Finding the right way to tie back your hair for Brazilian Jiu Jitsu can be a real struggle. Long hair gets pulled, tangled, and caught under your opponent’s grips, making training uncomfortable and distracting. If you are tired of hair whipping your training partners or dealing with massive post-roll knots, you need a solid game plan for your locks. This comprehensive guide explores 25 long hair hairstyles for jiu jitsu that will keep your mane secure, protected, and out of your face during intense rolls. From classic braids to tactical buns, these options prevent hair pulling and minimize breakage so you can focus purely on your technique. Say goodbye to those annoying flyaways and hello to stress-free training sessions on the mat.
1. High Top Knot For Jiu Jitsu
Have you ever felt your hair snapping under pressure during a roll? The high top knot is the most relied-upon solution for grapplers everywhere. You simply gather all your long hair at the very top of your head and secure it tightly with a strong hair tie. This placement ensures your bun sits above the area where most head pressure occurs during back control or side mounts. It keeps your hair completely off your neck, reducing sweat and overheating during intense sparring sessions. Make sure to use a seamless elastic to avoid breakage. A well-placed high top knot stays remarkably sturdy even after hours of drilling and live rolling. It is quick, effective, and perfectly practical for BJJ.
2. Double Buns For BJJ
Why settle for one bun when two can offer even better security? Double buns, often called space buns, divide your hair into two sections, keeping the overall bulk much lower and more manageable. By splitting the weight, you reduce the strain on your scalp that a single heavy bun often causes. This also prevents the bun from acting as a single target for an opponent’s fingers to grab. Position them low on the back of your head or slightly behind your ears. This placement keeps them out of the way when you are pinned flat on your back. Double buns stay incredibly tight and rarely fall out, giving you one less thing to worry about during competition.
3. French Braid For Long Hair
Dealing with loose ends getting in your eyes while passing the guard? A French braid is an incredibly effective way to keep every single strand locked down tight. This style weaves your hair close to the scalp from the top of your head all the way down to the nape of your neck. It prevents flyaways and stops your hair from sweeping across your face during quick transitions. The tight weaving technique makes it incredibly difficult for fingers to get caught in your locks. Even if your hair is slightly slippery, a French braid holds up remarkably well against the friction of the mat. It is a classic, reliable choice that leaves your hair feeling secure and completely protected throughout the most intense training sessions.
4. Dutch Braid For Grappling
Looking for a braid that pops and stays incredibly tight? The Dutch braid is essentially an inside-out French braid that sits on top of your hair rather than weaving under. This raised profile actually makes the braid tighter and more compact against your head, which is exactly what you need for grappling. Because it sits so close to the scalp, there is less slack for an opponent to grab onto. It pulls all your hair back firmly, keeping your vision completely clear for hunting submissions. The added tension also means it will not easily unravel during a chaotic scramble. Finish the Dutch braid at the base of your neck with a secure elastic, and you have a mat-proof style that lasts.
5. Braided Ponytail For Martial Arts
A simple ponytail just does not cut it when you are rolling, but a braided ponytail absolutely changes the game. Leaving a standard ponytail loose invites tangling and makes it easy for your partner to accidentally grab a handful of hair. By braiding the ponytail itself, you turn a potential hazard into a sleek, compact rope that lies flat against your back. Start by securing your hair in a high or mid-level ponytail, then tightly braid the tail all the way down. This eliminates the whipping effect of loose hair and prevents those awful post-training knots. It is simple, fast, and highly effective for anyone who wants a low-profile style that stays put.
6. Braided Bun For Jiu Jitsu
What happens when you combine the security of a braid with the compactness of a bun? You get the ultimate mat-proof hairstyle. The braided bun starts by gathering your hair into a ponytail and braiding it tightly. You then wrap that braid around the base of the ponytail and pin or tie it securely. This creates a much denser, tighter bun than simply twisting loose hair. Because the hair is already locked into a braid, it will not spread out or come undone when you are rolling aggressively. It sits close to your head and eliminates the risk of loose hairs tickling your face. This is a top-tier option for competition day when you cannot afford any distractions.
