Best Swim Caps
- Last Updated: June 23, 2021
- by Jason S.
It may be challenging to pick the correct kind of swimming caps as a beginner. Swim caps come in a range of materials, styles, sizes, and different colors.
We need to mention that swim caps are not built when swimming to keep your hair dry. Yeah, a good swim cap can restrict chlorine damage to your scalp, but it is more a product for hair control.
Here’s our definitive guide to choosing the right cap for you. If you’re looking for workout caps or competition caps, for whatever the case, we’ll break down which swim caps are best.
But first, let’s explain why a swim cap should be used at all.
Our Top Pick
Top Reasons To Buy
- Comfort
- Wrinkle-Free
- Minimal drag in the water
Key Features
- 100% Silicone
- PVC-Free
- Good for everyday use
They keep loose hair from coming loose inside the pool, as well as keeping your hair out of your face. Few things will throw you off more than finding yourself blinded mid lap by a head full of hair.
But perhaps most importantly, the best-domed swim caps will also make you more hydrodynamic while swimming, especially if you have long hair. Why? Well, the longer your hair, the more drag it creates while swimming. When even a fraction of a second matter, you’ll want a wrinkle-free cap that cuts through the water like a hot knife through butter.
Contents
- What is a Swimming Cap?
- Materials Swim Caps are made from
- Sizes and Shapes
- Best Swim Caps for 2021
- #1 - Arena Classic Swim Cap - Our Top Pick
- #2 - Speedo NW Silicone Cap
- #3 - TYR Lycra Swim Cap
- #4 - Aegend Swim Caps
- #5 - Speedo Fastskin3 Competition Swim Cap
- #6 - The Friendly Swede Silicone Long Hair Cap
- #7 - TYR Wrinkle-Free Silicone Cap
- #8 - Speedo Solid Latex Swim Cap
- #9 - Speedo Silicone Solid Swim Cap
- Frequently Asked Questions About Swim Caps
| Image | Product Information | Features | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
 | Arena Classic Swim Cap
|
| Check Price On Amazon |
 | Speedo NW Silicone Cap
|
| Check Price On Amazon |
 | TYR Lycra Swim Cap
|
| Check Price On Amazon |
 | Aegend Swim Caps
|
| Check Price On Amazon |
 | Speedo Fastskin3 Competition Swim Cap
|
| Check Price On Amazon |
 | The Friendly Swede Silicone Long Hair Cap
|
| Check Price On Amazon |
 | TYR Wrinkle-Free Silicone Cap
|
| Check Price On Amazon |
 | Speedo Solid Latex Cap
|
| Check Price On Amazon |
 | Speedo Silicone Solid Swim Cap
|
| Check Price On Amazon |
What is a Swimming Cap?
A swimming cap is a closely fitting cap that competitive and casual swimmers can wear in the pool. They are mostly made of rubber, latex or Lycra, and are referred to as caps for bathing or swimming.
Why Wear a Swim Cap?
There are many reasons that individuals want to wear caps for swimming. Some swimmer would prefer to keep their hair and shield it from chlorine or sunshine. This helps maintain healthy hair, particularly for those who regularly swim.
On longer swim hours, wearing a swim cap will help keep the head of a swimmer warm, ensuring the wearer can tirelessly save more energy while their body keeps an ideal temperature during training.
To avoid the drag that long hair can cause, competitive swimmers wear their hair in a cap. This drag will slow them down, so it can minimize those extra critical seconds by getting the hair out of the way.
The ears’ security is one of the most common explanations for caps to be worn by children. This can help avoid ear infection, mainly when worn with earplugs, and prevent water from going into the ears.
Materials Swim Caps are made from
Swim caps are swimming gear that is crafted from several diverse materials. Silicone, latex, rubber, and lycra/spandex are the most common, but you may have come across plastic, neoprene, and polyurethane caps.
