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How to Style Your Hair for Motorcycle Riding

How to Style Your Hair for Motorcycle Riding

Riding a motorcycle is a remarkable experience that gives you the freedom to explore the world around you. However, one of the challenges of riding a motorcycle is protecting your hair while on the road. Wind and wearing a helmet can cause your hair to become tangled and frizzy. That's why it's important to choose a hairstyle that is fashionable and practical for motorcycle riding. Whether you're a man or a woman, knowing the best hairstyles to protect your hair from being damaged by the wind or sun can improve your riding experience. This comprehensive guide will provide information on how to style your hair for motorcycle riding.

1. Why is it Important to Style Your Hair for Motorcycle Riding?

Riding a motorcycle allows you to explore the open road and feel the wind on your face. However, it's important to think about your safety and comfort. One of the most overlooked aspects of motorcycle riding is styling your hair.

Safety

Long or loose hair can get tangled in the gears, mirrors, or other motorcycle parts. Loose hair can get in your face and obscure your vision, making it hard to see the road ahead. To avoid these potential hazards, you must style your hair in a way that keeps it out of the way.

Comfort

Hair flying in your face or getting tangled due to the wind can be uncomfortable and distracting, which can be dangerous when riding at high speed. By styling your hair in a way that keeps it out of your face, you'll be able to focus on the road and enjoy a more comfortable ride.

Style

Styling your hair can also be a great opportunity to show off your personality. Multiple hairstyles help accommodate long hair when riding a motorcycle, including braids, ponytails, and buns. Choosing a hairstyle that complements your style will allow you to ride with confidence.

2. Things to Consider When Choosing a Hairstyle for Motorcycle Riding

Here are factors to consider when choosing a hairstyle between both genders:

For Men

  1. Length - Consider tying long hair into a bun or ponytail to keep it out of your face. For shorter hair, a simple style with a little bit of gel or wax will suffice. 
  2. Helmet - While a helmet is essential riding gear that ensures your safety, it can also cause "helmet hair." Consider a shorter hairstyle that is easy to style that won't become flattened by a helmet.
  3. Maintenance - Choose a style that is easy to maintain and won't require a lot of upkeep.

For Women

  1. Length - Longer hair can be arranged into braids, ponytails, and buns to keep it secure and out of the way.
  2. Helmet - Choose a helmet that is designed to accommodate longer hair.
  3. Accessories - Adding a bandana or headband can keep your hair off your face and give your riding gear a stylish touch.

2.1 Top Short Hairstyles for Riding a Motorcycle

Here are the top five short hairstyles for riding a motorcycle for both genders:

For Men

  1. Buzz Cut

    A buzz cut is a low-maintenance hairstyle that provides a practical look. The hair is kept short and it is easy to put on a helmet without ruining your hairstyle.

  2. Crew Cut

    The crew cut is easy to maintain, can be styled in various ways, and is a versatile option.

  3. Short Textured Cut

    The short-textured cut adds texture to your hair while keeping it short, manageable, and stylish.

  4. Undercut

    The undercut is a modern hairstyle that involves shaving the sides of the head while leaving the top long. It provides a stylish and practical look.

  5. Side Part

    The side part is a classic hairstyle that is suited for any situation, keeps your hair out of your face and gives your outfit a sophisticated look.

For Women

  1. Bob Cut

    The bob cut is a classic short hairstyle that is easy to manage and won't get in your face while riding.

  2. Pixie Cut

    The pixie cut is a short and stylish hairstyle that keeps hair out of the way is easy to maintain and looks great under a helmet.

  3. Textured Crop

    The textured crop adds texture to your hair while keeping it short and manageable. It provides a stylish and practical look.

  4. Wavy Bob

    A wavy bob offers a short and feminine hairstyle. The waves add volume and texture to the hair while keeping it out of the way.

  5. Short-Layered Cut

    The short-layered cut is a versatile hairstyle that adds texture keeps it short and is easy to manage.

2.2 Top Medium Hairstyles for Riding a Motorcycle

For Men

  1. The Quiff

    The quiff is a popular medium-length hairstyle that is easy to maintain has plenty of volume, and maintains its shape with or without a helmet on.

