22 Stylish Swim Hairstyles for All Hair Types: Short, Curly & Natural Hair

Have you ever wondered how to keep your hair stylish yet manageable during a swim? Whether your locks are long, short, curly, or naturally black, choosing the right swim hairstyles can make a significant difference in both functionality and fashion. This article delves into various swim hairstyles that are not only attractive and easy to manage but also protective. From playful options for children to sophisticated styles for adults, we have it all. So, how do you select the ideal swim hairstyle that suits your hair type and length? Let’s explore the options!

#22 Traditional Ponytail Style

The classic ponytail continues to be a go-to swim hairstyle because of its simplicity and functionality. Perfect for nearly all hair types, from long to medium lengths, this style helps keep hair away from your face and reduces tangling. It’s especially suitable for those with long hair or as a swim hairstyle for black women, providing a sleek and stylish look that’s both practical and fashionable.

To maintain the health of your hair, especially when frequently swimming, consider using a leave-in conditioner or a protective serum. Products from brands like AquaGuard and Philip Kingsley offer formulations that help prevent chlorine damage, keeping your hair hydrated and strong.

#21 Secure Braided Bun for Swimming

A braided bun is a fantastic swim hairstyle for those seeking a more secure option. This protective style is perfect for swim hairstyles black natural hair and those with thick, curly hair. It tightly secures the hair close to the scalp and combines the neatness of a bun with the intricate detail of a braid, making it not only functional but also stylish.

When swimming, using a swim cap over your braided bun can provide additional protection, but be sure to rinse and apply a hair mask post-swim. Brands like SheaMoisture offer excellent nourishing treatments that are ideal for black natural hair, helping to restore moisture and resilience.

#20 Long, Loose Layers

For those with long hair who prefer a more free-flowing look, wearing your hair long, layered, and loose can be surprisingly manageable for swimming. This style suits those with naturally wavy or curly hair, where the layers help reduce the weight of the hair, allowing quicker drying and less drag in the water.

To keep your loose hair healthy and revitalized, especially in the summer, use lightweight oils like Moroccan Oil or spray conditioners that can be applied before and after swimming. These products help detangle and add a protective layer against harsh pool chemicals.

#19 Chic Chignon

The chic chignon is an elegant swim hairstyle suitable for more formal poolside events or when you want a bit of glamour at the beach. This easy and elegant updo keeps your hair neatly tucked away. It works wonderfully for those with medium hair or long hair, and can also adapt to swim hairstyles for short hair.

Maintaining the elegance of a chignon while swimming involves using good quality hair ties and bobby pins that resist rust or corrosion. Post-swim, treat your hair to a revitalizing spa with products from Aveda, which are designed to restore shine and body to your hair.

#18 French Braid Simplicity

French braids offer a beautiful and protective approach to swim hairstyles, especially popular among swim hairstyles for kids and those with long hair. This easy style keeps hair closely braided and contained, making it perfect for active swimmers. It is also a great choice for swim hairstyles curly hair and swim hairstyles black natural hair kids.

To ensure the braid holds well and your hair stays protected, use anti-frizz products and hair elastics designed for wet use. After swimming, applying a deep conditioner, particularly for those with curly or black natural hair, will help to replenish moisture and maintain hair health.

#17 Dutch Braid Durability

The Dutch braid is not only aesthetically pleasing but also offers incredible durability, making it perfect for swimmers with long hair or medium hair. This style is ideal for swim hairstyles for kids and adults alike, as it tightly secures the hair, preventing it from tangling in the water. It’s particularly beneficial for those with swim hairstyles for curly hair or swim hairstyles for black women, providing a protective and easy way to manage hair while swimming.

For maintaining the health of braided hair, especially in chlorinated pools, it’s advisable to use a clarifying shampoo and deep conditioner after swimming. Products like Mizani’s Moisture Fusion Intense Moisturizing Mask are perfect for rehydrating and repairing black natural hair after exposure to harsh chemicals.

#16 Twist and Pin Updo

The Twist and Pin Updo is a chic swim hairstyle that offers both elegance and practicality. This style works beautifully for swim hairstyles for medium hair and long hair, making it a versatile choice for different occasions, whether a casual swim or a poolside party. It’s also a great easy and cute option for those seeking protective swim hairstyles.

