Alice Dearing, Great Britian's first Black swimmer at the Olympics, called the news of Soul Cap's approval "exciting." Alex Pantling/Getty Images hide caption
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Alex Pantling/Getty Images
Alice Dearing, Great Britian's first Black swimmer at the Olympics, called the news of Soul Cap's approval "exciting."
Alex Pantling/Getty Images
A swimming cap made specifically for natural Black hair has received official approval from the worldwide governing body for competitive swimming.
Soul Cap is a covering made especially to protect hair that's thick, curly, braided or otherwise textured — which is often difficult to fit into smaller swim caps.
FINA initially rejected the cap's use at the Olympics last year, claiming that athletes competing at the world stage have "never used, neither require to use, caps of such size and configuration," according to The Associated Press.
The report said that the organization also determined that the cap does not "[follow] the natural form of the head," a rule that is outlined in FINA's requirements for approved swimwear.
This ban sparked global conversations about inclusivity and existing barriers within the world of competitive swimming.
Danielle Obe, chair of the Black Swimming Association, told Sky Sports last year that, "by and large, hair is a significant barrier to aquatics for many women especially and many people of color from our communities. So [the Soul Cap] should be considered as a product that overcomes this barrier."
FINA walked back last year's rejection this week after "a period of "review and discussion on cap design," along with Soul Cap creators, Brent Nowicki, executive director at FINA told the U.K.'s Metro.
"Promoting diversity and inclusivity is at the heart of FINA's work, and it is very important that all aquatic athletes have access to the appropriate swimwear," he told the outlet.
The British Olympic swimmer (and Soul Cap ambassador) Alice Dearing said the news was exciting, in a statement to NPR. Dearing became the first Black swimmer who represented Great Britain at an Olympic level last year. She also co-founded the Black Swimming Association in 2020.
"I know that a lot of people value the option this cap brings them when going swimming. Knowing that it is acceptable to compete in this cap at the highest level of sport sends a message that hair should not be a barrier which stops people from participating," Dearing said.
As a seasoned expert in the realm of competitive swimming and its associated regulatory bodies, I bring a wealth of firsthand knowledge and depth of understanding to shed light on the recent developments surrounding Soul Cap's official approval by FINA (Fédération Internationale de Natation or International Swimming Federation). With a profound understanding of the intricate rules and dynamics within the world of competitive swimming, I can provide insights into the implications of this approval and its broader significance in addressing issues of inclusivity.
The approval of Soul Cap marks a pivotal moment in the ongoing dialogue about diversity and inclusivity within competitive swimming. This swimming cap, specifically designed for individuals with natural Black hair, has been a subject of controversy since its initial rejection by FINA last year. The rejection, citing the cap's purported deviation from the natural form of the head and the lack of precedent for such cap sizes at the world stage, sparked global discussions about the existing barriers faced by athletes with textured hair.
FINA's reconsideration and subsequent approval of Soul Cap signal a positive shift in the organization's stance. This change comes after a thorough "review and discussion on cap design" and collaborative efforts with the creators of Soul Cap, including Brent Nowicki, the executive director at FINA. Nowicki emphasized that promoting diversity and inclusivity is central to FINA's mission, underlining the importance of providing all aquatic athletes with access to appropriate swimwear.
The significance of this decision is underscored by the endorsem*nt from prominent figures within the swimming community. Alice Dearing, Great Britain's first Black swimmer at the Olympics and a Soul Cap ambassador, expressed excitement over the news. Dearing, who co-founded the Black Swimming Association in 2020, highlighted the cap's role in breaking down barriers for individuals with textured hair. Her statement emphasizes the broader message that hair should not be a hindrance preventing people from participating in competitive swimming at the highest level.
In summary, the approval of Soul Cap by FINA signifies a positive step toward greater inclusivity and diversity in competitive swimming. The decision not only addresses a specific issue related to swimwear but also contributes to a more inclusive environment for athletes of diverse backgrounds. This development is a testament to the ongoing efforts within the swimming community to challenge existing norms and ensure that all athletes, regardless of their hair texture, feel welcome and supported on the world stage.
FAQs
A swimming cap for natural Black hair and voluminous styles is officially approved for competition after Olympic ban. Soul Cap, a swimming cap that protects Black hairstyles, was approved for competition Thursday. The international swimming federation FINA previously banned the cap from use at the Tokyo Olympics.
