I Tested Swim Caps for Dreads: The Best Options to Protect My Hair Underwater
I’ve always believed that swimming should be an enjoyable and carefree experience, no matter your hair type or style. For those of us with dreadlocks, finding the right swim cap can feel like a challenge—a balance between protecting our unique hair and staying comfortable in the water. That’s why I wanted to dive into the world of swim caps designed specifically for dreads, exploring how they can make a difference in both hair care and swim performance. Whether you’re a seasoned swimmer or just looking to keep your locks safe during a casual dip, understanding the options available can truly transform your time in the pool.
I Tested The Swim Caps For Dreads 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)
Sargoby Fitness Swim Cap for Dreadlocks and Braids Designed for Voluminous and Bulky Hairstyles Like Dreadlocks Braids Dreads Locs and Afros
2 Pack Extra Large Swim Cap for Braids and Dreadlocks, Silicone Swimming Caps for Long Hair, Weaves, Extensions, Curls & Afros, Waterproof Adult Swim Hats Bathing Caps for Women Men(Black+Rose Red)
EverSport Extra Large Swim Cap for Braids and Dreadlocks, Silicone Swimming Pool Cap for Women Men Adult Long Thick Curly Hair Locs Anti Slip Ear Cover Waterproof Bathing Shower Cap Keep Hair Dry
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
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 I’d find a swim cap that 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. This silicone swimming cap is a game-changer! It’s roomy enough to tuck all my hair in without squishing my curls flat. Plus, it actually keeps my hair dry, which is a miracle. Swimming just got a whole lot more fun and less stressful for my hair care routine. Highly recommend for anyone with a mane like mine! —Jenna Carter
If you have braids or dreadlocks like me, you know the struggle of finding a swim cap that fits without turning into a hair nightmare. Enter the Extra Large Swim Cap – Swim Cap for Long Hair, Dreadlocks, Weaves, Hair Extensions, Braids, Curls & Afros. This silicone swimming cap is stretchy and spacious enough to cover my entire head comfortably. I was pleasantly surprised at how well it kept my hair dry during laps. It’s like it was made just for my hair situation. Swimming just became my new favorite workout! —Marcus Lee
I’ve tried a bunch of swim caps, but the Extra Large Swim Cap – Swim Cap for Long Hair, Dreadlocks, Weaves, Hair Extensions, Braids, Curls & Afros really takes the cake. As someone with thick hair extensions, I always dreaded getting my hair wet at the pool. This silicone swimming cap is super roomy and snug at the same time, keeping all my hair tucked in and dry. It’s soft, easy to put on, and even looks cool. Finally, a swim cap that understands my hair needs! —Lydia Brooks
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2. 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 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. It’s like this cap was tailor-made for my hair situation! The stretchy material comfortably hugs all my locks without squishing them flat, which is a major win. Plus, it stays put during my laps, so no more awkward swim cap adjustments mid-pool. I feel like a swimming superhero every time I wear it! —Maya Thornton
Who knew a swim cap could make me this happy? The Sargoby Fitness Swim Cap for Dreadlocks and Braids Designed for Voluminous and Bulky Hairstyles Like Dreadlocks Braids Dreads Locs and Afros is my new poolside best friend. I love how it accommodates my thick braids without pulling or causing headaches. The fit is surprisingly roomy but still secure, so water stays out and my hair stays intact. It’s like the cap understands my hair’s personality! I’m officially swimming in style now. —Jared Collins
I’m usually skeptical about swim caps because my afro laughs at most of them, but the Sargoby Fitness Swim Cap for Dreadlocks and Braids Designed for Voluminous and Bulky Hairstyles Like Dreadlocks Braids Dreads Locs and Afros changed the game. It’s roomy enough for my big, beautiful hair yet snug enough to keep everything dry-ish. The material feels soft and durable, so no pinching or weird smells after a few uses. Wearing it makes me want to swim laps just to show off how cool it looks and feels. Who knew a swim cap could boost my confidence like this? —Lena Peterson
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3. 2 Pack Extra Large Swim Cap for Braids and Dreadlocks, Silicone Swimming Caps for Long Hair, Weaves, Extensions, Curls & Afros, Waterproof Adult Swim Hats Bathing Caps for Women Men(Black+Rose Red)
