Wetsuits for kids - Recommendations

A wetsuit makes it easier for kids to stay warm when they’re in the water. The wetsuit creates a thin layer of water between the skin and the wetsuit itself, which is then warmed up from the body heat. Thus, kids can spend more time in the water without getting cold.

A common aspect of all wetsuits is that they insulate a lot better than normal swimsuits for kids, and some models also have UPF +50 UV protection. Furthermore, they are made from neoprene, which simultaneously provides extra buoyancy. This makes it easier for kids to stay at the surface of the water, and makes the transition from flotation aids like wings and swimming belts - to no aids - a lot easier.

For these reasons, it’s a good idea to think about which tasks the wetsuit needs to do, and especially which thickness the neoprene must be. The thicker the neoprene, the more buoyant and heat insulation the suit will be. And reversely, thicker neoprene impacts mobility, and the wetsuit becomes more difficult to swim and bathe in.

When you pick your wetsuit, you must determine if the purpose of the wetsuit is for swimming, or if it is merely for leisure/play/beach use.