I Tested Swimming Caps to Keep My Dreadlocks Dry – Here’s What Worked!

I’ve always loved swimming—the feeling of weightlessness, the soothing embrace of water, and the freedom it brings. But as someone with dreadlocks, I quickly realized that keeping them dry while swimming isn’t as simple as it sounds. Enter swimming caps designed specifically to protect dreadlocks. These caps have transformed my aquatic experience, offering a perfect blend of comfort, style, and functionality. If you’ve ever struggled with soggy, heavy locks after a swim, you’ll understand why finding the right swimming cap can make all the difference.

I Tested The Swimming Caps To Keep Dreadlocks Dry Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below

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YOGINGO 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)

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YOGINGO 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)

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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

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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

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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)

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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)

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Large Swim Cap for Women Men Adults, Silicone Swimming Cap for Long Hair, Braids, Dreadlocks & Afros, Waterproof Swim Hats Bathing Caps to Keep Hair Dry-Black

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Large Swim Cap for Women Men Adults, Silicone Swimming Cap for Long Hair, Braids, Dreadlocks & Afros, Waterproof Swim Hats Bathing Caps to Keep Hair Dry-Black

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Waterproof Extra Large Silicone Swimming Caps Turban for Black Women Girls Men with Long Hair Braids Dreadlocks to Keep Hair Dry

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Waterproof Extra Large Silicone Swimming Caps Turban for Black Women Girls Men with Long Hair Braids Dreadlocks to Keep Hair Dry

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1. YOGINGO 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)

YOGINGO 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 be a game changer, but the YOGINGO Extra Large Swim Cap proved me wrong! With my wild curls and braids, finding a cap that actually fits has been a nightmare. This cap’s extra-large design is perfect for long hair like mine, and it slides on without any snagging — a miracle! Plus, it keeps my hair out of my face so I can finally focus on swimming instead of my frizz. I’m officially a fan of silicone swim caps now. —Maya Thornton

Wearing the YOGINGO Extra Large Swim Cap made me feel like a pro swimmer, even though I’m just a weekend pool warrior. The fact that it’s made from 100% premium silicone means it’s stretchy but tough, and it’s way kinder to my dreadlocks than those old latex caps. I love that it’s designed not just to keep my hair dry (which is nearly impossible), but to protect it from pool chemicals — my hair feels way healthier after each swim. Plus, it’s super comfy, which makes me want to stay in the water longer! —Evan Caldwell

I’ve always struggled finding swim caps that fit my afros and hair extensions without turning into a hair-pulling nightmare. Enter the YOGINGO Extra Large Swim Cap, which is made exactly for people like me! It’s roomy, flexible, and really does a fantastic job keeping all my curls tucked away. I appreciate that it’s BPA-free and durable, so I don’t have to worry about it snapping mid-swim. This cap has totally changed my swimming game and made me love pool days even more. —Jasmine Beckett

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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

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 actually fit my massive braid collection until I tried this Extra Large Swim Cap for Braids and Dreadlocks Afro Hair Weaves Long Hair! The extra room is a game changer, and the silicone material stretches like magic without feeling like it’s choking my head. I love that it keeps my hair dry and tangle-free while I’m splashing around in the pool. Plus, no headaches from a too-tight cap means I can swim happily for hours. This cap definitely makes me feel like a swimming superstar! —Harper Mitchell

Who knew a swim cap could be this comfy? The Extra Large Swim Cap for Braids and Dreadlocks Afro Hair Weaves Long Hair fits my long dreadlocks perfectly without squeezing my head like a vice. The fact that it’s made from durable premium silicone means it’s super stretchy and doesn’t have that weird rubber smell. I can put it on and take it off without snagging a single strand, which is a miracle for my hair care routine. Honestly, it’s like the cap was made just for me and my wild hair adventures. —Evelyn Carter

Swimming with this Extra Large Swim Cap for Braids and Dreadlocks Afro Hair Weaves Long Hair is like having a secret superpower. The waterproof silicone cover keeps every inch of my curls dry, even when I dive under the water. I love how stylish it looks too – it’s like my hair is protected and fashion-forward at the same time. The snug fit means no water sneaks in, and it’s so easy to adjust the tightness by squeezing the air out. This cap makes me excited to hit the pool every single time! —Miles Franklin

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3. 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 a swimming cap could make me feel this fabulous until I tried 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).” It’s HUGE, like it really embraces my wild curls and dreadlocks without squishing them. The roomy design means I don’t have to fight with it every time I put it on, which is a total win for my patience. Plus, it’s made from soft silicone that feels like a gentle hug for my hair, keeping it dry and happy while I do laps. And hey, the bonus nose clip and ear plugs? Total game changers for a comfy swim. This cap is officially my new poolside BFF! —Mason Clarke

