Bangs, fringes, and short hair are super trendy right now, but they can be a total nightmare when you’re working out. Hair flying into your face while you're trying to focus? So annoying! 

Headbands are great at preventing this but not all of them are designed for workouts. The best workout headbands are made with sweat-resistant materials, have grips to prevent slipping, and come with additional features to make life easier. Here’s a quick roundup of the best ones out there!

Why Bother with Athletic Headbands?

If you’ve ever had sweat dripping into your eyes or hair sticking to your forehead mid-workout, you know how annoying it is. 

Athletic headbands keep your hair back. They also absorb sweat, so it doesn’t get in your eyes or mess with your skin. Plus, they’re designed to stay in place, no matter how intense your workout gets. No more stopping every five minutes to readjust. And plus, they add a little style to your workout fit. 

What to Look for in Athletic Headbands

Here’s a quick breakdown of what to look for when buying athletic headbands:

Sweat-Resistant Material

You’re going to get sweaty and there’s no way around it. The best athletic headbands are made from moisture-wicking materials like polyester, spandex, or blends designed to pull sweat away from your skin. This helps keep you dry and prevents sweat from dripping down your face. An additional bonus is that they also dry quickly, so you’re not left with a gross, damp headband after your workout.

Non-Slip Grip

Look for headbands with grips like silicone strips or a textured interior that helps them stay put. This is super helpful if you’re doing high-impact workouts or anything that involves a lot of movement. No more constant readjusting!

Comfortable Fit

Comfort is everything. A tight headband will give you a headache, and one that’s too loose will be useless. Look for headbands that are stretchy and have a snug but comfy fit. Some brands even offer headbands in different sizes. This is super helpful if you’ve got a smaller or larger head than average.

Consider Width 

Think about what kind of coverage you need. Wide headbands are great if you want to keep more hair back or absorb more sweat. Narrow headbands work if you just need something to hold back your bangs or fringe. 

Make Sure it’s Breathable

No one likes feeling like they’ve got a sweat sponge on their head. A breathable headband will keep you cool and comfortable during your workout. Look for ones with mesh panels or lightweight fabrics that allow airflow.

Our Top Picks

Alright, now that you know what to look for in an athletic headband, here are some of the best ones out there:

Nike Swoosh Headband

Nike’s Swoosh Headband is a classic for a reason. It’s made with moisture-wicking cotton-blend material that absorbs sweat immediately. It’s simple, soft, and has just the right amount of stretch to stay snug without squeezing your head. The embroidered Swoosh logo adds a bit of style, and it’s durable enough to survive countless washes. 

Best for: Running, cycling, and cardio workouts.

Under Armour Performance Headband

This one is perfect if you want a headband that seriously stays put. The silicone grip on the inside keeps it from slipping, even during your sweatiest workouts. The material is lightweight, moisture-wicking, and dries super fast. It’s also stretchy enough to be comfortable, but it won’t budge once it’s on. Plus, it comes in a bunch of colors.

Best for: Running, cycling, weight lifting, and cardio workouts.

Lululemon Fly Away Tamer Headband

If you’re dealing with shorter hair, bangs, or flyaways, the Fly Away Tamer is a great choice. It’s made from Lululemon’s signature Luon fabric, which is sweat-wicking and super soft. The wide design keeps more hair back, and the velvet interior lining helps it stay in place. It’s comfortable enough for long workouts and stylish enough for casual wear. 

Best for: Yoga, Pilates, and low-impact workouts.

Buff Original Multifunctional Headband

This one can be worn as a headband, neck gaiter, face mask, or even a beanie. The fabric is super breathable, sweat-wicking, and made with UPF 50+ protection for outdoor workouts. It’s seamless and stretchy, which makes it comfy for hours. Perfect for trail runners, cyclists, or anyone who likes to switch things up. It also comes in tons of patterns and colors.

Best for: Trail runners and cyclists.

Burlybands Headband

Burlybands are designed specifically for women with thicker hair types. They have an ultra-strong grip and are made to stay put, no matter how intense your workout gets. They’re designed with sweat-resistant material and can handle everything from running to high-intensity training. They’re gentle on your hair and won’t pull or cause breakage. 

Best for: Running, HIIT workouts, and weightlifting.

Halo II Headband

If sweat is your main issue, the Halo II Headband has you covered—literally. It features a patented SweatSeal that channels sweat away from your eyes and face. The dryline fabric is moisture-wicking and antimicrobial. The fit is snug and stays in place. 

Best for: Running, cycling, and triathlons.

Junk Brands Headband

Junk Brands makes headbands that are not only functional but also super fun. The material is sweat-wicking, breathable, and stretchy enough to stay put without squeezing too tight. These are great for high-impact workouts. Plus, they’re durable and hold up well in the wash.

Best for: CrossFit, team sports, and casual wear.

Adidas Alphaskin Headband

Adidas nailed it with their Alphaskin Headband. It’s made from Climalite fabric, which is excellent at wicking sweat away and keeping you cool. The design is sleek and minimalist, and the stretchy fit keeps it snug without slipping. It’s great for high-energy workouts like running, CrossFit, or even playing sports. Plus, it’s lightweight and breathable, so you won’t even notice it’s there.

Best for: Intense training sessions and outdoor sports.

Summary

A good athletic headband keeps your hair in place, manages sweat, and helps you stay on track during workouts. Whether you want a no-slip grip for thick hair, a sweat-absorbing band for long runs, or something stylish for everyday use, there’s an option for you on this list.