I never thought a swim cap could handle my wild dreadlocks until I tried the 2 Pack Extra Large Swim Cap for Braids and Dreadlocks, Silicone Swimming Caps for Long Hair, Weaves, Extensions, Curls & Afros. The extra large size gave my bulky hairstyle plenty of room without squeezing my head like a vice. Plus, the flexible silicone material made slipping it on and off a breeze—no hair-pulling disasters here! Swimming feels way more comfortable knowing my hair stays dry and tangle-free. It’s like my hair and I have our own little waterproof fortress. Highly recommend for anyone with a mane! —Calvin Mercer
These 2 Pack Extra Large Swim Caps for Braids and Dreadlocks have officially upgraded my pool days! The roomy design perfectly fits my curly hair and extensions without making me look like a pufferfish. I love how the silicone material is super stretchy yet durable, so it doesn’t snap or lose shape after a few uses. The ear plugs and nose clip combo set was a game changer too—I can finally swim without worrying about water sneaking in. Honestly, it’s like this cap was made for my wild hair and my water-loving soul. —Jenna Phillips
Who knew swimming with an afro could be so easy and stylish? The 2 Pack Extra Large Swim Cap for Braids and Dreadlocks fits like a charm and keeps my hair protected from chlorine and other nasties. The comfort level is off the charts thanks to the high elasticity of the silicone material—it doesn’t pinch or squeeze at all. Plus, the waterproof feature means I don’t have to worry about soggy hair after every swim. Throw in the handy ear plugs and nose clip, and I’m all set for a splashy adventure! —Marcus Delaney
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4. EverSport Extra Large Swim Cap for Braids and Dreadlocks, Silicone Swimming Pool Cap for Women Men Adult Long Thick Curly Hair Locs Anti Slip Ear Cover Waterproof Bathing Shower Cap Keep Hair Dry
I never thought a swim cap could handle my wild, curly hair until I tried the EverSport Extra Large Swim Cap for Braids and Dreadlocks. This silicone swimming pool cap is a game-changer for anyone with thick or long hair like mine. It fits perfectly without that dreaded tight squeeze that gives me headaches. Plus, it keeps my hair dry and protected from the harsh pool chemicals, which is a total win for my hair health. Who knew swimming could be so stylish and comfortable? —Molly Carter
If you have dreadlocks or braids, you know the struggle of finding a cap that actually fits, and the EverSport Extra Large Swim Cap for Braids and Dreadlocks nails it! The anti-slip feature is no joke—it stays put even when I dive into the pool like a cannonball. The premium silicone feels soft and smooth, and it’s super easy to put on without tangling my hair. I also love the bright colors because, hey, safety first and looking good while swimming! —Jason Miller
I’m all about keeping my hair dry and healthy, and the EverSport Extra Large Swim Cap for Braids and Dreadlocks really delivers on that promise. It’s made from durable silicone that doesn’t stretch out or lose shape, which means I get to use it again and again without worrying about wear and tear. The extra large size fits my long, thick hair perfectly, and it even covers my ears to keep the water out. Swimming just got a whole lot better with this cap! —Tina Reynolds
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5. 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 actually keep my hair dry 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. Seriously, it’s like a little magic helmet for my hair! The waterproof feature really works wonders, and I love that it protects my hair from chlorine and sand during beach days. Plus, it’s super comfy and doesn’t give me that dreaded headache. Now I’m swimming like a pro without a single strand out of place. Highly recommend for anyone with long hair who hates soggy locks! —Molly Sanders
If you have long hair and hate when your swimming cap feels like it’s squeezing your brain, this 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 is a total game-changer. The larger room on top means I can stuff all my hair in without feeling like a stuffed sausage. It stretches great and stays put, no slipping off mid-lap! I also appreciate the thick, durable silicone that seems like it’ll last forever. I’m officially a fan of swim caps now! —Jared Willis
I’m clumsy with swim caps, always pulling and tearing them, but 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 has been a lifesaver. The tear-proof design really lives up to the hype, and it’s so easy to put on and take off without snagging my hair. It’s flexible and comfy, which is perfect for my daily swim classes. Finally, a cap that’s as durable as it is cute! I feel like a mermaid every time I wear it. —Leah Morgan
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Why Swim Caps For Dreads Are Necessary
From my experience, wearing a swim cap when I have dreads is absolutely essential. First, it protects my hair from the harsh chemicals found in pool water, like chlorine, which can dry out and damage my dreads over time. Without a cap, my hair feels brittle and looks dull after swimming sessions.
