When I swam in 60-ish degree water a few weeks ago, I felt cold on my head with just a regular silicone swim cap, but I was still able to swim my regular distance. I started to look around for warmer caps and found this product on Amazon. I ordered the thermal version because, well, I bought it to keep me warm, not for style points (which btw I will not be getting with this cap on I look like a duck). It arrived quickly. Size Large does not leave me much room to play with, but it seems to fit fine.
Today (11/2) was a reasonably warm day and I figured I'd try the cap in the water. The pond was much colder, probably in the mid-50ies, certainly not over 60. I use a triathlon long john-type wet suit my shoulders and arms are exposed, and so are my feet and calves. The water temperature was tolerable everywhere but my face. I swam about 50 yards, then turned around. Too cold. I get sinus infections very easily and they can turn nasty. I chickened out.
So I ended up with somewhat mixed feelings about my purchase. It seems that when the water is moderately cold, a regular swim cap will do, and when it is really cold, this cap still does not enable me to swim. The opening for my face is just too wide. It barely covers my receding hair line. It does do a nice job of keeping the back and top of my head warm, but I cannot swim freestyle over a longer distance in water below 60 degrees with my face exposed.
I suppose when swimming long distances (several miles) in moderately cold water, it becomes important to reduce heat loss through the head, and this cap will help. Apparently there isn't really anything out there that helps with the coldness in the face. I will need to toughen up a bit more.
So now, after discussing the purpose of the product, I should actually review it. I already hinted that I find it a bit tight and my head is not very large. If you have a larger head, you will find that the strap under your chin is stretched thin. I like the lining it does not soak up water and feels comfortable. It is a bit expensive in comparison.
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