Cold water swim - insulated swim cap?

The first OWS of season around here is typically in 53-55* water.  I have used a squid lid in these practices and found that my head is able to reheat and the cold induced headache able to subside quicker.  That said, it is still @#$^% cold when the water hits you.

The draw back that I found is that I did not like having my ears covered and sound muffled.  Other than than, it was pretty much worth the $20 investment.

Make sure you try a few on before ordering one--I borrowed one to swim in SF Bay in March (and was thankful for it).  I think it was Orca and had a velcro strap under the chin. I tried a few others on that were not velcro and none of them fit right or covered my ears right, so I didn't buy one and returned the borrowed one to its owner.  Since then, I've just worn two caps in cold water and been fine.  Booties, on the other hand, have been very nice to own.

If you don't have a lot of experience with cold water and you are asking yourself this question, you should get one. If nothing else it will assist you in your mental preparation. If you are doing Escape, you've already spent so much money, another $20 -$25 is worth the extra peace of mind. The next time ditch it if you want, and sell it for $10 - $15. There will be enough people wearing one at Alcatraz that you'll have plenty of company.

I bought the Blue Seventy cap for Alcatraz. It was tight when I first put it on. But in the water it fit perfectly. I read ear plugs were also recommended for the race. I tried the Mack's silicone (blue twisty look) but they dont' really fit that well. I'm going to try out another pair this week.