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The 8 best swimming caps in 2024?

by Laura

bathing cap
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Tired of having hair in your swimming goggles when swimming and don’t want the chlorine to damage your hair? A swimming cap protects your hair from damage and prevents infections in the ear.

The most popular swim caps at a glance:

BeyondSurfing has spent over 21 hours researching for you and presents the best products from 2024. In the buying guide, you will find out the most important criteria for a good swim cap and receive individual tips for your purchase decision.

The best swimming cap 2024?

In a hurry? Our favorite swim cap:

Special Offer
Arena unisex swim cap Classic silicone*
What characterizes the offer?

  • 7 different colors
  • Skin-friendly silicone
  • Extra soft
  • Experienced manufacturer
  • Favorable price
  • Reinforced edge

“As a longtime fan of Arena, this swim cap was simply a must. Fits comfortably, nothing pulls or twitches.” – Jule K. (★★★★★)

Swimming cap Checklist

  • Material: Neoprene hoods are extra robust – but too warm for summer. Fabric swimming hoods are not suitable for professional swimmers.
  • Design: Some manufacturers offer customized printing.
  • Benefit: The water resistance is reduced by a bathing cap. But does not keep the hair 100% dry.
  • Cleaning and care: Salt water attacks the material and must be washed out. The material must be specially cared for during long training breaks.
  • Put it on: The swimming cap is easier to pull over damp hair.

Also interesting: The most popular swimming goggles reviewed.

These are the best swim caps in 2024

How do we rate? Our experts thoroughly research and evaluate each recommendation. We take into account the most important product features, adherence to quality standards, prices, customer reviews, our own experiences, and much more. Learn more about our process.

1. arena unisex swim cap classic silicone

Advantages

  • 7 different colors
  • Skin-friendly silicone
  • Extra soft
  • Experienced manufacturer
  • Favorable price
  • Reinforced edge

Disadvantages

  • Only just covers ears
  • Small one size fits all

Summary

The Classic swim cap from Arena is a classic among swim caps. The experienced manufacturer offers an affordable and very reliable model in 7 colors.

The design is simple with a single-color brand print. Almost all rainbow colors are available. The purchase price is low due to high production numbers.

The swim cap is made of silicone and is very durable. It keeps the hair almost completely dry and fits the head like a second skin. The edge is reinforced so that the product can hardly slip.

Conclusion

This swim cap is affordable, robust and has a high-quality finish. Both ambitious athletes and recreational swimmers get their money’s worth.

Customers with very long or thick hair prefer a larger model.

Product details

Size: One size | Material: Silicone | Weight: 99 g

Customer ratings

What customers say
A full 77% of all customers rate the product as good to very good with four to five stars.

The product is of high quality. They are comfortable to wear and some customers have already bought several caps from this brand. The swim cap fits very firmly and does not slip. The material remains waterproof for a long time. The price is reasonable. The product is suitable for adult men and women. The extra size for boys and girls is practical. The material is very tear-resistant and has a tight fit.

Around 9% are neutral about the product, while 14% rate the product as poor and inadequate.

One customer describes getting a headache from the swimming cap. The ears are barely covered. This does not provide sufficient protection against infection. The model is not suitable for long hair.

Click here to go directly to the customer reviews “

FAQ

What head circumference is the size 000 for?
This product is one size fits all.
Is this bathing cap also suitable for long hair?
The product is rather small. It is less recommended for long hair.

2. aqua speed bathing cap

Advantages

  • Particularly stretchy
  • High wearing comfort
  • Suitable for long hair
  • Many color variants

Disadvantages

  • Tight fit
  • No reinforced edge

Summary

This swim cap from Aqua Speed is available in many different colors. There is something for every taste. The manufacturer is known for durable and comfortable products.

The high-quality silicone is very stretchy and is suitable for both children and adults. The manufacturer describes it as “super-stretch”. The fit is like a second skin and very comfortable.

Apart from a simple and small brand print, the hood is plain-colored. The price is higher than BeyondSurfing’s comparison winner, but still affordable.

Conclusion

A swim cap that meets all requirements. Especially for parents who want to share a model with their children.

Product details

Size: One size | Material: Silicone | Weight: 81 g

Customer ratings

What customers say
A full 63% of all customers rate the product as good to very good with four to five stars.

The hair remains almost completely dry when used correctly. The colors are vibrant and also clearly visible in the water. Customers would recommend the product to others and buy it again at any time. Children and adults are equally enthusiastic. The material is very stretchy and fits like a second skin. Children can easily put the product on by themselves. The swim cap has a perfect fit and effectively protects the ears.

