The Swim List

Category: Swim Tips

  • How to Put a Swim Cap on Long Hair

    How to Put a Swim Cap on Long Hair

    If you have long hair, you should learn how to put a swim cap on it before heading to the pool. You will find it much easier to put on the cap if your hair is damp. If your hair is not wet, you should tie it back. You can use your hair clip to do this.

    Stretch fit swim cap

    If you have long hair, you can use a simple trick for putting a swim cap on. First, wet your hair so that the cap fits comfortably. You can also flip your hair back to keep it out of your face. Then, hold the sides of the cap and tilt your head forward. This will help you stretch the cap.

    Next, you should try putting on your swim cap. It may be easier to do this if your hair is wet. To make it even easier, you can use your fingers to spread the front of the cap. You should also try to hold the front of the cap on your forehead.

    Silicone swim cap

    The first step in putting on a swim cap is to make sure your hair is wet and not too dry. You can use your fingers to gently push stray strands into the cap. Once you’ve gotten it on the head, carefully slide your hands out of the cap. It is important to be careful not to snap the cap against your skin.

    Next, you need to consider the type of swim cap you are using. If you’re wearing a latex or silicone cap, you’ll need to be especially careful when placing the cap on your hair. The material is stretchy and can cause pain or tears if it’s not properly placed.

    Neoprene swim cap

    Whether you have long hair or short, a swimming cap can help you stay warm and comfortable in the water. Swimcaps are typically made of 1.5mm thick neoprene, which is designed to seal in your body heat. For colder water, you may want to wear a thicker cap that covers your whole head. A swim cap also has several different designs. Choose one that fits snugly and keeps your head warm.

    Putting a swim cap on long hair can be difficult, but there are some simple tips to make it easier. First, you should wet your hair before applying the swim cap. Dry hair tends to cause the material to stick to it. Second, when applying the swim cap, tilt your head down a bit and hold the front of the cap at your forehead.

    Tie back your hair with a swim cap

    Long hair can make wearing a swim cap difficult. You should gather your hair close to your head before putting it on. You can do this by pulling it back or pulling it up into a bun. To avoid getting your cap stuck in your hair, you should wet it before putting it on.

    If you have long hair, tie it back with a hair tie or a bun. Make sure the hair tie is secure and that there is no loose hair. Your hair may shift around as you swim. To prevent this, tie it up a little higher than usual so that it doesn’t shift around.

    Taking care of your hair before swimming

    When you go swimming, it’s essential to take care of your hair before the water hits it. Exposure to chlorine and salt water can damage the health of your hair. You should learn about the proper routine for your particular hair type and color to protect it. You should also know that different types of water can cause different types of damage.

    Chlorine can strip your hair of its natural oils and leave it weak and brittle. This is why you need to thoroughly rinse out the chlorine from your hair as soon as possible and use a leave-in conditioner or co-wash to repair the damage. Chlorine also depletes the porosity of your hair, which is its ability to absorb moisture.

    Choosing a swim cap that fits your hair type

    It’s important to choose a swim cap that fits your hair type and style. You’ll want to protect your hair from chlorine damage, keep your head warm in cold water, and provide visibility for passing boats. Fortunately, there are several different styles and types to choose from.

    For example, swimmers with short hair may want a cap made of polyester or latex. This material is breathable and lightweight, but it may tear the hair. Latex swim caps also tend to be more uncomfortable than other types. Bubble caps are another option. These swim caps are made from latex rubber, and they have a retro look. They are typically tight and cover the ears.

    Swim Cap Guides and Articles:

  • Where to Buy a Swim Cap

    Where to Buy a Swim Cap

    If you’re thinking of buying a swim cap, you have a few options. You can purchase a silicone or a latex-based one. Silicone is smooth and durable and is a more comfortable choice than latex. It is also gentle on sensitive scalps. Lycra is lightweight and flexible, but it won’t keep your hair dry. However, it does offer UV protection.

    Speedo

    Speedo swim caps are a stylish and practical swimming accessory. They come in different styles to fit all head sizes. Some even cover long hair. You can choose from a variety of colors and prints for a fun look. You can even buy one for your child. These swim caps have been tested and approved by the American Red Cross.

