Training for your next swim meet? Don’t forget to wear a swim cap! Since there are so many available, it can be hard to choose the right one for you. Don’t fear because AquaMobile is here to help you choose the swim cap that suits your needs!
Swim caps are an important part of swimwear for many different reasons. Here are just a few:
- Helps reduce drag.
- Minimize chemical effects on your hair. Wearing a swim cap is just one of the precautions you should take to protect your hair if you love to swim!
- Keeps your head warm and safe from the cold.
- Stray hair stays out of the water and out of your face!
Swim caps come in three main types of material. They are Latex, Silicone and Lycra. These are also used in swimsuits as well. Here are the pros and cons of each one to help you choose the swim cap that’s right for you.
Latex Swim caps
Latex swim caps are most suitable for swimming training, lap practice and swimmers with little hair.
Pros
- Most affordable
- Best at protecting hair from pool chemicals
- Has strong hydrodynamic qualities, which allows you to make the most out of your training time
Cons
- Can sometimes trigger allergies
- Hard to put on and take off because it fits tightly on the head
- Thin and prone to tearing, which means it lasts the shortest time
To summarize, latex swim caps are the easiest to find and the best choice economically. However, they do not come without their flaws. Some people can have allergic reactions to them and if you put them down in the wrong spot, they rip easily.
Silicone Swim Caps
Silicone swim caps are best for swimming in the open water and swimmers with long hair. This material is best for protecting your hair.
Pros
- Is the most comfortable material
- The most durable swim cap material
- Soft and does not pull at the hair
Cons
- Does not keep hair safe from chlorine
- Not hydrodynamic and not suitable for competitive swimming
- Loses elasticity quicker
Lycra Swim Caps
Lycra swim caps are ideal for water exercise, water aerobics and non-competitive pool-goers.
Pros
- Is the most comfortable material
- The most durable swim cap material
- Soft and does not pull at the hair
Cons
- Does not keep hair safe from chlorine
- Not hydrodynamic and not suitable for competitive swimming
- Loses elasticity quicker
Choose this swim cap if you like to swim recreationally. Using this type is good for everyday wear if you like to visit the pool occasionally. The trouble will only come if you are in the water consistently because these caps aren’t designed to last forever.
Step-by-Step Swim Cap Care
There are key instructions to follow when it comes to caring for your swim cap. This ensures you have a swim cap that lasts a while. It’s especially important to take care of your swim cap when training for a competition or if you decide to pay more for it.
- Rinse the cap in tap water.
- Dry in a cool and dry spot. Avoid leaving your swim cap to dry in direct sunlight. It damages the material and shortens the cap’s lifespan.
- Dust it with baby powder.
- Store your cap away from edges and sharp objects.
Once you find the right swim cap, you will know and it’s worth it!
