Speedo Edmonton Commonwealth Games swimming cap
Maker
Speedo International Ltd
Date1978
Object number00031914
NameCap
MediumRubber
DimensionsOverall: 205 x 240 mm
ClassificationsClothing and personal items
Credit LineANMM Collection
DescriptionThis white rubber competition swimming cap features the blue and red Edmonton Commonwealth Games logo of a stylised Canadian maple leaf, the text 'Edmonton 1978' and a red Speedo logo.
HistoryEarly swimming caps were made of fabrics such as cotton and silk, and by the mid 20th century were primarily made of rubber. Though the 1940s saw swimming caps become scarce as rubber was needed for war materials, by the 1950s decorated caps had come into vogue. During the 1960s swimming caps gained in popularity. Often designed by milliners, they were brightly coloured, appliquéd with flowers or ribbons, or moulded into shapes.
The competition swimming cap's design has been greatly influenced by developments in textile technology. The late 20th century has seen the use of latex and silicone, with designs aimed at decreasing drag and smoothing out turbulence created by the head when moving through the water.
SignificanceThe cap is representative of swimwear designs produced by Speedo as merchandise for the 1978 Commonwealth Games, held in Edmonton, Alberta, Canada.