The Definitive Guide to Kids Swimsuits: Boys & Girls Swimwear

There’s a reason people make so much fuss over kids’ swimwear… Swimming lessons are one of the first things we arrange for our children, and with good reason. It’s not only a great sport, but it’s also an essential life-saving skill. After all, swimming can prevent your kid from drowning. 

Facts About Swimsuits for Children 

Children need swimsuits for swimming, whatever the weather and wherever you are located globally. And when you shop, you’ll find swimming clothing available in various iterations. Here’s a selection of swimming facts:

•    A swimsuit is a necessity as an outdoor piece of clothing for swimming.
•    Twenty-first century children’s swimsuits are a far cry from the swimming costumes that used to be on sale at a good price. These days we choose discount clothing or the latest arrivals made from strong, durable materials. We look for suits that stretch to fit the body well, are comfortable and are usually treated to prevent sun damage. 
•    Swimming garments you find online and discounted in stores are often lined with fabric that stops them from being see-through when wet. 
•    A swimming costume is also designed to fit snugly (the tighter the fit, the more easily one can move) and help the child swim more efficiently, by stopping friction and drag (this is when water slows the movement of the body down).
•    Children should have at least three regular products to use for swimming so that they can alternate these pieces of clothing when one is wet. And, as we all know, accidents do happen. So always pack a second swimsuit.

What to Look for When Choosing Swimwear for Little Ones

Be careful of cheap and cheerful swimming clothing and beachwear for children that you will find discounted. There’s a reason you need to buy top quality swimming gear that fits well and will last the kids or a baby, whether they’re going to be swimming in a pool or in the sea, playing on the beach or on your garden lawn whilst running through a sprinkler, or even swimming in an indoor pool whilst on holiday.

1.   Proper Sun Protection 

When they are in the pool or the sea, your children are even more susceptible to the sun’s rays, which reflect off the water. So protect your child’s body from the sun as much as possible. Concentrate on areas of the body that are most sensitive, like shoulders, arms and backs. 

There are various types of swimming gear on offer for little ones (including a baby), which usually also offer sun protection. Look for swimming clothing for boys and girls, swim shorts that you can pair with a swim swimsuit. Look out for UPF50 stickers or labels to show that these provide your child with protection. 

Check out maake's swimming costume bases: Active Eco Lycra and Recycled Eco Lycra along with the Heavy Lycra. All have UPF50 certification (see details below).
Remember: it’s not only the style of the swimming costume that will protect your kid or baby from the sun. Many swimming costume brands offer pieces made from specially treated fabric, which they use for . The fabric, used for boys and girls swim shirts, also offers sun protection. This is especially important if you have a baby and are looking for suitable swimming gear.

Let’s face it, kids love having fun in the water. As parents, we need to ensure their clothing has the plush bonus of protecting them from harsh elements whilst swimming, keeping them cool in the heat, or warm if you’re on holiday in the Northern Hemisphere.

2.   Special Swim Fabrics

As we discussed, swimming costume fabric has to tick various boxes. 

It needs to be:
-       Comfortable.
-       Hard-wearing.
-       Flexible so that the body can move whilst wearing it.
-       Lightweight.
-       Able to wick away moisture.
-       Resist fading.
-       Withstand sun exposure, chlorine and salt water.
-       Stop water drag.

Lycra is a favourite choice for kids swimwear, so read our excellent guide that explains What is Lycra?

If you intend making your own swim outfits for your own kids or for a small business, do read our guide on How to Sew Stretchy Fabric.

3.   The Right Fit

Your kids are going to be in their swimsuits, running around or swimming, so when you shop, ensure selected swimming products fit their bodies well. This includes boys and girls swim shirts and swim shorts. Check there’s no sagging or loose fabric, as this can be uncomfortable.

There are specific size charts for kids, so it’s easy to choose the right size for your child. (Take a look at Sizing, below.)

Of course, size varies according to brands, so measure your child before you shop to ensure the garment fits snugly. If possible, choose a store or check online, and order from a store with an exchange policy in case you choose the wrong size.

One question we want to answer emphatically now – we don’t recommend choosing a bigger size so that your kid can grow into the swimwear. But when you find a swimming costume that your kid is happy with, we suggest buying two if they are discounted – one in a larger size, for when the current one gets too small. You’ll thank us later!

4.   Colours, Styles & Patterns

We suggest taking your child’s personality into account, and their likes and dislikes when choosing colours, patterns and designs for swimming gear and accessories.
If they are old enough, take them with you so you have an idea of what they prefer before you choose.

When you shop online, remember: what we see on screen isn’t always what will arrive on pick up or delivery day. Computer screens show colour deceptively. Popular choices of swimming garments and accessories for kids vary. Let your kid dictate what they would prefer to wear and then choose accordingly.

There’s a variety in every store to keep every kid happy, from feminine floral prints to more versatile stripes, tie-dye, colour-blocking, single shades, sea and beach themes, and everything in between. As for styles, before you choose, check out what their friends are wearing. They may wish to something similar.
For inspiration and guidance on colour choices, see our informative blog, An Introduction to Colour Theory and the Color Wheel.

