Hair Accessories

Best Hair Accessories for Men in the UK: Headbands, Clips & Elastics to Upgrade Your Look

Whether you're chasing a clean gym look, taming a mane for work, or adding a subtle edge to your streetwear, the right hair accessories can make a huge difference. In the UK market, stores like Lindex and RunningXpert offer a solid range of pieces from playful clips to performance headbands. This guide breaks down the best options, how to pick them, where to shop, and simple styling and care tips so you can walk out the door looking sharp and confident.

Why Hair Accessories Matter for Men

Think of hair accessories like the finishing touch on an outfit—kind of like cufflinks for a suit or the right pair of trainers. They keep hair out of your face, protect your hairstyle, and can even communicate personality. From minimalist elastics to technical headbands that wick sweat, accessories solve real problems while letting you express style. Plus, they’re cheap insurance against a bad-hair day.

Lindex: Affordable, Everyday Hair Gear

Lindex caters to those who want straightforward, stylish hair pieces without spending a fortune. Their catalog often focuses on practical packs—clips, elastics, simple headbands—great for everyday wear or refreshing your basics. If you want multiples for quick swaps or backups, Lindex’s value packs are worth a look.

2-pack Hair Clips

Two-packs make sense if you swap styles or lose one now and then. These clips are small, lightweight, and ideal for pinning back small sections or keeping bangs in place. They’re discreet and often come in neutral shades so they blend with most hair colours.

2-pack Hair Elastic

Elastics are the backbone of practical men’s hair accessories—simple, reliable, and easy to stow in a pocket. A 2-pack gives you a spare when one wears out. Look for elastics that are thin enough to hide but strong enough to hold thicker hair; a typical diameter of around 1/8 inch works for most styles.

Headband With Bow

Bow headbands are playful and can soften a rugged look or add a retro twist. While not everyone’s go-to, they’re a fun accessory for casual outings or festivals. The key is to wear them with confidence—think of them as a deliberate style choice, not an afterthought.

6-pack and Multi-packs of Clips

Multi-packs—like 6-pack clips—are perfect if you change styles regularly or need backups for travel. They come in mixed colours and designs, so you can mix function with small bursts of personality without breaking the bank.

4-pack Squishmallows Hair Clips

Novelty clips such as small plush or character-themed pieces add a whimsical touch to casual looks. They’re conversation starters and great for weekends, but keep a simpler set for professional environments.

RunningXpert: Performance Headbands for Active Lifestyles

If you’re buying headbands primarily for sport, RunningXpert focuses on technical features—moisture management, snug fit, and durability. These headbands are designed to stay in place during a run or gym session, and many feature fabrics specifically engineered to handle sweat and movement.

Compressport Thin Headband

Compressport makes a thin option that’s lightweight yet secure. Thin headbands are great when you want minimal visual impact but need something reliable. Expect a snug fit that keeps hair back without feeling bulky—ideal if you prefer a low-profile look while you train.

Compressport Headband On Off

The “On Off” style is all about versatility—breathable on the move, snug when you need it, and easy to slip on or off. These can be a smart choice if you do mixed activities: running, cycling, or outdoor workouts where temperature and intensity fluctuate.

Nike Swoosh Headband — Sweat-wicking Comfort

Nike’s classic headband blends performance and brand recognition. It’s designed to pull moisture away from the forehead so sweat doesn’t drip into your eyes, and the simple Swoosh logo adds a sporty finish. A reliable pick if you want mainstream performance at a fair price.

Odlo Ceramiwarm Mid Gage Headband

For cold-weather runs, look for insulated pieces like the Odlo Ceramiwarm mid-gage headband. It traps warmth while remaining breathable, helping protect ears and forehead when temperatures drop. Perfect for early morning jogs or chilly commutes.

Compressport On Off in Dazz Blue Black

Variants with bold colours, like dazzle blue and black combos, let you inject personality into your training kit. Performance doesn’t have to be boring—bright accents help you stand out, which can be handy for visibility on low-light runs too.

Other UK Shops with Strong Selections

Beyond Lindex and RunningXpert, several UK retailers stock hair accessories for men. Whether you need collectible clips, reliable headbands, or everyday elastics, these stores offer options across price points and styles.

ASOS — Trend-led and Wide-ranging

ASOS is a go-to for trend-forward pieces. They stock everything from minimalist elastics to fashion-forward headbands and novelty clips. The benefit is variety: you can experiment with looks without committing to one style.

Boots & Superdrug — Pharmacy Chains with Practical Picks

Both Boots and Superdrug carry basic hair accessories at accessible prices. Think simple elastics, basic clips, and neutral headbands—perfect when you need something quick and cheap that does the job.

Sports Direct — Budget Performance Gear

For bargain sports headbands and branded options, Sports Direct often undercuts specialist stores. You’ll find mainstream performance brands and low-cost alternatives suitable for everyday athletes.

