Kids Summer Gear Guide

Class is out, and those long days at the beach are IN! It’s officially summertime, which means it’s time to prep your groms for all the surfing, sandcastle-building, and Searching the season brings. Whether your kid is a rising ripper or just starting out in the whitewash, they need the right gear to stay safe, comfy, and stoked all summer long.

We’ve created the ultimate summer gear guide for kids to help parents and young surfers gear up with essentials that work in and out of the water. From lightweight wetsuits to UV-protective swimwear and everything in between, this is your one-stop-shop to keep your kids frothing all season.

Summer Wetsuits for Kids

When it comes to kids wetsuits, finding the perfect balance of warmth, stretch, and sun protection is key. Designed to keep your young surfers comfortable through long sessions, summer wetsuits should be lightweight, breathable, and suited to a range of summer surf conditions. Whether you're road-tripping to chilly coasts or hopping flights to tropical beaches, there's a wetsuit for every kind of grom.

Choosing a Wetsuit for Summer

Not all wetsuits are created equal - especially for kids. Depending on your summer travel plans or local water temps, here's what to consider:

• Fullsuits (2/2mm or 3/2mm): Great for early morning sessions or cooler coastal breaks like NorCal or Southern Australia.

• Springsuits: The go-to for warm water surfing with just enough neoprene to guard against reef rash, wind chill, and long paddle-outs.

• Rash Guards: For water temps over 75°F (24°C), a rashie might be all your kiddo needs. These are perfect for sun protection and abrasion resistance.

Don’t forget extras like reef booties for rocky or coral-bottomed breaks, and prioritize UPF protection to shield their sensitive skin during those long beach days.

Boys' Wetsuit Tips

For boys, comfort and freedom of movement are essential. Look for wetsuits with easy back or chest zips, soft seams that prevent chafing, and colors or patterns that match their personality. If your little guy is sensitive to temperature, err on the side of more coverage for early mornings or breezy beach days.

Girls' Wetsuit Tips

Girls’ wetsuits should deliver top performance, flexibility, and protection - while still letting their personality shine. Prioritize suits made with lightweight, high-stretch neoprene that won’t restrict movement during paddles, pop-ups, or duck dives. And with vibrant colors and fun prints, young surfers can feel confident and comfortable in the water.

Swim Vests for Young Kids (Ages 1–6)

For the littlest wave chasers, swim vests are the perfect blend of safety, support, and surf-inspired style. Made from soft neoprene or sustainable natural rubber, these vests are designed to help toddlers and young kids (typically ages 1 to 6) build foundational swimming skills while staying buoyant and comfortable in the water.

Summer Swimwear for Girls

When it comes to swimsuits for girls, performance and protection are just as important as style. The best summer suits are made for movement - whether paddling out, diving under, or sprinting up the beach. Prioritize quick-dry, stretch-friendly fabrics that stay put during active surf sessions and dry fast between dips.

Coverage Options

• Surfsuits: A full-coverage favorite, these long-sleeve one-pieces are built for all-day surf. They offer full back and arm protection, ideal for extended sun exposure and cooler breezes.

• One-Pieces: A go-to for active groms who like to swim, body surf, and ride waves without fuss. Many include racerback straps or zippers for a secure fit.

• Two-Pieces: Best for mixing swim and lounge time. Look for sports-bra-style tops or crossback straps for a stay-put fit in the water. 

Function

• Surf: Look for adjustable straps and reinforced coverage for paddling comfort and wave-ready fit.

• Swim: Chlorine-resistant fabrics are great for pool time, and quick-dry designs easily transition between the ocean and fresh water.

• Sand: Softer fabrics and relaxed fits are perfect for beach hangs, post-surf chill time, and sandcastle sessions.

Pairing for Protection

For long surf days or sunny destinations, pair swimwear with a UPF-rated rash guard or surf tee. Long sleeve rashies provide full-arm coverage and sun protection, while short sleeves keep things cooler on hot days. Many styles match or coordinate with swim bottoms for a functional, surf-ready look.

Summer Boardshorts for Boys

Boardshorts for boys are all about freedom of movement, durability, and staying comfortable through every session, ready for surf, swim, and sand. Look for high-performance features that help them paddle longer, dry faster, and stay focused on fun. 

Fit & Length

• Elastic Waistband Boardshorts: Great for younger kids who are constantly moving between the waves and the snack shack. They’re easy to pull on and off, even when wet.

• Drawcord Closure & Length: Older groms will benefit from secure waists that won’t loosen in the surf. Look for 16"–18" outseams for a balance of mobility and leg coverage.

