10 Best Running Headbands That Are Simply Versatile – 2024

Keep your hair away with a practical running tool while you sweat it out each day.

Reviewed by Hannah Shine, AFA Certified Personal Trainer Hannah Shine Hannah ShineAFA Certified Personal Trainer
Written by Aditi Naskar, MA (English Literature), Diploma In Health & Wellness Aditi Naskar MA (English Literature), Diploma In Health & Wellness linkedin_icon Experience: 5 years
Edited by Medha Deb, Integrated MA Medha Deb Integrated MA linkedin_icon Experience: 5 years
Fact-checked by Rajeshwari Das, MA (Journalism & Mass Communication) Rajeshwari Das MA (Journalism & Mass Communication) linkedin_icon Experience: 3 years
Last Updated on

Those who participate actively in sports will tell you how difficult it is to maintain a good care routine with the hectic schedule and intense practice. Being out in the sun all day does not work well with hair, and to top it all, if you have a haircut that allows hair to fall on your face, it will only slow you down. To make sure nothing comes between your fitness training, wearing the best running headbands can help you stay carefree about your hair no matter what sport you choose to participate in. Here are 10 bands specially crafted for the athlete souls. These performance headbands will not just keep your hair in place, but they will also absorb the sweat and prevent it from trickling down your face. They are designed to give coverage to your ears from the winter air and look super stylish.

Top Picks
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Best Thin:Tough Outfitters Headband
Price on Amazon
Best For Winters:Joeyoung Fleece Headband
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Best Wide:Riptgear Non-Slip Headband
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Best Comfortable:Savita Thermal Headbands
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Best Eco-friendly:Dasuta Sports Fitness Headbands
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Best Breathable:Qishang Workout Headbands
Price on Amazon
Best Stretchable:Trailheads Women’s Power Ponytail Headband
Price on Amazon
Best Ponytail:Tatuo Fleece Ponytail Headband
Price on Amazon
Best Antimicrobial:Halo Headband
Price on Amazon
Best Helmet-Friendly:The Friendly Swede Ear Warmer Sports Headband
Price on Amazon

The 10 Best Running Headbands – 2024

1. Best Thin:Tough Outfitters Headband

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Tough Outfitters Headband Image: Tough Outfitters

The thin and non-slip Tough Outfitters Headband is made of high-quality polyester and spandex, which is highly stretchable for maximizing comfort. It has a silicone lining, ensuring excellent grip and not letting off even during intense exercises. In addition, its ability to wick moisture isn’t compromised despite its ½ inch wide, and no sweat droplets will pass through this headband. Multiple reviewers have agreed that the elastic of the band remains intact after use and the material absorbs sweat to prevent the droplets from rolling down into the eyes. This pack of 6 running headbands comes in black, gray, and white colors.

Material: Polyester | Color: Black | Item Package Dimensions L x W x H: ‎9.49 x 9.06 x 0.51 inches

Specifications

  • Material: 95% polyester and 5% spandex
  • Width: ½ inch wide
  • Color: Black, Gray, and White

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Pros
  • Anti-slip
  • Snug-fit
  • Comfortable
  • Stretchable
  • Breathable
  • Lightweight

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Cons
  • Might be too tight
protip_icon Pro Tip
Place a bobby pin behind each ear, such that their tip is pointed toward your face when you slide them through your hair. This will prevent the headband from riding up while running.
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Why We Think It's Worth Buying

It has received over 5,548 rave reviews on Amazon, proving it is a mass favorite.

2. Best For Winters:Joeyoung Fleece Headband

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The combination of fleece and polyester makes this Joeyoung Fleece Headband ideal for running while keeping your ear warm. It has a circular shape that ensures it stays right on your head without sliding off and is wide enough to cover your ears fully.  This headband for trail running is super elastic and will suit different head circumferences. It has a single-layer polar fleece with a moderate thickness, which won’t make your head feel heavy. To find out more about this product, check this video detailing a tester’s experience with it.

Band Color: 10 colors

Specifications

  • Material: Fleece and Polyester
  • Width: 63 inches
  • Color: Black

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Pros
  • Lightweight
  • Soft
  • Comfortable
  • Warm
  • Windproof
  • Breathable
  • Elastic material

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Cons
  • Expensive
protip_icon Pro Tip
Your headbands should be washed every day, especially after each workout. Stuff them into your clothing pockets before throwing them in the washing machine to ensure they remain in place while being cleaned.