7. Low Bun For BJJ
Is a high bun giving you a headache under your headgear? The low bun is a fantastic alternative that keeps your hair secured at the nape of your neck. This position is incredibly advantageous when you spend a lot of time lying flat on your back, as it rests naturally against the mat without pushing into your skull. It stays out of the way of chokes and collar ties, making it a very practical option for everyday training. Secure it tightly at the very bottom of your hairline using a strong elastic or a few hairpins. A low bun feels much lighter on your head and drastically reduces the tension that often leads to traction headaches.
8. Boxer Braids For Long Hair
Need something that will survive the most chaotic scrambles? Boxer braids are essentially two tight Dutch braids running down each side of your head. This style is iconic in combat sports because it is nearly impossible to undo. By splitting your hair into two distinct sections, you reduce the overall bulk and keep everything tightly woven against your scalp. There are no loose ends, no dangling pieces, and absolutely no room for an opponent’s fingers to get tangled up. Boxer braids distribute the tension evenly across your head, preventing the localized pulling that a single bun creates. They look sharp, stay incredibly secure, and will easily hold up through hours of intense drilling.
9. Infinity Braid For Jiu Jitsu
Want a unique style that holds up against the toughest rolls? The infinity braid uses a figure-eight weaving technique that locks your hair into a highly compact, solid structure. Because of this continuous crossing pattern, the braid has almost no give or stretch. This makes it exceptionally resistant to the friction and pulling that happens naturally during Brazilian Jiu Jitsu. It sits flat against your head, ensuring it will not get caught under your opponent’s chin or arms. While it takes a few minutes to master, the infinity braid pays off by staying perfectly intact from warm-up to the final roll. It is a stylish yet incredibly functional way to protect your long hair on the mats.
10. Crown Braid For Grappling
Searching for an elegant style that remains completely practical? The crown braid wraps your hair around your head like a headband, keeping it entirely off your neck and face. This technique works exceptionally well for BJJ because it tucks all the ends away securely, leaving absolutely nothing for an opponent to grab. Because the braid sits right along your hairline, it distributes the weight evenly and avoids the top-of-head pressure that buns cause. It stays perfectly flat against your skull, meaning you can comfortably wear ear guards or headgear over it. The crown braid keeps you cool, looks incredibly polished, and stays rock-solid even when you are defending heavy top pressure.
11. Fishtail Braid For BJJ
Ever thought a fishtail braid could handle the mat? Though it looks delicate, a tightly woven fishtail is actually incredibly durable for Brazilian Jiu Jitsu. It uses two sections of hair instead of three, creating a very dense and narrow braid that lies flat against your back. This narrow profile means there is less hair exposed for someone to accidentally snag during a fast-paced sweep or transition. When secured tightly at the bottom, a fishtail braid holds its structure remarkably well and resists frizzing. It is a great alternative when you want a break from traditional braids but still need all your hair completely locked away and protected from the rigors of training.
12. Pigtail Braids For Martial Arts
Tired of a single heavy braid swinging around? Pigtail braids offer a balanced solution by distributing your hair evenly on both sides. By creating two separate braids, you drastically reduce the length and weight of each individual tail. This makes them much easier to manage and far less likely to whip you or your partner in the face. Tucking the braids into your rash guard or sports bra keeps them completely out of the way during live sparring. This style also looks fun and keeps your scalp tension balanced, preventing those annoying headaches after a long session. Pigtail braids are a playful yet highly effective way to keep your long hair secured.
