More and more parents are getting their kids active in the water. Our little ones can go from hero to zero in relation to being cold really quickly. One minute your child is telling you they are ok, the next minute their lips are blue and you can't get them out of the water and dressed quickly enough. Fun times can be not fun all of a sudden.
Surfing and other water activities in New Zealand can be cold. Our sea is cold most of the year, most rivers and lakes are cold and even the family swimming pool can take a bit to warm up. On top of that we have a harsh NZ sun to deal with, potential water hazards and more. Plenty of reasons to consider getting a toddler wetsuit for your child.
At Blitz Surf Shop , Gisborne's core surf shop, we stock children's wetsuits from as small as size 1 from major wetsuit brands like Rip Curl, O'Neill and Billabong.
Continue reading this blog to find out the benefits of kitting your child out in a wetsuit.
Why Your Toddler Needs a Wetsuit
Temperature Regulation
New Zealand’s waters can be chilly, even in summer. A toddler wetsuit helps maintain your child’s body temperature, allowing them to stay comfortable and enjoy their time in the water. These wetsuits provide insulation, so your little one can play longer without getting cold. Not just for surfing but even for those days playing at the beach in and out of the water
UV Protection
The sun can be harsh, especially during peak hours. Wetsuits are designed with built-in UV protection, safeguarding your child's delicate skin from harmful UV rays. This feature is crucial for preventing sunburn and ensuring your toddler’s skin stays protected. Especially in New Zealand where we have particularly harmful UV rays. Don't forget to also use sunblock and headwear if your child is out for long periods of time in the harsh New Zealand sun.
Enhanced Buoyancy
Toddlers are still mastering their swimming skills. Wetsuits offer extra buoyancy, which helps them stay afloat more easily. This added support is reassuring for parents and boosts your child’s confidence in the water. Not to mention have you ever tried to grab a kid in the water in just boardshorts, covered in sunblock...its like trying to grab a slippery eel. A wetsuit gives you much better grip should you have to act urgently to help your child.
Comfort and Flexibility
Modern wetsuits are made from soft, flexible neoprene material, ensuring a snug but comfortable fit. The stretchiness of the wetsuit allows for unrestricted movement, so your toddler can run, jump, and play without feeling confined.
Protection from Elements
Besides keeping warm, wetsuits protect against potential stings and scrapes from jellyfish, rocks, or other underwater hazards. This added layer of protection makes the water and beach a safer environment for your child. In Gisborne we can get bluebottles and other jellyfish wash in, especially in the summer months. Jelly fish stings and kids don't mix too well.
Choosing the Right Wetsuit for Your Toddler
Fit
A properly fitting wetsuit is important. It should be snug but not too tight. If it is tight, like you would get for an adult, its not going to last your kids long as they outgrow it quickly. Check for size guides provided by brands like Rip Curl, O'Neill, Billabong, and Quiksilver to ensure a good fit. A well-fitted wetsuit prevents water from entering and helps maintain warmth. We do encourage parents to get their kids to try wetsuits on. Because of their rate of growth it is worthwhile getting a wetsuit that is a bit big so they last a while. There's a fine line between getting a snug fit to prevent flushing but with some room for growth. Come try a wetsuit on with our helpful staff in our Gisborne Surf Shop to get that balance right.
Material
Look for high-quality neoprene, which offers excellent insulation and flexibility. Brands like Rip Curl and O'Neill use advanced neoprene materials to ensure durability and comfort. Cheaper wetsuits are likely to cause rashes or discomfort for your child.
Design
Toddlers’ wetsuits come in various designs and colors. Choose a design that your child loves and one that makes them easily visible in the water for added safety. We mainly sell black wetsuits to adults, but a lot of parents prefer bright colours so their grom is easily identifiable.
Ease of Use
Wetsuits with easy-to-use zippers or entry systems make dressing your child simpler. Lets face it, you will be doing most of the hard yards getting your child into their snug fitting wetsuit. Back zips are much easier with their big heads and skinny little necks. We sell way more chest zip wetsuits to adults, but chest zip suits, especially for little kids, can be a nightmare. Some steamers (full wetsuits) also have zips at the ankles which are really helpful for little kids.
Brand Reputation
At Blitz Surf Shop, we stock only the best brands known for their quality and performance. Rip Curl, O'Neill, Billabong, and Quiksilver are renowned for their reliable and stylish wetsuits, making them ideal choices for your toddler’s beach outings. If you go for a lesser option at a chain store or sports store you are likely going to regret it.
Care Tips For Toddler Wetsuits
To ensure your toddler's wetsuit lasts for many seasons, follow these care tips:
- Rinse After Use: Always rinse the wetsuit with fresh water after each use to remove salt, sand, and chlorine. This helps prevent damage to the material.
- Dry Properly: Hang the wetsuit to dry in a shaded area, away from direct sunlight, which can cause the material to degrade.
- Avoid Excessive Heat: Do not machine dry or use hot water, as this can damage the neoprene.
For more detailed information on wetsuit care check out our helpful wetsuit care guide here
Types of Toddler Wetsuits
Springsuit
Short arms and legs. Probably the most popular type of versatile toddler wetsuit. Pretty much exclusively flatlocked, unsealed seams with a back zip. Usually 1.5 or 2mm thickness depending on the brand. Easy to put on and take off, lowest cost compared to other suits.
Steamer
A steamer is a full wetsuit. Long arms and legs. In kids can come in 2mm all over, 3/2mm (3mm body and legs, 2mm shoulders and arms) or 4/3mm (winter weight suit with 4mm rubber on body and legs, 3mm on shoulders and arms). Seams can be either flatlocked (unsealed) which includes Rip Curl's flexible e-stitch, or GBS (glued and blindstiched, sealed seams). All 4/3mm wetsuits will eb GBS. The 3/2mm suits could be GBS or flatlocked. Unsealed seams allow some water in and out so sealed are warmer. But unsealed suits are also a bit cheaper. Talk to our staff to find out which suit would best fit the needs of your child.
Conclusion
A toddler wetsuit is a fantastic investment for any beach-loving family. It ensures your little one stays warm, protected, and comfortable while exploring New Zealand’s beautiful coastlines. At Blitz Surf Shop, we offer a curated selection of wetsuits from Rip Curl, O'Neill, Billabong, and Quiksilver, so you can find the perfect fit for your child. Visit us today to get your hands on top-quality wetsuits and gear up for endless beach fun!
For more tips and to shop our range of toddler wetsuits, check out our website or visit us in-store. Your little adventurer is ready for the waves!