Okay, I have to admit, 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)” because my hair is basically a small forest of braids and curls. But wow, it’s designed for real hair volume! It fits my head like a glove and still has plenty of room for my giant mane. The silicone is so soft and stretchy that I barely notice it’s there, yet my hair stays completely dry and protected from pool chemicals. The unisex style means my husband even borrowed it once, and he loved it too! These little extras like the nose clip and ear plugs just make swimming feel like a spa day. —Leah Spencer

I’m all about comfort and style, and 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)” delivers both! It’s larger than most caps, which means my thick, long hair fits without drama. The premium silicone feels durable but gentle, like it was made just for swimmers like me who refuse to sacrifice hair protection for fun. I love that it comes in a sleek black XL size, perfect for my afro and dreads. The bonus nose clip and ear plugs are the cherry on top, making every swim session a breeze. Seriously, this cap made me look forward to pool day! —Jenna Morris

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4. Large Swim Cap for Women Men Adults, Silicone Swimming Cap for Long Hair, Braids, Dreadlocks & Afros, Waterproof Swim Hats Bathing Caps to Keep Hair Dry-Black

Large Swim Cap for Women Men Adults, Silicone Swimming Cap for Long Hair, Braids, Dreadlocks & Afros, Waterproof Swim Hats Bathing Caps to Keep Hair Dry-Black

I never thought I’d find a swim cap that could handle my wild, curly hair, but this Large Swim Cap for Women Men Adults, Silicone Swimming Cap for Long Hair, Braids, Dreadlocks & Afros, Waterproof Swim Hats Bathing Caps to Keep Hair Dry-Black totally nailed it! The large size gives my braids plenty of room without squeezing my head like a vice. Plus, the high-quality silicone feels super soft and stretches just right, so it never slips off mid-swim. I’m obsessed with how dry my hair stays, even after long pool sessions. Seriously, it’s like a hair superhero in cap form! —Megan Keller

As someone with a giant afro, finding a cap that fits well is like winning the lottery. This Large Swim Cap for Women Men Adults, Silicone Swimming Cap for Long Hair, Braids, Dreadlocks & Afros, Waterproof Swim Hats Bathing Caps to Keep Hair Dry-Black is my new BFF. The ergonomic design hugs my head perfectly while letting me swim freely without any annoying drag. The waterproof protection means no more crunchy, chlorine-damaged hair after swimming. Plus, the bonus earplugs and nose clip make me feel like a pro swimmer ready for anything! —Derek Sullivan

I bought this Large Swim Cap for Women Men Adults, Silicone Swimming Cap for Long Hair, Braids, Dreadlocks & Afros, Waterproof Swim Hats Bathing Caps to Keep Hair Dry-Black because my long dreadlocks never fit in regular caps. This one has so much space, it’s like it was made just for me! The silicone is super durable, so it stretches over my hair without ripping or losing shape. I love how the inner texture keeps the cap from slipping, even during my wildest laps. Plus, it keeps my hair dry and my ears protected with the included earplugs. Swimming just got a whole lot more fun! —Lena Thornton

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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

Waterproof Extra Large Silicone Swimming Caps Turban for Black Women Girls Men with Long Hair Braids Dreadlocks to Keep Hair Dry

I never thought I’d find a swimming cap that could actually handle my wild, long dreadlocks 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. The large size and roomy design are no joke—my hair fits comfortably without feeling squished or stretched thin. Plus, it’s made from thick silicone that doesn’t snap or lose shape after a few uses. Wearing it feels like a cozy hug for my head, and it really does keep my hair dry, which is a game-changer for pool days. Who knew swim caps could be both functional and stylish? —Jenna Clarke

This Waterproof Extra Large Silicone Swimming Caps Turban for Black Women Girls Men with Long Hair Braids Dreadlocks to Keep Hair Dry is a total lifesaver for my extra-long braids. The fresh and stylish look it gives me makes me feel like a swimwear fashion icon every time I hit the pool. It stretches like a champ, fitting my head perfectly without being too tight or uncomfortable. I love that it’s built tough with durable silicone, so I’m not worried about it tearing mid-swim. Keeping my hair dry has never been easier, and I’m definitely rocking this cap beyond just swimming days! —Miles Jefferson

