Cap it Off: Tips for Finding the Perfect Swim Cap
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If you have just started diving into water activities, you may have noticed that most regulars at the pool wear a swim cap. The variety of swim caps can be a little overwhelming, so before you take the plunge to buy one, make sure it is right for you. Keep reading to find your perfect swim cap.
Why should you wear a cap?
Contrary to popular belief, caps aren’t meant to protect hairdos or keep your hair dry. Even cap-wearers end up with wet hair. Instead, caps help reduce drag and keep your hair out of your face.
Different caps for different folks
As you decide which cap is best for you, it helps to know when and where you will be wearing your cap. What activities will you be engaging in while wearing your swim cap? Lap swimmers, triathletes, and water polo players all have different criteria for what makes a good swim cap.
Secondly, what would be most comfortable for you? Each person has a unique hair type and head size, so one size does not fit all.
Types of caps:
● Silicone Caps
The most versatile cap is the silicone cap. Silicone is incredibly durable and tear-resistant. These are long-lasting caps, and depending on the frequency of use, they can last multiple years. It is a thicker material than most other caps, so it feels secure and is great for long- and thick-haired swimmers. It is also hypoallergenic.
● Cloth Caps
Cloth caps are usually made from some combination of nylon, lycra, or polyester. It is very similar to swimsuit fabric and is one of the most comfortable cap materials. However, cloth caps are the least water-resistant, so your hair will get wetter faster. It is a common material for water polo players (water polo caps also have protective ear coverings). TYR designed a cloth cap with a PU coating, which helps retain body heat and is ideal for open water swimmers.
● Latex Caps
Latex caps are the cheapest option and common among teams or competitions. Because a logo can easily be printed on these caps, it is a common cap type for triathlons. However, many triathletes wear a second cap - usually silicone - underneath their tagged competition latex cap because latex can be uncomfortable. It will fit snugly and not slip, but it can also cause hair tearing. People with latex allergies should not choose a latex cap.
● Neoprene Caps
Neoprene is the thickest cap material and is similar to the fabric of a drysuit. It is designed to keep your head warm in cold water and is common among open-water swimmers, surfers, and triathletes. Some neoprene caps are also padded for additional warmth.
Size Matters
Caps are meant to fit snugly. However, too-small caps can increase headaches and earaches, so it is important to choose the right size. If you have a lot of hair or a larger head, opt for a larger-sized cap. Most companies also offer youth sizes, which may even be a good fit for smaller-headed adults.
Color
Lastly, color and pattern can be a great way to show your personality, but it can also be a matter of life or death. If you are a new swimmer or if you participate in mostly ocean and open-water swimming, it is incredibly important to stay visible. A brightly colored cap can help alert lifeguards or other swimmers to your location.
Ready to find your perfect cap?
As stated earlier, choosing a cap is not a one-size-fits-all situation. Sometimes, a very specific cap is needed, but many times, any of the caps described above could be a workable solution. We recommend trying two or three different types before committing to your favorite cap. Let us know in the comments which cap you chose and why!