"When I started my research, I did not know I eventually would end up designing sportshijabs. I just wanted to do something with the heavy loaded subject of veiling in the West. As a designer I was curious if I could change something that was actually a cultural, political and social problem.
During my research I discovered that the image of headscarves or hijabs in the west is not representative for a lot of Muslim women. The image of a veiled woman in the Netherlands is mostly that of a not very well-educated, oppressed and timid woman. During my research I spoke to a lot of young Muslim women who are actually the opposite: very bright, independent and outspoken!
I realised that the image of the hijab hadn't evolved since the arrival of the Muslim community in the late 60's and early 70's. The migrants wear the headscarf often as a sign of culture and tradition. Their daughters are born and raised in the Netherlands. Growing up in two different cultures makes them curious about their roots. Some start reading the Quaran, something their often illiterate mothers have never done. They interpreted the hijab as a symbol of their descent and wear it with pride.
I realised that the appearance of the traditional shawl worn by Muslim girls didn't quite cover this message. Besides this aesthetic problem, I discovered a practical problem related to sports in school. In a court case it was decided that for safety reasons a teacher could expel a girl wearing a hijab from his gym class. The solution offered by the Comity of Equal Treatment was to wear a turtleneck and swimming cap instead. This did not solve the problem: the girls skipped gym class because they didn't want to feel humiliated.
It was at this time when I realised the whole issue was not about covering but about the way the girls cover themselves. And that problem could be solved by a designer! So I started to talk with girls and (Islamic) women’s organisations to research the requirements for a new sportshijab. After I made the sketches and the styling I went back to the girls to ask feedback. This really was an interesting part of the design process: I didn't have the 'wearer knowledge' they do. In order to meet their wishes, I needed feedback. Together we adjusted some designs: replaced a zipper by Velcro or changed the material into a more flexible one, to prevent disturbing noises. I also had my designs approved by an Imam, since he is the person the girls go to, to ask for advise on certain matters.
Besides all the functional requirements I wanted to add a solution for the social problem as well. I realised that if the hijabs did not look traditional but 'hip & trendy' they possibly could change prejudice into some sort of admiration. One of the confirmations that I got on that idea was from a 70 year old man, visiting the graduation show: 'I don't like hijabs at all, but I do like your designs'. This made me realise even more that the social problem with the acceptance of hijabs was not about the girls being covered, but the way they are covered.
Last but not least, to make the integration more visible I asked myself not only 'what does a hijab mean for Muslims' but also 'what can the hijab be for non-Muslims'. The answer to that is simple: it could be just a functional or aesthetic head-accessory. The only thing I had to do was to design something that met both worlds, and thát is exactly what I consider integration. These days Capsters are not only worn by Muslim women and girls, but also by non-Muslims, even males practicing winter sports..."
is what Cindy van den Bremen, founder of Capsters says in her introduction to Capsters. I wanted to share this, because I believe it will help better appreciate the concept.
I chose to review the Capsters Basic model in black. I wanted the basic because I felt it would be more versatile enabling me to wear it for occasions other than sports... including sports...
When I received my package, I was very impressed.
Excellent quality envelope with company logo containing the product neatly packed in a protective zip-lock pocket again with company logo. All this meant that a high quality product was awaiting me in the packaging.
At first sight, the product is made of excellent quality jersey fabric. The stitching is precise. I even pulled at the stitches, and no breaking whatsoever. It is very rare for stitches not to break on jersey fabric when they are pulled and tugged. :)
So, I tied up my hair, popped on the Capster like a hood, and fastened it with the velcro tape on the front. I can comfortably say that this is one high-quality product that will last for quite a long time. However, I found that this particular style has a very wide opening for the face. Having a large round face myself, it made my face look even larger and rounder. It was also a little loose around the neckline. Again, I must note that I believe this is true for this particular style (Basic) as I have noted in most other styles on their website the face opening is not as wide and is tighter. So what I did was, I got a stick pin and made the opening tighter just under my chin. :) I am happy with this result...
I wanted to give a few examples of how the Capsters may be utilised. I know there are many hijabis who despise this look, but I beg to differ. For a hijabi who likes outdoor sports, such as hiking, horseriding, baseball, etc. this look is perfect. You will not have any hijab parts strangling you in the wind, getting in your way, etc. etc. It is practical.
Then we have the bandana look. Pop on a Capster and wrap a hijab around your head and tie at the nape of the neck like a bandana. This way you have a different look and perfect coverage. No neck, ear or anything else showing!
I may not use any of the above looks, but this one is one I really like and find very elegant, Persian princess-like. :) I was never able to wear my hijab loose this way, because I would have my neck or sideburns etc showing. You know what I mean! With the Capster I am able to achieve the look I want without compromising my hijab/coverage.
All in all, I am very delighted to have been given the opportunity to try out this product. I understand that some of you may not be happy with the prices. In all honesty, the price is not so over the top when you consider the quality, long-life, and versatility of the product... I'm not even gonna mention the amount of money we splurge on things that are no good for us... So compared to all that, the amount you are asked to pay is really not much at all.
You are welcome and encouraged to follow/like Capsters on Facebook, and alternatively check out their range of products via the Capsters Website. Oh and guess what? They ship worldwide! Woohoo! :))
Lastly, I would like to thank Cindy for the opportunity and her efforts to make our life easier and more comfortable. :)
So, which look do you like best? Can you suggest any other way I can utilise my Capster? :)
