Buy kids wetsuit
A children's wetsuit protects against cold water, sun and chafing during swimming and water sports. A kids wetsuit is made of neoprene: a flexible material that fits snugly against the body. The thin layer of water between the body and the neoprene is warmed by body heat and acts as an insulating layer. Children cool down faster than adults, making a wetsuit valuable at almost any water temperature. At Watersportsonline you will find kids wetsuits in shorty and fullsuit versions, in thicknesses from 2 mm to 5/3 mm.
Which wetsuit thickness for which water temperature?
| Thickness | Water temperature | Season NL | Style |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2 mm shorty | 20°C and warmer | High summer | Shorty (short arms and legs) |
| 3/2 mm fullsuit | 16-20°C | Summer | Fullsuit, standard for Dutch summer water |
| 4/3 mm fullsuit | 12-16°C | Spring and autumn | Fullsuit, cooler water |
| 5/3 mm fullsuit | 8-14°C | Early spring, late autumn | Fullsuit, maximum warmth |
The most popular kids wetsuit in the Netherlands is a 3/2 mm fullsuit: thick enough for typical summer water temperatures of 14-19°C while still allowing freedom of movement. Also check out the broader wetsuit collection for adults, the kids buoyancy aid collection and the full JOBE collection for water sports clothing and accessories for children.
Shorty or fullsuit?
A shorty has short sleeves and short legs, suitable for warm water days, protecting the torso while leaving arms and legs free. A fullsuit covers the entire body including arms and legs for the best warmth protection. For use in the Netherlands, where water rarely exceeds 20°C, a fullsuit is the practical choice for most children throughout the entire water sports season.
Frequently asked questions about kids wetsuits
How do I choose the right wetsuit thickness for my child?
Look at the water temperature at the locations where your child swims or does water sports. For Dutch lakes and ponds in summer (typically 15-19°C) a 3/2 mm fullsuit is the right starting point. For activities in spring or autumn or at sea, choose 4/3 mm. A 5/3 mm is for cold water (below 12°C) or for children who feel the cold quickly. Never buy too large: an oversized wetsuit lets too much water in and loses its insulating effect.
How do I determine the right size for a kids wetsuit?
Most kids wetsuits are sized by body weight and/or height. Always check the brand-specific size chart as sizing can vary between manufacturers. A well-fitting wetsuit fits snugly at the wrists, ankles and neck but gives enough freedom of movement in the shoulders. Never buy a wetsuit to grow into: one that is too large lets cold water in and no longer works as insulation.
What is the difference between a shorty and a fullsuit?
A shorty has short sleeves and short legs, suitable for warm water above 20°C. A fullsuit covers the entire body and insulates better in cooler water. In the Netherlands, a fullsuit is the practical choice for most children throughout the entire swimming and water sports season.
How do I care for a kids wetsuit?
Rinse the wetsuit after every use with lukewarm fresh water, inside out, to remove salt, chlorine and sand. Hang on a wide hanger in the shade to dry, not in direct sunlight or near heat. Never fold or scrunch a wetsuit tightly for storage as this damages the neoprene. Wash with a specialist wetsuit cleaner twice a season and lubricate the zip with zip wax to prevent stiffness.
In stock? Order today before 17:00 for same-day dispatch. Otherwise as soon as possible. Not sure about the right size or thickness for your child? Our specialists in Joure are happy to help.
