Just because softball players play in the dirt doesn't mean their hair should look like dirt. A young lady's mane can go in so many directions. However, the staple softball hairdo is the braid. 

Braids keep hair out of the face and keep a lady cooler in 100-degree weather. A solid Dutch or French braid can handle helmet wear. Below, we look at different styles and braiding tutorials for you to ball out.

1. Dutch Braid for Beginners

Mastering the Dutch and French braid is the launching pad for any type of braid variation. This tutorial gives you a solid how-to for braiding.

Pictured: Cali Lanphear, Texas A&M

2. French Braid

3. Ponybraid

One of the most popular braid combos on the field is the ponytail French braid that starts with a ponytail. You can add a ribbon or a bow where the ponytail ends and where the braid begins. The French braid follows.

Pictured: Taylor Van Zee, Univ. of Washington

4. Double Dutch Braid for Beginners

The Double Dutch braid was my jam when I played. This braid lasts throughout the day if you braid your when it's wet and use hairspray. Fast forward to 2:45 to start the tutorial.

5. Side French Braid into a Ponytail

A perfect summer braid is the side French braid into a ponytail. The ponytail sits low and doesn't get in the way of putting on a helmet. 

6. Side Dutch Braid into a Ponytail

The side Dutch braid into a ponytail is the same as the previous braid except for the Dutch braiding technique. 

7. Double Boxer Braid into One

Love this double boxer braid into one braid. This a clean look that keeps the locks under control.

8. 3-in-1 Double Dutch Braid

Take your braiding skills to a whole new level. Warning: the 3-in-1 double Dutch braid can be bit loose.

9. Waterfall Twist Combo

Love the waterfall twist combo! This is a braid that will need an extra set of hands to achieve this braid. 

10. Criss Cross Dutch Braids

Missy Sue shares a criss-cross dutch braid for the ultimate x-factor.