Every summer we get the same question: "Which Konges Sløjd swim piece does my kid actually need?" Between swim vests, UPF swimsuits, rash guards and swim shoes, it's easy to end up buying the wrong thing — or three of the right thing.
Here's the breakdown, so you can shop once and get it right.
Does your child need a swim vest?
A swim vest is a swimming aid, not a life jacket — it helps a child who's learning to float and move confidently in the water, always under adult supervision. If your little one is still finding their water legs, this is the piece to start with.
- Kitty Swim Vest – Blush, $92 — lightweight foam padding, adjustable crotch strap, secure front zip. Playful kitty print in a soft blush tone.
- Ellis Swim Vest, $82 — same buoyancy-panel construction in a fresh sailboat print, made in Europe.
Both zip up the front for an easy on-off and give kids freedom to paddle without feeling restricted.
UPF 50+ swimsuits: worth it, and here's why
Regular fabric offers almost no sun protection once wet. Konges Sløjd's swimwear is built from GRS-certified recycled polyester with UPF 50+ built in, so it's doing sun-safety work even when the sunscreen has worn off.
- Striped UV Protection Bathing Suit, $68 — classic navy and ecru stripe, recycled fabric, ages 3–6.
- Pomia One-Piece Swimsuit, $78 — flattering one-piece silhouette, Scandinavian minimalist styling, ages 2–6.
- Bowie One-Piece Swimsuit, $78 — soft stretch fabric for full range of motion in and out of the water.
- Collette Swimsuit, $40.80 — the budget-friendly entry point, same quick-drying stretch fabric.
For fairer skin or longer beach days, go long-sleeve:
- Etta Long Sleeve Swimsuit, $92 — full one-piece coverage with sleeves.
- Laguna Long Sleeve Rash Guard, $92 — rash-guard cut, soft and stretchy for active play.
Swim shoes: the piece parents forget
Hot sand, sharp shells, slippery pool decks — bare feet aren't built for any of it. Swim shoes are one of those "didn't know I needed it" purchases until the first summer without them.
- Bowie Swim Shoes, $58 — quick-drying seersucker upper, flexible rubber sole, signature red bow detail. Our best-stocked swim shoe right now.
- Sea Swim Shoes – Lemon, $48 — soft everyday fabric, understated Scandinavian styling.
Don't forget the top of the head
- Bowie Swim Hat, $58 — wide brim for face and neck shade, adjustable tie straps so it stays on in the water, not just at the pool's edge.
Quick answers
How do I know if my child needs a swim vest or just a swimsuit?
If they're still working on floating or feel nervous in deep water, start with a vest. Confident swimmers can go straight to a UPF swimsuit alone.
Is UPF 50+ swimwear really necessary if we're already using sunscreen?
Sunscreen wears off in the water within 40–80 minutes; UPF fabric doesn't. Layering both is the safest bet for long beach or pool days.
Are the swim vests machine washable?
Rinse in fresh water after each use and air dry — check the care label, as foam panels shouldn't go in the washing machine.
What sizes run best true to size vs. small?
Konges Sløjd swimwear generally runs true to size; swim shoes run slightly narrow, so sizing up half a size is common for wider feet.
Ready to build the beach bag? Shop the full Konges Sløjd collection at littlewild kids — most pieces above are limited quantities, so grab sizes while they're in stock.
With love,
Doris & Zoey
