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Ask David: When Should My Child Wear Board Shorts and Rash Guards?

Jack and DallinSigning up your child for Gilbert swimming lessons unleashes a wave of excitement, questions, and maybe even a few concerns. When should I start teaching them how to swim? How many lessons do they need? Should I buy any gear or equipment?

At EVO Swim School, our goal is to offer the very best aquatic instruction for infants, children, pre-competitive swimmers, and adults. Part of that instruction includes helping people be knowledgeable and confident swimmers, so over the next few months, EVO’s owner, David Tait, will be answering some of the common questions he receives from parents and students at our school.

This month, David shares his advice about two pieces of swim apparel that kids love: board shorts and rash guards.

1. When should children wear board shorts?

David: Most boys like to wear board shorts because they’re comfortable and are the farthest thing from a “speedo” that you can find. However, there are actually a few drawbacks that may hinder them during swimming lessons.

Board shorts are baggy, produce lots of drag, and make it harder for any swimmer to move through the water efficiently. It’s fine if children want to wear board shorts during swimming lessons as long as they fit tightly, but they should never be worn during swim team activities. Would you put 10-pound shoes on your feet and go running? Then don’t wear big, baggy shorts when you swim!

2. How about rash guards? When is it appropriate for children to wear them?

David: Rash guards are less of a problem since they’re normally skin-tight. They can help keep younger children warm in the water, but much like board shorts, we recommend making sure they fit tightly and only wearing them during swimming lessons, not swim team practice.

3. Are there any specific features parents should look for in the board shorts and rash guards they buy for their children?

David: The smaller and tighter they fit, the better. Otherwise, the child will have a harder time swimming, are less buoyant and will fatigue faster.

4. Are there any brands that EVO recommends?

EVO doesn’t have one preferred brand for board shorts or rash guards because, much like any type of clothes, it’s a personal choice based on style and fit. As long as they’re form-fitting and comfortable, that’s all that matters.

If you’re interested in more advice from David about children’s swim products or Gilbert swim lessons, stay tuned for future blog posts, or contact EVO Swim School at 480-539-2660.

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