  2. The Slicked-Back Look

    The slicked-back look is a classic hairstyle with the hair pushed back with pomade or gel applied. It's a versatile style that can complement your motorcycle jacket and is easy to style.

  3. The Messy Curls

    The messy curls hairstyle gives you a rugged look. It's easy to maintain and can be covered with a headband or bandana to provide additional protection from the wind and debris.

  4. The Textured Layers

    The textured layers hairstyle involves adding layers to create texture and volume. It's an excellent option for riders who want a stylish look that will not easily come undone.

  5. The Side-Parted Look

    The side-parted hairstyle is a classic and simple look that stays maintained with or without a helmet on.

For Women

  1. The Shoulder-Length Waves

    The shoulder-length waves hairstyle adds texture to your hair. It's a versatile style that provides a feminine yet practical look.

  2. The Long Bob

    A long bob is a classic hairstyle that is easy to maintain and can complement a motorcycle jacket. It's a versatile style that can be straight or have loose curls.

  3. The Layered Look

    The layered hairstyle is a versatile style that involves adding layers to increase volume and provide a stylish yet practical look.

  4. The Shag

    The shag features choppy layers that can be styled into a messy, undone look. It's a stylish, low-maintenance haircut.

  5. The Wavy Lob

    A wavy lob features loose waves that can be styled with a tousled, beach look. It's a low-maintenance hairstyle that looks chic.

2.3 Top Long Hairstyles for Riding a Motorcycle

For Men

  1. The Man Bun

    A man bun involves pulling the hair back into a tight coil. It's a practical hairstyle that keeps hair out of your face while riding and can complement your motorcycle jacket.

  2. The Ponytail

    A ponytail is a classic hairstyle that is easy to manage, practical, can be styled in various ways, and looks great with or without a helmet on.

  3. The Messy Waves

    The messy waves hairstyle offers a laid-back look that can withstand the wind and other elements.

  4. The Braided Look

    The braided look involves braiding the hair into single or multiple braids. It's a practical option that keeps your hair in place and can complement a motorcycle jacket.

  5. The Long and Loose Look

    The long and loose look involves letting your hair down and loose. It's a versatile style that offers a simple yet stylish look.

For Women

  1. The Classic Waves

    The classic waves hairstyle adds texture to your hair. It's a versatile style that can complement a motorcycle jacket.

  2. The Side-Swept Look

    The side-swept look sweeps the hair to one side. It's a unique style that maintains its look with or without a helmet on.

  3. The Half-Up, Half-Down Look

    The half-up, half-down hairstyle provides a practical yet stylish look. It's a versatile style that maintains its look with or without a helmet on.

  4. The Braided Crown

    The braided crown involves braiding the hair into a crown shape. It's a practical option that keeps your hair in place and can complement a motorcycle jacket.

  5. The Loose and Long Look

    The loose and long look involves letting your hair down and loose. It's a versatile style that provides a simple yet stylish look.

3. How to Protect Your Hair from the Wind and Sun While Riding

The wind and sun can cause your hair to become dry and brittle. Use the following tips to help better protect your hair while riding:

3.1 Tips for Using Hair Products that Withstand Wind and Helmet Wear

Tip 1: Use a Leave-In Conditioner

A leave-in conditioner coats your hair, preventing the loss of moisture. Apply leave-in conditioner before going on a motorcycle ride.

Tip 2: Use the Right Hair Products

Use products that help strengthen your hair and help it retain its shape even when covered by helmet wear or exposed to the wind or sun. Hair oil, serums, and pomades can provide extra protection to your hair.

Tip 3: Wear a Headscarf or Bandana

A headscarf or bandana can offer extra protection for your hair by keeping it in place and preventing it from getting tangled. Additionally, a headscarf or bandana can shield your hair from the sun's UV rays.

Tip 4: Take Care of Your Hair After Riding

After a long motorcycle ride, rinse your hair with cool water to remove any dirt and sweat, then apply a nourishing conditioner to hydrate your hair. Additionally, avoid using hot styling tools on your hair right after riding to avoid causing further damage.

