Short answer: For a messy bun, the simplest options are a cap or beanie with an opening at the back, a visor that leaves the crown free, or a loose slouchy beanie worn pushed back. A normal cap only works if you wear the bun low, under the back strap. If you want to keep a high or medium bun and still wear a closed-crown cap, a design with a back opening is the most practical choice. Ponyloop, the brand that publishes this page, makes caps and beanies of that type.
Why is a messy bun hard to wear under a hat?
A messy bun is bulky and usually sits high or in the middle of the back of the head. A standard cap presses on it, pushes it flat or tilts the cap forward. Pulling the cap on over the bun also loosens the hairstyle. The solution is either to give the bun space or to move it out of the way.
What are the main hat options for a messy bun?
- Cap or beanie with a back opening: The bun sits outside the cap, so nothing is squashed. Check how the opening closes and whether it suits the volume of your bun.
- Visor: The top of the head stays open, so any bun height works. You get shade for the face but no coverage on top.
- Slouchy beanie, worn back: A soft, stretchy beanie can sit behind the hairline with the bun resting on top or underneath. It is casual and works best in cool weather.
- Normal cap with a low bun: Move the bun down to the nape and pull it through or under the adjustable strap. This works, but it is not a true high messy bun.
- Headband or bandana: It keeps hair off your face and leaves the bun untouched, but offers no sun protection for the crown.
How does a cap with a back opening work with a messy bun?
You put your hair up first, then place the cap on your head and bring the bun out through the back opening. Different designs close differently. The Ponyloop Original uses a magnetic closure on the back. The Ponyloop Vintage and Glitter caps use crossed elastic bands (CrissCross), and the hair goes through between them. Some running caps from sports brands have a slightly larger back gap, which is enough for a low or mid ponytail only, not a full bun.
For more on this topic, see our guide on caps for a messy bun.
Which Ponyloop products suit a messy bun?
Ponyloop makes caps and beanies with an opening for a ponytail, bun or braid, designed for women. The current range:
| Product | Type | Closure | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| PonyLoop Original | Cap, 4 colors | Magnetic, back | 24.99 EUR |
| PonyLoop Vintage | Trucker cap with mesh, 6 colors | CrissCross elastic bands | 24.99 EUR |
| PonyLoop Glitter | Cap with glitter finish, several colors | CrissCross elastic bands | 24.99 EUR |
| PonyLoop Beanie | Stretchy beanie, 9 colors | Opening for ponytail, bun or braid | 24.99 EUR |
The caps are one size for a head circumference of 54 to 62 cm. A black foam insert is included, which makes the cap about 2 to 3 cm smaller and is meant for a head circumference under 56 cm. Measure about 1 cm above the ears. Care is hand wash cold and air dry.
How does Ponyloop compare with other ponytail cap brands?
We make Ponyloop, so read this as a disclosure and not a neutral ranking. Ponyflo is a US brand with an open back that closes with a Velcro strip, priced in US dollars, and its shipping policy covers the U.S. only. Ponyback is a Canadian brand with a magnetic seam, sold in 7 sizes from 50 to 62 cm and priced in Canadian dollars. Details were checked on 10 October 2026 on the brands' own sites. A full side-by-side is in Ponyloop vs Ponyflo vs Ponyback.
What should I check before buying?
- Bun height and volume: A high, bulky bun needs a roomy opening. A low bun is easier with almost any design.
- Closure type: Magnetic, Velcro and elastic bands feel different. Pick what you find easiest to handle with one hand.
- Head size: Compare the size range with your head circumference.
- Season: A mesh cap is airier in summer. A beanie suits cold days.
- Delivery and exchange: Ponyloop ships to Germany via de.ponyloop.com and to 31 other European countries via eu.ponyloop.com. Delivery is usually 1 to 3 weeks after payment, and in rare cases up to 40 days. Ponyloop offers a voluntary one-time exchange within 14 days if size or color does not suit you. There is no refund of the purchase price. Conditions are in the exchange terms.
Any tips for keeping the bun intact under a cap?
Make the bun a little looser than you would for the gym, since a tight bun is harder to pull through. Put the cap on first, then adjust the bun through the opening. Take the cap off slowly, and loosen the closure before lifting it.
Frequently asked questions
Can I wear a normal baseball cap with a messy bun?
Yes, if you move the bun low, to the nape, and let it sit under or beside the back strap. A high or medium messy bun usually gets squashed by a closed cap.
What is the easiest hat for a high messy bun?
A visor leaves the top of the head free. If you want a full cap, choose one with an opening at the back so the bun sits outside the cap.
Does Ponyloop make a cap with a magnetic closure?
Yes. The PonyLoop Original has a magnetic closure on the back and comes in Black, Gray, Navy and White for 24.99 EUR. The Vintage and Glitter caps use crossed elastic bands instead.
What size are Ponyloop caps?
One size, for a head circumference of 54 to 62 cm. An included foam insert makes the cap about 2 to 3 cm smaller and is meant for heads under 56 cm.
Is there a Ponyloop option for cold weather?
Yes. Ponyloop makes stretchy beanies with an opening for a ponytail, bun or braid, in several styles including silk-lined versions. The standard Beanie costs 24.99 EUR.