Cute & Practical Winter Braid Hairstyles for Workouts (Stay Comfortable + Stylish)
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Winter can make hair routines a little trickier - cold air, beanies, scarves, and static all impact how your hair behaves when you exercise. But the right braid can keep your hair protected, comfortable, and completely out of your face while you train.
Whether you’re lifting, jumping rope, or doing a yoga session, these winter-friendly braid styles help you stay focused on your workout without worrying about knots, breakage, or flyaways.
Why Braids Are Perfect for Winter Workouts
Winter changes how hair responds to movement. Cold, dry air = more friction and breakage. Bundled-up necklines = more tangles. Braids help by:
Reducing friction under hoodies, jackets, or scarves
Keeping hair contained during strength or cardio
Preventing tangles and matting
Protecting ends from dryness
Looking effortlessly cute (even after your workout)
They’re low-maintenance, protective, and ideal for both short and long sessions.
What If You Have Layered Hair? (It’s Totally Doable!)
If you have layered hair, you can still do all of these braid styles, you might just need a couple of small adjustments. Layers naturally want to slip out during movement, but that doesn’t mean braids are off-limits.
Here’s what helps:
✔ Use a tiny bit of hairspray or styling cream
Not enough to make hair crunchy, just enough to tame flyaways and help shorter layers stay tucked in.
✔ Start the braid slightly tighter
Layered hair loosens fast, so a firmer start helps the braid last through your workout.
✔ Secure the ends with a small coil elastic
These grip better than normal ties and keep the last few layers from slipping out.
✔ Or… let it be a little messy
Messy braids look cute, especially in winter workouts with hoodies and fleece layers. If some pieces fall out while you train? It still looks intentional. ✨
1. Classic French Braid
A timeless option that holds up during high-intensity workouts.
Why it works:
Keeps hair tight to the scalp
Great for jump rope, cardio, or plyometrics
Stays put even under a hat or hoodie
Best for: long hair, medium to thick texture.
2. Dutch Braid
Similar to a French braid but with more lift and definition.
Why it works:
Looks sporty + structured
Stays secure during strength training
Perfect for keeping hair off your neck
Bonus: Works beautifully with hair oils/serums underneath for added winter protection.
3. Low Braided Ponytail (Or Even Double Ponytail!)
Simple, elegant, and perfect if you get headaches from high ponytails.
Why it works:
Gentle on your scalp
Great for floor workouts, yoga, pilates
Easy to combine with earmuffs or headbands/headphones
Tip: Use a soft, no-metal hair tie to prevent breakage.
And if you’re tired of the standard one, why not try creating a double braid?
4. Double Braids (Pigtail Braids)
A cute look that stays balanced for all types of training. Bonus: if the braids are long enough, you can twist them into a low bun and secure it with bobby pins. Et voilà - hair off your neck as well.
Why it works:
Perfect for hoodies + layers
Catches short layers close to your face
Ideal for medium-length hair
Great for: home workouts, mobility sessions, or casual cardio.
5. Bubble Braid or 3-Strand Braid Ponytail
A trend that looks stylish and stays extremely secure.
Why it works:
Low-tension style
Could be low or high pony
Prevents tangles
Great for thick or long hair
Holds shape even in humidity or winter dryness
Tip: Use mini elastics spaced evenly for a clean, aesthetic look.
6. Bonus Braid: Katniss Everdeen Around The Head Braid
You know the one. Alright, I’m not an expert in this braid, but it’s fun to try every now and then. Not to mention it holds my layers well and looks super cool.
Why it works:
Prevents tangles
Great for thick or long hair
Great for layers
Looks super cool
Tip: have fun with it. It might take a few tries, or if your hair tangles easily like mine, you might need to use a product to help with that. The photo below is after a workout and you can see it still holds relatively well.
How to Protect Your Hair During Winter Workouts
Even the best braid can’t fix winter dryness alone. Here are a few tips that might help:
✔ Apply a tiny amount of leave-in conditioner before braiding
Keeps hair smooth and prevents friction under layers.
✔ Use soft, fabric-covered hair ties
Avoid metal elastics. Winter dryness + metal = breakage.
✔ Don't tie hair when it’s wet
Winter air + wet hair = damage and stiffness.
✔ Use a satin-lined beanie
If you exercise outdoors, this prevents frizz and static.
Hair Ties & Tools That Help
These products support winter hair health during workouts:
Satin scrunchies (for low pony braids)
Hair oil or serum for winter static. I’m not going to recommend a product here, because everyone’s hair is different and different oils are appropriate for each season. I encourage you to check what’s best for your own hair.
Satin-lined winter hat (for outdoor walking)
Final Thoughts
A simple, protective braid keeps your hair safe from dryness and friction while still looking beautiful and ready for a workout. You don’t need to be an expert at braiding or have a certain type of hair texture to try any of these braids. Pick one that you like and see how it holds up :)
