Finding the perfect ski hairstyles for curly hair used to be my biggest struggle on the slopes. I’d either end up with uncomfortable helmet pressure or wild curls flying into my face mid-descent – neither exactly ideal when you’re trying to focus on not wiping out!
Typically, low styles like braids, buns, and ponytails work wonderfully for skiing, while keeping your curls secure and comfortable even after hours in the cold. I’ve discovered that skiing hairstyles for curly hair need special consideration, as they must prevent knots and stay put through all your runs. French braids have become my go-to ski hairstyles for long hair because they keep everything neatly in place. If you’re like me and have tried everything, you’ll be thrilled to know that braids combined with buffs are absolute lifesavers for curly hairstyles for skiing. Let’s explore these 15 solutions that will keep your curls happy while you conquer the mountain!
French Braids
French braids became my skiing salvation after years of battling helmet hair disasters on the slopes. This classic style has stood the test of time for good reason – especially for those of us blessed with curls.
French braids overview
French braids incorporate hair as you braid, keeping strands close to the scalp in a secure pattern. Unlike regular braids, this technique captures all those wayward curly strands that typically escape and cause irritation during active days. For the basic technique, I section off hair at my crown, divide it into three equal pieces, and begin crossing right over middle, then left over middle. The magic happens as I gradually incorporate small sections from each side while continuing the braid pattern down to the nape of my neck.
Additionally, French braids distribute hair evenly across your head, significantly reducing the tangling and friction that typically occurs during energetic ski runs. This makes them particularly practical for maintaining both style and comfort throughout a full day on the mountain.
Why French braids work for curly hair
My curly hair presents unique challenges on the slopes – frizz from static, tangling from wind, and volume issues under helmets. French braids solve these problems by:
- Keeping curls well-attached and controlled throughout active movement
- Preventing the dreaded “frizzy hair” situation even after hours of skiing
- Maintaining an impeccable hairstyle that transitions perfectly from slopes to après-ski
For those with particularly thick curly hair, French braids excel at distributing volume evenly, preventing uncomfortable pressure points that can lead to headaches during long ski days.
French braids and helmet compatibility
The most compelling reason I choose French braids for skiing? They fit beautifully under helmets without creating painful pressure points. This style creates an almost perfect helmet-friendly profile since the braids sit flat against your head.
Furthermore, I’ve found that French braids work wonderfully even with layered curly hair, as the technique captures those shorter pieces that might otherwise escape and cause irritation. For maximum comfort, I keep my braids relatively flat against my head and secure them with small elastics that won’t dig into my scalp.
Some skiers with particularly thick curly hair may need to adjust their helmet size slightly, but the flat profile of French braids generally allows for comfortable fit without major adjustments.
Dutch Braids
After discovering Dutch braids, I completely revolutionized my approach to managing curly hair on ski trips. Often called “inside-out braids,” these distinctive styles offer unique advantages for curly-haired skiers seeking both function and fashion.
Dutch braids overview
Unlike standard braids, Dutch braids create a pronounced 3D effect by crossing hair strands under the middle section rather than over it. This reverse technique creates an eye-catching raised braid that sits prominently on top of your hair. To create this style, I start by dividing my hair down the center, separating each side into three equal strands, and then crossing each section under rather than over, adding more hair with each cross-under motion.
What makes Dutch braids distinctive is their impressive staying power and unique esthetic appeal. The technique creates a secure style that holds curls firmly in place, making it ideal for active days when hair maintenance should be the last thing on your mind.
Why Dutch braids are great for skiing
Dutch braids excel on the slopes for several practical reasons. First, they create an exceptionally flat profile against the head, offering almost the same comfort as loose hair while preventing those painful pressure points under helmets. Moreover, this style prevents flyaways and keeps hair from whipping in the wind.
The benefits I’ve personally experienced include:
- Long-lasting hold that withstands jumps, falls, and hours of intense activity
- Protection against cold air which can damage hair
- Prevention of those massive knots that typically form around shoulders
- Seamless transition from slopes to après-ski activities
Dutch braids and curly hair control
For those of us blessed with curly locks, Dutch braids offer exceptional control throughout active days. This style effectively prevents frizz and tangling, even through intense runs and windy conditions. Actually, after removing my helmet at the lodge, my hair remains surprisingly intact.