    A Speedo swim cap is made of durable material. It is designed to wick away water and keep the head dry. The silicone allows the head to breathe, so it does not cause any discomfort. It also features an anti-roll edge that prevents it from slipping off. It also keeps your hair dry and prevents water from seeping into your ears.

    Swim caps should be able to keep the head cool, but they should not be overly thick. During a race, you may end up overheating if you are wearing a very thick cap. In addition, you should check that the cap you choose fits your head size.

    Arena

    Arena is a brand you can trust when it comes to swim caps for kids. They offer a wide variety of styles and colors, including a soft cap that is great for preschoolers and toddlers. This type of cap is not waterproof, but it is easier to put on than silicone swim caps, and comes in multiple colors.

    TYR

    The TYR swim cap is an excellent choice if you’re looking for a high-quality, durable swim cap. Its solid latex construction keeps water off your scalp and hair, minimizing drag while swimming and keeping you more visible. It’s made with a 30 gram weight, is available in a variety of colors, and will fit both kids and adults.

    It’s comfortable and durable, and it has a raised TYR logo for a comfortable fit. It also features a breathable, tear-resistant interior and a round wrinkle-free design. These features make TYR swim caps the perfect choice for competitive swimming or casual swimming. You can even find different colors to match your personal style!

    A good swim cap protects the head from harmful chemicals. TYR’s asymmetric design helps with long hair, which makes it less likely to fall out. This is another great feature of a TYR swim cap, as it allows you to keep your hair in place.

    Speedo Soul Cap

    If you’re looking for a swim cap with a purpose, you’ve come to the right place. Soul Cap is a company that makes swim caps for voluminous hair. Their designs are specifically created for voluminous heads, and they protect the hair from harsh pool chemicals. They also make a lightweight hair towel. They have shipped thousands of caps worldwide, and they’ve worked with charities like the Wonder Foundation, which works to help girls and women from poor communities.

    This swim cap is a great option for those with long hair and have trouble finding a cap that fits. It’s made of recycled silicone and is warm and durable. It’s easy to pull on and feels thicker than other silicone swim caps. It also features a stretchable material, which makes it comfortable to wear. You can also buy a cap that has a contrasting colour, so it blends in with your hair.

    This swim cap is durable and comfortable, and it features a silicone band that keeps it from slipping off. It also covers the ears, protecting them from the harsh chemicals in the water. The silicone material is also lightweight and easy to clean.

    Swim Cap Guides and Articles:

  • What Is a Swim Cap For?

    What Is a Swim Cap For?

    A swim cap is a swimming accessory that is used for many different purposes. It is commonly made from silicone, latex, or lycra.

    These caps are used by both competitive swimmers and recreational swimmers. In addition to keeping your hair out of your face, they also protect your head from the effects of chlorine.

    Here is a deeper look at how swim caps can help you swim safer, protect your hair, and much more!

    Swim caps keep hair out of your face

    When you’re swimming, one of the most important accessories is a swim cap. Hair sheds in the water and can easily get stuck on your face and cause a big rolling hairball. Hair covering your swim goggles and inhibiting your sight is no one’s idea of a good time in the water!

    Additionally, long hair can get in your face and hinder your breathing. A swim cap can prevent this problem, helping you breathe easier and staying cool in the water.

    Swim caps come in many different materials and styles. Latex caps are stiff and will pull on your hair, so you may want to look for a cap made of a softer material, such as LYCRA or silicone. This type of material is more stretchy, making it easier to put on and take off. LYCRA and silicone swim caps are easy to put on and take off, so you don’t have to struggle with the caps. They’re also available in four different colors and come in three sizes.

    Keeping you warm in cold water

    To keep your body warm in cold water, there are several steps you can take. The first step is to keep your breathing relaxed. Exhaling too quickly will cause your body to produce carbon dioxide, which will cause your muscles to lose heat. A good way to combat this is to breathe slowly and deeply. This will keep your blood flowing and warm up your muscles before you enter the cold water.

    Another way to keep yourself warm in cold water is to wear the right footwear. A pair of neoprene boots or gloves will keep your feet warm. Wearing a pair of neoprene socks will also help you stay warm. You should also wear a pair of neoprene gloves to protect your hands.

