The Black Swimming Association is in arms a ban the use a swim cap at the upcoming Tokyo Olympics. FINA, the body that regulates international swimming, has rejected an application the brand SOUL CAP. Its product is a cap that accommodates diverse hairstyles and hair types. The company wants the cap certified competition swimming. It wants to help swimmers afros, braids, dreadlocks, hair extensions, weaves, and thick and curly hair. FINA said it would not permit the Soul Cap because swimmers have never used a cap " such size and configuration" before. FINA stated it would not be permitted because "it didn't fit the natural form the head".
The Black Swimming Association was aghast the decision and called it a step backwards black swimmers. It warned it would drive swimmers diverse backgrounds. BSA spokeswoman Danielle Obe said: "This will affect younger and -and-coming swimmers who might want to consider taking elite swimming." She added: "At the highest level, we're hearing that, 'we want the sport to be inclusive and representative; we want to have people colour in the sport, but we want them to join our terms'. This will affect their decision because and large, hair is a significant barrier, especially women." The caps are allowed all Swim England clubs and competitions.