Dutch braids work exceptionally well for thick, curly hair since substantial texture provides enough grip for braids to maintain their shape. Additionally, they function as a protective style for curly or textured hair, keeping curls contained and preventing the dreaded post-helmet frizz.
For maximum comfort with curly hair, I gently loosen the sections after braiding to create a fuller, softer crown that reduces pressure points. This small adjustment makes all the difference for all-day comfort without sacrificing style or security.
Low Ponytail with Side Braids
My search for the perfect ski hairstyle led me to a game-changing discovery: the low ponytail with side braids. This versatile style strikes the ideal balance between function and fashion, making it my reliable choice for those adventurous days conquering the mountain.
Low ponytail with braids explained
The low ponytail with side braid combines simplicity with flair, offering both style and practicality for skiing. Creating this look involves just a few straightforward steps:
- Begin with thoroughly brushed-out hair to prevent painful tangles later
- Create a deep side part following your natural hair pattern
- Take a small section (approximately 1.5-2 inches wide) from the fuller side
- Create a Dutch-style braid along the side of your head
- Finally, gather all your hair (including the braid) into a low ponytail at the nape of your neck
Secure everything with a thick, soft elastic that won’t catch on your helmet. For extra protection against harsh mountain conditions, I apply a light moisturizing spray before braiding.
Benefits for curly hair
As someone with curly hair, I’ve found this style offers numerous advantages:
- Keeps curls neatly gathered yet adds visual interest with the braid element
- Works wonderfully for any hair type and requires minimal maintenance on the slopes
- Prevents painful tangles even during challenging wind conditions
Indeed, this style has been remarkably effective during multi-day ski trips. Throughout one particularly windy weekend at a mountain resort, my curls stayed remarkably tangle-free – a rare occurrence with most other styles.
Helmet fit and comfort
The low ponytail with side braid ranks among the most helmet-friendly options available. The low positioning ensures it doesn’t create uncomfortable pressure points between your head and helmet. Additionally, tucking the ponytail portion under my neck gaiter or jacket prevents wind whipping, keeping everything secure throughout the day.
What makes this style truly exceptional is its adaptability – you can customize both the tightness of the braid and ponytail based on your comfort level with helmets. Moreover, unlike many styles that require substantial reworking, this hairstyle transitions beautifully from slopes to après-ski gatherings with minimal touch-up needed.
Box Braids
Box braids have become my winter skiing secret weapon for managing curly hair on the slopes. After trying countless styles that left my curls tangled or damaged, I discovered this protective option that keeps my hair secure throughout even the most challenging ski days.
Box braids overview
Box braids are a versatile protective style characterized by clean, square-shaped partings that create a distinctive grid pattern across the scalp. Unlike other braiding techniques, box braids fully encase natural hair within extension hair, creating a style that can range from thin microbraids to chunky jumbo braids. Throughout my skiing adventures, I’ve experimented with various sizes and found medium-sized box braids offer the ideal balance between protection and helmet comfort.
Henceforth, I’ve noticed knotless box braids (where extensions are fed into the braid without a bulky knot at the root) provide even more comfort under helmets. They appear more natural, weigh less, and put less tension on your scalp and edges. These distinctions matter significantly when you’re wearing a helmet for hours on end.
Why box braids are protective
For curly hair, box braids offer exceptional protection, consequently making them ideal for winter sports. As your natural hair remains tucked away within the braids, it’s shielded from harmful external factors including chemical, physical, and environmental stressors. Above all, this protection helps retain length and promotes growth while giving your curls a much-needed break.
Cold, dry winter air can be particularly damaging as it causes the cuticle of the hair strand to slightly lift, making moisture retention difficult. In fact, box braids excel at:
- Preventing breakage and frizz from harsh weather conditions
- Maintaining moisture in your natural hair despite dry conditions
- Reducing manipulation and resulting damage
- Protecting from indoor heating which can further dry out curly hair
Box braids under ski helmets
Despite their volume, box braids can work remarkably well under ski helmets with some strategic planning. At this point in my skiing journey, I’ve learned that box braids stay in place under helmets, preventing hair from getting tangled or messy throughout active days on the slopes.
