Quick answer: A claw clip is best when you want your hair up without a crease and without heat or a tight band; it suits twists, half-up styles and quick updos. A hair tie gives the firmest hold for ponytails, braids and exercise. A scrunchie sits between the two: it holds a ponytail with less tension and is less likely to leave a kink. Many people use all three: a clip for everyday, a tie for workouts and a scrunchie for loose styles and sleep.
Key takeaways
- Claw clips hold hair by gripping a twist, so they leave no ponytail crease.
- Hair ties hold tightest but can leave kinks and, if worn very tight every day, add tension.
- Scrunchies spread the hold over more fabric and are the gentlest choice for loose ponytails.
- Pick by the job: style, activity, hair thickness and how long you will wear it.
Side-by-side comparison
| Claw clip | Hair tie (elastic) | Scrunchie | |
|---|---|---|---|
| How it holds | Teeth grip a twist or section | Elastic wraps tightly around a ponytail | Elastic covered in fabric wraps around a ponytail |
| Hold strength | Medium to strong, depends on size | Strongest | Medium |
| Leaves a crease | Rarely | Often | Less often |
| Best for | Twists, half-up, quick updos | Ponytails, braids, sport | Loose ponytails, buns, overnight |
| Comfort lying back | Low placement needed | Good | Good |
| Looks dressy | Yes, in acetate or metal | Usually hidden | Casual to polished in silk |
| Typical lifespan | Long; springs can wear out | Stretches out over time | Long if washed gently |
When is a claw clip the better choice?
Choose a claw clip when you want your hair up for a few hours and down again later without a dent. Because the clip grips a twist instead of squeezing a ponytail, it distributes the hold across a wider area. It is also the fastest way to look put together: a twist and a clip takes under a minute.
The key is size. A clip that is too small for your hair will not close; one that is too big will slide. As a rule of thumb, about 6.5–7.5 cm suits fine or short hair, 8.5–10.5 cm suits medium hair, and 11–13 cm suits thick or long hair. Our claw clip size guide has the full chart.
An 11 cm everyday clip: Frosted Matte Claw Clip 11cm Everyday Hair Clip
If you have wondered whether clips are kind to your hair, read are claw clips bad for your hair?
When is a hair tie the better choice?
A hair tie is still the right tool for running, the gym, and any style that needs to stay in place while you move a lot. It is also the base for braids and many updos. The trade-off is tension. The American Academy of Dermatology lists tight ponytails among habits that can damage hair and recommends wearing hair loosely pulled back and using covered bands made for styling hair. In practice: tie firmly enough to hold, not so tight that your scalp aches, and change the position of your ponytail from day to day.
When is a scrunchie the better choice?
A scrunchie is a covered band, so it holds a ponytail with a softer grip and is less likely to leave a sharp kink. It is a good choice for loose ponytails at home, for tying hair back before bed and for hair that breaks easily. Silk scrunchies are smooth, so they create less friction on the hair they touch.
A silk scrunchie: 22 Momme Silk Scrunchie, 5 cm Hair Tie
Which is best for your hair type?
| Hair type | Everyday | Workout | Overnight |
|---|---|---|---|
| Fine or thin | Small claw clip | Hair tie, loosely | Silk scrunchie |
| Thick or long | Large 11–13 cm claw clip | Strong hair tie | Loose braid with a scrunchie |
| Curly | Large claw clip, gentle twist | Scrunchie or covered tie | Loose high scrunchie |
| Short | Small clip or half-up | Clips or pins for front pieces | Nothing needed |
For more detail by hair type, see hair accessories for your hair type and claw clips for curly hair.
Can you use a claw clip and a hair tie together?
Yes. A common trick for very thick hair is a low ponytail tied loosely, then twisted and secured with a claw clip. The tie takes some of the weight, so the clip does not have to grip as hard. You can also clip a bow or barrette over a hair tie to dress up a plain ponytail; our bow hairstyles guide shows how.
How many of each should you own?
For most people, a practical starter set is one medium claw clip, one larger or smaller clip depending on your hair, a few hair ties for exercise, and one or two scrunchies for loose styles. That covers work, weekends, workouts and sleep without a drawer full of things you never use.
Frequently asked questions
Is a claw clip better than a hair tie?
It depends on the job. A claw clip leaves no ponytail crease and works well for twists and half-up styles. A hair tie holds more firmly for exercise and braids.
Do claw clips cause less damage than hair ties?
A claw clip grips a twist rather than squeezing a ponytail, so it can feel less tight. Any accessory can add tension if it is worn too tight, so keep styles comfortable and change their position.
Are scrunchies better for your hair than hair ties?
Scrunchies are covered bands, which tend to grip more softly and leave fewer kinks. Silk scrunchies also create less friction.
What should I use to put my hair up at night?
A loose low ponytail or braid tied with a silk scrunchie is a gentle option. Claw clips can press on your head when you lie down.
What size claw clip replaces a hair tie for thick hair?
Thick or long hair usually needs a clip of about 11–13 cm to close fully around a full twist.
Shop clips and scrunchies
Compare sizes in our claw clip collection or browse scrunchies. Contact us with any sizing question.