4. What to Do with Your Hair When You Arrive at Your Destination

The wind, sun, and helmet can leave your hair dry, tangled, and prone to breakage. But taking care of your hair after a motorcycle ride is just as important as protecting it during the ride. Here is what to do with your hair when you arrive at your destination:

4.1 Hair Care After a Motorcycle Ride

Step 1: Remove Your Helmet

After arriving at your destination, remove your helmet. This will help relieve pressure on your hair and scalp and prevent further damage. Be gentle when removing your helmet to avoid pulling or tugging on your hair.

Step 2: Brush Your Hair

After removing your helmet, use a comb with wide teeth or a brush to disentangle your hair. Start from the ends and work your way up, being careful not to pull or tug on your hair. This will help remove any knots and tangles.

Step 3: Wash Your Hair

Once you've disentangled your hair, wash it using a gentle shampoo to remove any dirt, sweat, and buildup on your hair. Massage the shampoo into your scalp and hair, then rinse thoroughly with cold water. Avoid using hot water as this can strip your hair of its natural oils and cause further damage.

Step 4: Condition Your Hair

After shampooing your hair, apply a hydrating conditioner. This will help to restore moisture and prevent further damage. Wait for a few minutes for the conditioner to settle in your hair before rinsing thoroughly with water at normal temperature.

Step 5: Style Your Hair

Once you've washed and conditioned your hair, it's time to style it. Avoid using hot styling tools like a hair dryer or straightener to prevent causing further damage. Instead, opt for air-drying or using a diffuser to dry your hair. You can also apply a leave-in conditioner or hair oil to help keep your hair hydrated and smooth.

Step 6: Maintain Your Hair

To keep your hair healthy and prevent damage, it's important to maintain it regularly. This includes trimming your hair often, avoiding tight hairstyles that can cause breakage, and using hair products that offer protection against the wind and sun.

5. Common Mistakes to Avoid When Styling Your Hair for Motorcycle Riding

Listed below are common mistakes you should try to avoid when styling your hair for motorcycle riding.

For Men

  1. Using Too Much Hair Product: Using too much hair product can make your hair stiff and heavy. Instead, use a minimal amount of product like a light gel or pomade.
  2. Neglecting Hair Protection: Always wear a helmet with a visor or sunglasses to shield your hair from the sun and wind.
  3. Choosing the Wrong Hairstyle: Certain hairstyles, such as those with long bangs or loose strands, can be distracting while riding. Look for hairstyles that are short and tidy, such as a buzz cut or a crew cut.

For Women

  1. Wearing the Wrong Hair Accessories: Certain hair accessories can get tangled in your hair, causing discomfort and damage. Avoid wearing hairpins, barrettes, or headbands that are too tight or bulky.
  2. Choosing the Wrong Hairstyle: Certain hairstyles, such as loose braids or ponytails, can be distracting while riding. Look for hairstyles that are secure and tied back, such as a low bun or a French twist.
  3. Neglecting Hair Protection: Always wear a helmet with a visor or a bandana to shield your hair from the sun and wind.

6. Trending Hairstyles

If you're looking to ride your motorcycle in style, you might want to consider a trendy hairstyle that is both fashionable and practical. Whether you're a man or a woman, several hairstyles that can add flair to your ride while keeping your hair in place. Here are the trendiest hairstyles:

For Men

  1. The Slicked-Back Look: This classic hairstyle keeps your hair out of your face while also giving you a stylish and sophisticated look. Use light pomade or gel to slick your hair back.
  2. The Faux Hawk: This hairstyle is a modern twist on the classic mohawk. It's edgy, trendy, and easy to maintain. Use a styling product to spike up the center of your hair while leaving the sides short.
  3. The High and Tight: This military-inspired hairstyle is both practical and stylish. The hair on the sides and back of your head is buzzed short, while the hair on top is longer and styled upward.

For Women

  1. The Side Braid: This simple yet elegant hairstyle involves braiding your hair to the side of your head to keep it secure and out of your face.
  2. The Half-Up, Half-Down Look: This classic hairstyle involves tying the top half of your hair in a small bun or ponytail while leaving the rest hanging.
  3. The Pony Tail Using Durag/Scrunchie/Bandana/Hair Elastic: You will need a hair elastic or scrunchie and a do-rag to tie a pony tail. This hairstyle helps keep hair from getting tangled and improves your look.