Around 8% are neutral about the product, while 29% rate the product as poor and inadequate.

The product is too big for one customer’s child, which made her hair wet. Another customer describes that his cap cracked the first time he used it.

Click here to go directly to the customer reviews “

FAQ

Is the swim cap suitable for women with long hair?
Yes, the swim cap is suitable for hair lengths up to the shoulders.
Is this model suitable for children and adults?
According to the manufacturer, this is a special, highly adaptable silicone that covers children’s and adult sizes.

3. arena unisex smartcap extra soft

Advantages

  • Made from very stretchy fabric
  • Especially for long hair
  • For fitness and recreational swimmers
  • Design Award Winner
  • Integrated hairband
  • Extra soft

Disadvantages

  • Not suitable for professional sports
  • Higher purchase price

Summary

This model from Arena is a new product innovation. The manufacturer wanted to create a swim cap that comfortably accommodates long hair, fits softly like a cap and offers a firm hold.

Arena received an award for the design. It is perfect for fitness and recreational swimmers who are looking for a soft model. The fabric is a blend of polyamide and elastane.

It is currently available in one color: a mixture of black and turquoise with a lovingly designed brand imprint and the words “Smartcap”.

Conclusion

The ideal swim cap for long-haired recreational swimmers looking for extra soft protection.

If you want your hair to stay dry, you need to do the comfort swab and use a firm silicone cap.

Product details

Size: One size | Material: Polyamide and elastane | Weight: 81 g

Customer ratings

What customers say
A full 74% of all customers rate the product as good to very good with four to five stars.

The product is a great innovation on the market. Long hair is held in place perfectly and the integrated hairband is practical. The fabric doesn’t pinch and is very easy to put on. The quality of the cap justifies the higher price. Two versions for short and long hair are innovative and practical. The hair is no longer in the face and the water resistance is also lower.

Around 10% are neutral about the product, while 16% rate the product as poor and inadequate.

Hair gets completely wet underneath. Although this is intended by the manufacturer, it bothers some customers. One customer criticizes the inaccurate sizing.

Click here to go directly to the customer reviews “

FAQ

Does the hair get wet underneath?
Yes, the swim cap is designed for less water resistance and to keep your hair in place – not for a dry head.
Can a waterproof silicone cap be pulled over it?
Theoretically yes, but the size must be wide enough.

4. doyourswimming swim cap made of fabric

Advantages

  • Lightweight Lycra fabric
  • 8 different colors
  • No brand imprint
  • UV protection
  • Perfect for snorkelers and divers
  • Favorable price
  • Fit for teenagers and adults

Disadvantages

  • Hair gets wet
  • Colors on product image different

Summary

The Doyourswimming model is especially designed for snorkelers, divers and swimmers in outdoor pools. The soft Lycra fabric offers effective UV protection. This is an important extra in the open air.

In contrast to a rubber or silicone cap, it is very easy to put on and take off. This is due to the soft fabric and flexible seams.

The customer can choose from 8 different colors of the rainbow. There is something for every taste. It also comes with instructions on how to put it on correctly.

Conclusion

If you swim or snorkel outdoors a lot, this is the product for you.

Customers who prefer dry hair and train professionally are better off with a silicone model.

Product details

Size: One size | Material: Lycra | Weight: 9.1 g

Customer ratings

What customers say
A full 73% of all customers rate the product as good to very good with four to five stars.

Long hair fits well under the bathing cap. The color does not fade even in chlorinated water. The fabric doesn’t pinch or pull, which is very comfortable. The sun protection is practical, especially in the outdoor pool or when snorkeling. Children can put the product on well. The bright colors are highly visible, which is an advantage for children during swimming lessons, for example.

Around 7% are neutral about the product, while 15% rate the product as poor and inadequate.

The fit is tight and the hair gets wet. Not all customers like the colors. They differ significantly from the product images.

Click here to go directly to the customer reviews “

FAQ

Is the product really suitable for adults and teenagers?
Yes, the fit is really good.
Is a head circumference of 48 cm also suitable?
Yes, one customer has this head circumference and loves wearing the swim cap.

5. TYR Multi silicone cap

Advantages

  • 6 different colors
  • Anti-slip design
  • Very robust
  • Varied design
  • Solid fabric

Disadvantages

  • No reinforced edges
  • Higher price category

Summary

The TYR Multi silicone cap is made from a special anti-slip design. It has a snug fit and the fabric is very robust.

