When it comes to keeping our kids safe around water, most Kiwi parents think about lifejackets, sunscreen, and swimming lessons. But one important detail often gets overlooked—the colour of their swimwear.
Yes, what your child wears in the water can make a huge difference to how easily they’re seen in the pool, surf, or lake. In this blog, we’ll break down the science behind swimwear visibility, and help you choose the best colour for kids swimwear safety.
Why Swimwear Colour Matters
Whether you're at the beach, the lake, or a pool party, visibility is key. Lifeguards, parents, and caregivers need to be able to spot children quickly in the water—especially in an emergency.
Dark or dull colours like navy, black, and grey can blend into the water, making kids harder to see both on the surface and under it. Meanwhile, bright colours—especially neon—stand out like a beacon.
The Safest Colours for Kids' Swimwear
Studies and real-world lifeguard experience show that these are the top colours for visibility in water:
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🧡 Neon Orange – One of the most visible in both pools and open water
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💗 Hot Pink – High visibility even in darker waters
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💛 Neon Yellow / Lime – Very easy to spot in pools and surf
- ❤️ Red – Eye-catching and cheerful, especially when contrasted with lighter surroundings
At Little Red Fish, we have designed some of our collections with these colours in mind.
Colours to Avoid for Water Safety
While stylish, the following colours often blend into the water, especially when a child is below the surface:
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Navy or dark blue
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Black or charcoal
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Greys and dark greens
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White or pastel tones (in some light, they become invisible)
These shades might look good in the sun, but they can make spotting a child underwater much more difficult.
Safety + Style = Peace of Mind
You don’t have to sacrifice style for safety. At Little Red Fish, we offer a range of NZ-designed kids’ swimwear that ticks all the boxes:
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UPF 50+ sun protection
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Long sleeve and rash suit options
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Chlorine-resistant fabric
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And most importantly—eye-catching, high-vis colours loved by kids and approved by parents
➡️ Shop Safety-First Swimwear Now
Final Tip: Be Water Aware
Choosing the best colour for kids swimwear safety is just one part of the puzzle. Always supervise children around water, use sunscreen, and teach water confidence early.
But when it comes to standing out, bold and bright swimwear can give you those extra vital seconds to see your child clearly—whether they’re splashing, diving, or floating.
Little Red Fish. Designed in NZ. Loved by little swimmers. Trusted by parents.
