The Best Workout Headbands for Women

Buying Guide for Workout Headbands for Women

Why buy a workout headband?

A workout headband is a must-have if you’re intent on working up a sweat. While it might seem like this is a frivolous accessory, they’re a multifunctional solution. First, they keep hair out of your face so you can focus on your exercise. They can also work to catch sweat that forms on your forehead, keeping it out of your eyes. If you’re the type who likes to exercise outside, a headband can also double as an ear warmer when the weather turns cool.

What should you consider when shopping for a workout headband?

• Material: Since you’re wearing this headband to exercise, you will want to pick something absorbent and comfortable. The last thing you want is a strip of fabric that gets easily saturated with liquid and lets that fluid slide down your face. But also consider the texture and thickness. Some headbands can double as ear warmers because they’re made from insulating material like fleece. And similarly, whether damp or dry, you want a headband that doesn’t scratch or irritate your skin.
• Width: Headbands come in various widths, from very narrow to extra wide. There’s no right or wrong answer as to which is best but consider your goals. A wider headband makes more sense if you want something that doubles as a sweatband. Meanwhile, a slim headband may be more than sufficient if you want to keep face-framing hairs out of your face.
• Design: As with other headbands, workout headbands come in various styles and prints. Some are designed to be tied, while others are simple stretchy continuous bands pulled onto the head.

Do workout headbands have moisture-wicking capability?

Depending on the material, some workout headbands can wick away sweat and moisture. This is probably one of the most significant aspects you’ll want to look for in a workout headband, especially if you do high-intensity workouts. Having fabric that is highly evaporative and cooling will keep your skin and hair dry as you work up a sweat.

Our Picks for the Best Workout Headbands for Women

Pros: You can’t go wrong with a multipack of headbands—like this six-piece set of sweatbands. You’ll like that these are moisture-wicking and come in various colors, including two neutrals, black and gray. The stretchy band is made from nylon and is machine washable.

Cons: Even the brand admits in their product messaging that the rose red band has the potential to bleed in the wash. It can be easy to overlook this warning and damage a load of clothes.

Bottom Line: Affordability and comfort combine with this smart six-piece set of sweatbands. This is a great investment with a wide range of colors and moisture-wicking technology.

 

Pros: For those concerned about getting the most value out of every dollar spent, this 10-pack set of headbands is a wise choice. Designed from stretchy poly-cotton fabric, these bands measure 2.25 inches in width and can stretch from 18 to 24.5 inches in circumference, all while maintaining a solid grip on your hair without slipping. You have the option of getting a multicolor pack or one solid color.

Cons: Although wallet-friendly in price, common complaints are centered around the fit being inconsistent.

Bottom Line: Whether you’re pinching pennies or just not interested in spending a lot on headbands, this economical 10-pack is a solid investment.

 

Pros: If you’re shopping for a headband with a slim design that’s still effective at keeping hair out of your face, this six-pack of slim headbands from Under Armour will be perfect. Available in a wide range of colorways, they feature a silicone backing to ensure that the band stays in place once you put it on.

Cons: These bands don’t stay in place that well. Whether there’s not enough grip or the fit is too loose, this can be an issue if you’re vigorously exercising.

Bottom Line: Not everyone wants a wide headband, making this Under Armor pick a solid choice. You’ll get six bands in a set along with a range of colors to choose from.

 

Pros: Getting hair in your face is annoying, and besides putting your hair in a ponytail or a bun, you’ve got to worry about your hairline. This extra-wide headband measures four inches and can work with all hair types. It also offers moisture-wicking support and promises that you won’t have to keep adjusting it while you exercise.

Cons: There’s no denying that these bands are cute, but the oversized design and cute prints come at a cost that might not be realistic for all budgets considering that you only get two bands.

Bottom Line: If money is no issue, you’ll appreciate these extra-wide bands that are compatible with all hair types and provide moisture wicking for added comfort.

 

Pros: Just because you’re exercising doesn’t mean that your wardrobe needs to look drab or boring. If you want a little pizazz while you sweat, this fun 6-pack of printed headbands is a great option. They feature a wider headband that measures 3.9 inches but narrows in the back for added comfort.

Cons: While versatile, you might not like that these headbands lack the moisture-wicking properties in some of our other picks. This makes them better suited for low-intensity activities.

Bottom Line: If you want to show off your style no matter what you’re doing, these fun printed headbands are a solid option. But as they lack performance tech, you’ll want to limit them to less rigorous exercise.

Final Thoughts

There’s no questioning it; you need a headband if you’re going to exercise. These are essential items whether you’re concerned about sweat or simply keeping your hair out of your eyes. Thanks to their relatively affordable price points, there’s no reason not to own a few.