How do I wear hijab for sports?
Use a sports hijab. These are slip-on, breathable hijabs that stay in place while you run, jump or swim, with no pins. Pair one with leggings or track pants under a long sports top, or full-length sportswear. Major sports bodies now allow hijab in competition, so faith and fitness go together.
Sports are encouraged
Islam values a strong, healthy body. Aisha raced the Prophet ﷺ on a journey and won; years later they raced again and he won, and he told her this one made up for the first (Sunan Abi Dawud 2578). Muslim women have every reason to stay active, and hijab doesn't need to hold you back.
What to wear
- Sports hijab: a one-piece slip-on made from moisture-wicking fabric. It covers the hair, ears, neck and part of the chest.
- Top: a long-sleeved, loose sports top that reaches the hips or thighs. Sports tunics are made for this.
- Bottoms: leggings or joggers under the long top, or loose track pants.
- Swimming: full-coverage swimwear with a swim hood. See Can I still go swimming at a public pool as a Muslim?
Safety first
- Avoid pins, which can injure you in a fall or contact sport.
- Avoid long loose ends that can catch in equipment or bikes.
- Choose thin fabric over the ears so you can hear traffic and coaches.
- Drink water and pick breathable fabrics; overheating is a real risk.
Competing
FIFA has allowed head coverings in football since 2014, and FIBA lifted its basketball ban in 2017. Hijab-wearing women have competed at the Olympics in fencing, weightlifting, boxing and more. If a local club or school says hijab isn't allowed, ask about the governing body's current rules; many local bans are outdated.
If you train in a women-only space, you can remove the hijab entirely. See Can I take off my hijab at a women-only gym?
- Islam encourages being active.
- Sports hijabs are pin-free and breathable.
- A long top over leggings covers well.
- Major sports bodies allow hijab.
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