General Discussion Triathlon Talk » Swim Cap questions? Rss Feed  
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2005-04-20 9:07 AM

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Subject: Swim Cap questions?
Just wondering if most Tris provide swim caps or if I should purchase one. And, if I should purchase one, what options do I have for material? I think there are 3 different types but not sure which to get.

Thanks for any advise.

Rob


2005-04-20 9:11 AM
in reply to: #145087

Master
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Brooklyn, NY
Subject: RE: Swim Cap questions?
I bought my latex simply cause most events that require them are latex. So I might as well get used to them in the pool.
Another reason (I found after I bought it), is that it helps keep the water away from my face, thus helping me breath better (more time). If you are in cold water, you will find it helps too. After swimming, my head is always the warmest part of my adonus-like body.

Oh yeah, not having been in a tri yet. I asked this same question some time ago and it seems the events that do require a cap give them to you because they are color specific for the event.

Edited by cobannero 2005-04-20 9:12 AM
2005-04-20 9:14 AM
in reply to: #145087

Regular
87
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Jackson, MS
Subject: RE: Swim Cap questions?
Most tris will provide swim caps. Usually the color of the cap indicates what swim wave you are in. Usually, the information provided at sign up will tell you if a swim cap is required and if one will be provideded. HTH.
2005-04-20 12:29 PM
in reply to: #145087

Pro
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Subject: RE: Swim Cap questions?
I just got back from the LRS, where I ordered a pair of Tri Shorts :D, and was talking to the guys about caps. They are both wearing the “new” Silicone Composite caps from Speedo and liked them.

Anyone have any feedback on them?

Thanks again,
Rob
2005-04-20 12:37 PM
in reply to: #145087

New user
27
25
Gilbert, Arizona
Subject: RE: Swim Cap questions?
Uhh...I have a tri on Sunday, and forgot to even think about a swim cap. Do I have to wear one?

Sarah

triathlon dork!
2005-04-20 1:47 PM
in reply to: #145087

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Veteran
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Minneapolis, MN
Subject: RE: Swim Cap questions?
I find that latex caps are best for keeping the chlorine out of your hair and it's also the type of cap you'll get at your tri. Most races will provide caps. If you're not sure they'll be providing caps, bring your own just in case. You can always leave it in your bag.


2005-04-20 1:51 PM
in reply to: #145087

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Champion
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Whizzzzzlandia
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Subject: RE: Swim Cap questions?

Silicone caps are easier to work with and the sides don't get stuck together like the rubber/latex caps do... they are also a bit more durable and less likely to rip... and I think they cost at least two or three times as much as your standard latex cap.

Just go with latex. (Unless you're allergic!) Nearly ALL races provide a latex cap with some sort of logo on it and they mark your number and wave on it too. By the time you're done with your triathlon season, you're going to have a drawer full of swim caps and you'll wonder why you'll ever need to buy another one again! They will be expendable. Or donate-able. I thought I remember reading about someone on this site who donated all her excess tri caps to the YMCA or someplace and they used them for underpriveliged kid's swim lessons... (?)

I digress...

Whizzzzzz

2005-04-20 1:53 PM
in reply to: #145326

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Pro
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Vancouver, BC
Subject: RE: Swim Cap questions?
For the tris I've been in it's been about a 50-50 split on whether or not they are provided, but in all cases, if they must be worn, then they are provided.

I usually wear a silicone swim cap as I find it more comfortable. It's looser, easier to get on and doesn't smell as bad as a latex one can smell after a couple of weeks. For swim meets I wear a latex cap because I'm worried that the silocone one may slip off when I dive into the water. I keep the latex cap "fresh" by drying it out and putting baby powder in it after each use. It helps you put it on easier next time too.

Jen
2005-04-20 2:39 PM
in reply to: #145087

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Master
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Falls Church, Virginia
Subject: RE: Swim Cap questions?
I have a latex allergy, so I wear a silicone cap. I really love it.
2005-04-20 2:54 PM
in reply to: #145087

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Veteran
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Woodridge, IL (Chicago)
Subject: RE: Swim Cap questions?
The Advantage of Silicone over Latex caps is that the Silicone are a lot more durable, easier to get on and off and won't roll up around the edges grabbing your hair. They do however cost around 9.00 vs the latex at anywhere from 2.00 up just about. Both caps will keep your hair dry for the most part. Only the edges will get wet.

