Claw Clip vs Scrunchie for Workouts: Which Is Actually Better for Your Hair?

The scrunchie-vs-clip debate has a clear answer: it depends on your workout.

Both work. Both have loyal fans at every gym. But each has specific advantages that make it better for certain activities—and worse for others.

We've tested both through every type of workout to find where each shines. Here's the honest breakdown.

For claw clip recommendations, see our best claw clips for the gym. For a complete overview, check the ultimate guide to claw clips for working out.

Head-to-Head Comparison

Let's break down what actually matters during a workout:

Overall: Neither is universally better. Your choice should depend on activity type and personal priorities.

When Claw Clips Win

Strength Training and Weights

Claw clips excel during lifting because:

• Stays out of the way: High bun positioning keeps hair clear of movement
• No tension headaches: Unlike tight ponytails, clips don't pull on your hairline during extended sessions
• Easy to adjust: Repositioning takes seconds without removing the clip entirely
• Looks more intentional: Clip updos look styled, not just functional

For lifting specifically, claw clips provide better comfort during long sessions.

Yoga and Mat Work

With the right flat-back clip:

• No pressure points: Flat clips lie flush during floor poses
• Breathing matters: Less scalp tension = less distraction during practice
• Smooth transitions: No ponytail bumping against your head in downward dog

See flat claw clips for yoga and Pilates for recommendations.

Post-Workout Transitions

If you're heading somewhere after the gym:

• Claw clips look more polished than scrunchie ponytails
• Easy to restyle without tools
• Less "just finished working out" vibes
• Transition from gym to coffee shop without looking disheveled

Hair Health Priority

For long-term hair health:

• Less tension = less traction alopecia risk
• No crease marks from elastic
• Easier on fragile or damaged hair
• Can reposition without starting over

If you workout daily, this cumulative benefit matters.

When Scrunchies Win

High-Impact Cardio

For jumping, running, and plyometrics:

• Maximum security: A tight scrunchie ponytail rarely escapes
• Tested by impact: The elastic holds against repetitive bouncing
• No spring to fail: No mechanical parts to weaken from sweat
• Simple: Grab-and-go without technique considerations

For pure security during jumping, scrunchies have the edge.

Very Long or Very Thick Hair

When hair volume is extreme:

• Scrunchies scale up easily (just wrap more times)
• Multiple scrunchies can be stacked for extra hold
• No clip sizing considerations
• More forgiving on technique

Budget-Conscious Choices

Good scrunchies cost less than quality claw clips:

• $5-10 for a multi-pack vs. $15-30 for quality clips
• Replacements are cheaper
• Less heartbreak if lost at the gym

Quick Sessions

For short, intense workouts:

• Faster to put in: No positioning considerations
• Works even on damp hair
• Less thought required

The Hair Health Factor

This is where claw clips have a genuine advantage.

Claw Clips: Lower Tension

• Distributed pressure: Weight spreads across the clip
• No pulling at hairline: Unlike ponytails, no constant tension
• Less breakage: Hair isn't wrapped and stressed
• No crease damage: Remove clip, hair falls naturally

Scrunchies: Still Better Than Elastics

Scrunchies are gentler than regular hair ties:

• Silk scrunchies reduce friction
• Wide band = distributed pressure
• No metal pieces to snag
• But still create some tension

Long-Term Considerations

If you work out daily:

• Claw clips: Minimal cumulative stress on hair
• Scrunchies: Some cumulative tension, especially if worn tight

For daily gym-goers concerned about hair health, claw clips win this factor.

Activity-by-Activity Breakdown

Running

Best choice: Scrunchie (slight edge)

The repetitive impact of running tests any hair accessory. Scrunchie ponytails with proper positioning hold more reliably than most clips.

However, quality clips with the double-twist technique work well for runs under 5 miles. See claw clips for running and HIIT.

HIIT/CrossFit

Best choice: Scrunchie (clear winner)

The combination of jumping, floor work, and constant position changes is hardest on claw clips. A secure scrunchie ponytail survives this chaos better.

Weightlifting

Best choice: Claw clip (clear winner)

Lower impact, longer duration, and comfort priority make clips ideal. No ponytail bouncing against benches.

Yoga

Best choice: Claw clip (clear winner)

Flat-back clips provide comfort during floor work that ponytails can't match. No pressure points during extended holds.

Pilates

Best choice: Claw clip (clear winner)

Reformer work and mat exercises need the flat-lie benefit clips provide.

Spinning/Cycling

Best choice: Either (tie)

Both work well—no high impact, no floor work. Choose based on post-class plans.

Swimming

Best choice: Scrunchie (slight edge)

Elastic survives submersion better. Clips can pop open when hitting water.

The Hybrid Approach

Many gym-goers use both:

During Warm-Up

Claw clip for stretching and mobility work—comfortable, polished, easy.

During Intense Portion

Switch to scrunchie for HIIT/running portion if needed.

During Cool-Down

Back to claw clip for stretching, flexibility work.

Post-Workout

Claw clip for transitioning to other activities.

No rule says you can't bring both. A small scrunchie takes zero space in a gym bag.

Common Questions

Can claw clips survive HIIT?

Yes, with the right technique and clip. The double-twist lock method + a 10-coil spring clip handles most HIIT. But scrunchies are easier for HIIT if you're not committed to clip technique.

Do scrunchies cause more breakage?

More than claw clips, yes. But far less than regular elastics. Silk scrunchies minimize this further.

What about headaches?

Claw clips rarely cause headaches (unless positioned wrong). Scrunchies can if wrapped too tight—loosening slightly usually fixes this.

Which is better for thick hair?

Either can work:

• Claw clips: Need XL sizing (see thick hair gym clips)
• Scrunchies: Just wrap more times

What about fine hair?

• Claw clips: Need textured surfaces and proper technique (see fine hair clips)
• Scrunchies: Silk scrunchies prevent slipping

Can I use both in one workout?

Absolutely. Many people clip for warm-up, scrunchie for intense work, clip for cool-down.

Price Comparison

For budget-conscious gym-goers, scrunchies provide more value. For long-term investment, quality claw clips last longer.

The Verdict

Neither is universally better. Here's how to choose:

Choose Claw Clips If:

• You prioritize hair health
• Your workouts are mostly weights/yoga/Pilates
• You transition to other activities post-gym
• You experience headaches from ponytails
• You prefer a more polished look

Choose Scrunchies If:

• Your workouts are mostly running/HIIT
• Maximum security is priority #1
• You want simplicity without technique
• Budget is a major factor
• You have very long or very thick hair

Use Both If:

• Your workouts vary day to day
• You do mixed activities in single sessions
• You want the best tool for each job

For claw clip recommendations, see our best claw clips for the gym. For more comparisons, check claw clips vs hair ties for working out and our existing claw clips vs scrunchies comparison.