Durags
Durags have been a popular head accessory for decades, and they have become much more prevalent among athletes. Before diving into durags relation with sports, it is essential first to understand the reasoning and use of a durag. Durags are typically used to protect specific hair patterns, including waves, braids, or locks. Hairstyles such as these can take time and patience to perfect, so durags are recommended to ensure the longevity of the style. Some styles require products to lock in or hold hair, so durags also prevent these oils or creams from escaping. Durags have made several emergences throughout history as a fashion statement. Despite the primary use of maintaining a hairstyle, many African American men (and women) figured they could keep it on while out and treat it as if they were wearing a hat. This transcended into a new style that has repeated itself throughout history.
DURAGS IN SPORTS
In sports that require helmets, such as football and baseball, every athlete has experienced something known as “helmet hair.” This is when a player's hair becomes cluttered from the use of a helmet throughout the game. For men and women with hairstyles that need protection, wearing a helmet directly over their hair would be a nightmare. Durags offer that extra layer of support required and are made to keep snug so that hair is not affected during play. Unfortunately, in the NFL, durags were banned for controversial reasons, but famous players such as Randy Moss and Michael Vick could have been seen wearing them prior to the ban.
DURAG Q&A
WHY ARE DURAGS BANNED?
Durags have raised controversial issues throughout history because they have been seen in popular culture in music and movies relating to gang activity. Although the durags had nothing to do with this actual representation, the individuals who represented this were sometimes wearing a durag, and it sparked controversy. It became unfortunate for regular users and athletes because every person who wore a durag primarily did it for the same reason and not because of their affiliation.
ARE DURAGS GOOD FOR YOUR HAIR?
Durags are great for your hair! They help protect and secure any style and promote hair growth. For users pushing to have waves, durags lock in moisture and help create that wave sensation. For users who have braids or twists, the durag helps hold each strand and prevent breakage.
CAN I WEAR DURAGS TO SCHOOL?
This ultimately goes back to the controversial issue. It depends on who is in charge because some officials treat it as a head covering while others are quick to pull the plug. Again, it all depends on where you attend school and who’s making the rules. There is no nationwide ban on durags, so different areas have different protocols.
HOW ARE DURAGS WORN?
Durags can be worn any way you want. They often come with a “cape,” which can be tucked in, tied, or worn loosely. Durags also come in many styles and colors so that they can be styled to anyone's preference.
ARE DURAGS CONSIDERED HATS?
Durags serve a different purpose than a hat. Although they can both be worn for fashion purposes, hats are most often worn strictly for fashion. Durags are used for the protection, maintenance, progression, and growth of hair.