    The water temperature can be extremely cold, so you should wear layers of clothing to stay warm. You should also wear gloves, ear plugs, and a cap. A neoprene cap is preferable to a latex one. Another great way to keep warm in cold water is to wear neoprene socks. This is a good idea for training swims, but you should be aware of how cumbersome it will be to take them off when you exit the water on race day.

    Protecting your head from chlorine damage

    If you have long hair and are planning on swimming, you should consider wearing a swim cap to protect it from the chlorine. Even if the chlorine will not reach the roots, it can still damage it if you do not protect it. Choosing a protective hairstyle is also a good idea, too.

    Before entering a pool, be sure to wash your hair to minimize the exposure to chlorine. Using a conditioner to coat your hair will help it stay out of contact with the water and minimize chlorine damage. You can also cover your head with a swim cap to prevent the chlorine from clogging your pores.

    Whether you’re a competitive swimmer or a weekend warrior, swimming caps can protect your head. Chlorine is a harsh chemical that can damage your hair. Its odor is similar to that of bleach. However, unlike many other chemicals, it is non-flammable. Chlorine is used in disinfecting water and sewage. It also serves as a bleaching agent in cleaning products, pesticides, and refrigerants.

    Keeping you visible

    Wearing a swim cap will increase your visibility, which is crucial when you’re in open water. It will also make you more visible to other swimmers and rescue crews. A swim cap will also help you stay warm in the cold water. A swim cap should be brightly coloured, so you can be seen by others.

    Swim caps can have eye-catching designs, such as team colors and the name of the team. Avoid using designs that are too common, as they can easily be confused by children. Having a bright and visible swim cap is a safety precaution, whether in a pool or the ocean.

    More Swim Cap Guides:

  • How to Put on a Swim Cap

    How to Put on a Swim Cap

    There are a few steps that you should follow when putting on a swim cap. These include wetting the inside of the swim cap, avoiding elastic hair bands, and avoiding tightness.

    If you’re having trouble putting on a silicone cap, try a latex or Lycra cap. If that still doesn’t work, you may have a size problem.

    Putting on a swim cap

    The first thing to do before putting on a swim cap is to make sure that you have the right size. A silicone cap should be loose enough to stretch over your head, but it shouldn’t be too tight.

    Having someone hold the front of your hair down while you slip the cap over your head is an effective way to make the process easier. Alternatively, you can try a latex or Lycra swim cap if the silicone one is too tight for you.

    The next step is to pull the cap down more. If you have long hair, you may want to restrain it with bobby pins. You should also avoid pointy hair accessories, as they can rip or tear a swim cap. Next, you should stretch the cap as wide as possible, but not too far, as it will cause it to rip or tear.

    Avoiding elastic hair bands

    Avoiding elastic hair bands when putting on your swim cap can make the whole process much easier. Using your fingers to pull your hair back and away from your neck can help you achieve this. Also, try to avoid wearing any earrings or sharp jewelry. It is also helpful to make sure your hair is wet before you put on your swim cap.

    The main goal of any swim cap is to prevent tangles, and wet hair will make the application process go more smoothly. Children with hair that tends to tangle should also use conditioner before putting on their swim cap. But, it’s important to remember that an elastic hair band combined with a swim cap can cause a lot of discomfort for the child wearing it.

    Wetting the inside of a swim cap

    You can make your swim cap more secure by wetting the inside before you wear it. This will help the cap stick to your head and make a tight seal. Many Olympic swimmers will press down on their caps while they are wearing them to ensure that it does not slip off. This will help prevent any chlorine buildup from seeping through the cap.

    Another way to prevent water from getting into your swim cap is to use waterproof earplugs. Ideally, a swimmer will wear earplugs that cover the entire ear. However, if you have hair tied in a ponytail, it may create an unusual shape and allow water to seep in.

    Putting on a latex cap

    Putting on a swim cap can be a bit tricky, especially if you have a lot of hair. Ponytailing your hair before you put the cap on can help keep your hair out of the way. However, if you are allergic to latex, you may want to avoid swimming with a swim cap that contains this substance.

    The key to success with latex caps is to be careful when you put them on. Do not use metal clips or sharp objects to clip them on. You also want to avoid damaging your fingers by snagging them on the cap.