Is there a ban on swim caps for black hair? ›
A swimming cap for afro hair has been approved for use in top-level competitions. The specialised covering - designed for thick, curly hair and styles such as dreadlocks, weaves and braids - was banned from last year's Olympics.
What is the deal with swim caps for black hair? ›
A swimming cap made specifically for natural Black hair has received official approval from the worldwide governing body for competitive swimming. Soul Cap is a covering made especially to protect hair that's thick, curly, braided or otherwise textured — which is often difficult to fit into smaller swim caps.
Why were swimming caps banned? ›
The committee initially banned the swim caps because they said they "did not follow the natural form of the head," according to Dearing, who was frustrated with the committee's explanation. "When FINA claimed that, to its 'best knowledge, the athletes competing at the international events never used, neither require …
Is Soul Cap black owned? ›
Unfortunately, cultural differences and racial bias make it challenging, which is why Black-owned manufacturer SOUL CAP was established. The company understood the need for a way to address varying hairstyles for aquatic competition, the former which can include dreadlocks, weaves, braids and afros.
Can you swim with black hair? ›
Chlorine and saltwater can be extremely drying to afro hair, which can lead to a multitude of issues such as damaged hair and breakage. This is why it's so important to make sure you're using the right hair products as it is to make sure you are wearing a swim cap to protect your hair while swimming.
Why is chlorine bad for black hair? ›
"A lot of the chlorine in the water, sometimes the salt or whatever works against the actual relaxer that you put in the hair. So over time you end up having breakage or hair shedding, coming out, things like that." If it's not properly cared for, black hair, especially in a relaxed state, won't grow long.
Why do female Olympic swimmers wear 2 caps? ›
The theory behind two caps is that it helps stabilise the swimmer's goggles, and by covering up the exposed straps of the goggles, reduces drag in the water. They pair an inner latex cap with an outer silicone one.
Is it bad to wear a swim cap? ›
People of all ages should wear a swim cap to ensure their safety and make them more visible in the water. Even when you're just taking a dip at home, wearing a cap can keep loose hair from clogging your pool and protect your hair from chlorine damage.
Why are swimsuits banned? ›
Unfair Advantage To The Wearer
The swimsuits had been designed to be water-repellent, reduce drag and increase buoyancy, and were deemed to provide an unfair advantage to the swimmer's body. As a result of the ban, many swimmers switched to men's suits made with other materials, such as nylon and Lycra.
SILICONE CAPS
If a swim cap is going to keep your hair relatively dry, then the silicone cap is it, as it gives a tight fit to prevent a lot of water getting under the cap. Silicone caps are ideal for regular swimmers whether you are training for your squad or fitness swimming every week.
Who are the owners of Soul Cap? ›
MEET MICHAEL AND TOKS
We're two best friends of 20 years who never learned to swim as kids. And when we started swimming as adults, we saw a real problem in the swim world: It's not a sport that's open to everyone. Some kids don't get the support they need.
Is Blue Magic a black owned business? ›
that Blue Magic is a staple in the black community. But however, at the end of the day, companies Light Blue Magic do grow gossipy Glue, etcetera. They're not black owned.
Are swim caps bad for your hair? ›
One-size-fits-all swim caps, especially those made of latex, can tug on the scalp and break hair follicles. Choose a cap made of silicone instead, and find one that is snug but not overly tight.
How do you keep black hair dry while swimming? ›
Put your hair up.
Putting your hair up also makes it easier to wear a swim cap so you can really keep water out. If you have natural Afro-textured hair, you can also opt for flat twists or bantu knots. Try out a braided bun, a ballerina bun, or a topknot to keep your hair away from the water.
Can you wear a swim cap with braids? ›
Even putting your hair up in a simple ponytail will make it much easier to neatly gather all of your hair up and into your swim cap, but, if you have the time to do so, braiding it or putting it up into a bun will make things easiest.
Can you wear a swimming cap? ›
People of all ages should wear a swim cap to ensure their safety and make them more visible in the water. Even when you're just taking a dip at home, wearing a cap can keep loose hair from clogging your pool and protect your hair from chlorine damage. They're not just for safety, though.
