Kate Middleton is switching up her usual hairstyle (and for good reason).
Thursday afternoon, the Princess of Wales headed to the Welsh hills with Prince William for a meeting with volunteers of the Central Beacons Mountain Rescue Team, whose job is to keep hikers in the area safe. While trying their hands at training activities like rappelling, medical support exercises and a search dog rescue demonstration, Kate eschewed her signature hairstyle for a sportier look.
Instead of her usual curls, she pulled her locks back into a long ponytail, tucked beneath a ball cap (and at one point, a helmet).
Worth noting, Middleton wasn’t without a touch of glam—in the form of dangling gold earrings—even while bundled up against the elements.
It was a sharp contrast to what we’re used to seeing from the Princess, who makes most of her public appearances in elegant-yet-unfussy tousled waves. But we’re not all that surprised. The outing appeared blustery (anyone with long hair can concur that wind and a fresh blowout don’t mix). And this isn’t the first time she’s rocked a pony: She’s given both elegant cascades and full-on Sporty Spice in the past.
Will and Kate’s visit is part of their ongoing immersion in Wales since they became Prince and Princess of Wales after Queen Elizabeth’s death in September 2022.
Next on the agenda? The couple will head to Dowlais Rugby Club to meet members of the local community before stepping outside to greet well-wishers—making their rounds before the coronation on May 6, naturally.