Speedo Makes two new caps this yeat. The Dome Cap, which is a harder silicone and shapped in the form of a "Dome". This cap is more hydrodynamic, however it is a lot more expensive. The other cap they made this year is the Silicone Racer Dome Cap. This Cap is made of the same silicone material as your normal Silicone cap. It is however seamless thus eliminating the majority of the wrinkles in the cap while on. It is also very comfortable. That cap costs around $12.00.
2005-04-20 7:27 PM
in reply to: #145087

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Golden Colorado
Subject: RE: Swim Cap questions?
If they provide the caps at races do they provide different sizes..I shave my head so I don't use one in the pool..but unless they supply an Xl..I don't see any way possible of getting one on this melon of a head.  Probably cut the circulation to my brain off half way through the swim...That is not the way to DNF.


2005-04-20 10:21 PM
in reply to: #145087

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Denver, CO
Subject: RE: Swim Cap questions?
Let me just say that if you have hair then latex caps suck. alot. however, they do work. I don't know about the silcone ones, but I might just go out and get me one now! Don't get the fabric kind- they're worthless. If I was a guy I would totally shave my head (after much consideration, I now agree with you macaco). happy swimming!
2005-04-21 8:00 AM
in reply to: #145087

Pro
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Andover
Subject: RE: Swim Cap questions?
Thanks for the great replies, folks!

I think I'll pick up a silicone cap, as they are "user friendly," in case one isn't provided.

Cheers,
Rob
2005-04-21 5:31 PM
in reply to: #145087

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Los Angeles
Subject: RE: Swim Cap questions?
If a race requires that you wear a cap, it should be provided. But you may want to get used to wearing one anyway.
2005-04-22 12:13 AM
in reply to: #145087

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Extreme Veteran
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Subject: RE: Swim Cap questions?

Definitely get used to wearing one. You don't want to have your first time be in a race where you'll feel self concious about your head the entire swim.

I use latex from my Danskin triathlon. I have long curly hair so I put it up in a pony tail and then slip both hands into the cap, hold them out so it's bigger than my head, and slide it over the top. I hate it when hair touches my face when I swim so I make sure to stuff it all under the hat.

I bring a wash cloth with me and stuff it inside the cap while I shower. Then I roll the cap up into the washcloth. No sticking, no stinky smell.

2005-04-22 8:21 AM
in reply to: #145087

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Champion
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Williamston, Michigan
Subject: RE: Swim Cap questions?
Most races provide one and you are required to wear theirs.  I have a lycra one I train in that I love b.c it doesn'y pull my hair.


2009-07-07 8:47 PM
in reply to: #145087

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Kauai girl now in MIll Creek/Silver Firs
Subject: RE: Swim Cap questions?
Just wanted to add something for those of us allergic to Latex..... for my last race we had to wear the latex cap they provided and I was able to slip it over my silicone cap so the latex didn't touch my skin. No problems that way ...
2009-07-07 8:59 PM
in reply to: #145595


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Subject: RE: Swim Cap questions?
macaco - 2005-04-20 7:27 PM

If they provide the caps at races do they provide different sizes..I shave my head so I don't use one in the pool..but unless they supply an Xl..I don't see any way possible of getting one on this melon of a head.  Probably cut the circulation to my brain off half way through the swim...That is not the way to DNF.
Trust me...it will stretch. I have a pretty big head and have yet to find a swimcap that wont fit me.
2009-07-07 9:32 PM
in reply to: #145253

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Subject: RE: Swim Cap questions?
Cappy - 2005-04-20 10:29 AM I just got back from the LRS, where I ordered a pair of Tri Shorts :D, and was talking to the guys about caps. They are both wearing the “new” Silicone Composite caps from Speedo and liked them. Anyone have any feedback on them? Thanks again, Rob


i really like the new silicone caps from speedo.    

i've got a lot of hair to hold back - a swim cap is essential for any swimming i do.   
2009-07-08 5:53 AM
in reply to: #2268903

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Subject: RE: Swim Cap questions?
patchadams - 2009-07-07 9:59 PM
macaco - 2005-04-20 7:27 PM If they provide the caps at races do they provide different sizes..I shave my head so I don't use one in the pool..but unless they supply an Xl..I don't see any way possible of getting one on this melon of a head.  Probably cut the circulation to my brain off half way through the swim...That is not the way to DNF.
Trust me...it will stretch. I have a pretty big head and have yet to find a swimcap that wont fit me.


Don't worry, one size fits all:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Eq9OJkpDlIM


2009-07-08 8:10 AM
in reply to: #145087

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Not a Coach
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Subject: RE: Swim Cap questions?
I'm just wondering how someone managed to bump a thread on swim caps from 2005!!!


2009-07-08 8:29 AM
in reply to: #145087

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Subject: RE: Swim Cap questions?
Interesting.  The OP has since done several IM races and now taking a long break from doing tris. 
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