Swim Caps
From LoveToKnow Swimsuits
Olympic swimmer turned actress Esther Williams put a glamorous spin on swim caps in her many movie musicals, inciting a fashion trend in swimwear that raged on through the 40's, 50's, and 60's. Today, these bathing caps are making a big comeback with the frenzy over all things retro.
If you are unfamiliar with this type of beach wear, read on to find out what they are, what they're for, and who's wearing them today.
All About Swim Caps
Swim caps are tight fitting head gear worn to keep the water out of your hair. They fit over the entire top of the head, framing the face and ears, and some models even come with a chin strap. They are great for protecting your hair from chlorine, while at the same time keeping loose hair from clogging up your pool filter. Pretty nifty, right?
Though mostly optional attire, some public pools and private clubs do require that bathing caps be worn when using the facilities.
What Are They Made Of?
Swim caps, still referred to sometimes as bathing caps, are made from several different materials, but the point is that they are made to be stretchy enough to pull on over your hair, yet snug enough to keep water out. Caps are made from one or more of the following materials.
- Latex- All around good material, waterproof and long wearing.
- Silicone- A good option if you happen to be allergic to latex, and the silicone pulls less on your hair than the latex, so it's good for easy ons and offs.
- Lycra- The same stretchy fabric used in most swimwear, using spandex for a snug fit.
- Blends- Typically Lycra and latex
Who Wears Them?
Swim caps are for everyone, but most aquatic athletes wouldn't think of hitting the water without one.
Swim racers know that a well fitted swim cap reduces hair drag in the water, improving speed and race times. These caps have a slightly domed shape that gives the swimmer a slight edge cutting through the water.
Synchronized swimmer caps not only protect the hair, but give the team a uniform, cohesive look as part of their swim costumes.
Water Polo players wear a special type of cap that has shock absorbent ear guards for added protection.
Popular Styles
Whether you like your caps plain or fancy, there's bound to be a style for everyone.
Adults
- For women, we can't help but love the Flowered Swim Cap from Speedo. The style is so retro, and while the petals create too much drag for racing, you'll still be the center of attention at your aquatic fitness class when you sport one of these fun loving caps.
- For men, we prefer Speedo's Latex/Lycra Cap. It's low key, sensible and gets the job done.
Teens
If your teens aren't convinced that swim caps are cool again, let them take a look at the ones we found.
- For girls, we suggest TYR Multi-color Silicone caps. The colors flow into each color for a very up-to-date look. If that doesn't please, perhaps a playful silicone Cheetah Cap will strike her fancy?
- For boys, how about a black silicone Skull Cap, or a colorful Horizon Swim Cap, both found at Swim 2000.
Kids
Kids just want to have fun, and they could care less about wearing a swim cap unless you give them a reason to really want one. Try a Creature Silicone Cap in whale or shark styles, or a fantastically Sci-Fi Brain Cap for swimtime fun and protection.
Conclusion
Have we managed to whet your appetite for swim caps yet? If so, there are hundreds of style and color combinations just waiting to be checked out at your favorite swimsuit stores, so come on and get back in the swim with a bathing cap!
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