For maximum comfort, I recommend:
- Gathering your braids into a low ponytail or bun at the nape of your neck
- Considering a slightly larger helmet if you have thick hair or numerous braids
- Using a silk bonnet or scarf under your helmet for additional protection
In essence, the structured nature of box braids creates a stable foundation that distributes helmet pressure evenly across your scalp rather than creating painful pressure points—something every curly-haired skier can appreciate.
Twisted High Bun
The twisted high bun elevated my basic ski hairstyle into something special yet practical after years of struggling with tangled curls on the mountain. This elegant yet functional style has become my reliable companion for both challenging runs and après-ski gatherings.
Twisted High bun style
Creating this sophisticated look requires minimal effort yet delivers maximum results. Initially, I smooth flyaways with a lightweight styling cream, then secure my hair at the nape of my neck using a damage-free elastic. The magic happens in the twisting – either by separating hair into two sections and crossing them repeatedly or by twisting the entire ponytail around itself.
For an extra polished version, I start with a clean part, take small sections from each side of my head, cross the front piece over the back piece, and continue this pattern around my head before securing everything into a low bun. The beauty of this style lies in its simplicity yet effectiveness for active days.
Curly hair suitability
As someone with curly locks, I’ve found the twisted High bun perfectly suited for our unique needs. This style works wonderfully for longer curls as the twisting action helps control length and volume. Simultaneously, it keeps curly hair contained without adding bulk under a helmet.
For extra definition and protection, I apply a lightweight moisturizing cream before styling. This step helps prevent flyaways and keeps my curls hydrated throughout cold mountain days. The technique also minimizes breakage while keeping the look neat and manageable on the slopes.
Helmet compatibility
Unlike many updo styles that create uncomfortable pressure points, the twisted High bun sits perfectly outside my helmet. This positioning prevents interference with proper helmet fit while keeping hair secure all day.
Sometimes the style unravels into a doubled-over twist while skiing, yet it still maintains its functionality. Currently, what I appreciate most is how this style doesn’t damage or tangle my hair, making it easy to put up just before hitting the slopes and take down afterward.
Overall, the twisted low bun offers sophistication without sacrificing function – unlike ordinary ponytails that look plain, the twisted element adds visual interest that transitions beautifully from slopes to après-ski gatherings.
Double French Braids
Double French braids have been my trusty companions for every ski season, offering both style and practicality that single braids simply can’t match. Plus, they never fail to garner compliments at the lodge when I remove my helmet after a long day on the mountain.
Double French braids explained
Double French braids (sometimes called boxer braids) create a symmetrical, clean look by dividing hair down the middle and braiding each side separately. To create this classic ski-ready style:
- Part your hair evenly down the middle
- Work with one side at a time, creating a French braid starting at the crown
- Continue braiding down to the ends, incorporating hair with each cross
- Secure with small elastics
- Tuck the ends into your jacket or scarf to prevent wind damage
Effectively, the technique distributes hair evenly on both sides of your head, making this style extraordinarily balanced and comfortable under helmets.
Why they stay put on slopes
What makes double French braids truly exceptional for skiing is their remarkable staying power throughout vigorous activity. The braided structure distributes hair evenly, primarily reducing tangling and friction even during aggressive runs.
These braids create a relatively flat profile against your head, providing almost the same comfort as wearing your hair loose under a helmet. Typically, they hold up beautifully until the end of the day without requiring mid-day adjustments.
Another major advantage? They transition perfectly from slopes to après-ski activities without looking like you’ve just spent hours stuffed under a helmet.
Best for thick curly hair
As someone with abundant curly locks, I’ve found double French braids particularly well-suited for our hair type. The style works wonderfully even with layered curly hair, as the technique securely captures those shorter pieces that often escape other hairstyles.
For those blessed with thick curly hair, this style provides exceptional control, preventing unwanted frizzing in cold air conditions. The braiding technique keeps your natural texture in check – any unwanted curling or frizzing remains virtually unnoticeable within the braids themselves.
Braided Crown Bun
I’ve always adored how the braided crown bun brings a touch of royalty to my ski ensemble! This regal yet practical style has saved me countless times from both bad hair days and helmet discomfort on the mountain.
