wetsuits for children

[Solo2]

I need to get a full body wetsuit for DS1 who is 9.4yrs old but I've no idea what size to get him. When I look at online sales, he doesn't really fit any size as he's got long arms and legs but a v slim chest and waist. I'm also not sure how a wetsuit should feel or look when it's the right size, so that we can tell it fits correctly.

So - what shops might let us try on wetsuits and give advice about sizing (we're based in East Anglia) or what websites would you recommend to buy online and what size should we go for?

I know Tescos sells them - I think they do - but not sure what the quality is like nor if anyone in the stores can advise properly about size?

Can anyone help please?

these are good and the staff seem to know their stuff

What does he need it for, as that may determine what quality/thickness you need. And is budget an issue?

The key measurement is usually neck to crotch.

Thanks Agedparent and Ladymuck. The ones on the site you indicated, Agedparent, look good but again I'm not sure which size to go for and would prefer, if possible, for an expert to fit him.

Ladymuck, it's mostly for daily swimming in a natural swimming pond we've just had built in our back garden. DS1's twin and I are perfectly fine in the current water temperature of 19C but skinny DS1 is too thin to bear the initial cold shock and them acclimatise. He also wouldn't go in the sea in the UK this summer, whereas his twin and I were fine too (we're built for cold water!)

So I want to buy him something that will allow him to enjoy cold water swimming with us (in swimming pond and in sea) and to stay in for at least 15 to 20 mins at a time. I've never worn a wetsuit before and don't know if he'll feel weighted down by one or whether it'll be the answer? He needs something that's full length as he feels the cold just about all over his body.

We'd be prepared to travel to London if necessary to get him properly fitted and whilst I don't want to spend a fortune on one, I'd rather buy something that will definitely work and will last a while than a cheaper one from Tescos online.

Do you know where we could go to be fitted for one/ where a skilled assistant could advise on fitting?

If you're in East Anglia these people may be within striking distance (Felmingham, NE Norfolk)

www.justwatersports.com.

They do fittings if you go there, they specialise (or used, to anyway) in kids' wetsuits. I bought DS's Jobe suit there.

We bought DS's from Decathlon, it has been fine.

Thanks Ragged and Blametheparents. we might try a trip to Felmingham but phone them first.

That's v helpful.