Peloton rides, weightlifting, any workout where a ponytail feels like too much
Get my pick here: Revlon Double Grip Hair Clips, 6 Count
Best Hat for Working Out
GADIEMKENSD Quick Dry Run Hat Cooling Breathable Mesh
If you are a runner or do outdoor workouts, a good hat is non-negotiable. The GADIEMKENSD Quick Dry Run Hat has a cooling breathable mesh construction that keeps your head from overheating even on warm days. What I really love is the back closure — it is easy to get tight and comfortable quickly, which means no fussing with your hat before a run. The brim gives you just enough sun protection without being bulky. It is the kind of hat you grab automatically on your way out the door. Fits really smooth to your head — no odd bulges!
Great for: Running, walking, any outdoor workout
Get my pick here: GADIEMKENSD Quick Dry Run Hat Cooling Breathable Mesh
Best Visor for Outdoor Workouts
Sukeen Sports Sun Visor Men Women Lightweight Packable Cooling Stretchy Visor Hat for Running, Tennis, Golf
Sukeen Sports Sun Visor For women who want sun protection without hat hair, a visor is the answer. The Sukeen Sports Sun Visor has a nice long brim that keeps the sun out of your eyes better than most, and the stretchy fabric fits comfortably without feeling tight. The material dries quickly so even on a sweaty run it never feels heavy or uncomfortable. Lightweight and packable enough to toss in a bag without thinking about it.
Great for: Running, walking, outdoor fitness classes
Get my pick here: Sukeen Sports Sun Visor Men Women Lightweight Packable Cooling Stretchy Visor Hat for Running, Tennis, Golf
Best Sweat-Wicking Super Thick Hair Ties
Burlybands Thick Hair Tie
For women with thick or heavy hair, regular hair ties just do not cut it. Burlybands are oversized, scrunchie-style ties with enough stretch and grip to hold a thick ponytail securely through a tough workout. They are also gentle on hair and come in a wide range of colors including bright, bold options perfect for high visibility on outdoor runs.
Great for: All workout types, especially for women with thick or heavy hair
Get my pick here: Burlybands Large Hair Ties for Thick, Heavy or Curly Hair – Non-Slip, Non-Damage, Seamless Women’s Ponytail Scrunchies – Dk Gray, 8 Pcs
The Bottom Line on Workout Hair Accessories
The right hair accessories make a real difference in how comfortable and focused you feel during a workout. When your hair is actually staying put you can stop thinking about it and start thinking about your run, your ride, or your reps.
Start with a good hair tie and a reliable headband and build from there. And if you run on the road like I do, grab the brightest color options you can find. Looking good and being seen are not mutually exclusive.
This post contains affiliate links. If you purchase through my links, I may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. I only recommend products I genuinely believe in.