The customer can choose from 6 different main colors. These are always mixed with a second color in a batik look. A real eye-catcher in the swimming pool.

The material is high-quality silicone. It is slightly thicker than other products. Nevertheless, the swim cap is easy to put on.

Conclusion

If you are looking for a particularly robust swim hood and are not looking for a simple model, this is the product for you.

If you are looking for comfort rather than functionality, it is better to opt for a fabric bathing cap.

Product details

Size: One size | Material: Silicone | Weight: 90 g

Customer ratings

What customers say
A full 82% of all customers rate the product as good to very good with four to five stars.

This model is the favorite bathing cap of some customers. The material is somewhat firmer than other models. This makes it very tear-resistant. The colors are varied and not as plain as other products. The wearing comfort is high. Even longer hair can be easily concealed underneath.

Around 4% are neutral about the product, while 13% rate the product as poor and inadequate.

One customer describes that the swim cap breaks quickly. Another was given a swimming cap that already looked used.

Click here to go directly to the customer reviews “

6. Beco ladies standard hoods

Advantages

  • 10 different colors
  • Particularly comfortable
  • Ideal for recreational swimmers
  • Quick-drying material
  • Easy to put on and take off

Disadvantages

  • Only suitable for women
  • Hair gets completely wet

Summary

The product is specially designed for women. It resembles the retro swimming caps that we know from the GDR. But without eye-catching flowers.

The swim cap is made from single-colored spandex fabric. The customer can choose from 10 different designs.

The material is quick-drying. This is practical if you carry your swimming cap in your rucksack after swimming. The fabric offers sufficient UV protection in the outdoor pool.

Conclusion

This swim cap is suitable for women who like to swim in their free time and want to keep their long hair in check.

If you prefer dry hair or have professional ambitions, it is better to use a different material.

Product details

Size: One size | Material: Spandex | Weight: 68 g

Customer ratings

What customers say
A full 100 % of all customers rate the product as good to very good with four to five stars.

There are no written comments on the reviews of this product yet.

Around 0% are neutral about the product, while 0% rate the product as poor and inadequate.

There are no written comments on the reviews of this product yet.

Click here to go directly to the customer reviews “

7. ZONE3 neoprene swim cap

Special Offer

Advantages

  • Extra chin strap for a firm hold
  • For cold water
  • Also for more extreme water sports
  • UV protection

Disadvantages

  • Not suitable for indoor training

Summary

The ZONE3 model is made for extreme conditions. It keeps the head protected and warm in ice-cold water. The material also protects against UV rays.

The thin and flexible chin strap offers a secure fit. The cap also offers reliable support for wilder water sports such as rafting, kayaking or stand-up paddling.

The material is neoprene fabric. It has the property of trapping body heat. The cap fits like a second skin.

Conclusion

If you are looking for an addition to your wetsuit for cold days, this is the product for you.

A different model is suitable for conventional training .

Product details

Size: Unisex | Material: Neoprene | Weight: 82 g

Customer ratings

What customers say
A full 100 % of all customers rate the product as good to very good with four to five stars.

The product is ideal for swimming in cold water. In winter, it keeps the head pleasantly warm and protects against ear infections. The cap is an ideal addition to the wetsuit for kayaking, for example. The material is very flexible.

Click here to go directly to the customer reviews “

8. printable two-tone swim cap with desired text

Advantages

  • Individually printable
  • For children and adults
  • Various colors
  • Integrated elastic band
  • Good stretchability
  • UV protection

Disadvantages

  • Chlorine bleaches material
  • Hair gets very wet

Summary

The Druckeich swim cap is a special product. The design can be individually printed with a text or name of your choice. Simply specify the text when purchasing.

In addition to the imprint, the customer can choose from 11 different colors. A sewn-in elastic band ensures a firm hold and easy donning. The fabric offers UV protection.

The material is a mixture of polyamide and Lycra. It dries quickly and feels soft. Pressure points are now a thing of the past.

Conclusion

If you can’t remember the names of your swimming students or want to give your child a treat for swimming lessons, this is the product for you.

Swimmers with professional ambitions are better off with a different product.

Product details

Size: One size for children and adults | Material: Polyamide and Lycra | Weight: 210 g

Customer ratings

What customers say
A full 83% of all customers rate the product as good to very good with four to five stars.

