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SESK: Stuff Everyone Should Know · sesk.info/swim-cap-purpose

What is a main purpose of a competitive swim cap?

Reduce drag and keep hair contained.

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  1. To make the swimmer float higher
  2. To cut drag and keep hair out of the way ✔
  3. To keep water out of the eyes

Why: A cap keeps hair out of the way and makes the head smoother in the water. USMS says caps also help protect hair from chlorine and make open water swimmers easier to see.

Huh, didn't know that: In USA Swimming open water races, swimmers may wear up to two caps, and some wear two for warmth.

The dad joke
Why did the swimmer wear a cap? To keep a lid on things.
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References

Answer: To cut drag and keep hair out of the way. A cap keeps hair out of the way and makes the head smoother in the water. USMS says caps also help protect hair from chlorine and make open water swimmers easier to see.

  1. U.S. Masters Swimming: How Do I Put and Keep My Swim Cap On www.usms.org/fitness-and-training/articles-and-videos/articles/how-do-i-put-and-keep-my-swim-cap-on
    But the swim cap isn’t just a tool to keep longer hair out of the way during a swim.
    Checked 2026-10-12.
  2. U.S. Masters Swimming: How Do I Put and Keep My Swim Cap On www.usms.org/fitness-and-training/articles-and-videos/articles/how-do-i-put-and-keep-my-swim-cap-on
    Swimmers rely on swim caps for their contribution to hydrodynamics, the protection they provide from chlorine and other pool chemicals
    Checked 2026-10-12.
  3. USA Swimming: Open Water Swim Essentials www.usaswimming.org/swimmers-parents/swimmers/open-water/open-water-swim-essentials
    A maximum of two caps may be used. If the water is colder participants may opt to use two for warmth.
    Checked 2026-10-12.

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