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Kids' Swimwear

For swimming it must stay put on every arm stroke; at the beach it can be looser.

Guide

Kids' Swimwear

Children's swimwear must stay in place through swimming, jumping and play. Choose their current size and consider what they can put on alone; oversized straps and waistbands can slip.

Key points

Use current body measurements rather than age alone.
Waistbands and straps should hold without digging into the skin.
Both pieces of a set need to fit at the same time.
Choose fastenings your child can manage where possible.

What suits a day by the water?

Use	Choose	Bear in mind
Swimming and jumping	ChooseSwimsuit or secure two-piece	Bear in mindHave them raise their arms and squat. Neckline and straps should remain in place.
Beach and paddling	ChooseSwim shorts	Bear in mindThe waistband must hold when wet; long loose legs move more fabric through the water.
More coverage	ChooseSwim shirt or one-piece suit	Bear in mindLength needs to work while stretching. The cut should not make changing unnecessarily difficult.

Swimsuit or shorts?

Swimsuit (One piece)
Straps and torso length need to fit together, including when your child raises their arms.
- Advantage: No gap at the tummy
- Drawback: Needs pulling down fully for toilet stops
Example: Liewood Amara Printed Swimsuit ›
Swim shorts (With a waistband)
An elastic or adjustable waistband holds the shorts during swimming and play.
- Advantage: Straightforward changing
- Drawback: Loose versions move more fabric through water
Example: Protest Culture JR ›

What to look for

Question	In brief	Why
How much growing room?	In briefSecure fit today	WhyA loose waistband or long straps do not improve when wet. Choose by body measurements and check during movement.
Set or separate pieces?	In briefCheck both pieces	WhyA well-fitting top cannot compensate for slipping bottoms. Separately sold pieces allow different sizes.
Easy to change?	In briefLet your child try	WhyComplicated ties and hard-to-reach fastenings can be impractical, particularly after swimming.

Common questions

Should I buy swimwear to grow into?

Only while it still fits securely now. Your child should not need to keep adjusting straps or waistband in the water. Too much growing room can reduce support.

Can children swim in beach shorts?

They may suit occasional swimming. Long or very loose shorts move more fabric through water than close-fitting swimwear. A secure waistband and free leg movement matter most.

How do I check a swimsuit?

Ask your child to raise their arms and squat. Straps and neckline should stay steady without the leg openings riding up strongly. Check top and bottom separately for two-piece sets.

How should children's swimwear be cared for?

Rinse with fresh water after use and dry according to the label. Do not leave wet garments bundled in a bag for long. High heat can damage stretch fabrics.

Last updated: November 2026