Wig caps are a fantastic way to wear a wig with confidence, knowing it will stay put throughout the day and feel comfortable against your head. But with so much choice out there, you may be thinking, what is the best wig cap to buy?
This blog post will explain each type of wig cap in more detail so you can look for the features that will suit your needs and decide on the best wig caps for you. Let’s jump right in!
Different Types of Wig Cap Construction
Check out the most common wig cap constructions below to find your favourite.
1. Monofilament Wigs
There are two main plus points of monofilament wigs – naturalness and versatility. Monofilament wigs use a sheer polyester or soft nylon mesh at the top and crown area so that your skin colour can show through and create a natural scalp appearance.
There are three types of monofilament wigs:
MONOFILAMENT TOP
MONOFILAMENT PART
MONOFILAMENT CROWN
These types of wig constructions relate to the particular area on the cap where the sheer mesh section is situated. Hairs are individually hand-tied to the section of material to emulate natural hair movement. This design also allows for multi-directional styling and simulates that all-important natural hair growth look. The lightweight material used in monofilament wigs provides a softer feel against the scalp and cooling comfort throughout the day. Monofilament wigs are ideal for women with sensitive scalps as the breathable fabric proves less irritating than a cloth cap design.
Double monofilament wigs are another available option. These wigs are constructed using a double layer of monofilament material. This design provides even greater protection from scalp irritation, particularly for women who are sensitive to hand-tied knots. The second layer of monofilament is added to the knotted under-layer to create a smoother feel against the scalp. Our bestselling double monofilament wigs are from the Amore range.
PROS
Versatile styling options with multi-directional natural hair movement from the scalp.
Lightweight material that is cooling and comfortable.
Additional double monofilament wig option, which provides even greater protection for women with sensitive scalps.
CONS
Can be slightly more expensive than other wig types.
Hand-tied knots may cause irritation on some scalps – but don’t forget double monofilament wigs are always a great alternative for sensitive scalps!
For everything you need to know, please take a look at our dedicated monofilament wig guide.
2. Lace Front Wigs
Lace front wigs are one of the most natural-looking wig cap constructions available. An undetectable sheer lace front to your wig will create a natural-looking hairline. The lace front on this also allows you to style your wig away from your face without worrying that the wig edge is visible. This type of wig construction is ideal for ladies who have experienced hair loss along the front hairline, as the invisible lace gives you the confidence to style your wig exactly how you want to.
PROS
Illusion of a natural hairline construction for a style that is swept ‘off the face’.
A convincing, realistic look due to the hand-constructed, undetectable hairline.
CONS
Not the most budget-friendly type of wig cap construction there is.
The sheer lace at the front does need to be handled with care when putting the wig on and taking it off. If you’re new to wigs and would some advice on how to put on a wig, then please check out our blog post dedicated to the topic.
Lace front wigs are a popular choice as they look so natural; take a look at our blog post to look at celebrity lace front wigs for the latest scoop!
3. Hand-Tied Wigs
Hand-tied wigs can be made using either synthetic or human hair. Each strand of hair or synthetic fibre is sewn individually onto a mesh cap using a hand-knotting technique. This process relies on handmade craftsmanship and is not reliant on machines or mechanical stitching. A hand-tied wig can take up to three days to construct by a skilled craftsperson, an intensive process that produces a quality design. This also allows the hair to move freely for realistic movement and versatile styling. Hand-tied wigs are the go-to designs of the SW team.
The wig construction of the hand-tied also puts it at the forefront of comfort. There are no seams or wefts, meaning that it will be incredibly soft against the scalp, creating a lower density in the wig for a natural look. Because of the lack of wefts, this wig construction is perfect for ladies who have suffered complete hair loss and want to avoid irritation to a sensitive scalp. Hand-tied wigs are very light to wear and will keep your head cool and ventilated throughout the day.
PROS
Expertly made as each hair or fibre is individually sewn onto a mesh cap by a skilled craftsperson, a process which could take up to three days.
Softness against the skin as it doesn’t require a weft or structural seams.