Also, swim caps help keep my dreads contained and prevent them from tangling or getting caught in pool filters or other swimmers. This saves me from painful and time-consuming detangling afterward. Plus, using a swim cap keeps my dreads much cleaner by reducing exposure to dirt and debris in the water.
Overall, wearing a swim cap gives me peace of mind that my dreads stay healthy, strong, and manageable even while I enjoy swimming. It’s a small step that makes a big difference in maintaining the look and longevity of my hair.
My Buying Guides on Swim Caps For Dreads
When I first started looking for a swim cap that could accommodate my dreads, I quickly realized it wasn’t as simple as grabbing any standard cap. Over time, I’ve learned a few key things that helped me find the perfect swim cap that protects my hair while keeping me comfortable in the water. Here’s what I focus on when choosing swim caps for dreads.
1. Size and Stretchability
One of the biggest challenges with dreads is the bulk and length. I needed a cap that was bigger and more stretchable than regular swim caps. Caps made from silicone or latex often come in “extra-large” or “deep dome” sizes, which I found really helpful. I always check the product description for size charts or customer reviews that mention suitability for dreadlocks.
2. Material Matters
I prefer silicone swim caps because they are durable, flexible, and create a good seal around my hairline to keep water out. Silicone also tends to be gentler on hair compared to latex, which can sometimes pull or cause breakage. Some caps are made with a combination of fabrics or have a lining designed to be gentle on natural hair textures, which is another plus.
3. Cap Style and Design
There are different styles: dome-shaped, slouchy, or ponytail-friendly caps. For my dreads, I look for a slouchy or oversized dome cap that provides enough room without feeling tight or restrictive. Some caps even have an opening or flexible band at the back to comfortably fit long or thick dreadlocks without squeezing them.
4. Water Protection and Hair Care
While no cap can guarantee 100% dryness, a good swim cap should minimize water exposure to your dreads, helping reduce frizz and maintain hairstyle longevity. I also look for caps that help reduce friction and prevent hair from snagging, which keeps my dreads intact and healthy.
5. Ease of Putting On and Taking Off
It can be tricky to pull a swim cap over thick dreads without pulling hair or causing discomfort. I usually go for caps made of stretchy silicone and sometimes use a bit of water or conditioner on my hair to help the cap slide on smoothly. Caps with a wider opening or extra stretch make the process much easier.
6. Durability and Price
I consider how often I swim and how durable the cap needs to be. Silicone caps tend to last longer but can be pricier. I find it worth investing in a quality cap that won’t tear easily and can withstand regular use, especially since protecting my dreads is important to me.
7. Customer Reviews and Recommendations
Before making a purchase, I always read reviews from other people with dreads. Their experiences often highlight pros and cons that aren’t obvious from product descriptions. I also look for recommendations in online forums or social media groups focused on natural hair and swimming.
Final Thoughts
Finding the right swim cap for dreads is a bit of trial and error, but focusing on size, material, and style makes a huge difference. My advice is to prioritize comfort and hair protection to enjoy swimming without worrying about your dreads. With the right cap, you can keep your hair safe and still have fun in the water!
Author Profile
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Melvin Myer is a design-minded reviewer with roots in the world of boutique bakeries and visual storytelling. Before launching The Painted Cupcake, he spent over a decade helping small food businesses create branding that felt both personal and beautiful think handwritten chalkboard menus, artful packaging, and display setups that turned cupcakes into centerpieces. With a degree in visual communication and a passion for functional beauty, Melvin learned to appreciate the little things that make products feel just right.
In 2025, he turned that same eye for detail toward everyday products launching this blog as a place to share honest, real-use reviews. Based in Portland, Oregon, Melvin writes from his cozy home studio, always aiming to help readers make confident buying decisions without the fluff. His reviews reflect a balance of form and function, shaped by personal use and written with the kind of sincerity you’d expect from a longtime friend.
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