• Stretch & Seams: Choose 4-way stretch fabrics and minimal seams in areas that rub during surfing, like the inner thigh, for optimal performance.

Function

• Surf: Hydrophobic coatings and lightweight construction help reduce drag and chafing. Some styles even come with wax pocket or fin key storage.

• Swim: Quick-drying, fade-resistant materials are pool- and beach-friendly, and breathable linings offer comfort during long swim sessions.

• Sand: Hybrid boardshorts double as all-day beachwear with casual styling and enough comfort for downtime or travel days. 

Pairing for Protection

Match boardshorts with a rash guard or UV surf tee for sun-smart style. UPF-rated rash guards protect against harmful rays, especially during mid-day surfs or when boardshorts are worn with no shirt. Choose colors or patterns that pop to keep it fun and easy to spot in a crowd.

Summer Beachwear for Kids

Between surf sessions and snack breaks, kids beachwear should be all about comfort, versatility, and sun safety. Look for breathable fabrics, relaxed fits, and easy-to-layer pieces that can go from car ride to sand dune without missing a beat.

Hats

Shield young faces from harmful rays with wide-brimmed surf hats, bucket hats, or classic caps. Choose summer hats with adjustable straps and quick-dry materials for long days on the coast.

Shirts & Tanks

Lightweight tees and tanks with built-in UPF protection are beach day MVPs. Go for bold surf logos, tropical prints, or matching sets they’ll love to wear from the beach to the ice cream shop.

Dresses & Cover Ups

For girls, easy throw-on dresses or cover-ups are ideal for beach transitions. Look for styles that dry fast and won’t weigh them down when wet.

Hoodies & Sweaters

Even summer evenings can get breezy. Pack a soft hoodie or pullover sweater for post-surf snuggles, beach bonfires, or windy cliff walks.

Shorts & Pants

From boardshorts to beach joggers, bottoms should be tough enough for climbing rocks but soft enough for chilling out. Hybrid materials that dry quickly and stretch with movement are ideal for active kids.

Sandals

Post-beach comfort starts with quality sandals. Look for options with cushioned soles, adjustable straps, and sturdy grip to handle wet surfaces, parking lot pebbles, and sandy treks.

Kids' Summer Beach & Surf Accessories

Dialing in the right beach and surf accessories makes summer even more fun - and a whole lot easier for parents. Here’s what to stash in your beach bag:

Beach and Pool Play Items

Beach and pool play items like inflatable surf mats, swim goggles, and dive toys build confidence, encourage active water play, and keep younger kids entertained, whether it’s poolside, in the shallows, or between surf sessions.

Backpacks and Travel Bags

Keep it organized with kids-sized beach bags or surf backpacks. Look for separate compartments for wetsuits, snacks, and sunblock. Bonus points for waterproof linings and padded straps.

Beach Towels

Oversized, quick-drying beach towels are perfect for sandy naps, warm-ups between sessions, or towel tents on sunny days. Choose vibrant colors so your kids never lose track of their spot on the beach.

Surfboard Care Items

If your grom has their own board, don’t forget the accessories: soft-top wax, a backup leash, ding repair tape, and a sun-protective board sock. Teaching them to care for their board helps build pride and responsibility in their gear.

Kids' Summer Surf Gear FAQ

What thickness wetsuit should my kid wear in summer?

For water 68–72°F, a 2/2mm short-sleeve fullsuit or a springsuit works great. For tropical temps (75°F+), a rash guard may be all they need.

Does my child need a rash guard?

Yes! Rash guards protect from sunburn, rashes, and board wax irritation - especially useful for all-day beach outings and surf lessons.

What is UPF clothing and why does it matter?

UPF stands for Ultraviolet Protection Factor. It measures how well clothing blocks UV rays. A UPF 50+ shirt or rash guard blocks 98% of harmful rays, essential for long, sunny beach days.

Should I pack surf booties in summer?

If you're heading somewhere with sharp reefs or rocky shorelines, lightweight reef booties will protect little feet without adding bulk.

What beachwear is best for active kids?

Look for hybrid shorts, moisture-wicking tops, and sandals with arch support. Prioritize comfort, breathability, and easy changing for on-the-go days.

The Summer of Stoke

This summer, give your kids the freedom to play, surf, and explore with gear made for every adventure. From reef-friendly booties to UPF rash guards and post-surf hoodies, Rip Curl’s summer lineup is built to keep young surfers safe, stylish, and stoked.

The Search never ends, and neither does the fun. Don’t forget to check out our men’s summer gear guide and women’s summer gear guide if you're shopping for the whole crew.