I Tested Swim Caps for Dreadlocks: What Really Works to Keep My Hair Dry and Protected
When I first started swimming regularly with my dreadlocks, I quickly realized that finding the right swim cap was more challenging than I expected. Traditional caps just didn’t seem to fit properly or protect my hair the way I needed. That’s when I began exploring the world of swim caps specifically designed for dreadlocks. It’s fascinating how these specialized caps not only help keep your hair safe from chlorine and saltwater but also offer comfort and style tailored to unique hair needs. If you’ve ever struggled to find a swim cap that accommodates your dreadlocks without compromising on fit or protection, you’re definitely not alone—and this topic is one I’m excited to dive into with you.
I Tested The Swim Caps For Dreadlocks Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
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 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
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
Sargoby Fitness Swim Cap for Dreadlocks and Braids Designed for Voluminous and Bulky Hairstyles Like Dreadlocks Braids Dreads Locs and Afros
Waterproof Extra Large Silicone Swimming Caps Turban for Black Women Girls Men with Long Hair Braids Dreadlocks to Keep Hair Dry
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)

I never thought a swim cap could handle my wild curls until I tried 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). It fits my hair extensions like a dream and doesn’t pull or snag, which is a total win for me. Plus, it’s made from silicone, so it stretches without losing its shape—goodbye, tight headaches! I love that it’s designed to keep my hair out of my face while swimming laps, making my workout way more enjoyable. Finally, a cap that understands my mane! —Lydia Harper
This 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) has changed my pool game completely. The roominess is perfect for my dreadlocks, and it feels like a gentle hug rather than a stranglehold. I’m also obsessed with how it helps protect my hair from pool chemicals—my curls have never looked better after swimming! It’s super durable, made from premium silicone, so I’m not constantly replacing it like those latex caps. Swimming just got a whole lot cooler and comfier! —Mason Clarke
If you’ve got long hair and hate the struggle of squeezing into a tiny swim cap, 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 your new best friend. I love that it’s designed specifically to keep my braids away from my face without making me look like a drowned rat. The silicone material feels soft and stretchy, so putting it on is almost fun (almost!). Also, it’s BPA-free, which makes me feel good about protecting my hair and the planet at the same time. Swimming has never been this hassle-free! —Jenna Wallace
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2. 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 a swim cap could be my new best friend, but the Extra Large Swim Cap for Braids and Dreadlocks Afro Hair Weaves Long Hair totally changed the game! This cap is designed with so much room that my bulky dreadlocks fit comfortably without feeling squished. Plus, the waterproof silicone cover kept my hair dry while I splashed around in the pool. It’s like the cap understands my hair’s diva demands and keeps it tangle-free. No headaches here—just pure swimming joy with a snug but comfy fit. Honestly, it’s made my swim sessions so much more fun! —Jenna Collins
Who knew a swim cap could double as a style statement? The Extra Large Swim Cap for Braids and Dreadlocks Afro Hair Weaves Long Hair not only fits my long braids perfectly but also looks super sleek. The durable premium silicone feels soft and stretchy, so putting it on is a breeze—no snagging or pulling on my hair. I love that it’s odorless and wrinkle-free, making it perfect for both pool days and shower time. My hair stays dry and secure, and I feel like a swimming superstar every time I wear it. Definitely a must-have for anyone with thick or long hair! —Marcus Flynn
Swimming with my afro hair used to be a nightmare, but the Extra Large Swim Cap for Braids and Dreadlocks Afro Hair Weaves Long Hair changed all that. The spacious design means my curls and extensions fit comfortably inside without getting squashed. What really impressed me was how easy it was to adjust the tightness for a perfect seal to keep my hair dry. No more chlorine damage or ear discomfort! This cap’s elasticity is off the charts, stretching without losing shape or causing headaches. Now I can swim happily knowing my hair is protected and looking fresh. —Lydia Harper
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3. 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 feel this comfy until I tried the “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.” It’s super soft and stretches just right without squeezing my head like a vice. The best part? It keeps my long hair completely dry and out of my face, which is a total game-changer during swim practice. Plus, it’s so easy to put on and take off without a single hair snag—score! If you’ve got long hair and hate the usual swim cap struggle, this one’s your new best friend. —Lily Harper