Silicone Caps
One of the most common fabrics used for swimming caps is silicone. It is, in fact, highly robust. Silicone caps, when appropriately cared for, will last for years. Silicone is undoubtedly my preferred material for caps as a professional swimmer. Not only is it long-lasting, but it also lends itself well without dragging hair to slide on and off.
Latex Caps
Latex is a plastic much more refined than silicone. Often, it is less durable. Especially if you do not put them on correctly or forget to take good care of them, Latex swim caps rip more quickly. Since they are lighter than silicone, latex caps provide for “breath-ability.”
These caps could be the best fit for colder temperatures in which heat loss is not a concern if less heat is stored. Generally, latex cap is often much cheaper than most kinds of caps. So if you’re looking for a cap that won’t crack the bank and it’s not a question of durability, then the way to go is latex.
Lycra and Spandex Caps
Lycra is a brand name for a fiber composite usually referred to as spandex or elastane. Swimming caps made of spandex are very durable and can generally last for a long time after each use, even if rinsed with chlorine. They are considered to be lightweight and will never snag or tug your hair. However, because Lycra is a fabric, these caps would allow water to flow when swimming through the material.
A material with a porous cap is not as useful as silicone or rubber but can also minimize drag to a greater degree than wearing no cap at all. Lycra swim caps are not suitable for use in sport because of this. For practice or sun defense, they can mainly be used. When wearing your silicone race-day hat, wearing a higher resistance cap during practice will also make you perform better. When it comes to competition, making the body used to a higher degree of resistance will improve results.
Neoprene Caps
Neoprene is a synthetic rubber that is widely used in wet suit fabrics. The aim of a neopren cap, just like wet suits, is to hold a thin layer of watertight to your body to serve as insulation. For individuals who swim in freezing pools, streams, rivers, or the ocean, this makes neoprene caps an outstanding alternative.
However, you would also need to wear a wet suit: contrary to the common misconception that 45% of the heat loss is from your head, the head generally accounts for just 10% of the surface area of your body. So, a thermal swim cap can only support you if it also protects the rest of your body. Neoprene swim caps are more appropriate for open-water swims since they do not effectively minimize drag. Neoprene caps do not, however, pull hair.
Sizes and Shapes
Usually, swim caps come in the following sizes and shapes:
- For kids, swim caps are bigger than normal ones. For your kids, choose these kinds of caps.
- For adults with short hair, choose caps of average size. As the swim caps can comfortably extend to conform to the actual head shape and height, they match most head styles.
- Adult swim cap for long-haired. Typically, a long hair swim cap is an inch or two longer to help trap long hair or keeping your hair within the swim cap.
- The so-called bubble swim caps. These have a more helmet-like form, and tiny bubbles cover their surface.
Best Swim Caps for 2021
Specifications
- 100% Silicone
- PVC-Free
- Good for everyday use
Benefits
- Comfort
- Wrinkle-Free
- Minimal Drag
The Arena Classic Silicone construction from 100% silicone gives it the soft, comfortable fit most swimmers crave while moving through the water. The solid silicone swim cap simplicity is what makes it so favorable. And the cap is unisex, so both male and female swimmers can use it for pool training. The first thing we consider when choosing the best swim caps.
The Arena Classic Silicone Unisex Swim Cap comes in multiple colors, including black, white, gold, and red. This swim cap is wrinkle-free, making it optimized for hydrodynamics, allowing you to glide through the pool with minimal resistance. The Arena Classic is suitable for pool training, swim workouts. This is also the common choice for racing caps or competition caps.
Arena continually works on improving its products to maximize swimmers’ training time. The Arena Classic is their flagship cap and is for all levels of swimmers.
- Consists of soft, comfortable material. The silicone feels smooth on the head and doesn’t wrinkle, which allows for maximum potential in the water.
- The cap is long-lasting. Other caps tear easily, but the 100% silicone material is sturdy.
- The design is a bit bland. The colors don’t quite match the product description.