Braided crown bun style
The braided crown creates an elegant halo effect that’s both beautiful and functional for skiing activities. To achieve this look:
- Part your hair down the middle
- Create either a Dutch or French braid on each side, following your hairline
- Wrap these braids around your head like a crown
- Secure everything with bobby pins
This technique keeps everything secure throughout intense activity—no matter how many times you fall while practicing those new turns!
Curly hair benefits
For those with natural curls, this style offers excellent protection. The crown formation distributes hair evenly across your head, minimizing both friction and tangling issues. As a curly girl myself, I’ve noticed it’s absolutely perfect under my ski helmet, plus it prevents those pesky knots that usually form after a long day on the slopes.
Helmet fit and esthetics
What truly makes the braided crown bun superior is how it distributes pressure evenly beneath helmets. Unlike bulkier styles, this feminine, flattering look works wonderfully both during your ski run and at après-ski gatherings. I often receive compliments when I remove my helmet at the lodge—my braided crown remains perfectly intact, looking as though I spent hours at a salon rather than bombing down black diamond runs!
Bubble Braids
Bubble braids quickly became my go-to fun option on ski trips whenever I wanted something stylish yet practical for managing my curly locks on the mountain.
Bubble braids overview
Surprise – bubble braids aren’t actually braids at all! Despite the name, they’re essentially ponytails with “bubbles” created by placing elastic bands along the length and gently pulling each section outward to create volume. This playful hairstyle adds visual interest to traditional ponytails while maintaining practicality for active days.
To create this look, I simply secure a ponytail (low or mid-level works best), then add elastics every few inches down its length, carefully pulling each section between bands outward to form those distinctive bubbles.
Why they work for curly hair
Primarily, bubble braids are perfect for curly hair due to their low-tension nature. Unlike tight styles that strain delicate curls, this technique works wonderfully on natural textures without causing breakage.
Typically, I find bubble braids helpful for:
- Adding definition to curly hair without excessive pulling
- Creating a textured look that enhances natural volume
- Working beautifully on nearly any curl pattern
Helmet-friendly design
Essentially, bubble braids excel on the slopes because they’re remarkably helmet-compatible. The style keeps long hair from tangling underneath helmets regardless of how many runs I complete.
Fortunately, this modern alternative to regular ponytails offers both style and function – preventing my curls from becoming a tangled mess throughout active ski days.
Cornrows
As someone with textured hair, cornrows completely changed my ski experience after struggling with helmet-hair issues for years. This protective style eliminated the battle between proper helmet fit and hair maintenance.
Cornrows for skiing
Cornrows offer an exceptional solution for curly hair on the slopes. These close-to-the-scalp braids keep everything neat and contained during vigorous runs. I’ve found several variations work perfectly:
- Straight-back cornrows for maximum helmet compatibility
- Stitch braids for a decorative approach
- Low cornrow bun styles at the nape
For thinner textured hair, adding extensions creates fuller cornrows with extra staying power throughout multiple ski days. Primarily, they’re incredibly low-maintenance, letting me focus on enjoying the snow instead of worrying about my hair.
Durability for curly textures
The protective nature of cornrows extends beyond keeping hair out of your face. Naturally, the tight, secure pattern prevents tangling and breakage that often occurs with looser styles. Cornrows can last anywhere from 2-8 weeks with proper care, making them perfect for entire ski vacations with minimal touch-ups.
Helmet pressure distribution
Undeniably, the most compelling advantage is how cornrows create virtually no interference with helmet fit. Unlike voluminous styles that push helmets up awkwardly, cornrows allow helmets to sit properly. Subsequently, their compact nature eliminates pressure points that cause headaches. I distribute my braids evenly rather than gathering them, spreading them out to prevent bulky spots under my helmet.
Half-Up Twists
Half-up twists have saved my sanity on those quick-start ski mornings when I need a style that works with my curls yet looks effortlessly put-together.
Half-up twist style
This five-minute wonder requires minimal effort yet delivers maximum results. For the basic style, I simply section the top portion of my hair, divide it into two parts, twist them away from my face, then secure with a cute clip or pin. Alternatively, I sometimes create a more polished version by taking small sections from each side, crossing the front piece over the back piece, continuing this pattern around my head before securing.
Curly hair styling ease
Certainly, this style’s brilliance lies in its adaptability to curly textures. On frizzy days, it immediately transforms my unruly curls into an intentional style. What makes it perfect for skiing? Unlike complex braiding techniques, these twists require zero expertise yet effectively keep curls from tangling during activity.