    Putting on a neoprene cap

    The neoprene swim cap is a great accessory to wear when swimming in cold water. It helps seal in heat and protects the head from wind and rain. In cold water, the human body loses 7 to 10 percent of its heat through the head. This can cause serious problems if swimmers don’t wear a swim cap.

    First, place your hands inside the cap. Spread your fingertips to help you get the right fit. Stretch the cap a bit if you need to. It will return to its shape eventually. Next, slip it over your head until you reach the bottom of your ears. Make sure it is positioned correctly so that it doesn’t pinch or bind.

    Protecting your ears with a swim cap

    A swim cap can help protect your ears from water. Swim caps that are made of latex or silicone are water-tight. They prevent water from entering your ears and can prevent ear infections by blocking water from getting inside them. Using a swim cap with a chin strap can also help protect your ears. The chin strap pulls the material over the ears and keeps them from shifting.

    Swimming caps do not completely protect your ears from water. While swim caps are useful and healthy, swimmers should still be careful about getting water in their ears. This water can stay inside your ears for days, which can lead to bacterial infections.

    More Swim Cap Guides

    How to Choose a Swim Cap

  • How to Choose a Swim Cap

    How to Choose a Swim Cap

    There are a number of factors to consider when choosing a swim cap. Color, material, durability, and size are important considerations.

    If you know your head size, you may want to select a neoprene or silicone swim cap. Latex swim caps, on the other hand, are stretchy and work well for a wide variety of head sizes.

    The 4 Things You Need to Know When Choosing a Swim Cap

    Size

    The size of a swim cap is an important factor to remember if you’re planning to wear one while swimming. A large swim cap can protect your ears and prevent cold from escaping the head. Many of these caps feature stretch fabric, so you can adjust them to fit your head. Some of them even come with earplugs and a nose clip.

    Size also varies by head size. Children’s heads can range widely, so it is important to measure your child’s head circumference before buying a swim cap for them. By doing this, you can find the right size for your child and get the right fit. This will ensure your child’s comfort and confidence while swimming.

    The TYR model has extra room in the back for swimmers with thick hair. Its asymmetrical shape makes it comfortable for larger heads. It also has elasticity, which makes it ideal for those with unusually-shaped hair.

    Color

    You have probably seen swimmers in the pool sporting different colors of swim caps. The most common color for these swim caps is black. However, if you prefer a different color, there are plenty of options available. These caps are incredibly versatile and can be used for many different activities. Read on to learn more about the different kinds of swim caps, and the various colors available.

    The color of a swim cap should be reflective and contrast with the water. This will make the swimmer more visible to observers and boat operators. Many swimming teams have specific color requirements for their swim caps, and it’s important that you check with the team beforehand. For example, some teams do not allow swimmers to wear white caps.

    The material that swim caps are made of can make a difference in how comfortable or effective they are. Some caps are made of silicone, while others are made of lycra. Silicone caps are more durable and are good for competitive swimming. They also provide extra warmth for the head.

    Durability

    The durability of your swim cap is a very important factor to consider. While most basic swim caps will tear easily due to the seam that runs down the center, some swim caps can resist tears and are tear-resistant. For example, a cap made of 100% premium silicone with no seams is a highly durable option.

    After swimming, you should rinse your swim cap AND your swim goggles with clean, non-chlorinated water. It is also important to dry it thoroughly. Also, you should avoid leaving the swim cap in a hot car or in direct sunlight. Also, keep it away from sharp objects like hair clips and pins as they can puncture the cap.

    The materials that make up a swim cap will also determine how long it will last. Silicone and latex are the most durable, and both materials are hydrodynamic. It is important to understand the differences between the two materials so that you can choose the best one for you. While silicone is more durable, latex is softer and will stretch as you use it. This can make it uncomfortable to swim with.

    Material

    When you are looking for a swim cap, it is important to know what material it is made of. For instance, a silicone or latex cap will not breathe as well as a lycra one. A swim cap made of lycra will feel cooler and will keep your hair dry.

    There are many types of swim caps on the market. The most common ones are made of latex and rubber. These materials have been around since the 1920s and provide a tight fit. They also protect the hair from chlorine. However, some people have allergies to latex. If that is the case for you, a silicone swim cap may be a better choice. Silicone swim caps are also more comfortable, so they are an excellent option if you are sensitive to latex.