To keep this updo intact and your hair in top condition, use waterproof hair products such as TRESemmé’s Climate Protection Hair Spray before and after swimming. This will help maintain the style’s hold and protect your hair from the elements.

#15 Side-Swept Beach Waves

Side-Swept Beach Waves are the quintessence of summer hairstyles, offering a relaxed and cute look that’s perfect for beach outings. This style is best suited for those with long hair or medium hair and is particularly popular as a swim hairstyle for curly hair. It allows the natural texture of your hair to shine through while keeping it manageable and free-flowing.

To protect and enhance your beach waves, apply a salt spray or curl enhancer before and after swimming. A product like Ouai’s Wave Spray can add texture and volume while protecting your hair from drying out.

#14 Double French Braids

Double French Braids are not only stylish but also extremely functional for all swimmers. This swim hairstyle is perfect for those with long hair and swim hairstyles for kids, as it keeps hair tightly secured and out of the face. It’s an excellent choice for those looking for swim hairstyles braids that are both protective and easy to maintain.

To ensure the braids hold well and your hair remains healthy, use a leave-in conditioner or a braid spray that provides extra hold and moisture. Brands like Carol’s Daughter offer products specifically designed for swim hairstyles black natural hair, ensuring that the hair stays hydrated and tangle-free.

#13 Boxer Braids for Active Swimmers

Boxer Braids are the go-to swim hairstyle for active swimmers. This style is particularly favored for its snug fit that minimizes water drag, making it ideal for swim hairstyles for short hair and swim hairstyles for medium hair. It’s also a popular style among swim hairstyles for black natural hair kids and adults who engage in vigorous water sports.

For best results, apply a smoothing serum or gel that withstands water exposure, like Bumble and bumble’s Surf Styling Leave In. This will help keep the braids neat and in place, while also protecting the hair from chlorine and saltwater.

#12 The Sleek High Bun

The sleek high bun is an ideal swim hairstyle for those looking for a cute, easy, and protective way to manage their hair in the water. It works particularly well for swim hairstyles for long hair and swim hairstyles for medium hair, as it keeps hair securely tucked away. This style is also suitable for swim hairstyles for black women, as it helps protect the hair’s natural texture.

To keep your high bun perfect and your hair protected from chlorine or saltwater, consider using waterproof hair products like AquaGuard Pre-Swim Hair Defense. This product helps prevent water from damaging your hair, keeping it healthy and moisturized.

#11 Low Messy Bun

The low messy bun is a versatile swim hairstyle that offers a relaxed yet chic look. It’s perfect for those with swim hairstyles for medium hair or long hair who prefer a more laid-back appearance. This style is excellent for swim hairstyles curly hair, as it allows some natural curls to softly frame the face.

For maintaining a healthy look, use a light leave-in conditioner like Bumble and bumble’s Surf Spray before and after swimming. This product enhances natural curls and provides light hold to keep your messy bun in place throughout your swim.

#10 The Fishtail Braid

The fishtail braid is a trendy and intricate choice among swim hairstyles braids that works well for those with long hair and swim hairstyles for kids. It’s especially suitable for swim hairstyles black natural hair because it provides a protective styling option that minimizes tangling and moisture loss.

To keep your fishtail braid looking fresh and your hair in optimal condition, apply a smoothing serum such as John Frieda’s Frizz Ease Extra Strength Serum before braiding. This will help control frizz and add shine.

#9 Crown Braid Elegance

The crown braid brings a touch of elegance and sophistication to swim hairstyles, making it an excellent choice for more formal poolside events. This style is ideal for swim hairstyles for long hair and works beautifully with swim hairstyles for black natural hair as it neatly contains hair while showcasing beautiful texture.

To ensure your crown braid stays in place and your hair remains protected, use a firm-hold hairspray like L’Oréal Paris Elnett Satin Extra Strong Hold. This spray will keep your braid secure and resist moisture from splashes.

#8 Top Knot with a Twist

A top knot with a twist is an excellent swim hairstyle for those who want a fun and functional way to manage their hair. This style suits swim hairstyles for medium hair and swim hairstyles for short hair and is a fantastic option for those with curly hair or black natural hair, as it keeps hair secure and out of the face.

