Neoprene Headband

The Orca Neoprene Headband is a black band of 100% neoprene, 2.5 mm thick, made for swimming in cold water. It wraps your forehead and ears, closes with a Velcro strap at the back, and is a wetsuit accessory small enough to live in your swim bag all year.

Who it's for

Open water swimmers and triathletes who swim through the cooler months. A winter dawn at Coogee, a spring lake swim in Canberra or an early race start in Tasmania all start the same way: your face goes in and your forehead and ears start to ache. This band puts neoprene exactly there, so you can settle into your stroke instead of counting down the minutes.

It suits swimmers who want to protect their ears and forehead without the full coverage of a neoprene cap or hood. Your hair and the top of your head stay free, and the band slips into a pocket when the water warms up.

Warmth

The 2.5 mm neoprene covers your ears and forehead and slows the heat you lose through them, which helps your whole body hold its temperature for longer in the water. Wear it on its own, or under a silicone swim cap for an extra layer.

Getting the size right

One size. The Velcro strap at the back tightens or loosens the band, so you can set it snug enough to stay put through tumble turns and wave entries without pressing on your temples. Seat it so the wider sides cover your ears completely, then run your goggle strap over the top.

Looking after neoprene

Rinse the headband in fresh water after every swim, salt or chlorine, and let it dry in the shade. Close the Velcro before it goes in the wash bag, so the hook side does not grab and pill your wetsuit or towel.