Curly Styles for Cycles
Cycling with Curls
If there’s one sport that is not conducive to bouncy, beautiful curls, it’s bicycling.
While the idea of trapping your curls beneath a helmet and exposing it to wind and sweat may sound harrowing, we believe that hair should NEVER deter a curly girl from getting fit, healthy and happy.
Here are my tried and true techniques for maintaining my pile of curls under a bike helmet!
Up and out of the way!
Use a simple thick, cotton head band and gently pull your hair back, to keep hair off of your face, then put your helmet on over the head band.
The best thing for shorter hair is to just get your curls and waves away from your face and tucked back. For longer hair you’ll need to secure the rest of the hair too (more on that later”>.
There are also wider, cotton head bands which can work under helmets well. Be sure to use cotton as you may sweat and don’t want to risk clogging pores.
Work hair
Riding your bike to work is a great way to keep your footprint green! And yes, you STILL need a helmet on local streets.
Try a quick braid to keep curls at their best, or tuck your hair back and under the helmet so little is left to “fly” as you steer and peddle. The wind and the elements can make for frizzy ends by time you arrive.
Once your peddling is over, remove your helmet as well as any accessories (headbands, etc”> that you placed on your hair. Use a small spritz bottle of water and lavender oil essence (just a few drops”> to refresh your curls and waves.
Braids
Some helmets don’t allow for braids to fit comfortably. However, if you can make a thinner braid or , if you have a lot of hair and can make multiple braids and pull them down or to the side, your helmet will fit without a problem.
The best part about braids is that your curls will maintain their shape and spring once you’re done with your ride!
Bun it!
For short to longer curls, a low bun is also a great option. Use a simple hair tie or “friendly” elastic band to tie curls low, down the back of your neck. If you have longer pieces, you can also use a few bobby pins to keep them at bay.