Are you tired of dealing with the hassle of wearing a bike helmet with long hair? Don’t worry, you’re not alone.
Finding the right way to wear a helmet while maintaining long locks can often feel like an uphill battle for both men and women.
Not only do you want your hair out of your face and secure under the helmet, but you also don’t want to sacrifice comfort or style.
However, it’s important to remember that proper helmet fit is crucial for protecting your head in case of an unfortunate event.
In this blog post, we’ll explore the challenge of wearing a bike helmet with long hair and provide tips and solutions to make it easier.
From easy and practical hairstyles to common mistakes to avoid, this comprehensive guide will help you find the perfect balance between safety and style.
Whether you’re a beginner or an avid rider, keep reading to learn how to wear a bike helmet with long hair without sacrificing comfort or protection.
Let’s get started!
Why Proper Helmet Fit Matters (Even With Long Hair)
Before we discuss the tips and tricks, it’s crucial to understand why proper helmet fit is essential for cyclists regardless of hair length.
A well-fitting helmet is not just about comfort or aesthetics; it can also save your life in an unfortunate event.
According to a study by the Cleveland Clinic, helmets reduce the risk of serious head injury by 60 %. However, this percentage only holds true if the helmet fits correctly.
Wearing a loose or improperly fitted helmet can increase the risk of discomfort, movement, and even falling off during a ride. It also reduces the helmet’s effectiveness in protecting the head from impact.
Therefore, finding the right way to wear a bike helmet with long hair is crucial for your safety and the enjoyment of your ride.
Top Easy and Practical Hairstyles for Wearing a Helmet with Long Hair
Now that we understand why proper helmet fit is essential for those with long hair, let’s explore some easy and practical hairstyles for wearing a bike helmet with long hair.
There are a few key factors to consider: comfort, protection, and ease of use. Below are our top picks hairstyles that meet all three criteria:
1. Wearing a Bicycle Helmet with Ponytail
Ponytails can be an ideal solution for long hair if you want comfort, protection, and helmet compatibility. While riding, these hairstyles not only keep hair secure but also ensure that safety measures remain intact. Check out these ponytail options.
High Ponytail
Are you looking for a practical and stylish hairstyle for your cycling adventures? The high ponytail is your go-to choice! It keeps your hair out of your face, ensuring a smooth ride.
To nail the perfect high ponytail:
1. Gather your hair towards the top of your head.
2. Secure it with an elastic band or hair tie.
This style works best with helmets with extra space at the back(ponytail hole), allowing your ponytail to sit comfortably without discomfort. Plus, it’s a timeless look that keeps you neat and safe on the road.
Imagine cruising down the bike path, the wind in your hair, and not a single strand blocking your view. That’s the magic of a high ponytail for you!
Low Ponytail
The low ponytail is a go-to style for bike riders with long hair. It’s easy to create and offers both comfort and security.
How To Style:
Gather your hair at the nape of your neck and secure it with a hair tie. Make sure it’s snug but not too tight. This ensures it stays put without causing discomfort under your helmet.
Why You’ll Love It:
1. Keeps Hair Out of Your Face: This simple style ensures your hair doesn’t distract you while you ride.
2. Helmet-Friendly: Fits comfortably under any bike helmet without causing discomfort.
3. Versatile: Whether you’re commuting or heading out for a long ride, this style adapts to your needs.
Tips For Extra Flair
Want to add a bit of flair? Braid or twist the ponytail before securing it. This keeps your hair in place during windy rides and adds an elegant touch to your look.
You can tuck the ponytail into your jacket or let it hang freely—whichever you prefer.
Try the low ponytail on your next bike ride and experience the perfect blend of practicality and style!
Side Ponytail
A stylish way to manage long hair while biking is to tie it into a low-side ponytail. This hairstyle keeps your hair out of your face and adds a chic twist.
Here’s how to achieve the perfect side ponytail
1. Gather Your Hair: Pull all your hair to one side of your neck. Choose the side that feels most comfortable for you.
2. Smooth and Secure: Use your fingers or a brush to smooth your hair, ensuring no tangles or loose strands. Once your hair is neatly gathered, secure it with a hair tie.
3. Adjust and Style: Adjust the ponytail to sit nicely and ensure it’s tight enough to stay in place but not so tight that it causes discomfort.
These steps will give you a practical yet stylish hairdo that enhances your biking experience.
Two Low Ponytails (Pigtails)
One popular hairstyle for female riders is splitting your long hair into two low ponytails, also known as “pigtails.”
This style evenly distributes the weight and ensures a snug fit under your helmet. It also provides better airflow to the back of your neck, keeping you cooler during your ride.
2. Wearing a Bicycle Helmet with Braids
Braids are another excellent hairstyle choice for long-haired cyclists. They keep your hair secure, reduce tangles, and fit comfortably under a helmet.
They offer versatility and practicality for bike riding, whether you prefer a classic look or something more intricate. Here are some braid options to consider:
French braid
The French braid is an elegant option that ensures your hair stays in place during long rides.
How To Style:
1. Start with a Neat French Braid: Brush out any tangles from your hair. At the crown of your head, divide your hair into three sections.
2. Incorporate Strands: Add hair from each side to the respective sections as you braid. This ensures the braid stays tight and close to the head.
