I’ve read a few posts suggesting the use of a ‘hoodie’ for the swim. Is a hoodie the same thing as a neoprene cap?
If not, what is it? Any suggestions for a good one?
Last question: Does the race-issued cap go over the neoprene cap or hoodie? I thought about using: 1st a silicone cap, then the neoprene cap, then the race issued cap on top. Is this overkill?
hoodies are sweatshirts with a hood. A squid lid is what you are looking for. I’ve never used one at oceanside but lots of others do. I suggest if you are going to use one, make sure you swim with it first. It’s a little weird because it covers your ears and has a chin strap. Good luck - E
Where the cap provided by the race over something like this:
http://www.desotosport.com/products/product.asp?Category=accessories&ProdID=NC
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What Brian said above. I have a Zoot one, I think. You can probably get one at the expo the day before. I got mine at B&L, but Nytro probably has them, too. Wear your race cap over it. I think the three layers is overkill. The cap does make a difference. I definitely wear one when the water is cold. Last year, the water was fine at O’Side, though.
Bryan
I’m going with a DeSoto neoprene cap. If it’s overkill so what…I would rather be to warm then to cold!
The caps are great for cold water but try it out first. I got dizzy every time I wore mine until using ear plugs. That fixed it right up. They’re about $25 and worth it. Tip for the cold water in O-side since there’s no warm-up time in the water: as soon as you get in start splashing and dunking your face. Otherwise, instant brain freeze. Just keep your face wet, even though it’s cold and you won’t want to, until you start and you’ll be good to go.