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AR 670-1 Ponytail Regulations 2025

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Ponytail Regulation Changes 2025

Female Soldiers are authorized to wear ponytails in all uniforms.

  • Hair will be neatly and inconspicuously fastened or secured in one of the following styles:
    • Bun
    • Singular ponytail
    • Two braids
    • Singular braid

  • Multiple locs, braids, twists, or cornrows may come together in:
    • One or two braids
    • A single ponytail

Braids and singular ponytails may be worn down the center of the back in all uniforms.

  • However, the length will not extend past the bottom of the shoulder blades when standing at the position of attention.
  • There is no minimum length for the wear of a ponytail or braid(s).

Ponytail Style

Safety Note: Please consider safety concerns such as ripping, tearing, pulling, or tangling if hair is not properly secured and becomes caught on an object or obstacle.

Ponytail Regulation Exceptions/Waiver

  • The only exceptions to ponytail or braid length apply while conducting tactical or physical training in the:
    • Army Combat Uniform (ACU)
    • Army Physical Fitness Uniform (APFU)

During these activities:

  • The length of secured hair should not hinder performance or increase risk to safety.
  • No portion of the bulk of the hair, as measured from the scalp, will exceed:
    • 2 inches (except for a bun)
    • 3½ inches for a bun (which must be:
      • Worn centered on the back of the head
      • No wider than the width of the head)

In all uniforms:

  • Unsecured hair will be:
    • Worn centered in the back of the head
    • The ponytail will not be placed on the side or top of the head
    • Hair will not be wider than the width of the head
    • Hair will not interfere with proper wear of authorized Army headgear

Safety Note: Please consider safety concerns such as ripping, tearing, pulling, or tangling if hair is not properly secured and becomes caught on an object or obstacle.

Army Ponytail Regulation Considerations

  • The braid(s) or ponytail cannot be worn over the shoulder or pulled in front of the body.
  • It must go down the female Soldier’s back.

While wearing equipment such as:

  • Combat Vehicle Crewman (CVC) helmets
  • Advanced Combat Helmets (ACH)

Female Soldiers are authorized to wear their hair in a ponytail and/or long braid(s) secured inside their utility uniform top.

Commanders will analyze the risk of a free-hanging ponytail or braid and use commander’s discretion to determine if long hair should be secured/tucked inside the uniform top.

Safety Note: Please consider safety concerns such as ripping, tearing, pulling, or tangling due to hair being caught on an object or obstacle if not properly secured.

George N.
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