14 best life jacket for kids
Life jackets for kids, commonly referred to as swim vests or swim jackets, are essential pieces of safety equipment designed to help children stay afloat and safe while in the water. These vests are a form of personal flotation device (PFD) specifically tailored to fit children and provide buoyancy to keep them above the water.
Key features of life jackets for kids include:
Buoyancy: The primary function of a swim vest is to provide buoyancy, keeping the child afloat and assisting them in maintaining a horizontal or slightly tilted position in the water.
Adjustable Straps: Swim vests typically have adjustable straps that allow for a secure and comfortable fit, ensuring the vest stays in place during water activities.
Comfort and Freedom of Movement: They are designed to offer comfort and allow for unrestricted movement, enabling children to swim, play, and learn essential water skills without feeling hindered.
Visibility: Many swim vests come in bright, highly visible colors, making it easy for parents or guardians to keep an eye on their child while in the water.
Safety Buckles: Equipped with safety buckles or closures, swim vests ensure a secure fit while providing ease of use for parents or caregivers.
Durability: These vests are typically made from durable, lightweight materials that can withstand exposure to water and sun during extended use.
Appropriate Size and Weight Range: Swim vests come in various sizes and weight ranges to suit the age and weight of the child, ensuring an appropriate and effective fit.
US Coast Guard Approval: Some vests are US Coast Guard approved, indicating that they meet specific safety standards and regulations for water safety.
It's important to choose a swim vest that is suitable for your child's age, weight, and swimming ability. Always ensure that the life jacket fits properly and securely before allowing your child to enter the water. Supervision and proper usage of swim vests are crucial to keeping children safe during water activities.
Below you can find our editor's choice of the best life jacket for kids on the market
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EHIOR Swim Vest for 25-55 lbs Toddlers Kids, Learn to Swim Aid Quick-Dry Water Float Life Jacket with 3 Buckles and Straps for Pool, Lake, Beach
EHIOR
Product description
WARNING
Please don't let kids alone when they are swimming.
It requires adult supervision all the time.
Please check the condition carefully before use every time.
Please stop using it if it is defective.
FEATURES
Keep kids swimming safely and get lots of fun.
Safety shoulder harness will prevent the vest from sliding off during use.
Adjustable back straps with sturdy buckles.
Durable polyester material and multi-panel foams design for comfort use.
Environment friendly and Skin-friendly.
It can be used in pools and beaches.
SPECIFICATIONS
For 2-6 years old and 25-55 lbs kids and toddler.
Material: Polyester Fibers, PE Foam.
- WARNING - Please don't let kids alone when they are swimming. It requires adult supervision all the time. Please check the condition of it before use every time. Please stop using it if it is defective.
- 3 STRAPS - There are 2 chest straps and 1 bottom strap for a secure fit. These straps will ensure this life jacket keep tight when kid wear it.
- CONFIDENCE - There are many kids even adults are fear of water as swimming beginners, this swim vest will help children get more confidence with water.
- HARNESS - The shoulder harness will keep the vest from sliding off during use. Kids will be safer and have fun when learning to swim.
- MATERIAL - It is made of polyester fibers and PE foams, and there are adjustable straps with sturdy buckles. No need air inflation, suitable for 25 to 55lbs kids and toddlers.
TRC Recreation Kids Super Soft USCG Vest
TRC Recreation
Product description
TRC Recreation kids super soft USCG vest XS - Kool Lime gnu
- Foam
- Made in the USA or Imported
- X Small fits chest size: 21"-23"
- US Coast Guard approved
- For children under 50 lbs.
- Includes adjustable leg strap for added safety
- Made in the USA
User questions & answers
| Question: | My son is 1yr 6m and about 25lbs do you think this would work for him or would it be way to big |
| Answer: | It's a ultra lightweight style, so it is not designed for extremely cold weather. It may suit for weather temperature around 20-50 F, which is -6C to 10C. If you would like to play in the snow with it, you may want to go for our heavy padded puffer jacket instead which is water-resistant shell fabric. Thanks. |
| Question: | Do all sizes have the strap that hooks between the legs |
| Answer: | no...it's just pulled tight because the zipper is all the way up..no drawstring..so if your child does not like it zipped all the way up..the hood might not stay up....i liked the look of the jacket..I just did not like that feature... |
| Question: | What size for a tally, skinny six year old boy |
| Answer: | It probably wouldn't keep the child dry in extremely heavy rain. It is perfect for a light shower, but the material is pretty thin. |
| Question: | Where is the sizing chart |
| Answer: | My son is 15 and about 5 feet tall and 100 pounds. It fits perfect on him. |
New & Improved Oceans7 US Coast Guard Approved, Child Life Jacket, Flex-Form Chest, Open-Sided Design, Type III Vest, PFD, Personal Flotation Device, Pink/Berry
Product description
USCG APPROVED SIZING for Infant/Child/Youth PFD’s. USCG approved children’s life jackets are labeled for infant, child or youth and generally, weight can be used as an approximate guide. Actual comfort, fit and sizing will vary. When the vest PFD is securely fastened, it should not rise above the child's head!
• Infant Size PFDs: 8–30 Pounds (If weight is 8-25 lbs. — Try this size.)
Approximate Child’s Chest 16-20 inches (40-50cm).
