Speedo 2004 Olympic swimming cap worn by Petria Thomas
Maker
Speedo International Ltd
Date2004
Object number00040012
NameCap
MediumLatex
DimensionsOverall: 190 x 240 mm, 0.04 kg
ClassificationsClothing and personal items
Credit LineANMM Collection Gift from Petria Thomas
DescriptionThis yellow latex competition swimming cap was worn by champion swimmer Petria Thomas at the 2004 Athens Olympic Games. Made by Speedo, it is decorated with the Australian coat of arms, the Southern Cross, the five Olympic rings, the Speedo trademark and the text 'AUS', 'THOMAS' and 'ATHENS 2004 SPEEDO'.HistoryEarly swimming caps were made of fabrics such as cotton and silk. By the mid twentieth century they were primarily made of rubber. During the 1950s and 1960s swimming caps soared in popularity. Often designed by milliners, they were brightly coloured, appliquéd with flowers or ribbons or moulded into shapes and used to protect women's permanent wave hairstyles.
Competition swimming caps have evolved with developments in textile technology. The late twentieth century has seen the use of latex and silicone, focusing on reducing drag and smoothing out turbulence created by the head when moving through the water.
SignificanceThis swimming cap, worn by Australian Olympian Petria Thomas, formed part of the range of swimwear and accessories produced by Speedo for the Australian swimming team at the 2004 Athens Olympic Games.
