Surf lifesaving caps worn by nippers should be banned because they do not provide protection from the sun, according to the Australasian College of Skin Cancer Medicine.
The college says surf clubs are putting the lives of nippers at risk by not forcing them to wear UV-protective clothing, The Daily Telegraph reports.
The college has called for nipper programs to be held outside the hottest parts of the day, and for long-sleeved rash vests and wide-brimmed hats to be made compulsory.
"The children are often wearing scanty clothes," Associate Professor Anthony Dixon was quoted as saying in Telegraph.
"There is usually no compulsion by nippers programs that the children must wear rash vests even though most nippers are provided them."
Up to 50,000 children aged between five and 13 participate in nipper programs around the country during summer, and the college wants to see those kids competing in events held before 11am and after 2pm.
Dr Dixon said the college's members had approached individual clubs but none were willing to make changes, instead directing them to the Surf Live Saving Association (SLSA).
But the SLSA has rejected calls to scrap the iconic cap.
"The traditional surf lifesaving club cap is an important part of the uniform for members who are competing or involved in water activities," a spokeswoman told the Telegraph.
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