The best brands for ponytail caps differ mainly in the opening mechanism at the back of the head, the fit, and the build quality – there are currently several specialized providers who extend classic caps with an opening for a ponytail, bun, or braid. More important than the brand name are three questions: How well does the opening hold the ponytail during sport or everyday wear? Does the cap fit both smaller and larger head sizes? And how easy is the material to care for? Anyone who knows these criteria can compare brands meaningfully instead of just looking at names.
What really matters with a ponytail cap?
What matters most are the opening mechanism at the back of the head, the fit for different head sizes, and the material for care and durability. Everything else is more a matter of taste.
A good ponytail cap has to hold your ponytail, bun, or braid securely in place while running, cycling, or during everyday wear, without squashing your hair or causing the cap to slip. The fit should be flexible enough for different head circumferences, often via an adjustable band or additional accessory like an insert. The material matters too: breathable fabric and easy care make the difference between a cap for occasional wear and one for daily training.
What ponytail opening mechanisms are available on the market?
The market mainly offers elastic bands, simple back openings in the fabric, zippers, and open knit structures – each variant has its own pros and cons.
Elastic bands usually cross at the back of the head and hold the ponytail through friction, which can give a firm fit especially during sport. Other models rely on a simple opening in the fabric through which a ponytail, bun, or braid is simply threaded, with no extra mechanics. Ponyloop®, for example, uses this kind of back opening on the Original and Vintage models, while the Glitter variant uses a “CrissCross” design of crossed elastic bands that you tuck your hair between. Which mechanism suits you best depends heavily on whether the cap is meant for sport, everyday wear, or both.
Does a ponytail cap fit every head circumference?
Most models are one-size and designed for a head circumference of about 54 to 62 cm, often supplemented with an accessory for smaller heads.
Ponyloop® offers its caps in one size for a 54–62 cm head circumference and includes a black foam clip with every cap, which attaches to the inside of the sweatband and reduces the fit by around 2–3 cm. That's handy for anyone between smaller and larger head sizes, or anyone who wants a firmer fit during sport. If you're looking for a cap for kids, look specifically for a dedicated kids' size, since one-size adult models are usually too big.
How do you properly care for a ponytail cap?
Hand-washing in cold water and air-drying are the safest method for caps with elastic inserts or opening mechanisms.
Washing machines and dryers can damage the elastic bands and seams on the opening mechanism, or permanently warp the fit. Ponyloop® accordingly recommends hand-washing the caps in cold water and air-drying them only. This care method generally applies to most caps with a similar construction, regardless of brand, and noticeably extends the lifespan of the opening mechanism.
Is Ponyloop a sensible choice among ponytail cap brands?
Ponyloop® is an honest option for anyone looking for a cap with a well-thought-out back opening, currently priced at 24.99€ for adults and 19.99€ for kids.
The brand offers three adult models (Original, Vintage, Glitter) plus a kids' cap, and ships from its main shop to Germany, Austria, and Switzerland; for France there's a dedicated shop at ponyloop.fr. Instead of a classic return, Ponyloop® offers a 14-day voluntary exchange window if the size or model doesn't fit. Whether Ponyloop® or another brand is the better choice ultimately depends on whether the elastic CrissCross mechanism or a simple back opening suits your ponytail and intended use better – comparing both construction types is worthwhile before buying.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a ponytail cap?
A cap with a special opening at the back of the head that lets a ponytail, bun, or braid out instead of being flattened under the cap.
What opening mechanisms do ponytail caps have?
Common ones are elastic bands, simple back openings in the fabric, zippers, and open knit structures. Ponyloop® uses a back opening on the Original and Vintage, and a CrissCross design of crossed bands on the Glitter.
Do ponytail caps also fit a smaller head circumference?
Yes, many models are one-size with a range of about 54–62 cm. Ponyloop® also includes a foam clip that reduces the fit by 2–3 cm.
How much does a ponytail cap from Ponyloop cost?
Currently (as of July 2026), the adult caps Original, Vintage, and Glitter each cost 24.99€, and the kids' cap costs 19.99€.
Anyone looking for a cap with a well-thought-out opening for a ponytail or bun will find three adult models and a kids' cap at Ponyloop® (ponyloop.com) – including a 14-day exchange window if the fit isn't right.