About Swimming Caps

Swim caps are the unsung heroes of swimming. You might only appreciate the importance of a cap when you forget yours at home, or choose the wrong one for a workout. Originally meant to keep the hair out of your face in the water, swim caps have found favor among competitive and fitness swimmers as both speed enhancers and scalp protectors.

Permeable Caps

Caps made out of stretchy fabric such as Lycra and Spandex allow water through them. The water-permeable caps keep your hair off your face, but do not keep your head dry. Because water streams over your head as you swim, the caps keep you cool. The sensation of water coursing over your head can be startling at first if you are accustomed to waterproof caps. Fabric caps do not snag or pull at your hair, and go on and off easily. The caps work best for kids because of their comfort, but most competitive swimmers do not choose them, as they can increase drag in the water.

Water-Resistant Caps

Rubber or latex caps keep the water off your head while you swim. They usually are an inexpensive option, and promoters or manufacturers often give away free caps at meets, usually featuring team logos or advertisements. The caps provide a tight and secure fit. You will not lose you cap when you dive at the start of a race, but you might pull or snap your hair when you pull it off. The thin caps tear easily and can cause skin irritation among sensitive swimmers. Thicker latex caps cost a bit more, but have a longer lifespan.

Silicone Caps

You might join fellow swimmers in a collective "ah," when you switch from latex caps to silicone caps. The slightly stretchy material feels gummy to the touch and glides on and off your hair without yanking or discomfort. Make sure you have a snug fit, though, so your cap does not slip off during fast sprints or dives. You might feel the heat more when swimming in warm water when wearing a silicone cap; silicone caps are thicker than latex ones and trap your body heat more efficiently. New manufacturing techniques add bolder designs every year; tie die caps or marble patterns feature riotous colors.

New Selections

Hybrid caps that feature latex shells with fabric Lycra interiors combine the good features of each material. You head stays cool but dry, and the caps do not pull your hair. Some silicone caps have extra flaps to protect the ears, a plus if you wear earplugs, as the flaps give you an extra layer of protection. Neoprene caps insulate your head and keep you warmer in cold open-water conditions. Chin straps and ear flaps keep your cap in place in choppy water, but can interfere with your ability to hear well.