10 Braided Hairstyles Perfect for Cross Country Runners

A good braided hairstyle helps you focus on your run. It keeps your hair in place and makes you feel confident. This lets you put all your energy into running your best.

In this article, you 'll discover the top 10 braided hairstyles that are perfect for cross country runners. Keep your hair stylish and secure while hitting the trails!

The Single French Braid is a classic choice that never goes out of style. It's like the little black dress of hairstyles—simple yet elegant. Starting at the crown of your head, it gathers hair seamlessly, ensuring no loose strands fly into your face as you hit your stride.

• Start at the Top: Take a section of hair from the top center of your head.
• Divide and Conquer: Split this section into three equal parts.
• Begin Braiding: Cross the right strand over the middle, then the left over the new middle.
• Add Hair as You Go: Continue braiding, adding more hair from the sides each time you cross.
• Secure the End: Once you reach the nape of your neck, finish with a regular braid and tie it off.

This braid is perfect for keeping your hair tight and manageable throughout your run.

If you're looking for a hairstyle that's both functional and fierce, Double Dutch Braids are your go-to. Think of them as the warrior braids that keep you feeling powerful on the trail.

• Extra Security: With two braids, your hair is doubly secured against movement.
• Even Weight Distribution: The weight of your hair is evenly balanced, reducing strain.
• Stylish Look: They offer a trendy look that's both sporty and chic.

• Part Your Hair: Create a straight center part from your forehead to the nape.
• Flip the Braid: Unlike the French braid, cross strands under the middle section to make the braid 'pop' out.
• Braid Each Side: Secure each braid at the end with hair ties.

These braids will have you looking and feeling like you can conquer any course.

The Fishtail Braid is both intricate and sturdy—a perfect metaphor for the balance between complexity and strength in cross country running.

• Gather Hair Low: Collect all your hair at the nape or to one side.
• Divide into Two Sections: Unlike traditional braids, you only need two sections.
• Weave the Strands: Take a small piece from the outside of one section and cross it over to the inside of the other.
• Repeat Alternately: Continue this pattern, pulling tight to keep it secure.

Not only does it keep your hair in place, but it also looks stunning, giving you that extra confidence boost.

Combine the simplicity of a ponytail with the security of a braid, and you get the Braided Ponytail—an uncomplicated style that doesn't compromise on functionality.

• Create a High or Low Ponytail: Secure your hair with a strong elastic.
• Braid the Tail: Split the ponytail into three sections and braid down.
• Secure the End: Use another elastic to tie off the braid.

This hairstyle is quick to do and perfect for those early morning runs when time is of the essence.

Feel like royalty on your run with the Crown Braid. It's like wearing a tiara made of your own hair—elegant and practical.

• Begin at One Ear: Start braiding near your temple.
• Braid Around Your Head: Incorporate hair as you move around the circumference of your head.
• Tuck and Secure: Once you reach back to the starting point, tuck the ends under and pin them.

This style keeps all your hair off your neck and face, ideal for hot days.

Popularized by athletes, Boxer Braids are essentially tight Double Dutch Braids that are perfect for high-intensity activities.

• Maximum Hold: They keep your hair secure, no matter how intense your run gets.
• Sleek Appearance: Keeps hair tight to the scalp, reducing wind resistance (okay, maybe not that much!).

• Part and Prep: Divide your hair down the middle and apply some styling gel.
• Braid Tightly: Create Dutch braids on each side, pulling firmly.
• Secure Ends: Tie off with elastics.

You'll look ready to take on any challenge with this fierce hairstyle.

The Halo Braid envelops your head like a halo, hence the name. It's both stylish and fully functional for keeping hair in place.

• Part Hair at the Nape: Start braiding from the back instead of the front.
• Work Around the Head: Braid upwards and around, adding hair as you go.
• Finish and Secure: Tuck the end of the braid under the starting point and pin it.

This braid is perfect when you want to keep every strand off your face and neck.

The Side Braid adds a chic twist to the traditional braid by bringing it over one shoulder.

• Gather Hair to One Side: Choose your preferred side.
• Braid Normally: Divide into three sections and braid down.
• Loosen for Style: Gently tug on the braid to give it a fuller look.

This is a quick and easy style that still keeps your hair managed during a run.

When you need your hair completely out of the way, the Braided Bun is the way to go.

• Start with a Ponytail: Gather hair into a high or low ponytail.
• Braid the Ponytail: Braid it down and secure the end.
• Wrap into a Bun: Coil the braid around the base of the ponytail.
• Pin Securely: Use bobby pins to hold the bun in place.

This style ensures zero distractions from loose hair.

For a playful yet practical look, Braided Pigtails offer both charm and functionality.

• Part Hair Down the Middle: Create two equal sections.
• Braid Each Side: Starting near the ears, braid down each side.
• Secure with Elastics: Tie off the ends.

This style keeps your hair evenly balanced and securely tied.

Running is hard enough without having to fuss over your hair. These 10 braided hairstyles are perfect solutions for cross country runners who want to focus on their performance while still looking great. So next time you lace up your shoes, try one of these styles. Who knows—it might just be the boost you need to set a new personal record!

For thick hair, the Boxer Braids or Double Dutch Braids are ideal because they distribute the weight evenly and keep all your hair tightly secured.

Using a strong hair tie and possibly hairpins at the start and end of your braid can help. Additionally, applying a bit of styling gel or hairspray can keep stray hairs in place.

Wearing braids too tightly or too often can lead to tension on the scalp and hair breakage. It's important to braid gently and give your hair breaks between styles.

Yes! Styles like the Braided Ponytail or Side Braid can work well with shorter hair. You might also consider using hair clips to secure any shorter strands.

The Braided Ponytail is one of the quickest styles. It takes just a few minutes and provides both convenience and security for your hair.