How to Put a Wetsuit on a Toddler Without the Struggle

The parent's guide to stress-free wetsuit changes

If you've ever tried to wrestle a toddler into a wetsuit, you know the struggle. Arms get stuck, legs twist the wrong way, and somehow your 2-year-old turns into an octopus the moment neoprene touches their skin.

Good news: getting a toddler into a wetsuit doesn't have to be a battle. With the right technique and a little patience, you can have your kid suited up in under a minute.

The back-zip method (easiest for toddlers)

If you're shopping for a toddler wetsuit, choose one with a back zipper. It's the most parent-friendly design and makes the whole process dramatically easier. Here's the step-by-step:

Step 1: Unzip completely

Pull the zipper all the way down to the bottom. The more open the wetsuit, the easier it is to get your toddler inside. Don't try to save time by leaving it partially zipped, it'll backfire.

Step 2: Feet first

Have your toddler step into the wetsuit like they're putting on pants. Hold the wetsuit open at the waist and guide their feet through the leg holes. Make sure their feet come all the way through the ankle openings.

Step 3: Pull up to the waist

Once both feet are through, pull the wetsuit up to their waist. The neoprene should sit snug but not tight around their hips.

Step 4: Arms in, one at a time

This is where most parents struggle. The trick: guide one arm through at a time, starting with their dominant arm. Hold the arm hole open wide and have them push their hand through like they're reaching for a toy.

Pro tip: If the neoprene is sticking, use a tiny bit of water as lubricant. Wet the inside of the arm or leg opening and it'll slide right on.

Step 5: Pull up the shoulders

Once both arms are through, pull the wetsuit up over their shoulders. Make sure the seams sit flat and the suit isn't twisted.

Step 6: Zip from bottom to top

Start the zipper at the bottom and pull it up smoothly to the top. Most toddler wetsuits have a long zipper pull or cord to make this easier. If your wetsuit has a velcro collar, secure that last.

Common mistakes parents make

Trying to put it on like a shirt

Don't try to pull a wetsuit over your toddler's head unless it's specifically designed that way. Back-zip wetsuits are meant to go on feet first.

Forcing it when it's dry

Dry neoprene has more friction. If you're struggling, add a little water to help it glide. Some parents even put the wetsuit on in the shower for the first few times.

Buying the wrong size

A wetsuit that's too small is nearly impossible to get on a squirmy toddler. If you're between sizes, size up. A slightly loose wetsuit still works, a too-tight one doesn't.

How to make it fun, not a fight

Toddlers resist things that feel like a chore. Here's how to make wetsuit time more enjoyable:

• Let them help. Give them a job, like holding the zipper pull or choosing which arm goes in first.
• Make it a game. "Can you push your hand all the way through like a rocket ship?"
• Practice at home. Let them try it on in the living room a few times before the beach so it's not brand new and scary.
• Stay calm. If you're stressed, they'll pick up on it. Take a breath and remember, it gets easier with practice.

Taking it off (the easy part)

Getting a wetsuit off is usually faster than putting it on:

1. Unzip completely
2. Pull the wetsuit down off their shoulders
3. Help them pull their arms out
4. Pull the wetsuit down to their ankles like taking off pants
5. Have them step out one foot at a time

Pro tip: Peel the wetsuit inside-out as you take it off. Makes it easier to rinse and helps it dry faster.

What if your toddler refuses?

Some toddlers resist wetsuits at first because the sensation is unfamiliar. What works:

• Start with short sessions. Put it on for 5 minutes at home, then take it off. Build up their tolerance.
• Let them touch it first. Let them feel the neoprene, play with the zipper, and get comfortable with it before putting it on.
• Explain why it helps. "This keeps you warmer so we can play in the water longer."
• Don't force it. If they're genuinely distressed, take a break and try again later.

The bottom line

Getting a toddler into a wetsuit gets easier with practice. The first few times might take 5 to 10 minutes, but once you both get the hang of it, you'll be suited up in under a minute.

Choose a wetsuit with a back zipper, use water as lubricant when needed, and stay patient. Before you know it, your kid will be running toward the water faster than you can zip them up.

Looking for a back-zip toddler wetsuit? Check out The Grom Fullsuit, sized 2T to 6T.