5.   Swimming Accessories

When you take your kid to swimming lessons, or on a pool play date, even on a beach holiday around the Festive Season, you don’t just take their swimsuits. Your bag or beach basket is full of other accessories and outerwear, too.

You need the following:
•    Flipflops or other summer-appropriate footwear to play in (sandals or sneakers are the best footwear for the beach or for by the pool).
•    Sunscreen: No matter how much the swimming costume protects your child, you also need plenty of sunscreen, which you apply often.
•    Sunhats: Even when they’re in the pool, unless they’re confident swimmers, make them keep a hat on.
•    Water bottles: Ensure they drink plenty of water when it’s hot.
•    Snacks: Fresh fruit and vegetables cut up small, sandwiches, etc.
•    Beach balls and other toys.
•    Beach towels for the pool and the beach: Choose a soft, breathable, absorbent cotton towel that dries fast.
•    Sunglasses.
•    Multipacks of wet wipes.
•    Cover-ups to wear over their swimwear. If there’s an indoor pool, ensure it’s a warm cover-up. In summer, a light cover-up and light footwear is all you need.

5 Questions to Ask When Shopping at John Lewis & Other Stores

Ask yourself the following questions before you purchase discounted swimwear for kids:

1.   Is the suit easy to swim in?

Ensure the bathing suit is easy to move in. It needs to be a quality fabric, and if it’s a one-piece, the mid-section must have mobility.

2.   Is the product hard-wearing?

Pool chlorine wears out swimsuits – another reason to look for quality fabric that is resistant to chemicals and is long-lasting. Choose a nylon or Poly/spandex fabric with a polyester lining for swimming costumes and swim trunks that resist both chlorine and saltwater.

3.   Does the fabric dry fast?

Wet swimsuits are likely to be heavy and uncomfortable, especially if it suddently gets cold . Kids love to spend hours in the water, so the swimming costume fabric should dry fast. Don’t forget: after use, rinse the swimsuit, dry it, and store till next time.

4.   Does the fabric have UV protection?

Water reflects the sun, so your child’s skin is extremely vulnerable while swimming. Swimsuits for children made of fabric with a UPF50 rating will block 98% of the sun’s harsh rays. To get the best sun protection, always apply sunscreen. Remember: even when the sun isn’t shining, harsh UV rays can still harm your child’s skin.

5.   Does your child have a cover-up? 

It’s great choosing swimsuits for kids that tick all the boxes, but when your kid gets out of the water, they need a protective cover-up and a pair of shoes.

For these swimming accessories, comfort is important, and if the fabric includes sun protection, that’s a plus. Now, a holiday in a ski resort requires a completely different type of cover-up – something warm and cosy. 

Especially for summer, swim cover-ups are made from polyester and spandex. But whichever type of cover-ups you choose, check their labels carefully to see how effective they will be. 

For trends in kids swimwear and accessories including cover-ups, check out the Australian brands: they are very conscious of protecting kids’ skin from the sun and offer some innovative garments, footwear and accessories that not only do the trick, but also look great. 

Why Size is Important

Ill-fitting full girls swimsuits, nightwear and accessories will make swimming uncomfortable and unenjoyable for children. Remember this when you select swimwear at any time of the year or when there are discounts for a present or for necessity. So make sure kids swimming clothing and cover-ups fit well. First step is to measure your child:

• Sizing for girls: Measure under the arms and around the back and bust, as well as the waist, hips and inseam. Also measure weight and height, as tall or bigger kids may need a longer suit, and junior girls may need to go down a size in swimming clothing. For swimming shorts, see ‘Sizing for boys’ below.
• Boys sizes: Measure around the waist to get the perfect fit. If the kid is between a size, or the waist is too tight, rather go up to the next size. Make sure that the waist is comfortable. Remember: elasticated waists can be comfortable for all swimming shorts, including junior sizes for boys, but a drawstring waist on a pair of shorts will give a custom fit.

Easy Sizing Tips

Check out these size guidelines for swimsuits, swim clothing and accessories that make perfect gifts year-round. Note: Some brands offer size guidelines based on age, while others offer sizing from extra-small (XS) to extra-large (XL). So, if you’re buying a gift, ensure the swimwear will fit well.

A Rough Sizing Guide

(This list includes junior boys and girls, bathing suits for 12-year-olds and other bigger sizes to fit kids as they reach their teens.)

•    XS: 4 to 5 years with a 20 to 21.5-inch waist.
•    S: 6 to 7 years, with a 22 to 23.5-inch waist.
•    M: Size 8 years and 9-10 years, 11 -12 years with a 24 to 25.5-inch waist.
•    L: 11 to 12 years with a 26 to 27.5-inch waist.
•    XL (Extra Large): 13 to 14 years with a 28 to 30-inch waist.

