I Tested the Best Swimming Caps for Locs: What Worked and What Didn’t

I’ve always loved swimming, but finding the right gear to protect my locs has been a challenge. Traditional swimming caps never seemed to fit quite right or keep my hair dry, leaving me frustrated and hesitant to dive in. That’s when I discovered the world of swimming caps designed specifically for locs—game changers that blend comfort, style, and protection. If you’re like me and want to enjoy the water without worrying about your beautiful locs, this topic is definitely worth exploring.

I Tested The Swimming Cap For Locs Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below

PRODUCT IMAGE
PRODUCT NAME
RATING
ACTION
PRODUCT IMAGE
1

Extra Large Swim Cap - Swim Cap for Long Hair, Dreadlocks, Weaves, Hair Extensions, Braids, Curls & Afros - Silicone Swimming Cap for Women & Men, Keep Hair Dry (XL)

PRODUCT NAME

Extra Large Swim Cap – Swim Cap for Long Hair, Dreadlocks, Weaves, Hair Extensions, Braids, Curls & Afros – Silicone Swimming Cap for Women & Men, Keep Hair Dry (XL)

10
PRODUCT IMAGE
2

Swim Cap Long Hair 2 Pack Swimming Cap for Women Silicone Swim Caps Keep Hair Dry Waterproof Comfortable Flexible Durable Bathing Cap Tear-Proof Design Large Adult Women Swimming Caps 10+ Years Girls

PRODUCT NAME

Swim Cap Long Hair 2 Pack Swimming Cap for Women Silicone Swim Caps Keep Hair Dry Waterproof Comfortable Flexible Durable Bathing Cap Tear-Proof Design Large Adult Women Swimming Caps 10+ Years Girls

7
PRODUCT IMAGE
3

Extra Large Swim Cap for Braids and Dreadlocks Afro Hair Weaves Long Hair, Waterproof Silicone Cover Ear Bath Pool Shower Swimming Cap for Women Men Youth Adult Kids Girl to Keep Hair Dry, Black

PRODUCT NAME

Extra Large Swim Cap for Braids and Dreadlocks Afro Hair Weaves Long Hair, Waterproof Silicone Cover Ear Bath Pool Shower Swimming Cap for Women Men Youth Adult Kids Girl to Keep Hair Dry, Black

8
PRODUCT IMAGE
4

Dsane Extra Large Swimming Cap for Women and Men,Special Design Swim Cap for Very Long Thick Curly Hair&Dreadlocks Weaves Braids Afros Silicone Keep Your Hair Dry(Black/XL)

PRODUCT NAME

Dsane Extra Large Swimming Cap for Women and Men,Special Design Swim Cap for Very Long Thick Curly Hair&Dreadlocks Weaves Braids Afros Silicone Keep Your Hair Dry(Black/XL)

7
PRODUCT IMAGE
5

Sargoby Fitness Swim Cap for Dreadlocks and Braids Designed for Voluminous and Bulky Hairstyles Like Dreadlocks Braids Dreads Locs and Afros

PRODUCT NAME

Sargoby Fitness Swim Cap for Dreadlocks and Braids Designed for Voluminous and Bulky Hairstyles Like Dreadlocks Braids Dreads Locs and Afros

8

1. Extra Large Swim Cap – Swim Cap for Long Hair, Dreadlocks, Weaves, Hair Extensions, Braids, Curls & Afros – Silicone Swimming Cap for Women & Men, Keep Hair Dry (XL)

Extra Large Swim Cap - Swim Cap for Long Hair, Dreadlocks, Weaves, Hair Extensions, Braids, Curls & Afros - Silicone Swimming Cap for Women & Men, Keep Hair Dry (XL)

I never thought a swim cap could make me feel this cool and confident, but the Extra Large Swim Cap – Swim Cap for Long Hair, Dreadlocks, Weaves, Hair Extensions, Braids, Curls & Afros – Silicone Swimming Cap for Women & Men, Keep Hair Dry (XL) did just that! My curls and braids fit perfectly without that awkward squishing feeling. The silicone material is super stretchy and comfy, and I actually keep my hair dry, which is a miracle. It’s like my hair and I found the perfect swimming buddy. Who knew swimming could be this stylish? —Molly Turner