    Latex swim caps are also made of thin material, which means they are not as durable and will tear easily. If you are allergic to latex, avoid latex caps altogether. However, thin latex caps are usually cheaper than their thicker counterparts.

  • How to Use Swim Paddles

    How to Use Swim Paddles

    Curious about how you can use swim paddles to become a stronger and more efficient swimmer? Read on and take your hand paddles, and your swimming, to the next level.

    Swim paddles are one of my favorite all-time tools for swimming better, faster, and more handsomer.

    But for as simple a piece of swim gear it is, the way that paddles are used isn’t always clear.

    Or fully understood.

    Every swimmer is different (obviously) and so are their needs in the water.

    Paddles have two main uses:

    Getting stronger in the water and improving your swim technique.

    How you use swim paddles is ultimately up to you, but here are some tips for getting the most of the time you have the paddles strapped to your hands.

    How to use hand paddles for getting stronger

    Hand paddles are primarily a power development tool.

    Or at least, that’s the way I always viewed them when I was an age grouper. I always reached for the largest paddles I could find in the equipment bin as I figured this would immediately transfer into super gainz in the water.

    While I was only about half right (going super large with your paddles is almost always counter-productive), there are some awesome ways to power up your swimming with paddles:

    • Paddles and fins. Everyone’s favorite! Combine with swim training fins for some super speed in the water. Paddles, plus fins, has you swimming at top speed, quickly teaching your nervous system what it takes to swim at that position.
    • Use paddles strategically. Use your hand paddles in short durations for power development. Any kind of resistance work in the water should be done with adequate rest to ensure that you are getting maximal effort and benefit.
    • Long, easy swims can be done with paddles, but should be increased gradually and with total emphasis on swimming with proper form. Consider pairing with a snorkel to reduce the strain on your shoulders.
    • My favorite way to do pull sets. Shoulder strengthening can be done swimming solely with paddles (my preferred way to do “pull” sets as it more closely resembles swimming) or with a pull buoy to make it a fully upper body workout.
    • Power 9000. Paddles can also be used with a swimmer’s parachute, DragSox, or tethered rubber tubing. Take lots of rest when doing this kind of set (8×25 all out @2:00, for example) to avoid overloading the nervous system. This is a more advanced form of training and your shoulders should be prepared for this level of resistance and stress.

    How to use swim paddles for improving your technique

    Paddles aren’t just for power work! They can also be used to improve your technique in the water. Forget the pace clock and experiment moving through the water while wearing them.,

    Here are some ways that you can do this:

    • Boost your feel of the water. “Feel” the water when initiating the pull movement to encourage a flat hand and fingers pointing at the bottom of the pool
    • Clean up the hand entry. Remove the wrist strap to encourage a cleaner hand entry. By removing the wrist strap, you coach yourself to enter the water cleanly, or else the paddle will slip and slide sideways or even fall off.
    • Strengthen the top of the catch. Reach out with the paddle at the top of your stroke and see how much water you can catch. This is a great way to encourage a strong and early vertical forearm.
    • Power up your grip in the water. Use paddles when sculling to strengthen your “grip” on the water. Catching more water means you can take less strokes per length to swim the same speed. Efficiency!
    • Improve your finish. Paddles encourage you to finish the full pulling motion, particularly when you have the wrist straps removed. This is similar to the point above about having a cleaner hand entry—when your hand exits the water, if not placed properly the paddle will twist and fall off.
    • Use them for drill work. Drills are a great way to over-emphasize parts of your technique that you want to improve. Paddles add another element of exaggeration. For example, if you are trying to sharpen that early vertical forearm, you could strap on a snorkel and do long dog free drill, really sinking the fingers at the bottom of the pull and pulling yourself through the water forcefully.

    How to choose the correct hand paddle size

    When using paddles for strengthening, there’s no need to be a hero on day one.

    Progress and take your time building up the meters and intensity with them.

    How big should the hand paddles be to get faster in the water?

    Although it may be tempting to grab the biggest paddles you can get your hands on, choose a paddle that is slightly larger than the palm of your hand. Protecting your shoulders is crucial when using paddles.

    On top of placing undue strain on the arms, choosing a paddle that is too large will slow your tempo to a crawl, reducing any performance improvement you would derive from using them.

