DALLAS, TX – There’s a trend among the ladies on the pickleball court. Bubble braids. 

Braids are a very common way for players to keep hair out of their face and off their neck. And instead of a classic ponytail that can cause headaches, braids are easier on the scalp and they add gorgeous texture.

Bubble braids originated in Mali, Africa, but were popularized stateside in the early 2000s by stars like Beyoncé and Rihanna. They consist of small, tight braids that are pulled away from the scalp to create a “bubble” shape.

These braids work with hairstyles aplenty - natural, textured, wavy, straight, and curly - so everyone can give it a shot.

World No. 1 Anna Leigh Waters traditionally wears a classic three-strand braid from a ponytail, but she wore bubble braids quite frequently last season.

Hurricane Tyra Black also loves a bubble braid. She often wears her hair with color coordinating elastic hair ties and bows so they look their absolute best. 

Jorja Johnson has joined the bubble braid party, too, and even put her own spin on it with chunky hair ties or a bow.

Bubble braids are the perfect choice for pickleball at any level. They’re functional and far easier than French and Dutch braiding, which can be tricky to learn and master.

It's also a secure hairstyle, especially if you’re playing a back-and-forth game of singles. You don't want your hair falling out of the elastics and getting in the way or simply irritating you. Bottom line, the pros need a hairstyle they can rely on.

Best of all, though, bubble braids are super cute and they add great volume and texture to otherwise flat hair. They’re also customizable. These braids can start at the crown of the head or be worn lower like pigtails. Add in different colored elastics, scrunchies, bows or ribbons, and you can have fun!

The only problem with bubble braids comes with taking them out, especially when the aforementioned plastic elastics are involved. You might yank a few pieces of hair out, or even a whole clump, so be gentle. 

Beauty is pain, right?