Lighter density, which means the wig is lightweight, cool and comfortable.
Versatile styling.
CONS
Usually more expensive.
4. Wefted/Open Cap Wigs
Wefted wigs are also known as capless wigs or open cap wigs. They’re the most basic wig cap construction to buy, but they’re also one of the most popular types of wigs. Open cap wigs are made from wefts of synthetic or human hair spaced across the wig cap. As the name implies, open cap wigs have just that – open construction at the wig’s scalp, allowing for the wig to be more lightweight, breathable and affordable.
Compared to different types of wigs with closed wefts, open wefts mean that many wig wearers prefer capless wigs as they allow for the scalp to breathe, perfect for those hot summer months! Wefted wigs also have a feature called permatease, which is located at the top of the wig. This creates lift and volume, staying with you throughout the day!
PROS
Affordable wig construction.
Ideal for occasional wig-wearers and ladies who don’t require wigs due to hair loss.
Breathable.
Permatease volume.
CONS
Unable to support styling versatility.
Although more human hair wigs are becoming available with this wig cap construction, most open cap wigs tend to be synthetic wigs.
The parting and crown of wefted wigs can sometimes be said to look quite noticeable.
If you think that open cap wigs are the hair loss solution for you, take a read of our guide to wefted wigs.
5. Combination Wigs
Combination wigs are made up of different types of wig construction and design to create a more bespoke feeling unit. Simply Wigs has some suppliers that combine wig designs to ensure the customer has a comfortable wig-wearing experience. There are a few different types of combinations that are popular.
Some monofilament styles can be combined, using a machine-made method for most of the wig, then finished with a hand-tied top. This gives you all the benefits of a hand-tied mesh wig while being more affordable.
Other types of combination wigs include welded lace wigs. Welded lace refers to fibres that have been tightly interwoven and resemble a welded fabric. This type of lace is very durable. However, it can be prone to separating.
Another combination style is French Drawn. This type of wig is constructed with two layers of glass-silk and one layer of Swiss lace, resulting in a realistic scalp appearance and comfortable wearability.
PROS
Can get the best of both worlds from different types of wigs.
Can result in a more comfortable and natural wig.
Affordable.
CONS
May require more care due to different types of lace.
Trimming welded lace results in hair separation.
DIFFERENT TYPES OF WIG CAP KNOTS:
1. Single Knots
Single knots refer to a type of knot that’s only been tied once. This technique allows the hair to remain flat. This method can only be used in certain types of wigs; it is more likely to be used for the temple and scalp areas of a wig. A single knot is rarely used for the front or top of a wig.
2. Single Split Knots
The knot has still only been tied once; however, the hair is ventilated due to two strands coming out of one hole. This type of wig-knotting technique is used mostly at the front due to its ability to create a gradual, natural hairline.
3. Double Knot
This is the most durable type of knot, meaning it’s versatile and can be used in many types of wigs, and mainly used for integration hair pieces whereby natural hair lies on top of the wig piece. Although strong, it’s the most detectable knot of the bunch.
4. Double Split Knot
The look and feel of a single split knot, with the durability of a double knot. This technique is great for lace and mono base designs as this knot is less visible than a double knot.
Finding the Right Wig Cap Size
When finding the best wig cap for small and large heads, we recommend using a wig cap or band to keep your wig securely in place. The best way to ensure you feel comfortable is to get the right wig size and then secure it as effectively as possible.
Please check out our wig size guide and solutions for securing a wig to help you discover what will be the best fit for you.
What Is the Difference Between a Wig Cap and a Wig Liner?
A wig cap describes the base structure of your wig to which the hair fibres are attached. This is an integral part that makes up the wig. In difference, wig liners refer to materials worn underneath your wig, usually made from materials like nylon or cotton, aiming to help secure natural hair in place, absorb sweat, and provide ultimate comfort by creating a barrier between the wig and the scalp.
What is the Best Wig Liner to Buy? Hair vs Hair Loss
For Hair Loss:
Hair loss can be distressing and overwhelming, so the last thing you need to worry about is choosing wig liners. That’s why we’ve done the research for you. If you are going through hair loss, you might choose a wig headband or a full cap to make your new wig that bit more comfortable.