For this hairstyle, it’s beneficial to use a nourishing hair gel like Eco Styler Olive Oil Gel to ensure the top knot stays in place and the hair remains hydrated, even when wet.

#7 Waterproof Micro Braids

Waterproof Micro Braids are an excellent choice for swimmers with black natural hair, providing a protective and cute styling option that withstands water exposure. These braids are particularly popular as swim hairstyles for black women and are a practical solution for both pool and beach settings. Micro braids help maintain hair health by preventing tangling and breakage during swimming.

To care for your micro braids, use a leave-in conditioner designed for braids and black natural hair, such as Carol’s Daughter Black Vanilla Leave-In Conditioner. This will keep your braids moisturized and fresh, even after frequent swims.

#6 Half-Up, Half-Down Style

The Half-Up, Half-Down style is versatile and stylish, making it a great swim hairstyle for medium hair or long hair. This hairstyle combines the convenience of having hair pulled back from the face while allowing some length to flow freely, which is particularly flattering for those with curly hair.

For maintaining this style in a swim setting, apply a water-resistant mousse or gel, such as the Ouidad Advanced Climate Control Heat & Humidity Gel, to help control frizz and keep hair in place without sacrificing texture.

#5 Bubble Ponytail

The Bubble Ponytail is a fun and easy swim hairstyle that adds a touch of whimsy to your swim look. It’s perfect for swim hairstyles for kids and adults alike and works well with long hair or medium hair. This playful style is not only cute but also practical for keeping hair neatly away from the face and neck.

To ensure your bubble ponytail holds up against the water, use rubber bands that are gentle on the hair and apply a light hairspray, like the L’Oréal Paris Elnett Satin Hairspray, to give it extra hold and shine.

#4 The Wet Look

The Wet Look is an edgy and modern swim hairstyle that works exceptionally well for those with short hair or swim hairstyles for medium hair. This style is both chic and functional, allowing swimmers to emerge from the water looking sleek and stylish.

To achieve and maintain the wet look throughout your swim, use a high-quality gel like Bumble and bumble’s Bb.Gel, which provides a strong hold and a glossy finish that mimics the appearance of wet hair.

#3 Short and Sassy Pixie

The Short and Sassy Pixie cut is perfect for active swimmers who prefer a fuss-free and stylish swim hairstyle for short hair. This haircut is incredibly easy to manage and is ideal for those who want a summer-ready look that’s both cute and practical.

For keeping your pixie cut perfect, even when wet, apply a small amount of texturizing or volumizing powder, such as the Got2b Volumaniac Bodifying Hair Powder, which adds volume and texture without weighing down your hair.

#2 Layered Bob for Easy Maintenance

A layered bob is a fantastic choice for swim hairstyles for short hair. This style is not only trendy but also incredibly easy to maintain, making it perfect for those who want to enjoy the water without worrying about their hair. Suitable for almost all face shapes, this cut is particularly good for those with fine hair looking to add volume and those who desire a summer-ready, hassle-free hairstyle.

For care and maintenance of a layered bob during swim season, invest in a good leave-in conditioner, such as the Leave-In Conditioning Spray by Sun Bum, to protect your hair from chlorine and saltwater damage. Apply it before and after swimming to keep your hair healthy and well-maintained.

#1 Curly Hair Swim Cap Friendly Styles

For those with curly hair, finding swim hairstyles that fit comfortably under a swim cap while protecting the curls can be a challenge. Swim hairstyles for curly hair should aim to reduce tangles and maintain moisture without being too bulky. Braids, such as a single French braid or multiple small braids, are excellent because they compact the hair and allow for a smooth fit under a swim cap.

To ensure your curly hair remains hydrated and tangle-free, use a curl-defining cream or gel, like Ouidad’s Advanced Climate Control Heat and Humidity Gel, before braiding your hair. This helps maintain the definition and moisture of your curls, even after exposure to harsh pool chemicals.

Swimming doesn’t have to be a challenge for your hair. With these stylish and protective swim hairstyles, you can dive into the pool or ocean without worry. Try out these styles and discover which one suits your swim routine best. Don’t forget to leave a comment below and share your favorite swim hairstyles!