3. Best Wide:Riptgear Non-Slip Headband

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Riptgear Non-Slip Headband is made of stretchable and non-slip fabric that ensures a snug fit while ensuring comfort. Its unique design is ideal for running and other sports activities like yoga, soccer, and volleyball.  Its material is ultra-soft, and there are several designs you can choose from to match your outfit. This headband for marathon running is super lightweight and has a moisture-wicking feature that keeps your face and forehead free from sweat. In addition, its 4 inches extra width offers more surface area for absorption. If you are an absolute beginner, this in-depth review of the product might be useful.

Band Color: Black | Product Dimensions: 10 x 4 x 0.5 inches | Weight: 0.32 Ounces

Specifications

  • Material: Polyester and Spandex
  • Width: 4 inches
  • Color: Tribal blue

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Pros
  • Stretchable
  • Ultra-soft
  • Breathable
  • Multiple color option
  • Washable
  • Non-slip
  • Extra-wide

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Cons

None

4. Best Comfortable:Savita Thermal Headbands

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Savita Thermal Headband is made of top-notch thermal polar fleece that’s lightweight, soft, and comfortable. It is uniquely designed with a wider forehead and ear area while keeping your ears and forehead warm all the time. This elastic band can stretch up to 28 cm to offer great coverage. It is neither too tight nor too loose to prevent it from slipping and shifting while running. It has a stylish design that leaves space for a ponytail and keeps your hairstyle intact. It is also durable and can easily be washed by hand. The reviews mention that the product stays in place, prevents hair from falling down, and fits around the head perfectly without feeling too tight or loose.

Band Color: Blue | Material: ‎Fleece | Color: ‎Gray and Dark Blue | Item Weight: ‎0.04 Pounds

Specifications

  • Material: Thermal polar fleece
  • Width: 28cm
  • Color: Gray and Dark blue

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Pros
  • Pack of 2
  • Lightweight
  • Portable
  • Universal size
  • Breathable
  • Stretchable
  • Excellent coverage

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Cons
  • It doesn’t protect from wind

5. Best Eco-friendly:Dasuta Sports Fitness Headbands

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Dasuta Sports Fitness Headbands are made from eco-friendly chinlon and lycra spandex fabric that’s super soft, stretch, and breathable, absorbing moisture and sweat during workouts. This headband for high-intensity workouts has a stylish design that prevents your hair from falling on your face and suits your hairstyle, mood, and activity. In addition, their elastic band closure design lets you adjust and feel comfortable.

Band Color: Black | Package Dimensions ‏ : ‎ 7.09 x 7.09 x 1.57 inches; 10.58 Ounces

Specifications

  • Material: 87% Chinlon and 13% Lycra spandex
  • Width: 8 cm
  • Color: Multicolored

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Pros
  • Durable
  • Eco-friendly
  • Fully reversible
  • Multiple color choices
  • Breathable
  • Stretchable
  • Pack of 10

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Cons
  • Might not wick moisture effectively

6. Best Breathable:Qishang Workout Headbands

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Qishang Workout Headbands come in a set of 6 and feature a blend of nylon and spandex. Their fabric is soft, breathable, and doesn’t cause skin irritation or itching. This headband for keeping hair in place has two non-slip silicon stripes which prevent them from falling or blocking your eyes. Unlike other running headbands, these have an elastic fabric that ensures a comfortable fit around your head without leaving marks on the forehead. They come in vibrant colors like black, gray, sky blue, rose red, orange, and purple that match most athletic outfits. Furthermore, these are also easy to wash.

Band Color: 6Pack: Black-gray-blue-orange-rose red-purpl | Material: ‎Nylon | Color: ‎6Pack: Black-gray-blue-orange-rose red-purpl | Item Weight: ‎14 Grams | Band Color: ‎6Pack: Black-gray-blue-orange-rose red-purpl

Specifications

  • Material: 95% Polyester and 5% Spandex
  • Width: 1.89 inches
  • Color: Black, Gray, Sky blue, Rose red, Orange, and Purple

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Pros
  • Breathable
  • Non-slip
  • Adjustable fit
  • Easy-to-clean
  • Pack of 6
  • Versatile
  • Highly elastic
  • Comfortable

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Cons
  • Might feel too tight

7. Best Stretchable:Trailheads Women’s Power Ponytail Headband

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Are you looking for the best stretchable running headband that feels comfortable during a workout? Trailheads Women’s Power Ponytail Headband is a great choice, with its polyester and spandex blend that keeps you warm in chilly winters and cool in the summers and spring season. It is 4-way stretchable, which gives a snug fit while covering your ears as well. According to reviews, its fabric is breathable and water-resistant. Its inner side has brushed fleece material which is soft and cozy. This winter running headband for long hair contours head shape and fits comfortably under a helmet. The slit opening at the back creates space for your long ponytail, giving a comfy, sleek look.

