The best cap for your ponytail is the one whose opening mechanism fits your hairstyle. A magnetic closure works for changing hairstyles from low ponytails to high buns, a CrissCross opening holds especially secure during sports and movement, and zipper or knit designs have their own strengths. In this comparison we look at the common mechanisms, materials and prices of ponytail caps, plainly and to the point, so you know exactly which model fits you.
Why doesn't a ponytail fit under a regular cap?
Because a regular cap is closed in the back and only leaves the small crescent opening above the adjustment strap free. Your ponytail either has to sit very low or gets squashed. With a high ponytail, a bun or voluminous curls, it simply doesn't work. Many people know the result: the cap sits crooked, presses on the back of the head or the hairstyle is ruined after taking it off. Caps with a ponytail opening solve exactly this problem. They have a specially designed opening in the back where ponytails, buns or braids can come through at any height, without squashing and without restyling.
What types of ponytail caps are there in 2026?
Four opening mechanisms have become established in the market: magnetic closure, CrissCross bands, zipper and open knit designs.
- Magnetic closure: The back of the cap opens and closes with magnets. This lets you adjust the opening to the height of your hairstyle, from low ponytail to high bun. This principle is used by the PonyLoop® Original, for example.
- CrissCross opening: Crossed elastic bands hold the cap securely on your head and let your hairstyle come through between them. At PonyLoop, the PonyLoop® Vintage and the PonyLoop® Glitter use this design. The US brand VimHue also uses an X-shaped band design in their Sun Goddess models.
- Zipper: The Canadian brand Ponyback builds a zipper into the back of their caps that opens for your hairstyle and looks like a classic cap when closed.
- Open knit design: Brands like Ponyflo from the US make stretchy knit caps with a wide, permanently open cutout at the back of the head.
All four approaches serve their purpose. The differences lie in handling, look and how flexibly the opening responds to different hairstyle heights.
Magnetic closure or CrissCross – which is better for you?
The magnetic closure is the most flexible solution for changing hairstyles, the CrissCross opening is the most secure with lots of movement. If you wear a low ponytail in the morning and a messy bun in the afternoon, you want an opening that adjusts in seconds. That's exactly what the magnetic mechanism of the Original is made for: put it on, pull your hair through, close the magnets, done. For jogging, cycling or festival days, the CrissCross principle scores points: the crossed bands fit elastically and keep the cap in position even when your ponytail swings with every step. There's no wrong choice here. It depends on what your daily life demands.
Which material works for summer, sports and everyday wear?
For summer, lightweight, breathable cotton is the best choice, ideally with UV protection. A tightly woven brim protects your face and scalp from the midday sun, an underestimated point especially for outdoor sports. The Original is lightweight, breathable and offers UV protection. The Glitter is made of 100% cotton with hand-sewn finish, if you like it more eye-catching. If you prefer the used look, the Vintage is a model with deliberately distressed fabric. That's a design feature, not a flaw. For cold days, the ponytail opening principle also exists as a beanie with silky inner lining, like the PonyLoop® Silk Beanie.
What do caps with ponytail openings cost in comparison?
At PonyLoop, the caps currently cost 24.99 €. That applies to Original, Vintage and Glitter. The Kids Beanie is 19.99 € (as of July 2026). Prices from other providers vary depending on brand, material and origin. Important for a fair comparison: when ordering from brands outside the EU, international shipping costs and possibly customs fees can be added to the product prices. Always calculate with total costs, not just the price on the label. You can find PonyLoop's delivery terms for Germany, Austria and Switzerland transparently in the Shipping & Payment Information.
Does One Size Really Fit Every Head?
Yes, as long as the cap covers the range of 54 to 62 cm head circumference and can be adjusted down. All PonyLoop® caps are one size for 54 to 62 cm; a black foam insert (sizing clip) is included that reduces the cap by about 2–3 cm. This is ideal if your head circumference is under 56 cm. To measure, place a tape measure about 1 cm above your ears around your head. More details in our FAQ.
Conclusion: Which Cap Is Best for Your Ponytail?
The best ponytail cap is the one whose mechanism fits your hairstyles: the magnetic closure of the Original for maximum flexibility in everyday life, the CrissCross opening of the Vintage or Glitter for secure hold during sports and festivals. Zipper and knit designs from other brands are also functional solutions from a practical standpoint. Check total costs and shipping there. And if the color or style doesn't fit: PonyLoop offers a voluntary 14-day exchange right. All conditions are on the Withdrawal & Exchange page.