13. Feed-In Braids For Long Hair
How do you keep your braids from being too bulky at the root? Feed-in braids are the perfect answer for grapplers who want a sleek, low-profile look. This technique gradually adds hair into the braid as you move down the scalp, creating a much more natural and comfortable fit. Because the base is not overly thick, it sits completely flat against your head, preventing any uncomfortable pressure when you are stuck in bottom position. The tighter, seamless roots also mean there are no lumps for your training partners to accidentally grab. Feed-in braids are incredibly secure, stylish, and perfectly tailored for the intense physical demands of Brazilian Jiu Jitsu training.
14. Rope Braid For Jiu Jitsu
Need a quick style that holds like iron? The rope braid is one of the fastest to create but remains surprisingly resilient on the mat. You simply divide your ponytail into two sections and twist them tightly around each other. This twisting motion creates a dense, spring-like structure that resists unraveling even during the most aggressive rolls. Unlike traditional three-strand braids, a rope braid has a smoother surface, making it much harder for stray fingers to catch onto. It keeps your hair compact, neat, and completely off your neck. If you are running late to the gym and need a reliable, mat-safe hairstyle in under a minute, the rope braid is your best friend.
15. Bubble Braid For BJJ
Looking for a fun alternative to traditional braids? The bubble braid is a trendy option that works surprisingly well for martial arts if done correctly. You secure your hair in a ponytail and then add small elastics every few inches down the length, gently pulling the sections apart to create volume. For BJJ, you want to keep the bubbles relatively tight so they do not present easy handles for your opponent. This style is fantastic because it isolates your hair into small, manageable sections. Even if one band breaks, the rest of your hair remains secured. It is a cute, functional way to keep your long hair tangle-free and completely under control.
16. Swiss Braid For Grappling
Have you ever tried a braid that wraps all the way around? The Swiss braid, similar to a crown braid, involves weaving two braids and crossing them over the top of your head. This creates a secure, woven cap of hair that completely eliminates any dangling ends. For jiu jitsu, this is highly advantageous because there is absolutely nothing hanging down your back to get stepped on or caught in submissions. It sits tight against the scalp, allowing headgear to fit comfortably over it without any pinching. The Swiss braid is a classic, highly protective style that ensures your hair remains completely safe and secure during the most intense grappling exchanges.
17. Milkmaid Braids For Jiu Jitsu
Searching for a style that keeps every strand completely tucked away? Milkmaid braids are essentially two standard braids that are pinned up and across the top of your head. This creates a fantastic barrier for your hair, keeping it entirely off your neck and shoulders. Because all the ends are hidden and pinned down, there is zero chance of your hair whipping into your eyes during a stand-up exchange. It distributes the weight perfectly, avoiding the tension headaches that come from pulling all your hair into one spot. Milkmaid braids look incredibly chic while offering the maximum level of protection and security your long hair needs to survive a tough training session.
18. Elsa Braid For Long Hair
Want a sturdy side braid that stays put? The Elsa braid is a loose, thick side braid that can be tightened up specifically for BJJ. By pulling the braid over one shoulder, you keep it out from under your back when you are rolling. To make it mat-appropriate, you must braid it much tighter than the movie version and secure the end firmly. The thicker structure of this braid actually makes it harder to accidentally snag compared to a thin ponytail. It is a fun, feminine option that keeps the bulk of your hair over your shoulder and away from the mat. This keeps your hair significantly cleaner and much less tangled.
19. Reverse Braid For BJJ
Do you hate when your bun falls out halfway through class? The reverse braid offers a brilliant solution by creating a braid that goes straight up the back of your head and feeds directly into a top bun. This structural braid acts like an anchor, locking the bun firmly in place so it cannot lean or droop. It takes the weight of your long hair and distributes it across the entire back of your scalp, drastically reducing strain. The reverse braid is incredibly reliable for competition because it simply will not budge no matter how much you move. It is a highly functional way to combine the best features of a braid and a bun.