7. How to Wear a Helmet Without Tangling and Damaging Your Hair?

A helmet is mandatory riding gear that protects your head from severe or fatal injuries when riding two-wheelers. However, wearing a helmet can be a challenge since it can cause the hair to become tangled and damaged.

Helmet Hair

Helmet hair is a term used to describe the flattered, disheveled, or tangled hair that occurs after wearing a helmet, especially when riding a motorcycle. When it may not be the most glamorous look, there are ways to manage helmet hair and still look presentable after you ride.

How to Style and Deal with Helmet Hair?

Here is a guide on how to style, deal with, and wear a helmet without tangling or damaging your hair:

  1. Tie Your Hair Up

    Before putting on your helmet, make sure to tie your hair up in a bun or a ponytail. This will prevent your hair from getting tangled and damaged by the helmet straps.

  2. Use a Protective Hair Product 

    Before putting on your helmet, apply a protective hair product such as hair oil, serum, or leave-in conditioner. This will create a barrier between your hair and the helmet, minimizing the impact of friction and preventing hair from sticking to the helmet.

  3. Carry a Hairbrush or Comb

    Bring a small pocket-size hairbrush or comb with you to use once you arrive at your destination. Brush or comb out your hair to remove tangles and flatten any flattened areas.

  4. Dry Shampoo 

    If you don't have access to a hairbrush or comb, try using a dry shampoo. It can help absorb the excess oil and add volume to flattened hair. Simply spray it in with your fingers.

  5. Use a Hair Net or Cap

    Another way to protect your hair from getting tangled and damaged is to wear a hair net or cap underneath your helmet. This will keep your hair in place and prevent it from rubbing against the helmet straps.

  6. Adjust the Helmet Straps

    Make sure that the straps are not too tight or too loose. A snug fit will keep the helmet in place while minimizing hair damage.

  7. Choose the Right Helmet

    Look for helmets with smooth, rounded edges since they are less likely to catch onto your hair.

  8. Use a Silk Scarf or Bandana

    If you have long hair, you can protect it from tangling and damage by wrapping it in a silk scarf or bandana before putting on your helmet. This will create a barrier between your hair and the helmet straps, reducing friction and damage.

8. Popular FAQs

8.1 How to Keep Long Hair from Getting Tangled While Riding My Motorcycle?

One of the best ways to keep long hair from getting tangled while riding is to tie it back into a ponytail or braid. Make sure that hair is securely fastened and won’t come loose while you are riding.

8.2 Does Short Hair Need Styling?

Even if you have short hair, you may want to consider using some products to keep your hair in place during the ride. A lightweight styling cream or gel can help keep your hair looking great even when you are wearing a helmet.

8.3 What is the Best Way to Keep Hair from Getting Oiled or Greasy While Riding?

Wearing a helmet for too long while riding can often cause your hair to become oily and greasy. It happens due to heat and sweat. To prevent this, try using dry shampoo or powder to absorb excess oil and sweat from your hair.

8.4 Can You Wear a Hat While Riding a Motorcycle to Keep Your Hair in Place?

While you can wear a hat while riding, it is important to ensure that the hat fits securely and won’t fly off while on the road. A beanie or skullcap can be a good option for shorter rides, while a brimmed hat can help keep the sun off your face on longer rides.

9. Conclusion

You can keep your hair from getting in the way by choosing a practical hairstyle and taking steps to protect your hair from wind and sun damage. In addition to choosing the right hairstyle, it is also important to take care of your hair after a ride. Make sure to give your hair a good wash and apply conditioner to moisturize your hair and prevent damage. As motorcycle riding becomes more popular, it is crucial to stay up-to-date on the latest hair styling trends for riders. You can use any of the hairstyles mentioned in this article for your next ride.

Lastly, taking care of your hair while riding a motorcycle is all about finding the right balance between fashion and function. With the right hairstyle and proper care, you can enjoy your ride with confidence and style.  If you want to improve your motorcycle’s look, you can install saddlebags, sissy bar bags, tank bags, crash bars, luggage racks, sissy bars, fairings, and handlebars.

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