The U.S. Army has authorized female soldiers to wear ponytails in all U.S. Army uniforms.
The Army has revised the grooming policies back in February after a DOD mandated review of their policies.
After taking feedback from the force and consolidated policy recommendation from a group of soldiers, the Army reconsidered and approved female soldiers to wear pontails.
“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,” said Sgt. Maj. Brian C. Sanders, Army G-1 Uniform Policy Branch Sergeant Major. “This change also helps to alleviate hair loss and damage to the scalp.”
The Army has earlier approved healthier hairstyle options in order to prevent hair loss or breakage due to styles like the bun.
Below are the key changes that the Army has auhorized:
- Hair must be neatly and inconspicuously tied and secured in either a bun, pony tail, single, or double braid.
- Multiple locs, braids, twists or cornrows may come together in one or two braids or a single ponytail.
- Braids and singular ponytails may be worn down the center of the back in all uniforms, but length will not extend past the bottom of the shoulder blades while at the position of attention. There is no minimum length for the wear of a ponytail or braid.
Coming to the length of the braid or ponytail is that it must not hinder the performance of the soldier or pose a safety risk.
“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,” said Sanders.
