The world of sportswear has changed dramatically in recent years, with inclusivity at the forefront of innovation. One of the most significant advancements is the rise of the athletic hijab. 

Designed to give Muslim women comfort, coverage, and functionality during exercise, the athletic hijab is more than just sportswear; it is a symbol of empowerment and representation.

In this guide, we will explore what the athletic hijab is, why it matters, its history, key features, and how to choose the right one. We will also highlight options from Wommo, a brand dedicated to creating modest activewear that blends functionality with style.

What Is an Athletic Hijab?

An athletic hijab is a sports-friendly head covering designed to stay secure and breathable during physical activity. Unlike everyday hijabs, which may be made from heavier fabrics, the athletic hijab is lightweight, sweat-wicking, and ergonomically shaped. It is intended to:

• Provide modest coverage that aligns with Islamic values.
• Stay in place during movement, from running to swimming.
• Support performance with breathable, quick-drying materials.

This innovation means Muslim women no longer have to compromise comfort or safety by wearing makeshift head coverings while exercising.

Why the Athletic Hijab Matters

For decades, Muslim women in sport faced barriers to participation, ranging from cultural restrictions to uniform rules that did not accommodate modest dress. Research has shown that access to modest clothing significantly affects women’s engagement in sports.

The athletic hijab addresses key concerns:

• Inclusivity in sport: Women can participate at all levels, from casual exercise to professional competition.
• Comfort and safety: Purpose-built designs replace layering heavy scarves that slip or restrict movement.
• Confidence: Women feel free to focus on performance rather than adjusting their hijab.

Beyond performance, the athletic hijab symbolises progress by giving visibility to Muslim women in sport and challenging stereotypes.

A Brief History of the Athletic Hijab

The journey of the athletic hijab reflects a broader movement toward inclusivity in sportswear.

• Early 2000s: Muslim women athletes often relied on layered scarves or makeshift head coverings, which posed safety and comfort issues.
• 2004: FIFA introduced a ban on head coverings during football matches, citing safety concerns. This excluded many Muslim women from international competition.
• 2012–2014: The ban was lifted after lobbying from athletes and organisations, opening the door for sports-friendly hijabs.
• 2016: Nike announced the Nike Pro Hijab, a performance hijab designed with input from Muslim athletes. The launch generated global attention and marked a turning point in modest sportswear.
• Today: Both mainstream brands and modest fashion companies offer athletic hijabs, reflecting a growing market and consumer demand.

The athletic hijab’s evolution is not just about clothing; it represents a shift toward equal opportunities in sport.

Key Features of a High-Quality Athletic Hijab

When choosing an athletic hijab, several features set high-performing designs apart:

1. Breathable, Sweat-Wicking Fabrics

Lightweight polyester and elastane blends keep the fabric cool and comfortable, even during intense workouts.

2. Secure Fit

Ergonomic designs ensure the hijab stays in place, whether running, swimming, or cycling.

3. Quick-Drying

Ideal for both land and water sports, quick-drying fabrics prevent discomfort.

4. Minimal Seams

Flatlock stitching reduces irritation and ensures a sleek fit under helmets or caps.

5. Range of Coverage Options

Some athletic hijabs are shorter and streamlined for performance, while others offer fuller coverage for women who prefer additional modesty.

Examples of Athletic Hijabs

At Wommo, modest swimwear and activewear are at the heart of their collections. For women seeking sports-friendly hijabs, options like the Swim’n’splash Instant Swim Hijab in Terracotta are designed to stay put while swimming or training. 

Lightweight and quick-drying, they combine functionality with modest style.

Paired with pieces like the Swim Tunic or Swim’n’splash Swim Leggings in Black, the swim hijab becomes part of a complete athletic outfit. This combination ensures coverage, durability, and freedom of movement in and out of the water.

Athletic Hijab in Professional Sport

The introduction of the athletic hijab has changed the landscape for Muslim women in professional sport.

• In 2012, fencer Ibtihaj Muhammad became the first Muslim woman to compete for the US Olympic team while wearing a hijab.
• In 2016, Nike’s announcement of the Pro Hijab gained international recognition, highlighting the need for inclusive sportswear.
• Today, women in sports ranging from football to swimming and athletics wear performance hijabs designed specifically for their needs.
  
  

This visibility is powerful, inspiring young Muslim women to pursue sport without feeling excluded.

How to Choose the Right Athletic Hijab

When shopping for an athletic hijab, consider the following:

1. Your Sport: Swimming requires chlorine-resistant, quick-dry materials, while running or gym workouts need breathable, lightweight fabrics.
2. Coverage Preference: Some women prefer streamlined fits for minimal drag, while others opt for fuller coverage.
3. Fabric Technology: Look for moisture-wicking and UV-resistant fabrics for outdoor training.
4. Durability: A good athletic hijab should withstand repeated washing without losing shape.
5. Brand Reputation: Established modest wear brands like Wommo specialise in combining performance with values, making them a trusted choice.

Social and Cultural Impact of the Athletic Hijab

The athletic hijab has had a profound effect beyond sportswear. It has reshaped how society views Muslim women in athletic spaces.

• Representation: Visibility of hijab-wearing athletes challenges stereotypes and encourages younger generations.
• Inclusivity: Fitness spaces become more welcoming when modest clothing is normalised.
• Cultural Relevance: The athletic hijab acknowledges that women do not need to choose between faith and physical activity.

As one study found, veiled Muslim women define modest activewear not only by coverage but also by comfort and durability. This insight underscores the importance of well-designed hijabs for encouraging participation in sport.

Athletic Hijab Beyond the Gym

The benefits of the athletic hijab go far beyond professional sports. Everyday activities such as:

• Gym workouts: Lightweight designs allow freedom of movement.
• Running and cycling: Secure fits prevent distraction.
• Swimming: Quick-dry hijabs, like Wommo’s swim hijabs, provide coverage without drag.
• Outdoor adventure: UV-resistant fabrics protect during hiking or trekking.

Its versatility makes the athletic hijab a wardrobe essential for modest, active women.

FAQ About Athletic Hijabs

Is the athletic hijab only for Muslim women?
No. While it is primarily designed for Muslim women, some non-Muslim women wear athletic hijabs for sun protection or comfort.

Are athletic hijabs safe for competitive sports?
Yes. Designs use lightweight, breathable fabrics with minimal seams, reducing risks of overheating or discomfort. The lifting of bans by organisations such as FIFA has further validated their safety.

Can I wear an athletic hijab for swimming?
Yes. Swim-specific hijabs, like the Swim’n’splash Instant Swim Hijab, are chlorine-resistant, quick-drying, and secure in water.

Final Thoughts

The athletic hijab represents more than a clothing innovation; it is a step toward inclusivity, empowerment, and confidence in sport. For Muslim women, it removes one of the biggest barriers to participation: finding clothing that aligns with values while supporting performance.

Whether you are hitting the gym, the pool, or the running track, the right athletic hijab makes it possible to move with freedom and confidence.

For thoughtfully designed athletic hijabs and modest sportswear, explore the full collection at Wommo.