Specifications
- 100% Silicone
- Fits both small and large heads
- Very affordable
Benefits
- Made of Sturdy Materials
- Resistant to Pulling/Snagging
- Comfortable fit
Speedo is a reputable brand, and the NW Silicone Cap solid swim cap speedo is a perfect example of how Speedo is revolutionizing the industry. They continually create new products that aid swimmer performance. This simple yet effective silicone swim cap provides comfort during pool training.
The soft silicone material stretches easily around the head and is easy to take off, preventing pulling and snagging. The cap is both lightweight and durable, so swimmers can expect minimal drag when gliding through the pool. Though the silicone is sturdy, it allows the head to breathe and reduces the buildup of pressure. This really deserves to be included in the best swim caps list.
The cap is excellent for pool training, workouts, speed and endurance runs, and long leisure swims. The Speedo NW Silicone Cap also protects your head from chlorine, preventing hair damage.
- For active swimmers, the Speedo SW Silicone Cap does a great job. Other caps tend to fall off or become uncomfortable during extended pool training. This cap will keep you moving comfortably, even if you’re spending hours in the pool.
- The sturdy silicone material will keep your head warm, even if you’re snorkeling. This feature makes the cap versatile and great value for the money.
- This Speedo Silicone Cap can stretch up to twice its original size. This flexibility eliminates the dreadful pulling and snagging you get with other swim caps.
- The cap exposes your hair to a lot of water, especially after using it for a while. This makes this swim cap more about performance then protecting your hair.
Specifications
- Made from 80% Nylon & 20% Lycra Fiber
- Ideally used with an outer-cap
- Good for everyday use
Benefits
- Comfortable, even for long hair
- Suitable for Leisure Swimming
- No Pulling/Snagging
Another entry for the best swim caps for open-water swimmers or simply don’t want to get your head wet while swimming, the TYR Lycra Swim Cap is excellent for keeping your temperature in check. The cap fits firmly around the head, which prevents your hair from getting wet. You won’t receive the same insulation as other silicone caps, but this cap is great for recreational swimming or open-water workouts.
The only real downside of this cap is that you may feel discomfort around the ears if you wear the swim cap for an extended period, such as if you’re a swimming instructor. But if you’re looking for a great cap to keep your hair dry during a swim workout, this product is superb.
The cap comes in a wide range of colors, including black, navy, pink, red, royal, and white. The cap is made up of mostly recycled nylon (80%), making this an eco-friendly swim accessory. If you spend a lot of time swimming in lakes or outdoor pools, this swim cap will be everything you need to keep your head dry and warm.
- The recycled nylon is durable and doesn’t tear as easily as other caps made from silicone. This cap should last you a while, even if you use it daily.
- The cap fits firmly around the head, providing excellent protection from getting wet. This protection is essential for those who swim in cold water as you’ll reduce the risk of getting sick after swimming.
- TYR did a great job of keeping recreational swimming in mind with this product.
- The colors advertised are a bit off.
- Not suitable for long hours of pool training.
Specifications
- Sold in affordable 2 packs
- Stretches easily and returns to original shape
- 12 month replacement guarantee
Benefits
- Suitable for Long Hair, Braids etc
- Non-Toxic/Eco-Friendly
- Zero Deformities
Swimmers with long hair tend to have a hard time finding a comfortable swim cap. The Aegend is comfortable and has 3D shaping that prevents hair from pulling and snagging. The Aegend Swim Cap also optimizes hydrodynamics. The cap has a large enough space to provide comfort, even for those with thick hair.
The thick, odorless silicone material is 100% non-toxic material, which makes it environmentally friendly. The Aegend is also tear-resistant and built to last which makes it to this best swim caps list. The cap fits perfectly around the ears, so swimmers don’t need to worry about pressure buildup. Overall, the Aegend Swim Cap is a suitable option for all hair lengths, though it’s more focused on swimmers with long hair.
One cool thing about Aegend is they have a 12-month replacement policy. So if your cap tears within the first year, Aegend will send you a new one free of charge. This policy shows that Aegend is confident in their swimming cap, and they care about their customers.
