Swimming Caps for Open Water Swimmers & Wild Swimmers
Swim with confidence, style, and visibility. Dippy's swimming caps are made from durable, stretchable silicone for a secure, comfortable fit, protecting your hair from cold water and chlorine while making sure you're easy to spot in open water. Your essential companion from the first dip to the last.
A great adult swim cap does three things: keeps your hair protected, reduces drag so you move through the water cleanly, and makes you visible to other water users. Dippy's caps tick all three boxes, and they're lightweight and easy to pull on or off too, so there's no wrestling with it at the water's edge. They come in a range of vibrant colours and patterns, including our Pink camo, so you can stand out and stay easy to spot while you're at it.
Silicone, Neoprene, or Latex? Choosing the Right Cap
Most swimmers will find a silicone swimming cap hits the sweet spot. Silicone is durable, stretchy, and comfortable enough to wear for longer sessions without pulling at your hair. It's also naturally waterproof, giving you reliable protection whether you're in a lake, lido, or the sea.
If you're swimming in colder conditions, a neoprene swimming cap is worth considering. Neoprene adds an extra layer of thermal insulation around your head, helping you stay warmer for longer in low temperatures, a genuine game changer for winter wild swimming.
What Makes a Good Waterproof Swimming Cap
Fit matters. A waterproof swimming cap needs to sit snugly without being uncomfortably tight, loose caps let cold water flood in, while caps that are too tight become a distraction mid-swim. Dippy's caps are designed to fit well across a range of head sizes, with enough stretch to go on and come off easily without the usual battle.
Complete Your Dippy Kit
A swimming cap is just the start. Pair yours with a Dippy tow float for safety, a changing robe for warmth after your swim, and a matching swimsuit and tote bag to go the full Dippy. Because why not look good from the car park to the water's edge?
Swimming Cap FAQs
Do I need a swimming cap for open water swimming?
You're not required to wear one, but it's strongly recommended, especially in cold water. A swimming cap reduces heat loss from your head, improves your visibility to other water users, and protects your hair from prolonged exposure to cold water and UV. Many organised open water swims provide brightly coloured caps specifically for safety and swimmer identification.
What's the difference between a silicone and a neoprene swimming cap?
Silicone caps are the most common choice, durable, stretchy, and comfortable across most water temperatures. Neoprene caps add thermal insulation, making them better suited to cold water swimming in autumn and winter where keeping your head warm is the priority. If you swim year-round, it's worth having one of each.
Will a swimming cap keep my hair dry?
A swimming cap significantly reduces how much water reaches your hair, but it won't keep it completely dry, particularly in open water. The main benefit is protection from prolonged exposure to cold water, chlorine, and UV rather than total waterproofing.
How do I put on a swimming cap without pulling my hair?
Wet your hair first, a damp cap goes on much more smoothly than a dry one. Place both thumbs inside the cap, stretch it wide, and work it over your head from front to back. Tuck any loose hair in at the sides. Most swimmers find silicone caps gentler on hair than latex alternatives.
Are Dippy swimming caps suitable for kids?
Dippy's caps are designed to fit a range of adult head sizes. For children, check the fit, silicone caps have enough stretch to accommodate smaller heads, but it's worth measuring first for the best seal and comfort.
£12.00 / DIPPY Swim Cap in Green Camo