Ideal for swimming lessons at school. This prevents the cap from getting lost or mixed up. The fun of swimming lessons is increased. A fun gift for children before they start school. Children can easily put the product on themselves. The model is comfortable. Delivery is fast.

Around 7% are neutral about the product, while 10% rate the product as poor and inadequate.

The material does not look high quality. It can fade and stain. More suitable as a gag. The product does not correspond in part to the sales image.

Click here to go directly to the customer reviews “

Bestsellers: The most popular swim caps

What do others buy? In our bestseller list, we present the TOP 11 most purchased offers. The selection is updated daily.

(**Last update 2024-11-17)

Buy a swim cap:
How to find the right bathing cap

bathing cap

Swimming caps are a well-known but not necessarily sought-after water sports item. The idea of clunky and garish headgear is still very common.

This is now a thing of the past: modern hoods fit like a second skin and can make swimming training more effective.

Beyondsurfing’s buying guide gives you the knowledge you need to combine usability and comfort.

What you need to consider when buying a bathing cap

When looking for the best swim cap, you should definitely pay attention to the following features and characteristics:

  • Material
  • Size
  • Price category
  • Intended use
Pro tip: Some athletes even wear two hoods on top of each other. This newspaper article explains why this makes sense.

Swimming cap material

Latex swimming cap
  • Inexpensive, good fit, air and waterproof and low resistance.
  • Is sensitive to heat and susceptible to cracking.
Rubber swimming cap
  • The design is fashionable and the fabric is waterproof.
  • The price is somewhat higher and the fit is often very tight and inflexible.
Fabric swim cap
  • A fabric bathing cap protects against splashing water, is easy to clean and has a long service life.
  • Fabric slips quickly, is permeable to water, and water resistance is not reduced as effectively.
Silicone swim cap
  • The medical material is very robust and skin-friendly. It is easy to clean and offers the lowest water resistance.
  • The price is in the higher range and the fabric unfortunately tears quickly. Silicone fits like a second skin but is also difficult to put on.
Neoprene swim cap
  • Neoprene keeps the head warm in cold water and does not let a drop of water through. It is extremely robust and insulating.
  • In warm weather, it quickly gets too warm underneath. The fabric is rather uncomfortable and not very elastic.
Plastic swimming cap
  • Plastic swim caps are usually the cheapest models. They reliably keep the hair dry.
  • The material is short-lived and not very suitable for training.

Bath caps size

Most manufacturers offer one size that is stretchable. They differ only in children’s and adult sizes.

Long and thick hair is an exception. Special models and sizes are available for this purpose.

The color selection

There are now countless designs on the market. From neon-colored versions to swim caps with sewn-on shark fins.

Neon colors are particularly suitable for training in open waters. They increase visibility and therefore safety.

Pro tip: There are manufacturers who print each bathing cap according to individual customer requirements. With your own name, the swim cap is unmistakable.

Price category

Recreational swimmers do not have to dig deep into their pockets. There are high-quality and functional swim caps for less than 10 $.

In the professional sector, the price rises to around $ 25.
Only those looking for a neoprene hood for cold water or extreme sports will have to invest at least 40 $.

Intended use

Before you buy a swim cap, you need to be clear about what it will be used for.

There are health, sporting and fashion reasons for wearing a swim cap:

  • For competitive sports, it is best to use a tight silicone swimming cap. This fits firmly but is still comfortable.
  • For health reasons, such as a tympanostomy tube in children, it is important to choose a swimming cap that goes over the ears and is very waterproof.
  • A fabric swimming cap is often sufficient for recreational swimmers. It is comfortable and easy to use.

Swimming caps for long hair?


I love swimming but I also love my long hair. Since I regularly protect them from the chlorine with a swimming cap, they look really healthy again. What’s more, my view is always clear.

Lea Schlinkmann ★★★★★
(Swimmer from Rinteln)


Swimming caps are very elastic, but sometimes very long hair just doesn’t fit underneath. If you have long and thick hair, the size of the swimming cap is crucial.

Good to know: There are brands that offer an extra size for long-haired people – check the manufacturer’s instructions. One example is BeyondSurfing’s place number 3.

Well-known brands and manufacturers

The well-known brands and manufacturers include


Arena, Speedo, Adidas and Tyr


Here you can rely on high-quality material. Pay attention to customer opinions for no-name products.