- The material is thick and stretchy. You won’t need to worry about the cap falling off or slipping while in the water; this assurance maximizes your performance while racing or training.
- The cap fits firmly around the head without any additional pressure. So you shouldn’t feel any discomfort, even if you’re in the pool for hours at a time.
- Getting your hair wet isn’t an issue with the Aegend Swim Cap. The thick silicone protects your hair from chlorine.
- The cap is generally suitable for smaller head shapes. Those with a broader head may have a hard time getting it to fit perfectly.
Specifications
- Made of 100% Silicone
- Designed to reduce drag by up to 5.7%
- FINA Approved
Benefits
- Comfortable to wear
- Minimal Drag
- Latex-Free
When it is time for competition, you’re going to want to make sure everything is perfect. Speedo has designed the Fastskin3 Competition Swim Cap to maximize your performance during race time. The benefits of the speedo silicone solid swim cap include the reduction of drag, improved hydrodynamics, and enhanced comfort throughout the race which makes it the best swim cap for racing.
The cap, approved by the Fédération Internationale de Natation (FINA), is commonly worn by pros worldwide. There’s a reason why swimmer prefers this caps and it’s partly due to how it works in perfect harmony with other Fastskin products like the Speedo Fastskin goggles. The two make an ideal combo and can reduce drag by up to 5.7%.
It’s tough to find a brand that puts out products comparable to Speedo’s quality. Swimmers have gone on to win international championships wearing a cap, thanks to its design. The cap comes in different colors, including Speedo pink, green, white, and new black. This Speedo racing cap is made from 100% silicone and is latex-free.
- The cap fits beautifully over the head to prevent hair from getting wet. Many swimmers are concerned about chlorine damage, but with the Speedo Fastskin3, you can rest assured your head will be protected.
- You don’t need to worry about the cap slipping or falling off during training or a race.
- The colors are vibrant, and there’s a wide range of styles from which to choose.
- Not suitable for swimmers with larger than average ears.
- Will not work with braids or hair extensions.
Specifications
- Made of 100% Silicone
- Keeps longer hair dry
- Lifetime warranty
Benefits
- Little Resistance
- Suitable for Men and Women
- No Pulling/Snagging
This versatile and silicone swim caps fits firmly around the head size without snagging or binding the hair. It comes with a beautiful decorative trim around the edges and is available in blue/black, and hot pink/purple. The cap has ergonomic ear pockets designed to protect you from pressure during deep dives. The Friendly Swede Cap keeps ears and hair dry, so if you’re swimming in open water, you won’t need to worry about getting sick.
The sizes available are most suitable for teenagers and adults. Children with smaller heads may experience slipping. For the adult swimmer, the 100% silicone material is stretchy and durable enough to fit around your head comfortably and is unlikely to slip off in the water. The hydrodynamic design eliminates resistance, allowing you to maximize your focus on your stroke.
- This cap is roomy enough for all hair lengths. Swimmers with long hair often have trouble finding a cap that will fit comfortably during pool training. The Friendly Swede’s Silicone Long Hair Cap does a great job providing a quality cap for long-haired swimmers.
- It will be tough to find another cap that provides the same value for money. It’s not the most elite cap on the market, but it provides everything you need to maximize your performance for a reasonable cost.
- The cap will keep your head and ears as dry as a bone.
- This cap may not fit those with larger than average heads.
Specifications
- Made from 100% Silicone
- Fits most head sizes
- Very thick material
Benefits
- Suitable for Athletes
- Comfortable
- Performance-Oriented
This simple wrinkle-free silicone swim cap by TYR is a suitable option for swimmers, water sports enthusiasts, or just anyone who wants to move better in the water. The cap is made of silicone material which is soft and stretchy and fits perfectly around your head. This silicone swim cap protects your hair and ears from getting wet but still allows the head to breathe.
