4. The Ponytail with Backcombed Length

This technique focuses on making the actual ponytail itself look huge. After securing your pony, take sections of the ponytail and backcomb them gently from ends towards the base. This creates incredible fullness. Use hairspray layer by layer as you backcomb to hold that volume in place.
3. The High Pony with Bump

This is a classic cheerleading look! You create a defined “bump” of volume at the crown before pulling the rest of your hair into a high pony. You can use teasing or a tool like a bump-it underneath a smoothed layer of hair. It gives great height and that iconic cheer silhouette.
2. The Extreme Volume Pony

This style pulls out all the stops for the biggest cheer pony possible. It often involves combining techniques like teasing the crown and the length, using volumizing products generously, and sometimes adding extensions. It’s for those high-energy routines where you want your hair to make a statement. Layering strong hold hairspray is essential to keep this beast in place!
1. The Power Pony

Okay, this is my top pick, the ultimate cheer pony! The Power Pony has it all: maximum height, incredible volume, and bomb-proof hold. It sits high on the head, right at the crown or slightly above, giving you that powerful lift. You achieve this with a combination of aggressive teasing at the roots and potentially using a volumizing spray throughout. I always use a super strong elastic and often add a few bobby pins around the base for extra security. Then, I backcomb the length of the pony for fullness and lock it all in with a heavy-duty hairspray. I remember watching a team nail their nationals routine, and every single pony was a perfect Power Pony. They looked so unified and strong! It’s the style that stays put no matter how many flips or stunts you do.
Frequently Asked Questions About Cheer Ponies
Got questions about getting your cheer pony just right? You’re not alone! Here are some common things people ask me.
How do I make my cheer pony stay up?
Use a really strong elastic first! Then, add bobby pins strategically around the base, pushing them in towards the center. Finish with a generous amount of strong hold hairspray all over.
What products are best for cheer ponies?
I swear by strong hold hairspray for locking everything in. Gel or edge control smooths down any flyaways. Volumizing spray adds oomph, and dry shampoo gives roots extra grip before styling.
Can I do these styles with short hair?
Some styles like the half-up pony work well. For others, especially high ponies, clip-in extensions are your best friend for adding the needed length and volume. You can definitely adapt!
Ready to Rock Your Cheer Pony?
Now that you have 21 awesome cheer pony ideas, it’s time to start practicing! Don’t worry if the first few tries aren’t perfect. Finding the right style and technique for your hair takes a little time. Experiment with different products and placements to see what gives you the best volume, height, and hold. The most important thing is feeling confident when you step onto the mat or field. Your cheer pony is part of your performance look! You’ve got this!