Important bathing cap care instructions

A swimming cap is only used in the water. Many users think that it therefore does not require any special cleaning. But this is a fallacy:

  1. Fabric

    Floating hoods made of fabric are susceptible to mold. They must always be allowed to dry thoroughly and are usually machine washable.

  2. Silicone, latex, neoprene

    Silicone, latex and neoprene are easy to clean. Disinfect the bathing cap once a month and do not leave it directly in the sun.

  3. Important

    After use in salt water, a swimming cap must always be rinsed with fresh water. Otherwise the material will be attacked too much.

Pro tip: If the swimming cap is stored for a longer period during a training break, there is a special powder. This keeps the material supple. Alternatively, baby powder can be used to protect the bathing cap.

Bathing caps tested by Consumer Reports and Öko Test?

There are currently no swimming cap tests from Consumer Reports and Öko Test.

How to put on a swimming cap correctly

  • Moisten the hair with fresh water.
  • Tie long hair into a plait.
  • Place the front edge of the fabric against the forehead.
  • Grasp the swimming cap with both hands and slowly pull it over your head from front to back.
  • Tuck in any hair that is hanging out.

FAQ: Frequently asked questions and answers about swimming caps

What are swimming caps?

Swimming caps are headgear that protect the ears and scalp hair when swimming. They are available in various materials and shapes. They come in a wide range of fabrics, colors and designs and are also known as bathing caps, swim caps or swimming caps.

What do you need a swimming cap for?

A swimming cap reduces water resistance and makes the swimmer faster. It also protects the hair from chlorine and the ears from infections. In cold waters, a neoprene model can keep you warm.

Why wear a swimming cap when swimming?

A swimming cap keeps your hair dry, protects it from chlorine and prevents injuries when bumping into it at the edge of the pool. The ears can also be protected from pathogens and bacteria from the water. In sport, the water resistance is reduced and the time is improved as a result.

Why wear a swim cap in a triathlon?

On the one hand, a swimming cap improves your time by reducing water resistance, and on the other, it keeps your head warm in cold open water. Longer hair is effectively held together and the view remains clear.

Which swimming cap keeps hair dry?

No swimming cap can keep the hair completely dry. Individual hackles will always become slightly damp at the edges. The head stays driest under neoprene and silicone models.

Which swim cap is the best?

A swim cap is only ever good if it is ideally suited to the requirements. Some are suitable for competitions, others for recreational swimmers with long hair.

How to put on a swimming cap?

Starting at the forehead, the cap is slipped over the head from front to back. Long hair must be tied into a bun or plait beforehand. You can find detailed instructions here.

How expensive are swimming caps?

A swim cap can cost between a few cents and up to 50 $. The decisive factors are the brand, the material and the design. Neoprene swim caps are the most expensive.

Where can you buy swim caps?

Dm, Rossman and Empty usually have swimming caps on offer. The models in drugstores in particular are very affordable.

The Internet, such as Amazon, also offers good product comparisons and a large selection.

Are swimming caps compulsory in swimming pools?

No, mandatory swimming caps are the exception. When you sign up for professional swimming training, the trainer will probably still advise you to wear a swimming cap.

Are swim caps waterproof?

There are swim caps made from materials that do not allow water to pass through (e.g. silicone or neoprene). However, the edges on the head are not seamless. This means that some water always reaches the lower hair area.

Conclusion: The most popular swim caps reviewed

A swimming cap can not only protect your health, but also improve your swimming time. Water resistance is effectively reduced and hair is protected from chlorine and UV radiation.

How to make the right purchase decision:

With BeyondSurfing’s buying guide, you can make a well-thought-out decision and know what is important when buying a swim hood.

Which bathing cap has inspired you? Please leave a comment with your experience.

Specialist literature, sources & further links

You can find more information on this topic here:

  • Putting on swim caps: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Y2zfRbNN7Yo&t=23s

Note: BeyondSurfing is not responsible and is not liable for the content of external websites.

Editor's note: The opinions expressed here are those of the author alone. The content has not been endorsed, reviewed, approved, or in any way financially supported by any advertiser. We only include products we believe to be useful. How we work

*Price includes VAT, plus shipping. Customer reviews, prices, delivery times and costs may change in the meantime. By linking to selected online shops and partners, we may receive a small affiliate commission. There are no additional costs for you.

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Laura

Beach and snorkeling expert
Laura lives in Greece and couldn't imagine a day without the sea on her doorstep. When she's not writing for BeyondSurfing, she likes to spend her free time on the beach or in the water with snorkeling gear.

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