    More Swim Paddle Guides

    🏊 6 Benefits of Hand Paddles for Swimming. Using swim paddles can help you do a ton of different things in the water. Here is a look at the six benefits of hand paddles for swimming.

  • How to Stop Swim Goggles from Leaking

    How to Stop Swim Goggles from Leaking

    Frustrated with leaky goggles? Here’s a step-by-step guide to stopping your swim goggles from leaking.

    Swim goggles are every swimmer’s best friend when they hit the water.

    They perform a myriad of functions that helps you maximize every stroke and lap in the pool.

    • Goggles help you see the walls so you can nail your flip turns.
    • They give you that HD vision to see other swimmers in the water.
    • Help you see the pace clock and stay on top of the reps and intervals in your swim practice.
    • And, if you’ve ever swum in a pool that had water that wasn’t properly balanced, goggles keep your eyes from getting super bloodshot.

    But as super-duper as they can be, they can also be frustrating to work with.

    A leaky swim goggle—especially when diving into the water on race day—can be a real pain in the chlorinated buttocks.

    Fortunately, there are some simple things you can do to stop your swim goggles from leaking.

    Let’s do this.

    Adjust the nose bridge.

    Most swim goggles come with a variety of nose bridges at different widths. Removing and installing these is relatively straightforward; unclip the nose bridge from the lens and try another one until you find a comfortable and snug fit.

    If you want to be able to adjust the width of the nose bridge, consider picking up a pair of swim goggles that can use a chunk of the head strap as a modified nose bridge.

    Swedish goggles (including the classic Swede and others like the TYR Socket Rocket) make it easy to tug some head strap through the lens. From there, you can tighten or loosen as necessary.

    The goggles should sit comfortably against the sides of the nose. If they are digging into your nose or there is ample space between the nose and the ocular lenses, the chance of a leak increases.

    A proper nose bridge solves most leak issues with swim goggles.

    Get a good angle on the head straps.

    Swim goggles come with head straps to keep the lenses secure on your face when diving into the water, swimming for extended periods of time, and while you push off.

    When the head straps droops (i.e. slides down toward the back of your neck), the top of the goggle lens starts to peel away from the face.

    Head straps that have the proper amount of tension will stay in place while you swim.

    Obviously, there is a balance to be found here.

    You don’t want your swim goggles to be so tight that they leave your face with indentations (“racoon eyes”) and a face that feels like a pimple that keeps getting squeezed and not popped.

    Look for goggles with silicone gaskets.

    Between the goggle lens and your skin is often a silicone gasket.

    They act as a skirt, lightly compressing into the skin to create a seal, keeping water out and your vision clear.

    The “skirt” on my Speedo Socket Rockets.

    Most popular swim goggles, including the Vanquishers, Socket Rockets, and more all have slim silicone gaskets that do an excellent job of keeping water out of your swim goggles.

    Wear a swim cap over your goggle straps.

    Ever notice how elite competitive swimmers typically race with a swimming cap over their swimming goggles?

    While swim caps have a lot of functions—keeping hair dry isn’t one of them, oddly enough—they are also fantastic at keeping your goggles securely in place.

    When you are stepping up onto the block on race day at the big meet, the last thing you want is to be worrying about your goggles leaking, or worse, coming off.

    Strapping a swim cap (or two, in the case of some swimmers) over your goggles is an excellent way to keep them in place.

    Sink them into your face

    Lastly, when you put on your swim goggles, don’t forget to sink them into the skin around your eyes.

    Gently pressing your goggles–gently being the operative word here!–into your face will help to strengthen the seal of the goggles (another good reason to select swim goggles that have a silicone gasket around the edges of the lenses).

    Loose swim goggles that don’t have that little bit of suction to your face are a breeding ground for leaks, so don’t forget this simple tip when you are hopping into the water.

    Summary

    In closing, your swim goggles are your best friend in the pool.

    (And if you aren’t sold on how much better swim goggles make your life in the water, read this guide on why everyone should wear swim goggles at the pool.)

    All you have to do is make sure that you get a proper fit on the goggles, look for a set that have a silicone skirt, and consider throwing a swim cap over the goggle straps for swim meets.

    A leak-free swim awaits!