Kids Wetsuits
Kona carries kids wetsuits from 2mm springsuits to 5/4mm fullsuits, sized for groms still growing. SoCal water stays rideable year-round, and the right suit keeps your kid comfortable every session.
How to Pick the Right Kids Wetsuit
Neoprene thickness, suit type, and seam construction all affect whether your kid stays warm or starts shivering after twenty minutes.
Thickness by Water Temperature
A 2mm spring suit handles summer water above 65°F. For fall and spring sessions in the 58-65°F range, a 3/2mm fullsuit keeps core heat locked in. When winter water drops below 58°F, a 5/4mm fullsuit like the Xcel Axis is the move.
Full Suit vs Spring Suit
Fullsuits cover arms and legs for warmth and sun protection. Springsuits leave the arms bare and cut off above the knee, maximizing mobility at the cost of coverage. A 3/2mm fullsuit is the most versatile starting point for surfing in Southern California.
Neoprene and Seam Construction
Flatlock seams work in mild water but let water seep through stitch holes. Glued and sealed seams block water completely, which matters in cold lineups. The Union 3/2 uses standard neoprene with flatlock. The Xcel Axis uses ultrastretch Japanese neoprene, which is why a 5/4 Xcel moves like a 3/2.
Once your grom is suited up, grab a soft top and a leash to get them ready for the water. Parents shopping for themselves can find adult sizes in the full wetsuits collection, and first-timers of any age should check the beginner surfboards lineup.
Frequently Asked Questions About Kids Wetsuits
What size wetsuit does my child need?
Youth wetsuits are sized by height and weight, not age. Kids wetsuit sizing varies by brand, so check the size chart on the product page before ordering. A proper fit is snug with no loose neoprene around the lower back or armpits.
Do kids need wetsuits in warm water?
Yes. Even in 68°F water, a kid loses heat fast between sets. A 2mm kids spring suit is usually enough. On the warmest days, a UV shirt covers short sessions.
Should I buy a bigger wetsuit for my child to grow into?
Going a full size up defeats the purpose. Loose neoprene flushes cold water with every duck dive instead of trapping a thin warm layer against the skin. Buy for current measurements and replace as they grow.
What age can kids start wearing wetsuits?
Xcel and Union both start at size 2 (ages 2-3). Younger toddlers splashing in the shorebreak are better off in a UV protection rashguard until they are ready to paddle out.