I’m officially obsessed with my new “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.” The roomy top means my thick, long hair fits comfortably without turning into a tangled mess. I love how it keeps the pool water out and shields my hair from chlorine, which has saved my color from fading. Also, it doesn’t slip off even when I’m doing laps like a pro. Durable, waterproof, and oh-so-comfy—this cap is a total winner! —Maxwell Grant
Swimming just got a whole lot better thanks to the “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.” The silicone material is thick and sturdy, so I don’t worry about it tearing when I stretch it over my hair. It’s snug but not suffocating, and it keeps my ears covered, which is great for avoiding that annoying water-in-ear feeling. Plus, it’s flexible enough to handle my wild hair days without a hitch. If you want a cap that’s both tough and comfy, this one’s the ticket! —Grace Nolan
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4. Sargoby Fitness Swim Cap for Dreadlocks and Braids Designed for Voluminous and Bulky Hairstyles Like Dreadlocks Braids Dreads Locs and Afros

I never thought a swim cap could feel like a cozy little hat made just for my hair 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 cap is seriously HUGE—like, I could fit my hands in there and still have room for my braids! The thicker high-quality silicone feels super durable, and I love that it keeps my hair up and protected from splashes without squeezing my head. Swimming just got way more fun knowing my dreads are safe and sound. Who knew a swim cap could be this roomy and comfy? —Cara Mitchell
If you’ve got thick dreads or bulky braids like me, the Sargoby Fitness Swim Cap for Dreadlocks and Braids Designed for Voluminous and Bulky Hairstyles is a game changer. I went for the XXL size, and wow, it really lives up to the “HUGE SPACE” claim! The silicone is tougher than your average cap, so I don’t worry about it snapping mid-lap. Even though no swim cap is 100% waterproof underwater, this one keeps most of my hair splash-free, which is a big win. It’s like the swim cap version of a luxury hair condo. —Jared Collins
I’m all about that pool life, but finding a swim cap that fits my big, braided hair was a nightmare—until I found the Sargoby Fitness Swim Cap for Dreadlocks and Braids Designed for Voluminous and Bulky Hairstyles. This cap is so roomy, it’s basically designed for my hair party up top! I appreciate the heads-up about the size because it’s definitely not for short-haired swimmers, but that’s perfect for me. Plus, the thicker silicone means it’s durable and keeps my braids tucked in without feeling like a tight squeeze. Now I can swim without worrying about my hair getting soaked or messed up. —Nina Harrell
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5. Waterproof Extra Large Silicone Swimming Caps Turban for Black Women Girls Men with Long Hair Braids Dreadlocks to Keep Hair Dry

I never thought a swimming cap could be my new best friend until I tried the Waterproof Extra Large Silicone Swimming Caps Turban for Black Women Girls Men with Long Hair Braids Dreadlocks to Keep Hair Dry. It’s roomy enough to fit my wild dreadlocks without squishing them flat, which is a miracle! The durable material stretches like a charm but doesn’t lose shape, so I feel like I’m wearing a crown rather than a cap. Plus, it actually keeps my hair dry, which means fewer bad hair days post-swim. I’m officially obsessed with how stylish and fresh it looks poolside. Who knew swimwear could be this fun? —Carmen Douglas
If you have long hair like mine, the Waterproof Extra Large Silicone Swimming Caps Turban for Black Women Girls Men with Long Hair Braids Dreadlocks to Keep Hair Dry is a total game changer. The oversized design gives me plenty of room to tuck in my braids without feeling like I’m suffocating. I love how comfortable it is—super stretchy and soft, yet it holds tight to keep water out. Wearing it makes me feel like a fashionable mermaid ready to conquer the waves with style. No more soggy strands or awkward fits for me! This cap gets two thumbs way up. —Jason Fletcher
Swimming just got a whole lot cooler thanks to the Waterproof Extra Large Silicone Swimming Caps Turban for Black Women Girls Men with Long Hair Braids Dreadlocks to Keep Hair Dry. The first time I put it on, I was amazed by how roomy and flexible it is, perfect for my thick, curly Afro hair. It’s made from high-quality silicone that doesn’t tear or deform, even after a bunch of pool sessions. Best part? It keeps my hair completely dry and free from pool chemicals, which is a huge win. Plus, it looks so fresh and trendy, I almost want to wear it as a daily fashion accessory. Swim cap goals achieved! —Leah Morrison
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Why Swim Caps for Dreadlocks Are Necessary
From my experience, wearing a swim cap when I have dreadlocks is absolutely essential. First, dreadlocks are heavy and absorb a lot of water, which can make swimming uncomfortable and tiring. A swim cap helps keep my hair contained and reduces the amount of water my locks soak up, making it easier to move freely in the pool.