20. Four Strand Braid For Martial Arts
Looking for a thicker, more secure braid? The four-strand braid uses an extra section of hair to create a wider, more robust structure than a traditional three-strand braid. This added density makes it incredibly resistant to friction and pulling on the mat. Because the weave is tighter and more complex, it has far less give when pressure is applied. This means your hair stays locked in place, avoiding the loosening that often happens at the end of a long class. It sits beautifully flat against your back and ensures that no stray hairs escape to bother you. The four-strand braid is a superior, heavy-duty option for serious grapplers with long hair.
21. Twist Bun For Jiu Jitsu
Need a fast alternative to braiding? The twist bun is a quick and highly effective way to secure your long hair without the complexity of multiple braiding techniques. You simply twist your hair into a tight rope and wrap it around itself into a coil. Because the hair is twisted rather than folded, it creates a very dense and compact bun that resists flattening. This style sits close to the head, making it very comfortable for laying on your back or escaping side control. It is incredibly easy to put up in the locker room right before class. The twist bun provides reliable, no-nonsense security for your hair during intense sparring.
22. French Twist For Grappling
Ever considered a red-carpet style for the mats? The French twist is an elegant updo that is surprisingly effective for jiu jitsu when pinned correctly. You sweep your hair to one side and pin it vertically along the back of your head, creating a seamless roll of hair. Because it sits flat against the occipital bone, it never gets in the way when you are on your back. Using flat bobby pins ensures there are no sharp edges exposed. The French twist keeps all your hair encapsulated, meaning zero flyaways and zero chances for an opponent to grab a handful. It is a sophisticated, surprisingly tactical option for keeping your hair totally secure.
23. Halo Braid For Long Hair
Searching for a style that looks complicated but stays incredibly secure? The halo braid wraps a single, long Dutch or French braid entirely around the circumference of your head. This creates a solid band of hair that sits comfortably like a crown. For BJJ, this is amazing because it completely eliminates any bulk on the top or back of your head. You can comfortably roll, shrimp, and spin without a bun pushing into your scalp. The braid sits tightly against your hairline, keeping all the ends safely tucked away out of reach. The halo braid is a beautiful, highly protective style that guarantees your hair will not interfere with your training.
24. Cornrows For Jiu Jitsu
Need a style that will last the entire week of your training camp? Cornrows are the ultimate low-maintenance, high-security option for long-haired grapplers. By braiding the hair very close to the scalp in continuous rows, you create a completely flat surface that is practically indestructible on the mat. There is absolutely no loose hair to grab, and the tight weaving prevents your hair from matting or tangling after intense sweating sessions. Cornrows distribute tension perfectly evenly across your head, so you will not get those awful tension headaches from a single bun. They look incredibly sharp and allow you to focus completely on your jiu jitsu without ever adjusting your hair mid-roll.
25. Knotless Braids For BJJ
Worried about the tension of traditional braids hurting your scalp? Knotless braids are a fantastic alternative that start with your natural hair and gradually add extensions, creating a seamless, pain-free root. This technique is a game-changer for Brazilian Jiu Jitsu because it completely eliminates the bulky knots at the base of the braid. Without those thick knots, there is absolutely no uncomfortable pressure pushing into your skull when you are pinned to the mat. They look incredibly natural and put significantly less stress on your edges, preventing breakage over time. Knotless braids are wonderfully lightweight, move naturally, and provide the ultimate long-term protection for your hair during rigorous daily training sessions.
Conclusion:
Managing long hair on the mats does not have to be a constant battle. By choosing the right protective style, you can completely eliminate distractions and focus entirely on your jiu jitsu technique. Whether you prefer the simplicity of a high top knot or the ultimate security of boxer braids, there is a perfect option here for every hair type and length. Always remember to use strong, seamless hair ties and avoid any metal clips that could hurt you or your partner. Keeping your hair secured not only improves your performance but also prevents painful breakage and matting. Try out these 25 long hair hairstyles for jiu jitsu to find your new go-to look. Step onto the mat with confidence, knowing your hair is fully protected.
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