Explore Prints, Patterns & Colours

Children often have very decided opinions about the type of swimsuit and accessories they want to wear, depending on their personalities and the latest trends, as well as where they plan to go swimming – on a holiday in the Southern hemisphere, or at home when the weather is warm. But some kids don’t care much about swimsuits. Here are some popular choices:

• •    Navy and black are ideal for swimwear and school accessories.
  •    Bright red and orange, or a pattern using cheerful summer colours, is popular.
  •    Blue is another very popular choice, especially blue shades that match the ocean, and turquoise.  
  •    Designs with sea creatures, beach scenes, stripes and spots. Colour-blocking is another major trend.
  •    Children love bright colours, especially neon orange, green and yellow.
  

Common Children's Swimwear

• •    Rash Vests: Often made from spandex and nylon, these shirts protect children against chafing and sun exposure. Choose one that is good value for money.
  •    Wetsuits & Dry Suits: Commonly made out of neoprene. Shop for these close-fitting suits for snorkelling and board sports. Also great for cooler weather.
  •    A One-Piece Swimsuit: Often created from ‘smart’ fabric that withstands the elements (salt water, sun and chlorine), keeps the suit’s shape and is available in various styles.
  •    Boys’ Swim Briefs: Often called a Speedo, because the brand is so popular. This type is usually made of a blend of nylon and spandex, although some brands use polyester, which is longer-lasting. They usually feature lining on the inside front made from a similar fabric.
  •    Boys’ Board Shorts: A longer version of a swimming trunk, they usually reach over the knee. Preferably choose one with a non-elastic waistband. Ideal for board sports like paddle-boarding, wake-boarding and surfing.
  •    Boys’ Swim Trunks: Commonly known as board shorts in the UK, these are designed to be slightly longer than boxer shorts. Trunks are loose and reach mid-thigh and often have a polyester inner lining. 
  •    Swim Shirts: These protective shirts are great for swimming and also keep children warm on holiday. Ideal for when the sun is at its most deadly (11am to 2.30pm) or when the kid has sensitive skin and is prone to sunburn.
  

The Best Swimming Gear for Every Age

o     Babies’ Swimwear: If the baby is still wearing nappies, you need to find swimming nappies to wear on their own or under swimwear. When wet, the nappies don’t swell. They are also designed with elastic side guards and side flaps that are easy to remove. Baby boys can wear cute board shorts, and for baby girls, choose a pair of knickers or bikini bottoms, even if you buy the entire bikini. If your kid is having swimming lessons when it’s cold outside, wetsuits are ideal.
o    Toddler Swimsuits Boy & Girl 3-5 Years: Invest in swimming trunks for the boys and a one-piece for the girls, especially if they are learning to swim. These products are especially important if your kid’s skin is fair and sensitive to the sun.
o    Kids Aged 5 & Up: Swimwear for children is available in various styles, colours and patterns. There’s a variety of girls’ swimsuits, including 1- and 2-piece costumes, whilst boys musdt stick to shorts, briefs or trunks. Remember: young teen girls will need costumes with a bra inside. Swimming shirts are ideal if your kid’s skin is sun-sensitive. 

The Business Side of Swimwear

According recent market research, the size of this global niche market was valued at 14 billion UK Pound Sterling in 2024. It’s projected to grow to £18 billion by 2034.

The Bottom Line

Don’t side-step the market for swimwear for children. It can be very lucrative for small niche businesses. The secret to success? Do extensive research about fabric, design and what children want. And don’t outprice yourself and make the garment too expensive. Also, remember: beach holidays are one of the best experiences for kids, so stock up on swimwear and cover-ups if you’re planning a beach holiday.

Making Swimwear for Children with maake

•    Active Eco Lycra: A beautiful eco blend of recycled polyester and elastane, this medium-weight lycra fabric is ideal for kids’ swimwear, with its smooth surface and excellent stretch. One can pull this fabric in any direction and it springs back every time. Both sides of the fabric are identical; it prints vibrant, strong colours. UPF50 certified and chlorine and pill-resistant, this is one of our most popular swim fabrics.
•    Recycled Eco Lycra: A very popular high quality, eco blend of recycled polyester and elastane, this medium-weight lycra fabric has a little less stretch than the Active Eco Lycra above for a toughter body contour, and slightly glossier finish. One can pull this fabric in any direction and it will springs back every time. Both sides of the fabric are identical; it prints vibrant, strong colours. It’s UPF50 certified and chlorine and pill-resistant, this is another popular swimming fabric.
•    Eco Glitter Dot Lycra: Made from a blend of recycled polyester and elastane with a glittery multi-coloured foil dot effect so swimwear shines and shimmers in the sun. We use this stretchy eco lycra fabric widely for swimsuits bikinis and other swimming gear. Eco-conscious manufacturers like the fabric, which is recycled polyester. The material prints beautifully and vibrantly.
•    Eco Sprint Knit: A mid-weight 100% recycled polyester wicking sports jersey. Fantastic for rash vests, swimming shirts and more. It’s a very popular fabric for summer sports and outdoor wear, and prints beautifully.
•    Heavy Lycra 210: The heaviest lycra fabric in maake’s range, this polyester fabric is ideal for activewear. The smooth, stretchy fabric can be pulled in any direction and springs back to shape every time. Print face and backing are the same, and colours print vibrantly.

Get Creative 

Design your own fabric. Follow the link below and see how easy it is to upload your own creation before we print and ship the fabric or products to you.

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