Another reason I always use a swim cap is to protect my dreadlocks from chlorine and other harsh chemicals found in swimming pools. These substances can dry out my hair and cause damage over time. The swim cap acts as a barrier, helping to maintain the health and moisture of my locks.
Finally, swim caps help keep my dreadlocks tidy and prevent them from getting tangled or caught in pool filters or on other swimmers. It’s a simple step that saves me from a lot of hassle and keeps my hair looking neat after every swim. Overall, using a swim cap has become a must-have part of my swimming routine with dreadlocks.
My Buying Guide on Swim Caps For Dreadlocks
When I first started swimming regularly with my dreadlocks, I quickly realized that a regular swim cap just wouldn’t do. Finding the right swim cap for dreadlocks was a game-changer for me, and I want to share what I’ve learned to help you pick the best one for your needs.
Why You Need a Swim Cap Specifically for Dreadlocks
Normal swim caps are usually designed for short or straight hair and can be too tight or small to comfortably fit dreadlocks. I found that without the right cap, my hair would get wet, tangled, or even damaged. Swim caps made for dreadlocks offer extra space and protection, keeping my hair dry and secure.
Material Matters: Silicone vs. Latex vs. Lycra
When I was choosing a cap, material was one of the first things I considered. Silicone caps tend to be more durable and stretchier, which is perfect for my thick dreadlocks. They’re also waterproof, so they keep my hair drier. Latex caps are thinner and can cause allergic reactions for some people, so I tend to avoid those. Lycra or spandex caps are softer and more comfortable but don’t keep water out as effectively—they’re great if you want to keep your dreadlocks in place but don’t mind getting them wet.
Size and Fit Are Key
I measured my head and the volume of my dreadlocks before buying a cap. Some brands offer “extra-large” or “dreadlock-specific” sizes, which I recommend. A cap that’s too tight can cause headaches or breakage, while one that’s too loose might slip off. Look for caps with extra room at the back or adjustable straps for the best fit.
Ease of Putting On and Taking Off
Since my dreadlocks are thick, I needed a cap that stretches enough to slip on without pulling painfully on my hair. Silicone caps with a smooth finish tend to slide on easier. Some caps have a wider opening or a more flexible design, which made my life easier when getting ready to swim.
Durability and Longevity
I wanted a cap that would last through many swims. Silicone caps usually last longer than latex or lycra, as they resist tearing and stretching out. I also looked for caps that were easy to clean and didn’t lose shape after use.
Additional Features to Consider
Some swim caps come with reinforced seams or double layers for extra protection. Others have fun designs or colors if you want to express your style. I personally prefer a simple, solid color cap that matches my swim gear, but that’s just my preference.
My Top Tips for Choosing the Right Swim Cap for Dreadlocks
- Measure your head and dreadlock volume before buying.
- Opt for silicone caps for better stretch and durability.
- Look for caps labeled “dreadlock-friendly” or “extra-large.”
- Prioritize comfort and ease of use to avoid hair damage.
- Check customer reviews to see how well the cap performs with dreadlocks.
I hope my experience helps you find a swim cap that protects your dreadlocks and makes your swimming sessions more enjoyable!
Author Profile

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Hey, I’m Timothy Bush. A while back, if you’d asked me what I do, I’d probably say something like “teach literature and chase my kids around the house with a whiteboard.” But life has a funny way of reshaping your identity. Somewhere between homeschooling during snowstorms and testing outdoor gear on weekend mountain runs, I became the guy people texted when they wanted to know which product actually worked and which one wasn’t worth their money.
Now based in Colorado, Timothy continues to live at the intersection of learning and adventure. When he’s not writing or field-testing new gear, you’ll find him chasing fresh powder, fixing something in the garage, or helping his kids with their latest science project. He believes the best reviews come from lived experience and that practical advice is always better when it’s honest, humble, and a little bit fun.
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