Though the TYR Wrinkle-Free Swim Cap is suitable for all experience level of swimmers, we believe it’s not the best swim cap on the market. It is an affordable option that’s dependable, though, especially for pool training.
- This cap is perfect for swim workouts. If you’re new to swim caps, you’ll notice a considerable difference in speed while wearing this cap. It will also keep your head warm if you are swimming in open water.
- You get great value for the money. This cap is suitable for daily use and designed for longevity.
- The material isn’t suitable for bigger heads. You may feel discomfort if you wear it for an extended period.
- The thick silicone material can become uncomfortably warm during long pool sessions.
Specifications
- 100% Latex
- Scalloped anti-roll edge
- Resistant to tears
Benefits
- Fits comfortably
- Contains hair well
- Very affordable
Most on this list are made up of silicone. Thanks to their wrinkle-free fit, while silicone caps are more durable and much more hydrodynamic, they are often more costly than the standard rubber swim cap.
The main difference between a latex swim cap and a silicone swim cap that we have always found is that the former is more breathable, making them suitable for training, particularly for weak swimmers who practice in a hot pool.
For just $3-6, Speedo’s solid latex swim cap is a safe pick for swimmers who appear to overheat while they practice. Help secure your hair with the Speedo Solid Latex Swim Caps from the harsh water elements.
For both competitive and recreational swimmers, the Speedo latex swim cap has long been the traditional cap. Scalloped cut to avoid breaking is the cap’s bottom edge, which features a convenient anti-roll edge. It offers maximum UV protection as well. It also provides stretch and overall durability.
- Ideal for the swimmer on a budget, decent performance and quality for a rock bottom price.
- Unisex and available in many different colors.
- While its ideal as a back up swim cap, you can get a better fit if your willing to pay a bit more.
- Tends to be overly tight on some head shapes.
Specifications
- 100% Silicone
- Snug fit
- No slip interior texture
Benefits
- Shaped for hydrodynamic preformance
- Comfortable
- Available in 23 Colors
Quality swimming caps will help improve your overall swimming experience, from keeping your hair healthy from chlorine’s harmful effects to minimizing the drag in the water.
This is where you must select the finest, and Speedo’s Silicone Solid cap has become one of the company’s best-selling items when it comes to shopping for a cap.
The Speedo Silicone Solid Swim Cap is made of top-notch silicone. This is a composite that’s light and sturdy. Additionally, when putting it on in a panic, you would not have to think about tearing the hat. The Speedo Silicone Solid Swim Cap is also snag-resistant, which means that you can quickly put it on. This ensures that no matter how long your hair is, you will be able to pull your hair in and wear the cap conveniently. In addition to this, the cap is built for all forms and sizes of the face and can even be used by man and woman.
The firm silicone swimming cap is made of a rigid material, is comfortable on the head, and ultimately minimizes any snagging when you put it on. Moreover, since silicone is a lightweight substance, it’s a breeze to put on the cap and take it off.
The Speedo Silicone Solid Swim Cap has a rounded fit, which is a reasonably cutting-edge advantage. When you swim underwater, the style will help minimize the drag effect, improving your overall speed.
The swim cap’s durability is its unique selling point under a fair budget and a feature we look for in the best swim caps.
- Great budget swim cap for keeping your hair in place and reducing drag. But you need to manage expectations given what your paying.
- When it works it's a phenomenal value.
- While our review model was great, it seems to be a bit of a coin toss in terms of quality. It's either great and lasts a long time or falls apart quickly.
- Lots of color variety but like many caps the color you get may not match the packaging.
Frequently Asked Questions About Swim Caps
What is the purpose of a swim cap?
Do swim caps really work?
Do swim caps go over ears?
Is there a waterproof swim cap?
Should you wet your hair before putting on a swim cap?
How tight should a swim cap be?
Can swim caps cause hair loss?
Is silicone or latex better for swim caps?
How do you loosen a swim cap?
What size swim cap do I need?