Best for après-ski
The half-up twist truly shines after you’ve removed your helmet. Often, I’ll tuck my twists inside my helmet during intense runs, then quickly refresh them at the lodge. This versatility makes it ideal for transitioning from slopes to socializing without missing a beat. Plus, adding a stylish clip or accessory instantly elevates the look for evening activities.
Side Braid with Buff
The winter wind and harsh mountain conditions often wreaked havoc on my curly hair until I discovered the side braid with buff combination. This game-changing pairing offers both protection and style for those of us blessed with spirals and coils.
Side braid with buff technique
Creating this style takes minimal effort yet delivers maximum results. First, I sweep all my hair to one side, then begin a standard braid. I prefer keeping things slightly loose for that lived-in look that works best on the slopes. For additional fullness, sometimes I gently pull at the braid sections after completion. The beauty of side braids lies in their versatility – they tuck neatly under neck gaiters or scarves, protecting my hair from harsh winds and friction.
Frizz control for curls
As every curly-haired skier knows, changing weather conditions dramatically impact our locks. Once, halfway to a mountain event, the weather shifted and my frizz immediately began showing. The side braid with buff combination saved me! This pairing specifically addresses curly hair challenges by:
- Limiting exposure to drying mountain air
- Preventing friction from helmet and jacket collars
- Maintaining moisture in curls throughout the day
Helmet and buff combo
What makes this style truly exceptional is how the side positioning distributes hair weight evenly, eliminating uncomfortable helmet pressure points. Notably, many skiers appreciate how this style transitions flawlessly from slopes to lodge. Upon removing my helmet, I simply loosen the braid slightly for an effortlessly chic après-ski look. Currently, positioning the braid to one side remains critical as it creates space for proper helmet fit plus prevents those dreaded helmet headaches that can ruin an otherwise perfect ski day.
Sleek Low Bun
The sleek low bun offers elegant simplicity for my ski days. This classic style has saved me countless times on the slopes, providing both function and fashion with minimal effort.
Sleek low bun explained
Creating this sleek style requires just a few simple steps: First, I apply a lightweight styling cream to smooth any flyaways before hitting the slopes. Next, I gather my hair into a low ponytail positioned right at the nape of my neck, securing it with a damage-free elastic. Typically, I twist the ponytail into a loose bun and secure it with bobby pins or a scrunchie. For extra hold:
- Use a touch more styling cream to tame stubborn baby hairs
- Secure with crossed bobby pins for maximum stability
- Consider a donut hair accessory for a more structured look
Curly hair taming benefits
This style works brilliantly for curly hair types, primarily because it keeps everything neatly contained while preventing the tangling that looser styles might experience. Naturally, the slight tension helps manage frizz without causing breakage or damage to delicate curls. Additionally, this low-profile style allows me to transition between indoor and outdoor activities without worrying about my curls reacting to changing temperatures.
Helmet fit and style
The genius of this style lies in its strategic positioning. As the bun sits at the nape of my neck and below my helmet’s edge, it never interferes with proper helmet fit or safety. This placement prevents uncomfortable “bumps” that higher styles often create. Once I remove my helmet at the lodge, the style requires minimal touch-ups before après-ski activities – in fact, it often looks even better after wearing a helmet, gaining a casual softness that perfectly complements my post-skiing look.
Pineapple Bun
The pineapple bun saved my second-day ski adventures! Unlike traditional ski hairstyles, this method offers a quick solution for those mornings when washing isn’t practical yet your curls need protection on the slopes.
Pineapple bun overview
The pineapple method isn’t actually a “bun” in the traditional sense—it’s a loose, high ponytail that creates a pineapple-like shape on top of your head. Usually, I gather my curls loosely at my crown and secure with a satin scrunchie. For thicker curls like mine, multiple pineapples work better—I create one in front and two in back, allowing my hair to last 4-5 days without restyling. The beauty of this technique lies in its simplicity—minimal effort yet remarkable results!
Why it works for day 2 curls
This style excels as a protective technique that prevents curls from smashing against my scalp overnight or under helmets. Primarily, it maintains curl definition without creating new creases or stretching delicate curls. Sometimes I’ll pineapple before bed, then simply shake out my curls in the morning, reactivating products with a light water mist. This method preserves curls while saving precious time on busy ski mornings.