Material: ‎Polyester | Color: ‎Curved – Black + Black | Item Weight: ‎0.04 Kilograms

Specifications

  • Material: Polyester, Spandex, and Brushed fleece
  • Width: 0.5 inches
  • Color: Black

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Pros
  • Ponytail-compatible
  • Breathable
  • Water-resistant
  • Full ear coverage
  • Easy to clean
  • Helmet-friendly

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Cons
  • Expensive

8. Best Ponytail:Tatuo Fleece Ponytail Headband

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Tatuo Fleece Ponytail Headband is practically design for winter and running as it is lined with fleece. It features a headband hole that quickly fixes your ponytail. It is made of a high-quality fabric that is soft, lightweight, and comfortable. It doesn’t fade easily, yet it’s easy to wash. This headband for ponytails also contours a face shape offering optimal ear protection against wind and cold. Its material is stretchable and fits most heads of all sizes. This set of 3 headbands is suitable jogging, bicycling, climbing, fishing, etc. The hands-on experience of the reviewers with the headband suggests that it is soft and warm to prevent the cold air from entering the ears during winter days.

Number of Items: 3 | Material: Fleece | Color: Grey, Navy, Rose Red

Specifications

  • Material: Polyester and Spandex
  • Width: 4.5 Inches
  • Colors: Grey, Navy, Rose Red

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Pros
  • Pack of 3
  • Stretchable material
  • Ear coverage
  • Contour fit
  • Helmet-friendly
  • Ponytail compatible
  • Comfortable

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Cons

None

9. Best Antimicrobial:Halo Headband

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The smartly-designed Halo Headband has a classic pull-over design that fits most head sizes. This brand uses patented SweatBlock technology to form a water-tight seal that keeps you uninterrupted during the training session to achieve your workout goals. The dryline fabric of this headband helps absorb sweat and dries quickly. It also has a silver ion embodiment that hinders bacteria from proliferating. This headband for bangs has a firm grip of silicone which keeps the band in place and does not allow it to fall. Its 2 inches width tapers in the back for comfortable wear around ears. Lastly, it does not lose shape and fits under helmets easily.

Band Color: Navy | Product Dimensions: 10 x 2 x 0.25 inches | Weight: 0.3 Ounces.

Specifications

  • Material: Dryline fabric
  • Width: 2 inches
  • Color: Navy blue

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Pros
  • Moisture-wicking
  • Quick-drying
  • Breathable
  • Antimicrobial
  • Helmet-friendly

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Cons
  • It doesn’t hold back sweat enough

10. Best Helmet-Friendly:The Friendly Swede Ear Warmer Sports Headband

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The Friendly Swede Ear Warmer Sports Headband features a thin material that is very soft and comfortable and beneficial for runners or cyclists who wear a helmet. The inner side of this headband has a soft fleece that protects your head and ear from cold. This headband for outdoor running has a width around the ear of 4.9 inches which is wide enough to cover your ears fully. It is highly stretchable and fits almost all head sizes. Further, it is ultralight, wrinkle-free, and durable.

Material: Canvas | Color: Ancient Totem | Item Weight: 8 Ounces | Item Package Dimensions L x W x H: ‎6.93 x 5.79 x 0.94 inches

Specifications

  • Material: 90% Polyester and 10% Spandex
  • Width: 7.5cm
  • Color: Black

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Pros
  • Stretchable
  • Lightweight
  • Strong grip
  • Helmet-friendly
  • Breathable

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Cons
  • Seems too wide

Do you read the instruction manual to find maintenance recommendations before buying a product? Well, you should if you want them to last long! Similarly, reading our buying guide is crucial if you want to make a smart choice. So, keep scrolling and go through our insider tips below.

Things to Consider When Buying Running Headbands

  • Comfort

Even though you want to buy an affordable running headband, please never ignore the comfort aspect.  Every time you wear it around your head, you should feel comfortable. By the end of your race, you shouldn’t feel like someone rubbed your forehead with sandpaper. You can consider Halo Running Headband with a patented technology that won’t be too loose or tight.

  • Grip

If you are looking for the best running headband, you should know that when the exercise becomes too intense, the headband may fall if it doesn’t grip well.

