Hair can really mean something to soccer fans.
When the look is good, the player raises his level of ‘coolness’ and becomes much more well known.
Colombia’s Carlos Valderamma became well known even to non-soccer fans in large part because of his iconic hairstyle. In this post, we’ll see which MLS players are following in his footsteps by becoming well known for their hair. (Image source: FoxSports)
In Soccer, Hair Matters
In fact, hair is such a big deal, it can mean a big difference in sponsorship dollars for players and better overall business for MLS. More cooler looks from players means more advertising dollars for the league.
Of course, if the player sucks, cool hair won’t matter all that much. But, if the player is solid and a producer, watch out; he and his hair may be ready to go big time.
Some guys have better luck with hair than others. The bald look can be a winner if it suits the player’s position and image.
Some players are willing to go the surgical route to maintain the look they want. In England, Wayne Rooney of Manchester United thought it was important enough to get a hair transplant for his looks and his confidence. His play got better after his new hairdo started to grow in thicker.
Top 5 Current MLS Hairstyles
There are several honorable mentions in the best hairstyle category:
Give credit to Kyle Beckerman of Real Salt Lake and Shalrie Joseph of Chivas USA for unforgettable looks. Their hairstyles with reggae braids (and maybe extensions for Joseph?) may not be the most appealing to many fans, but they stand out in the crowd of MLS players. Their hair makes for more cushion for headers, but possibly holds them back as athletes because it looks like it weighs a ton.
Steven Lenhart of the San Jose Earthquakes is noticeable on the field with his blonde locks and natural curls. It definitely allows him to be just a little more famous.
Brek Shea (below) of FC Dallas and Robbie Keane of the LA Galaxy also know that a good look is important for a goal-scorer. In the past, both have taken to the almost Mohawk style with a close cut to the sides.
Brek Shea’s mohawk has gained him a lot of notoriety. Unfortunately, his play hasn’t matched the hype this year. (Image credit: Kevin Jairaj/US Presswire via ESPN.com)
Shea, who would have been named best MLS hairstyle of 2011, has been a letdown this season and knows it, so he might not be emphasizing a cool look now. He probably wants to go under the radar.
Dwayne De Rosario of DC United has been able to match a really cool combo hairstyle and beard. He has kept his look contemporary from season to season. He stands out and deserves credit for playing at a high level and looking dapper.
Dwayne could have been number 5, but reports have Dwayne out for the season with a knee injury so he is disqualified.
5. Fredy Montero, Seattle
Fredy Montero of the Seattle Sounders has the classic forward look with his hair band to hold his locks back.
He makes it look cool, but he may need a trim to get it just right.
Fredy Montero and his signature headband. (Image credit: Ric Tapia/Getty Images via NY Times)
4. Aurelien Collin, Sporting KC
Aurelien Colling, a French defenseman of Sporting KC, makes the bald look beautiful.
It fits him, his personality, and he and his play fit his team’s needs.
Aurelien Collin is clearly happy about his bald look. (Image source: SoccerByIves.net)
3. David Beckham, L.A. Galaxy
David Beckham of the Galaxy is the trendsetter of all trendsetters.
He knows his fashion. He’s good at fitting his hair for a different style each season. He has the classic model’s hair.
David Beckham has had some of the most notable locks in all of soccer for two decades. (Image source: Kickette.com)
2. Kei Kamara, Sporting KC
Kei Kamara of Sierra Leone and Sporting KC makes his look cool by spiking his hair with natural twist braids and giving it a fro-like look.
He has a big smile when he plays and he brings joy to the field with his style.
Kei Kamara’s hair matches his exuberant personality. (Image source: Sierra Express Media)
1. Graham Zusi, Sporting KC and USMNT
Graham Zusi of Sporting KC and the US Men’s National Team has the very best hair in MLS right now. He is matching his ability on the field with his hair. He’s a gamer and knows it.
He brings his hair back with a band in the forehead. He looks cool when he sweats and his hair is the right length.
Graham Zusi is a rising star, and he has the hair to match. (Image source: Sporting KC Facebook)
*****
Who do you think has the best hair in MLS right now? Vote in the poll.
Loading ...**********
Howard Alperin is Managing Editor of AmericanizeSoccer.com
About Howard M Alperin
[...] The 5 Most Striking MLS Hairstyles Give credit to Kyle Beckerman of Real Salt Lake and Shalrie Joseph of Chivas USA for unforgettable looks. Their hairstyles with reggae braids (and perhaps extensions for Joseph?) might not be the most delicate to numerous fans, but they stand out in the crowd … Read more on Midwest Sports Fans [...]