Helmet adjustments
For skiing, I modify the traditional pineapple by positioning multiple smaller pineapples rather than one large one. Occasionally, using mini scrunchies creates less tension and prevents uncomfortable dents under my helmet. The trick is keeping everything loose enough to prevent creases yet secure enough to maintain protection throughout active runs. For shorter curls that can’t reach into a full pineapple, a headband positioned few inches past the hairline creates a similar protective effect.
Locs with Headband
Managing my locs on the ski slopes required completely different strategies compared to other curly hairstyles. After several uncomfortable helmet experiences, I discovered headbands as the perfect companion for locs while skiing.
Locs styling for skiing
Protective styles like locs present unique challenges under helmets primarily because they add significant thickness to your head circumference. On mountain adventures, I’ve learned that keeping locs distributed evenly prevents uncomfortable pressure points. Whenever I’m hitting challenging runs, I secure my locs with lightweight accessories that won’t create bulk under my helmet.
Low-maintenance for curls
My locs provide outstanding winter protection for my natural curly texture. Naturally, they shield hair from damaging environmental disruptors like cold winds and moisture-lacking winter air. This protective style allows me to focus on perfecting my turns without worrying about post-slope styling. Whenever I mist my locs with rosewater or apply light natural oils like coconut or castor oil, they maintain optimal hydration throughout ski trips.
Headband and helmet tips
Headbands have revolutionized my skiing comfort with locs. Accordingly, I choose fleece or merino wool options that provide warmth without adding excessive bulk. For optimal fit, I sometimes use a slightly larger helmet size to accommodate my locs. Columbia’s Fireside Plush Headband offers perfect warmth for moderate winter weather, whereas Smartwool’s Merino Reversible Headband works brilliantly under hoods during extra cold conditions.
Four Sided Braids
Looking after my nieces on ski trips taught me that triple braids offer the perfect solution for young skiers with curly hair. This playful yet practical style keeps wiggly kids comfortable all day without constant adjustments.
Four Sided braids style
Four Sided braids divide hair into three sections instead of the typical two. Primarily, I create one braid down the center and two on each side of the head. For younger children, these braids should start at the base of the neck, as non-French braids typically work better with helmets. Oftentimes, I keep the braids loose enough to prevent headaches yet secure enough to last through countless runs.
Curly hair control for young skiers
Undoubtedly, this style excels at keeping curly hair contained. The four sided-braid approach prevents pesky hair from irritating the back of the neck and minimizes tangling that leads to post-ski tears. Previously, I’ve found that for children with thinner hair who can’t manage full braids, two low ponytails work equally well.
Helmet-friendly for kids
Four sided braids distribute pressure evenly across children’s heads, making helmets significantly more comfortable. Ultimately, this technique helps prevent the discomfort that might discourage kids from wearing helmets properly. For maximum comfort with balaclavas, try cutting a small hole in the back to pull the braid through – slightly unconventional yet remarkably effective for all-day comfort.
Conclusion
Finding the perfect hairstyle for curly hair while skiing doesn’t need to feel like an impossible challenge anymore. Throughout my years on the slopes, I’ve discovered that braided styles like French braids, Dutch braids, and box braids offer exceptional protection and comfort under helmets. These styles effectively distribute pressure evenly while preventing those painful tangles we curly-haired skiers dread.
Low-profile options such as twisted low buns and sleek low buns work wonderfully for transitioning from intense runs to après-ski gatherings without missing a beat. Undoubtedly, protective styles like cornrows and locs paired with headbands provide both functionality and style while shielding our precious curls from harsh mountain conditions.
My personal favorite remains the double French braids – they stay put through countless runs and still look fabulous when I remove my helmet at the lodge. Your perfect ski hairstyle ultimately depends on your curl pattern, hair length, and personal preference. Experiment with different options until you find what works best for your unique curls!
Remember, the ideal ski hairstyle should feel comfortable under your helmet, prevent tangling, and protect your curls from dry mountain air. Most importantly, it should allow you to focus on enjoying those perfect powder days rather than worrying about your hair. After trying these styles, you’ll never have to choose between great hair and great skiing again!