Gear + Gadgets: Sun and surf cap

Remember when a bathing cap was standard female wear at the beach or pool? Yes, dorky-looking, but they kept your hair dry and your scalp protected from sunburn — although the rest of you might burn to a crisp. Well, they’re back — sort of.

Say hello to Swimlids, which look like baseball caps with nice wide brims, except these caps are made out of the same stretchy nylon/Spandex material as bathing caps, only thicker. They hug tight, so they won’t blow off during water sports and should stay on even underwater. The brim provides nice shade for your face, although it’s not a substitute for sunscreen.

Swimlids come in six bright color choices, including hot pink and purple, and four sizes, which are meant to fit most women, and girls from about age 5. Of course there’s no law against guys wearing them too. Those with long hair can opt for a Swimlid model with a built-in ponytail hole, although that style comes in just pink or black. For optimal fit and sun protection, the cap should cover the ears — ya know, like a bathing cap.

Swimlids are $12.95; models with Ponytail holes, $14.95; at www.swimlids.com.

This story was originally published September 3, 2015 at 10:00 AM.