No Cap
Given the tone of the argument, in the US, I don’t wade into racial issues. However, a MetroUK article about FINA’s rejection of the African hair bathing caps by SoulCap caught my attention. As a former competitive swimmer, the ruling seemed puzzling, and the wording was vague. FINA must think it would give an unfair advantage to the wearer. I guess by it doesn’t follow the shape of the head, they mean it is too loose? The main purpose of a bathing cap is to keep the hair out of the face. Personally, no bathing cap ever positively affected my speed. In contrast, a stretched cloth cap can create drag.
Tweet from Runner Michael Johnosn
Michael Johnson@MJGoldLet me get this straight. @fina1908 banning this cap because “it doesn’t conform to natural curvature of the head” HTF are you supposed to fit a cap that does that if you have thick long curly hair? Come on! Do better!
FINA shouldn’t cap participation with arbitrary rule
FINA should not complain if this negatively affects black participation in competitive swimming. The quote below demonstrates that having the right equipment is of utmost importance to some people. It is absence could cause them to give up the activity or discourage them.
What Now?
The easy solution for black swimmers is to go without a cap. However. in some cases, it is impossible. In competition, swimming without a cap is distracting. You want to think about the race, not getting the hair out of your face. Some recreational pools require it for all hair over a certain length to prevent hair from getting into the filters. The creators are not upset about the decision because they see it as an educational moment. I hope FINA will listen and reconsider.
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I might update thisecause FINA seem willing to reverse the ban. Even as a white person they’d have a customer in me if I was still swimming competitively and I had thick curly hair The founder’s story as ADHD sufferers starting a business is also inspiring. A good example catering to an underserved market. Thanks again for te general feedback.
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Ironically, white people with long and/or hair could use these caps as well. They look much better than the old cloth ones and probably won’t stretch out as easily. I said if the rule applies equally it is not discrimination, but it is not entirely clear here.
I really enjoyed reading your thoughts on this. It was well said, I hope that FINA looks into this more and allows these caps to be used!
Thanks especially for putting up with my puns. I like slip them in there when appropriate but not everyone gets them.
Agreed, the rule is ridiculous. Thank you for sharing your thoughts about it.
I appreciate your perspective and agree that it is puzzling. The decision to ban the caps doesn’t seem like a stance worth taking. I don’t know how this can be seen as anything other than discriminating based on my experience as a former swimmer as well.
Ironically, white people with long and/or hair could use these caps as well. They look much better than the old cloth ones and probably won’t stretch out as easily. I said if the rule applies equally it is not discrimination, but it is not entirely clear here.