The U.S. Army has announced a significant update to its grooming policy, allowing female Soldiers to wear ponytails in all authorized U.S. Army uniforms. This modification, effective immediately, marks a progressive step in acknowledging the needs and preferences of female personnel while maintaining professional standards within the force.
This policy revision comes after a comprehensive Department of Defense-mandated review of grooming standards earlier in February. Driven by valuable feedback directly from female Soldiers and a clear policy recommendation from a dedicated Soldier group, the Army reconsidered previous regulations and officially approved the wear of ponytails. This change reflects the Army’s commitment to evolving its policies to better serve its diverse force.
U.S. Army Soldier in uniform wearing a ponytail, showcasing the new grooming policy for female soldiers.
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 provides them with increased flexibility in tactical environments, without compromising a professional appearance in garrison.” Beyond practicality, this update also addresses health concerns. “This change also helps to alleviate hair loss and damage to the scalp often associated with previously mandated hairstyles,” Sanders added.
Prior to this update, the Army had already taken steps to approve healthier hairstyle options that are more inclusive of various natural hair textures. These earlier changes aimed to mitigate hair damage and loss resulting from hairstyles like the tightly wound bun, which was previously a common requirement. The continued evaluation and adaptation of uniform and grooming policies underscores the Army’s commitment to the well-being of its soldiers, recognizing it as a top priority. Grooming standards and uniform pride are considered integral to discipline and personal readiness, which in turn directly impacts overall unit readiness.
Side view of a U.S. Army Soldier demonstrating the approved ponytail hairstyle within the female soldier uniform regulations.
Key elements of the updated grooming policy for Female Soldier Uniforms include:
- Hair can be neatly and discreetly secured in a bun, single ponytail, two braids, or a single braid. This provides multiple options to accommodate different hair lengths and textures while maintaining a professional look within the female soldier uniform guidelines.
- For soldiers with multiple locs, braids, twists, or cornrows, these styles may now be gathered into one or two braids or a single ponytail, further increasing inclusivity and flexibility in hairstyle choices within uniform regulations.
- Braids and single ponytails can be worn down the center of the back with all uniforms. However, to ensure functionality and safety, the length should not extend past the bottom edge of the shoulder blades when the Soldier is in the position of attention. Importantly, there is no minimum length specified for wearing a ponytail or braid, offering maximum adaptability for female soldiers.
An exception to the length restriction exists during tactical training or physical training scenarios. In these situations, the primary concern is soldier safety and performance. Hair length should not impede a Soldier’s ability to perform tasks or pose any safety risks.
“Commanders are entrusted to assess the risk associated with a free-hanging ponytail or braid in specific situations,” Sanders clarified. “Using their discretion, commanders will determine if long hair needs to be secured further or tucked inside the uniform top to mitigate any potential hazards during training or operations.”
Close-up of a U.S. Army Soldier's ponytail, illustrating the practical and professional appearance now allowed under the updated female soldier uniform policy.
For a comprehensive overview of all modifications to the Army’s appearance and grooming standards, soldiers and interested parties can consult the official publication at https://armypubs.army.mil/Publications/Administrative/POG/SA.aspx. This updated female soldier uniform grooming policy reflects the U.S. Army’s ongoing commitment to improving the lives and experiences of its soldiers, ensuring policies are both practical and respectful of the diverse needs of its force.
