17 Cheer Hairstyles 2025 Ideas With Bows, Braids, Curls, Half Up Half Down And Easy Sideline Styles

Cheerleading hairstyles have come a long way, blending cute, practical, and trendsetting styles. From braids to buns and styles with bows, cheer hairstyles in 2025 are all about versatility. Whether for high school games, competitions, or casual sideline performances, this guide features standout looks that every cheerleader will love to recreate. Here’s your ultimate inspiration for hairstyles—trendy, simple, and perfect for curly, short hair, or half up half down styles.

Classic Cheer Look With Big Bows and Curls

This timeless hairstyle screams cheer spirit. Featuring long, wavy curly hair with a signature high bow, it’s a crowd-pleaser at school games or competitions. To achieve this look, voluminous curls are created using a curling wand, paired with a sleek half-up section tied with a bold bow.

This style is universally flattering, simple to achieve, and stays secure throughout dynamic sideline moves.

Braided Ponytail for Games

The ultimate mix of practicality and flair, the braided ponytail combines sleekness with texture. Perfect for games, the style starts with tight French braids leading into a high ponytail. Long-haired cheerleaders can let the braid flow into the ponytail for a dramatic finish.

The style is sweat-proof, dynamic, and effortlessly chic, making it ideal for high-energy school games or competitions.

High French Braid Into a Low Ponytail

This elegant yet simple hairstyle features a French braid starting from the crown, tapering into a sleek low ponytail. It’s perfect for cheerleaders who want a half up half down alternative that keeps the focus on their performance while looking polished.

The style works well on medium to short hair lengths and keeps flyaways under control.

Double Dutch Braids Into Space Buns

Cheerleaders looking for a fun, youthful twist will love these double braids leading into space buns. This hairstyle combines two tight braids on each side, forming updo buns at the top of the head—ideal for sideline routines or pep rallies.

It’s perfect for short hair, easy to recreate, and holds up during intense cheer movements.

Voluminous Curls With Statement Bow

This look is all about curly hair and bold bows. Hair is teased at the roots for volume, while soft curls cascade down to create a glamorous, photo-ready look. The bow sits at the top of the head as the focal point, making it ideal for competition settings.

It’s glamorous and stands out, perfect for competitions or spirited school games.

Single Braided Ponytail

Combining functionality with style, this ponytail features a single braid along the scalp that adds flair to an otherwise classic style. It’s sleek, simple, and perfect for both practice days and competitions.

This look works well on natural and short hair, offering versatility for all cheerleaders.

Double Braids With Space Buns

Here’s another variation of double braids ending in buns—a playful style for sideline performances or fun pep rally days. The double braids add structure, while the buns keep the hair secure.

It’s easy, trendy, and perfect for short hair or medium lengths.

Criss-Cross Braids With Twisted Ponytails

This hairstyle combines creativity with practicality. Two tight braids criss-cross at the back of the head, merging into half up half down ponytails. Paired with soft curls at the ends, it creates a neat yet playful look perfect for games or school events.

This look is cute and fun for younger cheerleaders but works for all age groups as a stylish twist on classic braids.

Long Loose Waves for Sideline Cheer

This hairstyle features soft, curly hair flowing effortlessly down the back—perfect for sideline cheerleading. The subtle waves frame the face and look stunning under stadium lights, adding volume and elegance.

The style works well for both games and formal events, showcasing a simple, polished look.

Cute Braided Pigtails With Blue Elastics

For those who love a youthful, cute look, these braided pigtails with small French braids at the crown offer a fun and functional option. Accented with matching blue elastics, the style is perfect for games and school pep rallies.

This easy look is perfect for short hair or medium-length hair, adding playful energy to the team vibe.

Half-Up Bow and Braided Accent

This hairstyle combines a small braided detail with a half up half down style, tied together with a large team bow. It’s perfect for high school cheerleaders who want a neat yet relaxed look for games or practice.

It’s functional for performance and cute enough for school events.

Double Braided Low Bun

This elegant style features two thick Dutch braids that lead into a secure low bun. Ideal for competitive cheerleaders or teams aiming for a sophisticated updo, the look holds up perfectly under intense routines.

This style works for short hair and longer hair alike, staying intact through every flip and jump.

Red Ribbon Braided Pigtails for Games

These dual braids accented with red ribbons scream team spirit. The braids are tightly secured to keep hair off the face during games while the red bows add a touch of cute charm.

It’s practical, simple, and perfect for spirited sideline performances.

Sleek Boxer Braids With a Long Tail

This style features sleek box braids running along the scalp and tapering into a long braid tail. It’s ideal for natural hair and delivers both durability and style—perfect for practice and games.

A perfect solution for black women looking for a sporty and chic hairstyle.

Curly High Updo With Bow Accent

This high curly updo is voluminous, playful, and perfect for competitions. The curls are pinned upwards for height, while a glittery bow adds glamour and team spirit.

A bold, cute style that stands out on the mat or stage.

Half-Up Volume With Team Bow

This half up half down hairstyle features teased volume at the crown and soft curls for an effortlessly cute look. The large team bow secures the half-up section, making it perfect for games and school pep rallies.

It’s glamorous and works for short hair and long hair alike.

Dutch Braided Ponytail

For cheerleaders who need a sturdy yet stylish look, this Dutch braid leads into a long ponytail. This sleek and secure hairstyle is ideal for high-energy performances and games.

It’s functional, simple, and stays in place no matter how hard you cheer.

Cheer hairstyles in 2025 are all about creativity, individuality, and practicality. Whether it’s braids, buns, curly hair, or styles with bows, there’s a look for every cheerleader. Share your favorite hairstyle in the comments and let us know which trend you’ll be trying at your next game or pep rally!