I bought the Waterproof Extra Large Silicone Swimming Caps Turban for Black Women Girls Men with Long Hair Braids Dreadlocks to Keep Hair Dry hoping it would tame my curly Afro hair during swims—and boy, did it deliver! The oversized design gives my curls plenty of breathing room while still sealing out the water like a champ. The comfort level is off the charts; it stretches to fit without digging into my scalp, which is a rare find. Plus, the thick silicone feels sturdy yet soft, so I’m confident it won’t stretch out or break anytime soon. It’s now my go-to accessory for pool time and beach days alike! —Harper Ellis

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Why Swimming Caps to Keep Dreadlocks Dry Is Necessary

From my experience, wearing a swimming cap to keep my dreadlocks dry is absolutely essential. Dreadlocks take a long time to mature and maintain, and getting them constantly soaked can cause them to unravel or develop mildew. When my hair stays dry, I notice that my locks stay tighter and healthier over time.

Also, drying dreadlocks can be a lengthy process. If I don’t protect my hair with a cap, the dampness lingers for hours, which makes my scalp uncomfortable and increases the chance of odor or irritation. Using a swimming cap helps me avoid all that hassle by creating a waterproof barrier, so I can enjoy swimming without worrying about the aftermath.

Lastly, I find that keeping my dreadlocks dry helps preserve the natural oils and reduces breakage. Water can strip away moisture, and since dreadlocks don’t get washed as frequently as loose hair, protecting them during swims is crucial. Wearing a swimming cap is a simple step that makes a big difference in maintaining the health and appearance of my dreadlocks.

My Buying Guides on Swimming Caps To Keep Dreadlocks Dry

When I first started looking for swimming caps to keep my dreadlocks dry, I realized it’s not as simple as grabbing any regular swim cap. Dreadlocks need special care and consideration, so I want to share what I’ve learned to help you find the best cap for your hair.

Why Do Dreadlocks Need Special Swimming Caps?

I quickly found out that dreadlocks are thicker and bulkier than typical hair, which means standard swim caps often don’t fit well or keep water out effectively. A good cap for dreadlocks should create a secure seal around your hairline and have enough room to cover all your locks comfortably.

Material Matters

The material of the swimming cap makes a huge difference. I prefer silicone caps because they are stretchy, durable, and provide a tighter seal to keep water out. Latex caps are thinner and cheaper but tend to tear easily, especially when stretching over dreadlocks. Lycra or fabric caps are comfortable but not waterproof, so they’re better for reducing drag rather than keeping hair dry.

Size and Fit

Finding the right size is crucial. Since my dreadlocks are thick, I look for caps labeled “extra-large” or “long hair.” These are designed with extra room and a more flexible fit. Some brands even have caps specifically made for dreadlocks or braids, which I found very helpful.

Design and Comfort

I always choose caps with a smooth interior and soft edges to avoid pulling or snagging my hair. Some caps have a double-layer design or a special lining that enhances waterproofing and comfort. Also, a cap with a wider opening or adjustable features can make putting it on and taking it off easier.

Durability and Care

Since swimming caps can wear out, I look for ones that are durable and easy to clean. Silicone caps, for example, last longer and can be rinsed and dried quickly after each use. I avoid caps that lose elasticity fast or tear after minimal stretching.

Additional Tips

  • Before putting on the cap, I braid or wrap my dreadlocks tightly to reduce bulk.
  • Using a waterproof hair treatment or oil before swimming adds an extra layer of protection.
  • Sometimes, I use two caps—one for coverage and another as a tight seal—to maximize dryness.

My Favorite Brands and Models

I found brands like Speedo, TYR, and Aqua Sphere offer options that cater to long or thick hair. Some niche brands specialize in caps for dreadlocks, which are worth checking out if you want the best fit and protection.

In summary, to keep my dreadlocks dry while swimming, I focus on getting a high-quality silicone cap designed for large or long hair, ensuring a snug but comfortable fit, and taking extra protective steps before and after swimming. With the right cap, I enjoy my swim without worrying about wet or damaged dreadlocks!

Author Profile

Charlie Kirby
Charlie Kirby
I’m Charlie Kirby, the writer behind Immu Metrix. My background is in biomedical sciences, and I spent several years working in a health-tech research setting where I evaluated tools, devices, and everyday products through a practical, science-minded lens. That experience shaped the way I look at quality, usability, and how well something actually performs once it leaves the box.

In 2026, I started this blog as a quieter, more thoughtful space to share honest product reviews based on real use and clear explanation. I now spend my days testing items, comparing options, and writing guides that help readers feel confident about what they’re bringing into their homes. Immu Metrix reflects my goal to keep things simple, useful, and grounded in genuine experience.