Mousse usually works for me. Id do it while slightly damp, apply mousse, braid, apply more mousse if needed.

I wouldn't do gel personally, I think the crunchy feeling would be annoying. But I havent used gel in a long time, maybe they have high hold but not crunchy ones these days.

Instead of chemicals, use light organic oils.

https://dickssportinggoods.app.link/Rl5Qgkl8IUb

It’s been a while but my girls wore these with their braided hair for sports.

There’s a wax stick available on amazon that’s good for flyaways.

Non-crunchy gel and braid when damp - not wet. Aveda’s texturizing gel is good IMO