A Complete Guide To Swim Caps

What They Are Made Of,
Plus The Pros And Cons For Each

The only way to reduce hydrodynamic drag is through wearing a swimming cap . In fact, this type of swimming gear is designed for competitive swimming in order to allow water flow over a smooth surface area allowing you to move quickly and fluidly in water. In other words you should swim noticeably faster with one than when wearing none.

However, in addition to these benefits, there are several other reasons why swimmers wear these caps.

People, especially with long hair wear them to help minimize water that get into contact with their hair. This water contains chlorine which is harmful to your hair. But the primary purpose in which they have been designed is not to keep water out of your hair. That means there's no guarantee that your hair will be protected completely from water. These caps can be used to help protect your ears during swimming; to retain heat and keep your hair intact so that it doesn't distract you while swimming.

That said, what are they made of?
Swim caps come in different materials to suit each individual's needs. If silicone, latex or lycra is not your thing, then you could go for rubber, neoprene or polyurethane.

Silicone caps
It's one of the toughest materials used to manufacture swimming cap . They are extremely durable, so they can last for years. It's a plus for both men and women because it slips off hair easily without pulling.

Latex cap
They are thinner than silicone. That means they are less durable and they rip more easily when care is not taken. In return for their lightness, they allow your hair to breath easily. They don't retain heat, so they are perfect options for those swimming in warmer climates.

Rubber caps
Made from latex, they are slightly thicker and therefore not that stretchy. They are light in weight and affordable. If you are allergic to latex, then rubber cap would still not be ideal for you since it's derived from latex. Crepe bubble swim caps are also made from rubber and are suitable for colder climates. They retain heat because of the heavy weight rubber and the ability to offer air bubble insulation. They are durable as well.

The Pros
Swim caps:

1. Are made of materials such as lycra and neoprene won't pull off your hair at all. So if you want to save your hair from such kind of damage, they may be the best option.
2. Help keep your hair away so that they don't distract your vision when swimming. Hair can fall on your face hence distracting you.
3. Most reduce drag in water. That means you'll be able to move faster. You'll be in a better position to win if you are in a competition.
4. They protect your hair from the drying effect of chlorine. Chlorine will remove the protective oil layers on your hair strands and dry from inside out. The salts in chlorine also damage your hair because they infiltrate, crystallize and expand thereby weakening the structure of your hair.

Cons

1. Some swimmers may be allergic to latex, and that means they won't be able to enjoy the advantages that latex come with.
2. Most of the light materials used to make swim caps don't retain heat (retaining heat may be crucial in colder climates). So if you want a material that won't pull your hair, be prepared to sacrifice on this.

Conclusion
There are many rubber swim caps in the market. Depending on your needs, you may want to go for that which suits you well. There are lots of factors that should be considered when your buy your cap. They've been mentioned above.


Enjoy
Richard