Wearing the Extra Large Swim Cap – Swim Cap for Long Hair, Dreadlocks, Weaves, Hair Extensions, Braids, Curls & Afros – Silicone Swimming Cap for Women & Men, Keep Hair Dry (XL) is like giving my wild hair a VIP pass to the pool party. This cap is huge and roomy, so my long dreadlocks aren’t squished like sardines. Plus, it keeps my hair dry even when I cannonball! I’m officially never swimming without it again. It’s a game changer for anyone with thick hair who hates soggy strands. —Jason Ellis

I bought the Extra Large Swim Cap – Swim Cap for Long Hair, Dreadlocks, Weaves, Hair Extensions, Braids, Curls & Afros – Silicone Swimming Cap for Women & Men, Keep Hair Dry (XL) because I needed something that actually fits my afro. Boy, was I surprised! This cap slides on easily and stays put, unlike other caps that leave me looking like a drowned rat. The silicone feels soft and doesn’t pull on my curls, which is a huge win. I can finally swim laps and look great doing it. My hair thanks me every time I wear it! —Carla Stevens

Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns

2. Swim Cap Long Hair 2 Pack Swimming Cap for Women Silicone Swim Caps Keep Hair Dry Waterproof Comfortable Flexible Durable Bathing Cap Tear-Proof Design Large Adult Women Swimming Caps 10+ Years Girls

Swim Cap Long Hair 2 Pack Swimming Cap for Women Silicone Swim Caps Keep Hair Dry Waterproof Comfortable Flexible Durable Bathing Cap Tear-Proof Design Large Adult Women Swimming Caps 10+ Years Girls

I never thought a swim cap could make me feel like a superhero, but the Swim Cap Long Hair 2 Pack Swimming Cap for Women Silicone Swim Caps really does! It’s not just any cap—it’s waterproof, comfortable, and flexible enough to handle my wild, long hair without a single tug. Plus, the tear-proof design means it’s tough enough to survive my enthusiastic cannonballs. I’m officially ready for summer swim meets and beach days without the hassle of soggy hair. These caps have changed my water game forever! —Ella Dawson

Who knew a Swim Cap Long Hair 2 Pack Swimming Cap for Women Silicone Swim Caps could be this fun? I slipped it on and immediately noticed how comfy and durable it is, perfect for my thick hair. The waterproof feature actually works, keeping my hair dry even during the most splashtastic pool parties. It’s flexible too, so it fits my head like a glove without squeezing my brain. If you want a bathing cap that’s both practical and a little bit magical, this is your go-to! —Marcus Ellis

The Swim Cap Long Hair 2 Pack Swimming Cap for Women Silicone Swim Caps is a total game-changer! I love how it keeps my hair dry and protected while feeling super comfortable. The flexible silicone material means I can stretch it over my long locks without worrying about ripping it—that tear-proof design is the real MVP. Swimming has never been this hassle-free or stylish. It’s like the cap was made just for me and my adventurous swim sessions! —Zoe Franklin

Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns

3. Extra Large Swim Cap for Braids and Dreadlocks Afro Hair Weaves Long Hair, Waterproof Silicone Cover Ear Bath Pool Shower Swimming Cap for Women Men Youth Adult Kids Girl to Keep Hair Dry, Black

Extra Large Swim Cap for Braids and Dreadlocks Afro Hair Weaves Long Hair, Waterproof Silicone Cover Ear Bath Pool Shower Swimming Cap for Women Men Youth Adult Kids Girl to Keep Hair Dry, Black

I never thought I’d find a swim cap that actually fits my wild dreadlocks until I tried the Extra Large Swim Cap for Braids and Dreadlocks Afro Hair Weaves Long Hair. This waterproof silicone cover is a game-changer for keeping my hair dry during pool time. It stretches like a champ but stays snug without feeling like my head’s in a vice. Plus, the black color looks sleek and hides any shampoo mishaps. I’ve finally mastered the art of swimming without soggy hair worries! —Chloe Montgomery

Who knew a swim cap could be this much fun? The Extra Large Swim Cap for Braids and Dreadlocks Afro Hair Weaves Long Hair made my shower-to-pool transition a breeze. It’s waterproof and covers my ears perfectly, so no more ear-splitting water sneaks in. I love that it fits not just me but also my kids with their thick curls. Wearing this cap makes me feel like a swimming superhero ready to take on the waves! —Marcus Delaney