John Lewis — Quality Pieces and Brand Staples

John Lewis leans toward higher-quality accessories and trusted brands. If you want something that lasts longer or has a cleaner finish for a smarter outfit, this is a solid place to look.

Amazon UK — Convenience and Choice

Amazon’s market-style setup means you can browse a huge range of styles, reviews, and price points in one place. It’s handy for obscure pieces or when you need to compare many options quickly.

How to Choose the Right Accessory for Your Hair Type

Choosing the right accessory is part function, part fashion. Consider hair thickness, length, and daily activities. Thin hair might need smaller clips and softer elastics that won’t flatten volume, while thick hair benefits from stronger elastics and wider headbands—1 to 2 inches wide—so they distribute pressure and actually hold.

Short Hair

Short styles thrive with thin bands and minimal clips. Thin headbands or micro elastics keep hair tidy without overwhelming the look. A 1/2 inch elastic can be just right for short, cropped styles that still need control.

Medium to Long Hair

Longer hair may need wider bands and heavy-duty elastics. Aim for bands around 1 to 2 inches wide to spread pressure and avoid scalp discomfort. For elastics, look for thicker loops of about 1/8 to 1/4 inch thickness that can handle several strands without snapping.

Curly and Coarse Hair

Curly textures benefit from snag-free elastics and fabric headbands that won’t pull or create frizz. Soft, wide bands with gentle tension reduce breakage, and clips with smooth edges are less likely to catch curls.

Styling Tips: Street, Smart Casual, and Workout

Accessories should match the vibe you’re after. A good rule of thumb: keep it simple for formal settings, bold for street looks, and functional for workouts. Think of accessories as accents—small details that tie the whole outfit together.

Street Style

Streetwear loves attitude. Go for patterned or branded headbands, chunky clips, or novelty items that create an urban edge. Pair with a textured jacket or a statement tee to balance the look.

Smart Casual

For smart-casual, choose understated accessories—neutral colours, thin bands, and minimal clips. A simple black or navy headband or small matte clips will keep things tidy without drawing too much attention.

Workout Ready

Performance is key for exercise. Choose moisture-wicking fabrics and snug fits. A 1-inch mid-width band often provides the sweet spot: wide enough to keep sweat away, narrow enough to stay comfortable during high-intensity sessions.

Care and Maintenance: Make Accessories Last

Treat them right and your headbands and elastics will hang around longer. Gentle washing, avoiding high heat, and storing them properly are small habits that pay off. Most fabric bands can go through a gentle cycle; elastics should be air-dried to avoid stretching.

Cleaning Headbands

Wash headbands on a gentle cycle or hand wash in cool water, then lay flat to dry. Avoid tumble drying on high heat, which can shrink or warp fabrics. For quick refreshes, a light spritz of fabric-safe deodoriser between washes works wonders.

Elastics and Clips

Check elastics for signs of fraying or reduced elasticity—if they won’t spring back, it’s time to replace them. Clips should be wiped down if sweaty, and any rust or stiff springs mean they’re past their prime. Treat them like small tools: keep them clean and dry.

Price vs. Value: Finding Smart Buys

You don’t always need top-dollar accessories to get great results. Multi-packs and basic branded pieces deliver excellent value. That said, spending a bit more on technical headbands or high-quality elastics can save money long term by reducing replacements.

When to Spend a Little More

Invest in a good performance headband if you run regularly or train hard—durability and sweat management will matter. Likewise, if your hair is thick, a sturdier elastic reduces the number of times you replace it over months.

When to Save

If you’re experimenting with looks or need accessories for casual use, budget options and multi-packs are perfect. They let you test colours and styles without commitment.

Where to Compare Prices and Read Reviews

Comparison sites and marketplaces help you weigh options quickly. Use product reviews to check real-world fit and durability; look for photos from buyers and notes about comfort. Comparison platforms also highlight deals and let you compare features side-by-side so you make smarter purchases.

Use Reviews Wisely

Prioritise reviews that mention hair type, activity level, and duration of use. A glowing review from someone who runs three times a week is more relevant if you plan to use the headband for training than a short-lived fashion post.

Final Buying Checklist

Before you hit “buy,” run through this quick checklist: will it hold your hair during the activity you plan, is the width appropriate for your hair length, does the fabric handle sweat if needed, and do you like the colour enough to wear regularly? Answering these keeps impulse buys to a minimum and satisfaction high.

Armed with the right knowledge and a few go-to shops—like Lindex for everyday pieces and RunningXpert for technical headbands—you can assemble a small but versatile accessory kit that keeps you styled and functional. Remember: the best accessory is the one that solves your problem and fits your vibe.

Conclusion: A small investment in the right hair accessories transforms routine grooming into a reliable style asset. Whether you pick up multipacks for daily use or a technical band for your runs, the options across UK stores cover every need and budget. Try a mix of pieces, care for them properly, and you’ll be ready for whatever your day throws at you—from meetings to miles.