Buzz
Sweatbands, a staple of the ’80s, have now become more of a nostalgic symbol. Much like how a floppy disk represents the 'save' function or an old telephone handset signifies making a call on a smartphone, sweatbands are often used as a playful way to depict someone exercising (as shown in the image above). In a picture book my daughter recently read to me, Gerald the elephant was even sporting them while learning to dance. It seems like no one actually wears them anymore, doesn’t it?
Except for me, that is. I purchased a vibrant rainbow-striped pair, not as a gag or for a costume, but for actual athletic use. (The fun color options are just an added perk.) As I’ve been working out with them, I can’t help but ask: Why did these practical accessories ever fall out of style?
Grab a pair of sweatbands and experience the comfort for yourself:
Eight sets of headbands and wristbands available in eight vibrant colors
For a nostalgic vibe: Four coordinated sets of headbands, wristbands, and striped tube socks
If you prefer simplicity: opt for these basic black wristbands and these plain black headbands.
In a way, wrapping terry cloth strips around your wrists and forehead can amplify the sensation of sweating. They do, in fact, concentrate sweat and heat on specific areas of your skin. Removing them post-workout gives me a refreshing sense of relief.
However, this minor inconvenience is outweighed by their primary function: preventing sweat from dripping onto your face and providing a quick way to wipe away any perspiration that builds up.
I don’t use them for every exercise. They’re not essential for activities like weightlifting or running in cooler weather, where you might only break a light sweat. But they’re ideal for workouts where stopping to grab a towel isn’t practical.
I first appreciated the usefulness of sweatbands during a 30-minute kettlebell competition. The goal was to complete as many reps as possible within the time limit, so I couldn’t afford to pause. I realized there’s no convenient way to wipe your face while clean-and-jerking a kettlebell—until I rediscovered the timeless utility of sweatbands.
Honestly, these sweatbands completely transformed my workout experience. While I’ve always believed my upper lip was the sweatiest area, I realized some of that moisture must be coming from above. With a sweatband on my forehead, my face stayed much drier. Plus, having a fresh, dry sweatband on each wrist made it easy to wipe my face between reps. The biggest surprise was how the wristbands prevented arm sweat from dripping onto my hands—a problem I hadn’t even noticed until it was gone.
I completed my 30-minute competition with a winning score of 392 reps. The sweatbands impressed me so much that, two years later, I still use them for outdoor runs and indoor cycling classes. These accessories are genius, and they never should have fallen out of fashion.