Hannah Shine, certified personal trainer, Australian Fitness Academy, says, “Without good grip, a headband is more likely to slip or slide, which can be distracting and can also cause the headband to slide over the eyes, potentially blocking the wearer’s vision. Additionally, having a headband that does not stay in place can also be uncomfortable for the wearer.”

For buyers who want to consider thinner headbands, ensure it’s lined with a silicone grip, while wider headbands offer better grip because of the surface area.

  • Style

Are you feeling confident with the style of your running headband? Will it become the center of attraction? Always choose a running headband that defines your personality and makes you look fashionable.

  • Durability

Many athletes never stop running because it keeps them healthy, and you need good gear to keep going. You don’t have to waste money on purchasing running headbands when there are options out there that can last long enough. Avoid running headbands that fray, rip, or stretch out.

  • Moisture Absorbency

Do you sweat too much whenever you are jogging? Well, a good running headband would be in handy, but it will be able to absorb moisture and sweat and keep your face and forehead cool during a workout. Check for the best headbands for running made with a moisture-wicking material.

  • Maintenance And Care

Running headbands absorb sweat and moisture from your face. By the end, it won’t be easy to clean. However, you can opt for brand like Tough Outfitters Headband that can be washed by hand or tossed in a washing machine. Ensure the material is easy to clean and dries faster.

Remember to keep factors like cost, color, and width of running headbands in mind for a personalized approach to buying this product. If you are looking for extra features like a reflective running headband, try other options like Adidas Running Headband. We hope our article helps you make an informed purchase by making your decision-making process easier. Choose a running headband today that is comfortable, soft, and skin-friendly. Remember to read the customer reviews and gain practical insights into each product before buying one.

Why Trust StyleCraze?

The author, Aditi Naskar, has a diploma in health and wellness and loves to write reviews on fitness products. She has carefully listed these running headbands based on user reviews and feedback on multiple forums and brand websites. The running headbands listed in this post keep your hair in place, absorb the sweat, and prevent it from trickling down your face.

Frequently Asked Questions

Should you wear a headband for running?

A headband for running is very important as it controls moisture and sweat and keeps your hair away from your face. Therefore, athletes need to wear the best running headband to help them focus on the road.

What material is best for running headbands?

Polyester, spandex, chinlon, and fleece are some of the most popular running headband materials.

How do you keep your headband from slipping off?

You can use headbands with high elasticity and for more grip, use bobby pins to make it stay in place.

Do headbands push your hairline back?

Tight headbands can lead to traction alopecia, where your hairline might recede if you continuously wear a tight headband regularly.

Do headbands make you look younger?

Yes, headbands will offer a better shape to your face and make you look younger.


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Hannah Shine
Hannah ShineAFA Certified Personal Trainer
Hannah Shine is a highly qualified and experienced personal trainer with 6 years of experience. She has a Diploma in Nutrition and a certification as a personal trainer from the Australian Fitness Academy. She is currently the health manager of Hourglass Waist, a company that provides health and fitness services to individuals of all ages, races, and sizes.

Read full bio of Hannah Shine
  • Hannah ShineCPT Hannah Shine is a highly qualified and experienced personal trainer with 6 years of experience. She has a Diploma in Nutrition and a certification as a personal trainer from the Australian Fitness Academy. She is currently the health manager of Hourglass Waist, a company that provides health and fitness services to individuals of all ages, races, and sizes.
    Hannah Shine is a highly qualified and experienced personal trainer with 6 years of experience. She has a Diploma in Nutrition and a certification as a personal trainer from the Australian Fitness Academy. She is currently the health manager of Hourglass Waist, a company that provides health and fitness services to individuals of all ages, races, and sizes.
Aditi Naskar
Aditi NaskarAssociate Commerce Editor
Aditi Naskar has a postgraduate degree in English literature from Presidency University, Kolkata, a bachelor’s degree in education from WBUTTEPA, Kolkata, and a diploma in health and wellness. She is an associate commerce editor with 5 years of experience and specializes in reviewing fitness and health products.

Read full bio of Aditi Naskar
Medha Deb
Medha DebCommerce Editor
Medha Deb is a commerce editor with a master's degree in applied linguistics from the University of Hyderabad, which has allowed her to develop a deep understanding of language and its application in various contexts. She specializes in the areas of beauty, health, and wellness and is committed to ensuring that the content on the website is of the highest quality.

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Rajeshwari Das
Rajeshwari DasAssociate Commerce Editor
Rajeshwari is a dedicated fitness and lifestyle enthusiast, deeply committed to enhancing our readers’ well-being and vitality. She has a master’s degree in Journalism & Mass Communication from the University of Calcutta.

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