A headband sits above the ears around your head without covering your whole head, which can be a good transition when first wearing a wig. When you’re losing or have lost your hair, what you will look for in your wig cap liner is comfort.
The B.B. Belinda Wig Liner by Christine Headwear is one of the best wig liners for hair loss, designed to be cool and breathable.
Fitted with a silicone band to give you the comfort of a secure wig liner, the B.B. Belinda Wig Liner is a soft, practical wig cap. It has no seams, so you won’t have to worry about irritating your skin, and it has a see-through mesh panel at the front of the liner – it remains undetectable underneath your wig.
This cap is made using 37.5® technology to regulate temperature and keep the body cool. The breathable fabric really can make all the difference!
We also recommend the Wig Liner Bamboo Christine Collection, which is available in three shades and is made from soft and silk-like bamboo.
This is a full cap without seams which can be worn under a wig or a scarf and has the added benefit of keeping skin cool during warm weather and warm during cold weather.
For Use with Hair:
If you’re wearing a wig over your hair, you will want to find the best wig cap liners to protect your hair. While many of our wig liners can be worn with hair, we also recommend the following…
This Wig Grip Headband adjusts to body movements and is made from soft velvet for extra comfort.
Because there is no need for tape or glue, this wig liner can be worn with or without natural hair on the scalp.
Additionally, the best wig cap liner for long hair is the breathable Comfy Elasticated Wig Cap.
It will help keep you cool when your hair is padding your head underneath the wig cap, and it comes in four different colours to suit your hair. Another benefit of this wig liner is that it holds loose strands in place, so those pesky flyaway wisps won’t give anything away!
Best Type of Wig Cap Liner Material:
Nylon
If you have short or medium-length hair, nylon is one of the best wig liner materials. It easily tucks in hair and prevents it from sticking out under your wig. It also works well if you have just started the process of hair loss, as it keeps hair out of your wig’s way.
In addition, if you are looking for a thin barrier between your head/hair to make wig wear more comfortable and for your hair to grip onto, a nylon wig cap can provide just that while keeping your head cool.
However, if your biggest concern is securing your wig in place, other products like the wig grip headband (mentioned above) may work better and provide you with the extra security you crave.
Top tip: This is one of the best wigs caps for lace front wigs and any other wig types where you want to hide any flyways and achieve a natural look subtly.
Regenerated Bamboo
If you’re currently undergoing chemotherapy, have a sensitive scalp, or have an irritated scalp due to wearing a wig, this could be the best wig liner to buy. Providing a slightly thicker layer of material between your scalp and your wig, a comfy elasticated wig cap can keep your skin cool when it’s warm and warm when it’s cool – giving you the ultimate comfort all year round!
Now you know the different types of wig construction and liners, why not browse our beginner’s guide to wearing a wig? Not only does this guide discuss the four types of wig caps, but it can also help you choose the right style and size of synthetic or human hair wig for you! Remember, it’s all about what is right for you and the wigs that will make you feel amazing when wearing them.
And, if you’ve considered a wig cap in the past but still aren’t sure, check out our wig cap vs no wig cap debate.
If you have any queries or questions, such as how to put on a wig cap, please don’t hesitate to get in touch with our friendly team of wig specialists.
Hi Hazel, we don’t send out hair sample shades, but if you send a picture of your hair to our customer service team via email, they would be happy to help match the shade to your bio hair and send over some suggestions that might suit. Many thanks!
Do you send out, hair sample shades?
I like to have a wig similar in colour to my hair that is still growing but the top os none hair or very little.
Is there typically latex or rubber used within the wig cap, specifically the garter like straps that go around to help keep it in place?
Very helpful! First time buyer.
Exactly the information I was after. Thank-you.
Thank you!!! Very helpful!!
Thank you this was helpful.
I feel that I know what I am looking for now. Thankyou.
Very informative and easy to understand. The pros and cons are also very helpful in making the right decision.
thank you.
thank you this has been very help full