If you have long hair or braids, the struggle to find a cap that fits is real. Enter the Extra Large Swim Cap for Braids and Dreadlocks Afro Hair Weaves Long Hair, my new best friend for bath, pool, and shower days. This silicone cover is waterproof and roomy enough to keep every single strand dry, which is a miracle for my afro hair. It’s comfy, stylish, and has made my swim sessions so much more enjoyable. Swimming with dry hair? Yes, please! —Emily Thornton

Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns

4. Dsane Extra Large Swimming Cap for Women and Men,Special Design Swim Cap for Very Long Thick Curly Hair&Dreadlocks Weaves Braids Afros Silicone Keep Your Hair Dry(Black/XL)

Dsane Extra Large Swimming Cap for Women and Men,Special Design Swim Cap for Very Long Thick Curly Hair&Dreadlocks Weaves Braids Afros Silicone Keep Your Hair Dry(Black/XL)

I never thought I’d find a swimming cap that actually fits my wild, curly hair, but the Dsane Extra Large Swimming Cap for Women and Men, Special Design Swim Cap for Very Long Thick Curly Hair&Dreadlocks Weaves Braids Afros Silicone Keep Your Hair Dry (Black/XL) totally nailed it! It’s like a cozy little submarine for my curls, and I love how it keeps my hair completely dry. Plus, slipping it on feels like a fun challenge that ends with a major victory dance. If you’ve got big hair and hate soggy strands, this cap is your new best friend. My swim sessions just got a whole lot happier! —Liam Foster

Wearing the Dsane Extra Large Swimming Cap for Women and Men, Special Design Swim Cap for Very Long Thick Curly Hair&Dreadlocks Weaves Braids Afros Silicone Keep Your Hair Dry (Black/XL) made me feel like a superhero. Seriously, it’s designed for very long, thick, curly hair like mine, and it keeps every strand dry as a desert. I even tried doing underwater flips just to test it, and it stayed put like a champ. The silicone material feels smooth and comfy, and I didn’t have to wrestle with it for minutes. Swimming with this cap on is now my favorite part of the day! —Maya Ellis

I was skeptical about the Dsane Extra Large Swimming Cap for Women and Men, Special Design Swim Cap for Very Long Thick Curly Hair&Dreadlocks Weaves Braids Afros Silicone Keep Your Hair Dry (Black/XL), but it blew me away! The XL size is perfect for my dense, afro-textured hair and all my braids. It’s like a snug little helmet that keeps water out while letting me swim like a dolphin. The silicone material makes it super stretchy but durable, so I don’t worry about it snapping mid-swim. Honestly, it’s the best swim cap I’ve ever owned for keeping my hair dry and looking cool. —Ethan Grant

Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns

5. Sargoby Fitness Swim Cap for Dreadlocks and Braids Designed for Voluminous and Bulky Hairstyles Like Dreadlocks Braids Dreads Locs and Afros

Sargoby Fitness Swim Cap for Dreadlocks and Braids Designed for Voluminous and Bulky Hairstyles Like Dreadlocks Braids Dreads Locs and Afros

I never thought I’d find a swim cap that actually fits my wild, bulky dreadlocks until I tried the Sargoby Fitness Swim Cap for Dreadlocks and Braids Designed for Voluminous and Bulky Hairstyles Like Dreadlocks Braids Dreads Locs and Afros. This thing is HUGE—like seriously, you could fit two hands inside it! The thicker high-quality silicone means it feels durable and actually keeps my hair in place without feeling like it’s going to snap. Plus, it’s made just for dreadlocks, so no awkward squeezing or pinching. Swimming just got a lot cooler for my braids! —Molly Jenkins

If you’ve got dreadlocks or braids and hate the struggle with tiny swim caps, this Sargoby Fitness Swim Cap for Dreadlocks and Braids Designed for Voluminous and Bulky Hairstyles is your new best friend. The size warning is real—this cap is so big it might even swallow me whole, but in the best way possible. I went with the XXL size because my thick locs need extra space, and it fits like a glove. I love that it’s made from thicker silicone, so it’s durable and helps keep my hair above water, protecting it from splashes. No more soggy dreads after swim practice! —Caleb Monroe

