The Ultimate Guide to Hair Ties: Types, Sizes & Which One is Right for You
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Not all hair ties are created equal. From sleek basics to soft knits and retro throwbacks, the right hair tie can completely change your hair game—and protect your strands in the process. Whether you wear your hair up every day, style for photoshoots, or need to stock up in bulk, knowing the difference between hair tie types and sizes helps you choose what actually works.
This guide breaks down the main types of hair ties (and how to use them), plus the size differences that matter. We also offer bulk and wholesale hair ties, with fast shipping and flexible options—available by the piece, dozen, or case.
✨ Types of Hair Ties
1. Basic Elastic Hair Ties
These are your go-to hair elastics. Simple, reliable, and available in a rainbow of colors and thicknesses. They’re strong enough for thick ponytails, top knots, and everyday wear. Also available in extra-large oversized, which are great hair ties for big hair, thick hair, and to wear on bigger wrists!
Best for: Most hair types
Pros: Affordable, firm hold, available in tons of colors, easy to keep on hand
🛒 Shop Basic Elastic Hair Ties:
- 2mm Elastic Hair Ties (best value!)
- 4mm Elastic Hair Ties
- 5mm Elastic Hair Ties
- Mini Ponytail Elastics (great for kids, thin hair, and braid ends)
- Oversized Hair Elastics (extra-large size for thick hair and big wrists)
2. Soft Stretchy Knit Hair Ties
Made from soft, seamless stretch knit fabric, these ties are super stretchy and gentle on hair. They hold without pulling or snapping. The oversized hair ties are a favorite for thick hair, curly hair and dreadlocks. The standard size is perfect for most hair types, and the mini size is the best hair tie for kids and thin hair.
Best for: Thick or curly hair, kids, daily use
Pros: No metal, no seams, super comfortable
🛒 Shop Stretchy Knit Hair Ties:
- Mini Stretch Knit Hair Ties
- Seamless Knit Ponytail Elastics (standard size)
- Oversized Stretch Knit Hair Ties
3. Scrunchies
A style icon. Scrunchies are soft fabric-wrapped elastics that are gentle on your hair while adding volume and flair. Great for buns, ponytails, and wearing on your wrist when not in use.
Best for: Medium to thick hair
Pros: No creases, no damage, cute enough to show off
🛒 Shop Scrunchies:
- Cotton Blend Scrunchies (super soft, standard size, best-seller, tons of colors)
- Shiny Metallic Scrunchies
- Oversized Velvet Scrunchies (a cult favorite!)
4. Knotted Hair Ties
These classic knotted ties (you might remember them from childhood, when they came with a plastic ball on each end) are fun, functional, and perfect for a secure hold. The decorative balls keep them from slipping and add a playful touch.
Best for: Thick hair, pigtails, kids, retro looks
Pros: Super secure, eye-catching, nostalgic
🛒 Shop Knotted Hair Ties:
📏 Hair Tie Sizes: Oversized, Standard & Mini
• Oversized Hair Ties
Need serious stretch and grip? Oversized hair ties are ideal for thick, voluminous, or curly hair. They're also great if you want a bold style statement or extra hold for protective styles. Oversized hair ties are also perfect for men, and people with big wristst!
• Standard Hair Ties
The classic size most people use. Works well for medium hair thickness and everyday styles like ponytails, buns, and braids.
• Mini Hair Ties
Tiny but tough. These are perfect for small sections, kids’ hairstyles, braids, or styling baby hairs.
🎯 Choosing the Right Hair Tie
| Need | Try This |
|---|---|
| All-day comfort | Stretchy knit or scrunchies |
| Secure hold | Basic elastics or knotted ties |
| Big hair | Oversized stretchy knit or scrunchies |
| Kid styles | Mini elastics or small knotted ties |
| Stylish but gentle | Scrunchies or soft knits |
🛍️ Bulk & Wholesale Hair Ties Available
We supply salons, boutiques, schools, dance teams, cheer squads, and hairstylists with the best-quality hair ties—shipped fast and available in the quantities you need.
- Available individually, by the dozen, or case pack
- Choose solid colors or assorted mixes
- No fussy packaging, white label-friendly-
- Great for gift shops, subscription boxes, resale or pro kits
🛒 Browse Bulk & Wholesale Hair Ties →
Need a little more assistance finding the perfect hair ties for you? We’re happy to help. Contact us here →