Silicone vs Latex vs Fabric Swim Caps
A swim cap keeps hair out of your face, reduces drag and protects hair from some of the chlorine. The material makes a big difference to how well it does each job and how long it lasts. This comparison sits within our guide to choosing swimwear.
How do silicone, latex and fabric caps compare?
Swim Cap Materials Compared
| Silicone | Latex | Fabric | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Durability | High | Lower, tears more easily | High |
| Comfort | Comfortable, less hair pulling | Can pull hair | Very comfortable |
| Keeps hair dry | Fairly well | Fairly well | No |
| Drag | Low | Low | Higher |
| Warmth | Good | Moderate | Low |
| Best for | Regular and club swimmers | Racing, budget caps | Lessons, leisure, aqua classes |
Why choose a silicone swim cap?
Silicone is the best all-rounder. It's thicker and stretchier than latex, so it lasts longer, pulls hair less and is more comfortable. It also keeps your head a little warmer. Most club swimmers and regular lane swimmers use silicone caps, and many clubs sell caps in club colours. Our swim caps include silicone styles for adults and children.
Why choose a latex swim cap?
Latex caps are thin, light and inexpensive, which is why many swimmers wear them for racing, often with a silicone cap over the top. They tear more easily, can pull hair and need care to last. Avoid latex if you have a latex allergy.
Why choose a fabric swim cap?
Fabric caps, usually made from Lycra or polyester, are the most comfortable and easiest to put on, which makes them popular for children's lessons and leisure swimming. They don't keep hair dry and they add drag, so they're not ideal for training.
The mistake: Pulling a cap on from the front with fingertips and long nails.
What happens: Latex caps tear, silicone caps can puncture, and hair gets yanked out at the hairline.
How to avoid it: Hold the cap open with both hands inside, palms facing out, then stretch it over your head from front to back. Our guide to choosing goggles explains how to wear your goggle strap with a cap.
Why do racing swimmers wear two caps?
Many racers wear a latex cap first and a silicone cap on top, with their goggle strap sandwiched between the two. The double layer is smoother and holds goggles securely on the dive. It's a common setup at galas; our racing caps are designed for competition.
WHICH CAP FOR WHICH SWIMMER?
WHICH CAP FOR WHICH SWIMMER?Lane and club swimmer
Lane and club swimmerSilicone. Durable, comfortable and low drag.
Racer
RacerSilicone, or latex underneath a silicone cap with the goggle strap between.
Child in lessons
Child in lessonsFabric for comfort, or a junior silicone cap once they're keen.
How do you look after a swim cap?
Rinse it inside and out after every swim, dry it fully and keep it away from heat. Dust latex caps with talc before storing so they don't stick. Our swim kit care guide covers the rest, and our swimwear experts can help you find the right size if you have a lot of hair. If your child is joining a club, our club kit list explains what caps clubs commonly ask for.
Why Buy Swim Caps From Allens Swimwear
We've supplied caps to swimmers and clubs for 50 years.
Written by a swimwear specialist at Allens Swimwear, 50 years of expert fitting. Updated 7 October 2026.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is better, a silicone or latex swim cap?
Silicone for most swimmers: it lasts longer, pulls hair less and is more comfortable. Latex is thinner and cheaper, and is often used for racing under a silicone cap.
Do swim caps keep your hair dry?
Silicone and latex caps keep hair fairly dry but rarely completely dry, especially with long hair. Fabric caps don't keep hair dry at all.
Are fabric swim caps good for swimming lengths?
They're comfortable but add drag and let water through, so silicone is a better choice for lengths and training.
Why do swimmers wear two caps?
A latex cap underneath and a silicone cap on top, with the goggle strap between them, gives a smoother finish and holds goggles securely during dives.
How do you put on a swim cap without pulling your hair?
Put both hands inside the cap, stretch it wide and pull it on from front to back. Wetting your hair first, or wearing a fabric cap underneath, can help.