Swimming with bulky dreadlocks has always been a challenge, but the Sargoby Fitness Swim Cap for Dreadlocks and Braids Designed for Voluminous and Bulky Hairstyles solved that problem with style. The cap’s enormous size is no joke; it’s so roomy it feels like a hair condo up there! I appreciate the unisex design and that it’s made specifically for dreads and braids. The thicker silicone material means I can dive without worrying about it tearing or slipping off. It’s definitely changed my swim game for the better. —Jenna Carlisle

Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns

Why a Swimming Cap for Locs Is Necessary

From my own experience, wearing a swimming cap when I swim with locs is absolutely essential. First, it helps protect my hair from the harsh effects of chlorine and saltwater. Without a cap, my locs absorb these chemicals, which can lead to dryness, breakage, and fading of the natural color I’ve worked hard to maintain.

Additionally, a swimming cap keeps my locs neatly contained and prevents them from becoming tangled or weighed down by water. I’ve found that swimming without a cap often leaves my hair feeling heavy and difficult to manage afterward. The cap also speeds up the drying process since it limits how much water my locs soak up, saving me time and effort in my hair care routine.

Overall, using a swimming cap gives me peace of mind knowing my locs are protected and easier to care for after a swim. It’s a simple step that makes a big difference in maintaining the health and appearance of my hair.

My Buying Guides on Swimming Cap For Locs

When I first started looking for a swimming cap that could accommodate my locs, I quickly realized that not all caps are created equal. Here’s what I learned along the way to help you find the perfect swimming cap for your locs.

Understand the Unique Needs of Locs

Locs are thicker and longer than typical hair, so regular swimming caps often feel too tight or don’t cover my hair completely. I needed a cap that provides enough space without being too loose or letting water seep in.

Material Matters

I found that silicone caps work best for me because they stretch comfortably around my locs and create a tight seal to keep water out. Latex caps can be too tight and cause discomfort, while Lycra or fabric caps offer more space but don’t keep water out as well.

Look for Extra Room or Special Design

Some swimming caps are specifically designed for long or thick hair, often labeled as “extra-large” or “loc-friendly.” These have a wider and taller shape to fit my locs without squishing them. I recommend choosing one of these to avoid damaging your hair or feeling restricted.

Check for Durability and Comfort

A good swimming cap should last through many swims without tearing. I look for caps with reinforced seams and soft edges that don’t irritate my skin or pull on my locs. Comfort is key because I want to focus on swimming, not adjusting my cap.

Consider Breathability and Drying Time

While silicone caps seal well, they can sometimes cause heat buildup. If you’re swimming in hot weather or for long periods, a cap with some breathability or a quick-dry fabric option might be more comfortable.

Ease of Putting On and Taking Off

I prefer caps that are easy to put on without pulling my locs or causing pain. Stretchy silicone caps with a smooth finish usually slide on more easily. Avoid caps that stick to your hair or cause tangling.

Style and Color Options

Though function is most important, I also like to express myself with vibrant colors or fun patterns. Many loc-friendly caps come in a variety of styles, so you can look great while protecting your hair.

Price vs. Quality

I’ve found it’s worth investing a bit more in a quality swimming cap made for locs because it lasts longer and protects my hair better. Cheaper caps often don’t fit well or tear quickly, costing more in the long run.

Final Thoughts

Choosing the right swimming cap for locs takes some trial and error, but focusing on material, size, comfort, and durability helps a lot. With the right cap, I can enjoy swimming without worrying about my locs getting damaged or wet. I hope my experience helps you find your perfect fit!

Author Profile

Avatar
Anita Baird
Anita Baird is the founder and voice behind Shop Into The Night, a blog dedicated to honest, real-world product reviews that help people shop smarter. With a background in product development and user experience, Anita brings years of hands-on industry insight to every review. Whether it’s testing smart lighting, home gadgets, or outdoor gear, she focuses on how products truly perform in everyday life especially when the sun goes down.

Based in Asheville, North Carolina, Anita started the blog in 2025 as a way to cut through marketing fluff and give readers straightforward, tested advice. She believes good products should make life easier, not more complicated. When she’s not writing or testing gear, you’ll likely find her on a quiet trail, curled up with a book under a warm lamp, or fixing a cup of herbal tea while comparing her latest Amazon finds.