A British company that designs swim caps made explicitly for black hair has been barred from providing its product to athletes competing in next month’s Tokyo Olympics. The company claims it has been denied approval for its product that protects longer, thicker and voluminous hair, to be worn by athletes.
The International Swimming Federation (FINA) has deemed the caps “unsuitable” and now the decision has been widely condemned by black athletes and activists.
The ban on these inclusive Soul Caps’ swimming caps comes at a time when the International Olympic Committee is already being criticized for banning African American sprinter Sha’Carri Richardson. Reportedly, the sprinter had tested positive for cannabis during a dope test.
Meanwhile, several lawmakers, notably Democrat Alexandria-Ocasio-Cortez slammed the IOC and called their pot ban policy “colonial” and “racist.”
What does the product's brand have to say?
These ‘in controversy’ swimming caps are designed by UK brand Soul Cap. Talking on the matter of ban, Toks Ahmed the co-founder of the brand released a statement on Instagram and said that the ban on these swim caps could “discourage many young athletes from pursuing the sport as they progress through local, country and national competitive swimming.”
Meanwhile, the athletes are upset over the ban. A young athlete said that “she was heartbroken but not surprised.” The decision has been facing backlash and thus FINA on Friday said that it is reviewing the ban on the product and “understands the importance of inclusivity and representation.”
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Why are the swim caps especially for black athletes banned?
The International Swimming Federation believes that they do not fit “the natural form of the head”. “To the best knowledge of our athletes competing at the international events never used, nor requires caps of such size and configuration,” said Federation.
FINA's decision triggered uproar both within and outside of the sports community. In response to the outpouring of criticism, the association stated that it was reconsidering its decision but did not immediately reverse it.
Following the massive backlash, the official statement by the federation read, “There is no restriction on “Soul Cap” swim caps for recreational and teaching purposes. FINA appreciates the efforts of “Soul Cap” and other suppliers to ensure everyone has the chance to enjoy the water. FINA will also speak with the manufacturer of the “Soulutilizingut utilizing their products through the FINA Development Centres.”
How are these caps different?
Natural black hair tends to be drier as it has fewer cell layers than caucasian hair. Bleach or Sodium hypochlorite, which is typically found in the swimming pools tend to dry out black hair even more and thus for black athletes to protect their hair, a swim cap that fits is essential.
The founders of the Soul Cap claim that these caps can handle dreadlocks, afros, weaves, hair extensions, braids, and thick and curly hair. These ‘extra-large swimming caps’ are created for swimmers who struggle with their hair.
A report by The Guardian claims that the original swimming cap was designed for caucasian hair by swimwear giant Speedo 50. According to Danielle Obe, a founder member of the Black Swimming Association, these caps do not work for Afro hair, which "grows up and defies gravity."
She says, “We need the space and the volume which products like the Soul Caps allow for. “Inclusion is recognizing that no one head shape is ‘normal.”