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.
Best swimming wetsuit for kids: Orca Open Squad (8-12 years)
- Varies in thickness of the neoprene, from 1.5-2.5 mm placed in strategic locations, which makes it flexible and has a good heat insulation
- Smooth and streamlined surface that reduces drag comprehensively
- Gives a good propulsion and buoyancy the most necessary places
- Comes in colours that increases visibility in the water
- Made with Yamamoto neoprene from limestone for increased durability
- Very suitable for swimming in open water - in Ireland from April to the end of August
- Has a neoprene thickness of 3 mm, which ensures a high amount of freedom of movement, as well as effective insulation
- Made in very stretchy thermic neoprene
- Korean neoprene at the neck, reducing the risk of ulcers
- Very versatile, and can be used for swimming in open water, SUP, snorkelling, and fun
Watery wetsuit for kids - Hedgehog (3mm) - Black
4.69/5
Based on 13 reviews
- 3 mm neoprene with a high heat insulation and flexibility
- Fixed neoprene panels on stomach and back for extra heat insulation
- Strong YKK zip with string, so kids can get in and out of the wetsuit themselves
- Can be used all year round for watersports activities like SUP, snorkelling and playing at the pool/beach
- Has UPF +50 UV protection
- A very good all-round wetsuit for kids
Watery wetsuit for kids - Gecko (3mm) - Electric blue
4.33/5
Based on 6 reviews
- The dark area of the wetsuit is composed of 2 mm neoprene, which provides excellent heat insulation and flexibility on the stomach and back
- The light area consists of Polyamide Lycra which provides a high degree of flexibility around the arms, shoulders and neck, which is necessary when kids must be able to move freely
- The Polyamide Lycra around the neck and arms is breathable and very comfortable on the skin
- Made with Flatlock stitching, which provides an extraordinary durability
- Has 100% UPF for +50 UV protection
- Very suitable for water fun, the pool, and snorkelling - and is quick drying
Watery wetsuit for kids - Calypso Full-Body - Green/black
4.55/5
Based on 22 reviews
- The dark area of the wetsuit consists of 2 mm neoprene, which provides a good heat insulation as well as flexibility on the stomach and back
- The light area is made from Polyamide Lycra, which gives a high degree of flexibility around the arms, shoulders and neck, which is necessary when the kids need to be able to move freely
- The polyamide Lycra around the neck and arms is breathable and very comfortable on the skin
- Made with Flatlock stitchings that provides extraordinary durability
- Has 100% UPS +50 UV protection
- Perfect for bathing and dries quickly
- Has short sleeves and legs that make the wetsuit very suitable for hot days, the pool, and the holiday in the south