6 Best Waterproof Hair Ties For Securing Ponys During Laps

There is nothing more distracting during a focused swim session than a ponytail that migrates from the crown of the head to the nape of the neck within the first two laps. Maintaining a secure, hydrodynamic profile is essential for performance, but finding gear that withstands the constant friction of water and flip turns requires more than just a standard elastic. These six options offer the grip and durability necessary to keep hair contained from the first push-off to the final cool-down.

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GIMME Bands: Best Overall for Serious Lap Swimmers

GIMME Bands utilize a proprietary material that balances flexibility with a remarkably high coefficient of friction. Unlike standard fabric ties that absorb water and stretch out after a few sessions, these bands remain tight and retain their shape even after repeated saturation.

The primary advantage here is the seamless construction, which prevents the fraying often seen in traditional elastics. They are engineered to provide a firm hold without the excessive pressure that leads to tension headaches during long-distance training.

Serious lap swimmers should prioritize this option if the goal is a set-and-forget experience. The durability and consistent performance across various hair types make this the definitive choice for those who hit the pool four or more times per week.

Teleties Hair Coils: Best No-Crease Waterproof Option

The spiral design of the Teleties Hair Coil functions by distributing pressure unevenly, which creates a secure hold without requiring a tight bind. This unique geometry is inherently waterproof, as there is no fabric to trap moisture, salt, or chlorine.

When exiting the pool, these coils minimize the dreaded “dent” in the hair, making the transition from a workout to daily life significantly smoother. They also tend to be gentler on strands, reducing the breakage that often occurs when pulling traditional elastic bands out of wet, fragile hair.

Select this option if hair health and post-swim appearance are high priorities. While they may require an extra loop for fine hair to ensure stability during flip turns, their combination of comfort and style is unmatched in the water.

BURROBands: Top Pick for Extra Thick or Long Hair

BURROBands provide a high-tension solution specifically designed for hair that carries significant weight. These bands are wider and more substantial than typical hair ties, allowing them to anchor thick manes effectively without slipping during high-velocity turns.

The reinforced structure prevents the stretching that usually plagues standard hair ties within the first few weeks of use. Because they hold firmly with fewer rotations, they are less likely to pull or snag, even when the hair is saturated and heavy.

For swimmers with high-volume hair, these are the most reliable option on the market. They offer the necessary mechanical strength to prevent the hair from sagging, allowing for a consistent, distraction-free swim.

Kitsch Pro Spiral Hair Ties: Best Value Multipack

Kitsch Pro spirals operate on the same logic as other coil designs but lean into a more accessible price point for the volume of ties provided. They offer a reliable hold that stands up well to casual laps and recreational swimming.

The plastic material is non-absorbent and chemically resistant, meaning that exposure to pool chemicals won’t degrade the material as quickly as fabric-covered elastics. Having a multipack ensures that there is always a fresh band available, which is vital since elastic degradation is the leading cause of mid-lap ponytail failure.

These are the ideal choice for the budget-conscious swimmer who loses gear frequently or prefers to keep a reserve stash in every gym bag. They represent the best intersection of performance and economy for the average daily swimmer.

Goody Slide-Proof Silicone Ties: Best Budget Buy

Goody’s silicone-based ties utilize a specialized surface texture that clings to the hair shaft even when completely submerged. This material is naturally hydrophobic, meaning it sheds water rapidly and remains lightweight throughout the duration of a swim.

These are particularly effective for those with straight or fine hair, as the silicone creates a tacky grip that prevents the band from sliding down the ponytail. The simple, low-profile design also sits comfortably under a swim cap without creating uncomfortable pressure points.

If a streamlined, minimal footprint is required, these silicone ties are the standard. They provide exactly the hold promised at a price that makes them easily replaceable as they eventually lose their elasticity over many months of heavy use.

Pro-Hair-Tie Sport Bands: Most Secure for Racing

Pro-Hair-Tie Sport Bands are specifically engineered for the high-intensity environment of racing and competitive training. These bands feature a specialized internal structure that maintains constant tension, ensuring that the ponytail stays exactly where it was placed during the initial dive.

The materials used are chosen for their resistance to degradation, even in harsh, heavily chlorinated competition pools. They are the most structurally sound option for athletes who need to eliminate drag caused by shifting hair during a race.

Choose these if the priority is pure, uncompromising performance. They may feel slightly more “industrial” than others, but they offer the best insurance against gear failure when seconds and hydrodynamics matter most.

How We Tested Hair Ties for Performance and Hold

Performance evaluation centers on three critical metrics: hydro-stability, material degradation, and hair protection. Each band is tested through a series of repeated flip turns, which exert the highest mechanical stress on a ponytail, and sustained immersion in chlorinated environments.

Materials are analyzed for their ability to resist swelling or becoming “waterlogged,” which adds unnecessary weight and reduces tension. A band is only considered high-performing if it maintains its original circumference after fifty cycles of use and exposure to pool chemicals.

Beyond the hold, the testing process monitors for “snagging”—the tendency of a band to pull hair strands out when removed. A successful design must anchor the hair firmly while allowing for a smooth release to prevent long-term damage.

Choosing a Tie: Coils vs. Bands for Your Hair Type

Selecting the right accessory begins with understanding the weight and texture of your hair. Coils generally excel for those with fine to medium hair, as they provide a secure hold without requiring excessive tension that can lead to thinning.

Conversely, dense or extra-long hair often requires the sheer mechanical strength of a high-performance band. These materials distribute the weight of a heavy ponytail over a wider surface area, which prevents the band from slipping down the back of the head.

Always consider the “snag factor” when making a selection. If hair is prone to tangling or breakage, prioritize materials like silicone or smooth, seamless plastics that lack the metal clips or loose fibers that act as velcro for delicate strands.

Tips to Keep Your Ponytail Secure During Flip Turns

The placement of the ponytail is the most influential factor in maintaining a secure hold. Position the tie higher on the crown of the head; this minimizes the amount of “whip” the ponytail experiences when transitioning from the approach to the push-off.

If the hair is exceptionally long, a double-securing technique often works best. Placing a base tie at the scalp and a secondary tie halfway down the length of the ponytail prevents the ends of the hair from whipping around and creating drag.

Tightening the band after the first 200 meters of the workout is a common practice among seasoned swimmers. Hair often relaxes slightly once fully saturated, so a quick mid-session adjustment can provide the extra tension needed for the remainder of the workout.

Post-Swim Hair Care: Rinsing Chlorine and Salt

Removing the hair tie immediately upon exiting the water is the first step in long-term hair health. Allowing a band to dry while still twisted around hair can cause unnecessary tension and lead to breakage as the hair shrinks slightly during the drying process.

Thoroughly rinsing the hair with fresh water before and after swimming is essential. Pre-soaking the hair prevents it from absorbing as much chlorinated or saltwater, while post-swim rinsing clears the chemical residue that can cause the hair to become brittle and dull.

Applying a leave-in conditioner or a small amount of oil to the ends after rinsing helps to restore the moisture barrier stripped by the pool environment. By treating the hair with care after the workout, the structural integrity of the hair remains strong, ensuring that hair ties perform better in the long run.

Finding the right equipment for your time in the pool transforms a frustrating, high-maintenance chore into a seamless part of your fitness routine. By investing in quality, water-specific hair accessories and maintaining your hair properly, you can keep your focus exactly where it belongs: on the next lap.