How to Choose a Kids Wetsuit | Le Grom Buyer's Guide

Kids playing on the beach in wetsuits

The parent's guide to buying a kids wetsuit

Everything to know before buying your toddler's first wetsuit, from parents who've tried a lot of them.

Shopping for a kids wetsuit can be overwhelming. This guide breaks down what to actually look for so you can skip the trial-and-error and pick the right suit the first time.

What to look for in a kids wetsuit

Five things that actually matter:

  • 3mm neoprene for cooler water without bulk that restricts movement. Budget suits often use thinner neoprene that doesn't hold up.
  • Toddler-specific proportions. Kids aren't small adults. Look for suits designed around actual toddler measurements, not scaled-down adult patterns.
  • Flatlock seams to prevent the raised stitching that scratches sensitive skin. If you can feel ridges on the inside, skip it.
  • Back zipper with a pull tab. The fastest way to get a squirmy toddler in and out. Front zippers look cool, less practical with little kids.
  • UPF 50+ sun protection. Toddler skin burns fast. Built-in UV protection means one less thing to worry about at the beach.

Why The Grom Fullsuit checks every box

Designed around what parents actually need.

Le Grom checkerboard panel detail on neoprene

3mm neoprene

Soft, flexible, and built to move with your kid in the water without the bulk of thicker suits.

Back zipper detail on Le Grom wetsuit

Easy back zipper

Long pull tab lets parents zip up in seconds. No fighting, no tears, no wrestling a toddler into a tight front-zip.

Kids in Le Grom wetsuits at the beach

True toddler sizing

Sized 2T to 6T with patterns built around toddler proportions. Fits the way a wetsuit should.

Toddler standing on beach in Le Grom wetsuit

How to get the right fit

A wetsuit should fit like a second skin: snug but not restrictive. Too loose and water flushes through. Too tight and your kid won't want to wear it.

Quick sizing tips:

1

Go by weight and height

Clothing size alone isn't reliable. Our size chart uses weight and height ranges for a precise fit.

2

Between sizes? Size up.

Neoprene stretches slightly with use. A slightly snug new suit will break in within 2 to 3 wears.

3

Check wrists and ankles

Gaps at the wrists and ankles let water flush through the suit. These should be snug.

View the full size guide

When does your kid need a wetsuit?

A wetsuit extends your beach season. Kids who used to last 20 minutes can play in the water longer in the right suit. That's the difference between a fun beach day and a frustrating one.

The Grom Fullsuit is a 3mm neoprene fullsuit, built for typical U.S. coastal conditions in spring, summer, and fall.

Shop The Grom Fullsuit

Child running through ocean waves in Le Grom wetsuit

Ready to find the right wetsuit?

Free U.S. shipping. 30-day returns.

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