3. Secure the End: Once you reach the nape of your neck, continue braiding the remaining hair and secure it with an elastic band.
Why You’ll Love It:
1. Secure Fit: The French braid lies close to the scalp, ensuring your helmet fits snugly.
2. Comfortable: Keeps your hair tidy and out of your face, reducing distractions.
3. Versatile: Transitions well from casual rides to more intense cycling sessions.
4. Smooth Finish: Your hair will remain neat and tangle-free, making it easier to manage after your ride.
Double Braids
Double braids, or “pigtail braids,” offer a balanced weight distribution and a snug, comfortable fit under your helmet. This looks great and makes wearing a helmet with long hair more manageable.
How to Style:
1. Section Hair: Divide your hair into two equal parts.
2. Braid Each Side: Create a braid on each side, starting from the top and working your way down.
3. Secure: Use elastic bands to keep the braids tight and in place.
Incorporating any of the two braid styles into your cycling routine allows you to enjoy a secure, comfortable, and stylish way to manage your long hair while wearing a helmet.
3.Wearing a Bicycle Helmet with Bun
Buns are a timeless, easy-to-manage hairstyle that pairs perfectly with long hair. They offer versatility—you can style them low or messy, depending on what feels most comfortable with your helmet.
Low Bun
The low bun is a favourite among cyclists because it sits comfortably at the nape of the neck and fits easily under most bike helmets. It’s neat, comfortable, and doesn’t affect the helmet’s fit.
How To Style
1. Start by gathering your hair at the nape of your neck.
2. Smooth out any bumps or tangles with a brush or your fingers.
3. Twist your hair into a bun and secure it with a hair tie or bobby pins.
4. Ensure the bun is positioned low enough to fit comfortably beneath your helmet.
Why You Will Love It
The low bun is easy to do and neatly contains hair, reducing helmet hair and discomfort during your ride. Its simplicity and versatility make it a favourite among cyclists with long hair, ensuring you can bike safely and stylishly.
It also protects your hair from getting tangled or damaged by the helmet’s straps, making it easier to style afterwards.
Messy Bun
For a more relaxed and effortless look, the messy bun offers an ideal alternative. It combines practicality with a touch of casual chic, making it especially convenient for hurried mornings when you need to get out the door quickly.
How to Style
1. Gather your hair into a loose ponytail at your desired height.
2. Twist the ponytail and wrap it around its base to form a bun.
3. Secure the bun with a hair tie, leaving out some strands for a messy effect.
4. Use bobby pins as needed to hold the bun in place.
Why You Will Love It
The messy low bun isn’t just a hairstyle—it’s a lifestyle! This effortless and versatile style can take you from a casual bike ride to a night out with friends without needing any touch-ups. It looks great even when slightly messy, perfect for busy days or spontaneous plans.
Creative Hairstyles and Accessories for Cycling
Head Sock or Skull Cap
Are you tired of helmet hair and sweat dripping down your face during rides? A head sock or skull cap is the game-changer you need.
These sleek, snug-fit caps are designed to sit comfortably under your helmet, managing your hair, absorbing sweat, and creating a barrier that keeps your head cool and irritation-free.
Imagine a ride where your helmet fits perfectly, and your hair stays in place and dry—sounds perfect, right?
Some skull caps come with a clever ponytail cutout for those with long hair. This feature lets you pull your hair back securely without messing up your helmet’s fit. It’s a small detail that makes a big difference.
Hair Wraps
Hair wraps are a stylish and practical way to keep your hair secure during bike rides. They come in various fabrics and can be tied in different ways to secure your hair.
Not only do they keep your hair out of your face, but they also add a touch of personality to your cycling gear.
Headbands
Headbands are versatile and can be used not only to keep hair out of your face but also to absorb sweat. Opt for a slip, moisture-wicking headband to enhance performance while adding a stylish touch to your cycling gear. Easy to wear and available in various colours and designs, headbands offer both practicality and flair.
Bandana
A bandana can be a multifunctional addition to your cycling attire. Fold it and tie it around your head to keep your hair in place.
They are versatile and can be tied in various ways to achieve different looks, making them a favourite among cyclists.
Typical Helmet Mistakes to Avoid for Long-Haired Riders
Improper Helmet Placement Due to Hairstyle
Prioritizing a hairstyle over a secure helmet fit can compromise safety. Always ensure the helmet fits properly, regardless of your hairstyle.
Using Bulky Hair Accessories
Bulky accessories can create pressure points and discomfort. Stick to low-profile, soft hair ties and accessories that don’t interfere with helmet fit.
Not Rechecking Helmet Fit After Styling:
A different hairstyle may affect the fit of your helmet. To maintain safety, readjust your helmet and straps whenever you change your hairstyle.
Conclusion
Cycling with long hair doesn’t have to be a hassle. With suitable hairstyles and accessories, you can enjoy comfort and style on your bike rides.
There are Various options are available for managing long hair under a helmet, from braids to buns, headbands to bandanas.
Remember to prioritize safety by ensuring a proper helmet fit, regardless of your hairstyle.
So go ahead and experiment with different looks while keeping these tips in mind, and enjoy your rides without worrying about helmet hair!