Best running headbands to keep the sweat off your brow when working out

Whether you’re pounding the pavements or lapping around the park, squatting or crunching in the gym, or bending into downward dog or cobra pose, the workout gear that you wear is important so as not to stand in your way.

Comfortable clothing, accessories and suitable equipment will make a big difference to your performance no matter what workout you are doing, even down to the finest details like a sweatband.

Sweatbands are designed for your head and are an easy addition to finesse your fitness kit while optimising your exercise routine. With plenty of choice in colours, patterns and thickness, and a selection of special features including sweat-wicking and thermal fabrics, we are spoilt for choice. Pop one on your head and see what the fuss is about.

What are the benefits of headbands?

The main purpose of headbands is to prevent sweat from dripping down your forehead and into your eyes. They will absorb any moisture during your workout or run, and keep your vision clear so you don’t have any distractions. At the same time, they will also keep hair out of your face mid rep. Some can also provide extra warmth.

How to pick your perfect headband

What workout are you doing? How intense is it? Think about the thickness of the band you’d like and whether or not you are training in cool or warm conditions. Colour and design might also be a deciding factor.

See our pick of the best headbands to make your workout a breeze.

lululemon Wunder Train Headband

Auric gold, dark olive or classic black? Choose from one of three colours of lululemon’s super comfy headband and train like a pro in style. Made from a sweat-wicking fabric with a velvet binding on the inside to stop it from slipping out of place, this band sits securely on your head and makes the perfect accessory when on the move.

Buy now £10.00, lululemon

Nike Fury Headband

Nike’s slick black headband will be your best friend during a workout – its stretchy design means it will mould to your head and keep your eyes both hair and sweat-free. Nike’s special Dri-FIT Technology keeps moisture at bay, so all that’s left is for you to just focus on your moves.

Buy now £10.00, Nike

Buff Coolnet UV Tapered Headband

Keep cool and protected with the Buff headband, featuring a breathable Coolnet UV+ fabric and technology to keep you safe in the sun and different climates. It’s super light and stretchy so won’t give you a headache as you train, and with its multicolour scheme, there’s no surprise this is a top-rated product on Amazon.

Buy now £13.13, Amazon

TrailHeads Women’s Ponytail Headband

This is a brilliantly versatile headband in a range of different colours to suit any mover and shaker, with a contoured fit to provide full ear coverage. Its brushed fleeced lining will keep you warm on chilly mornings, while its lightweight sweat-wicking polyester/spandex fabric keeps you cool in warmer conditions. Discover the slit opening at the back and pop your ponytail through for an extra secure and compact fit.

Buy now £17.00, Amazon

Adidas Training Headbands, 3-pack

Choose your colour scheme (black and whites or bliss pinks and maroon), your size (S,M,L) and grab yourself a three-pack of headbands from Adidas. Perfectly catered to your head and exercise needs, they’ve got you covered whether running or hitting up the gym. Keep your hair out of your face and get your heart pumping.

Buy now £17.00, Adidas

Under Armour Women’s UA Play Up Headband

One size fits most with this simple Under Armour headband in neutral white or a refreshing opal blue tone. Detailing is minimal but it does have luminous version of the Under Armour logo at the front. Scrape back your hair and pop it on your head for soft and long-lasting comfort whatever the length of your workout. Its exposed spandex elastic on the inside provides a great grip meaning wherever you go, your headband stays with you.

Buy now £10.00, Under Armour

Kalenji Running Headband

There’s no sweat dripping into your eyes or hair blowing across your face with Kalenji’s unisex headband, which is ideal for all types of exercise. It’s made from a soft stretchy fabric to ensure a comfortable fit and comes in a selection of fun colours to jazz up your running or workout gear. A nice price tag too.

Buy now £4.99, Decathlon

Sweaty Betty Power Headband

Train in style with a colourful headband from Sweaty Betty. From the vibrant green camo figure print to the jazzy blue rock pattern, these will help you stand out during your park runs.

Using their famous Power fabric which has a four-way stretch, is sweat-resistant and quick-drying, the headband will have your back through every move. Another plus: it’s ponytail compatible with a concealed hole at the back.

Buy now £10.00, Sweaty Betty

Bam Bamboo Headband

Bam has created a great lightweight option headband to wear throughout your workouts and keep wisps of hair out of the way. Made from bamboo and cotton, the jersey headband is super soft and comfy and kind to sensitive skin. It’s also sustainably made which is always a welcomed plus.

Perhaps a better option for lower impact workouts though as there is less grip.

Buy now £12.00, BAM

Brooks Bandit Headband

Work up a sweat on your run with Brooks’ bright blue headband. The running specialist has created this product with a sustainably made and tapered design to stay-put no matter what. Feel great, look great and get the most out of your exercise.

Buy now £13.00, Brooks

Ronhill Nightrunner Headband

Running or working out in the evening? Keep safe and seen with Ronhill’s super reflective headband. Covering your ears with its contoured design and made from a fabric with thermal properties, it will also keep you warm without causing you to overheat. It also has a barely there feel on the head.

Buy now £10.79, Amazon