The U.S. Army has officially updated its grooming policy, a significant change that now permits female Soldiers to wear ponytails in all authorized U.S. Army uniforms. This update, announced today, marks a progressive step in acknowledging the needs and feedback of female service members while maintaining professional standards within the force.
This policy revision follows a comprehensive review initiated by the Department of Defense and is a direct result of feedback collected from Soldiers. A dedicated group of Soldiers consolidated recommendations, leading the Army to reconsider and ultimately approve the wear of ponytails. This decision reflects the Army’s commitment to listen to its personnel and adapt policies to better serve them.
US Army Soldier in female military uniforms wearing approved ponytail hairstyle
According to Sgt. Maj. Brian C. Sanders, Army G-1 Uniform Policy Branch Sergeant Major, “This new modification is more practical for our female Soldiers. It allows them flexibility in a tactical environment, while maintaining a professional appearance in garrison.” He also highlighted the health benefits of this change, noting, “This change also helps to alleviate hair loss and damage to the scalp,” issues previously associated with hairstyles like the bun, which were the primary authorized style. The Army’s prior approvals of more inclusive and healthier hairstyle options were aimed at reducing hair damage and loss, and the ponytail authorization is a continuation of this effort.
The U.S. Army emphasizes its continuous evaluation of regulations, including uniform and grooming policies, as a means to improve the lives of its Soldiers. Grooming standards and pride in wearing Female Military Uniforms are considered integral to discipline and personal readiness, which in turn, significantly impacts overall unit readiness. This policy update balances these crucial aspects with the practical needs of female soldiers.
US Army Soldier in female military uniforms demonstrating the new ponytail regulation
Key changes to the female military uniform grooming standards include specific guidelines for how hair can be worn:
- Hair can be “neatly and inconspicuously fastened or secured” in a bun, single ponytail, two braids, or a single braid.
- For Soldiers with multiple locs, braids, twists, or cornrows, these may be combined into one or two braids or a single ponytail.
- Braids and ponytails can be worn down the center of the back in all female military uniforms; however, the length should not extend past the bottom of the shoulder blades when the Soldier is at the position of attention. Notably, there is no minimum length requirement for wearing a ponytail or braid.
An exception to the length restriction is made for tactical or physical training scenarios. In these situations, hair length should not impede a Soldier’s performance or pose any safety risks. Sgt. Maj. Sanders clarified this, stating, “Commanders will analyze the risk of a free hanging ponytail or braid and use commander’s discretion to determine if long hair will be secured or tucked inside the uniform top” during such activities.
US Army Soldier in combat female military uniforms with ponytail hairstyle
For a comprehensive overview of all modifications to the Army’s appearance and grooming standards, soldiers and interested parties are directed to https://armypubs.army.mil/Publications/Administrative/POG/SA.aspx. Further inquiries can be directed to Lt. Col. Junel Jeffrey, HQDA G-1 Public Affairs Officer, or Hank Minitrez, Deputy G-1 PAO, whose contact details are provided in the original announcement. This update to female military uniforms policy reflects the Army’s ongoing commitment to evolving and improving conditions for all soldiers.