• Child Size PFDs: 30–50 Pounds (If weight is 25-45 lbs. — Try this size.)
Approximate Child’s Chest 20-25 inches (51-64cm).
• Youth Size PFDs: 50–90 Pounds (If weight is 45-85 lbs. — Try this size.)
Approximate Child’s Chest 26-29 inches (66-74cm).
Relax. Discover. Play. We support life's enjoyable moments! (and love it) With nearly fifty years of experience in recreation and sport, we believe our wide range of products will inspire your definition of fun; whether it’s relaxing, swimming, learning, or playing. We are a global leader in the manufacture and distribution of innovative consumer goods in the recreation, sport and toy industries. Our brands are sold at retailers across the U.S. and internationally, both in-store and online. Our headquarters are south of Boston with satellite offices in Hong Kong and Shanghai. Relax & Play Get out and splash! No matter what age you are—water brings out the kid in all of us. Our line of lounges, inflatable floats, and toys has something for everyone under the sun. Swim Confidence Paddle and Kick! Just like our first steps, our first moments in the water begin with paddling and kicking. Supporting parents in sharing the joys of water with their children is where it all begins. Swim & Dive Whether it was goggles or a mask, we never forget those first moments we “looked” under water. Protecting your eyes is our business when you’re competing, training, or splashing! Snow & Home Decor The great outdoors is our playground! We make the snow fun when you’re heading down the hill or impressing the neighbors with your festive style.
- US COAST GUARD APPROVED LIFE VEST: Passes highest USCG standards and testing; USCG Approved Life Jackets are labeled for infant, child or youth by weight range.
- USCG APPROVED SIZING: CHILD SIZE PFDs: 30–50 Pounds (If weight is over 25 lbs. — Try CHILD Size; If weight is over 45 lbs. – Try YOUTH Size); Actual comfort, fit and sizing will vary.
- FULL-SIZE RANGE PERFORMANCE: Durable Nylon construction and thick EPE flotation foam; When the life vest PFD is securely fastened, it should not rise above the child's head!
- OPEN-SIDE DESIGN FOR COMFORT: Three adjustable straps for a comfortable fit with open-sided design; For 2020, we lengthened Chest Straps for maximum size and fit range.
- UNIVERSAL USCG PFD: Great for general boating activities and swimming life jacket.
User questions & answers
| Question: | My twins weigh about 45 pounds what size should we get |
| Answer: | Yep! My oldest son is between 56-58 lbs and this holds him up really well. I thought he'd sink a bit compared to my 38 lb son, but they seem to keep him up just as well. |
| Question: | My daughter is two and half year old and 25 lbs |
| Answer: | From what I've researched, the deluxe has a different material on it. After the ease of use of the basic puddle jumper, I fail to see any point in getting the deluxe. My son used his nearly every day for 10 days and the material never bothered him. |
| Question: | Is there a zipper on the front |
| Answer: | I don't think skeet shooting has anything to do with toddler life jackets...does it? |
| Question: | Will this fit a 6 yrs old |
| Answer: | This specific type of "water wings" only come in one size, I put it on my daughter for the first time around 18-months old (about 27 pounds, 33 inches). It's meant for toddlers that can walk well, not infants. It's very adjustable, so she should be able to wear it until she's 4 or 5. Hope that helps. |
Stohlquist Fit Youth Life Jacket/Personal Flotation Device, Youth 50-90 lbs, Blue/Black
Stohlquist
Product description
Economy vest that is approved for paddling, general boating, and for use on personal watercraft. The sculpted foam paneling, graded sizing, and easy adjustability creates a more appropriate fit, as well as higher mobility; unlike other traditional economy PFD designs. CHEST straps are strategically placed to reduce ride-up.
- Easy to adjust, three buckle front entry
- Sculpted foam paneling for higher mobility
- Thinner backpanels help eliminate interference with seatbacks
- Sea level buoyancy Youth - 12 lbs USCG approved
- 200D nylon outer shell & liner with convenient hanging loop for drying and storage
User questions & answers
| Question: | How thick is the foam? I’m wanting thinner than |
| Answer: | No, it's good. No padding on the shoulders. |
| Question: | Would the M fit a 5 year old? All the reviews are for 7 and above |
| Answer: | My daughter is 4”5’ & 100lbs & it fits her fine. It does ride up on her neck though. |
| Question: | Does this fit close around the neck? We have tried on some at a local store, some other brand, and all of them fit too close to her neck |
| Answer: | My 5 year old weighs about 45 lbs and it fits him fine if that helps. |
| Question: | what child's weight is this life jacket for |
| Answer: | Marketed as 30-50lbs, 22-25inch chest. My 4yr old is 40lbs and it fits him well. |
Product features
About Us
Stohlquist products are the result of hands-on paddling, entrepreneurial spirit, craftsmanship and design experience of the company founder and president, Jim Stohlquist. Each model we offer follows the lineage of 40+ years of product innovation and refinement, incorporating the latest in raw material development and manufacturing.
In early 2004, Stohlquist and Aqua Lung joined together as partners to capitalize on the synergies each has in the personal flotation business, both above and below the water. Jim Stohlquist continues to steer the company providing vision and guidance on all new products. OK, Jim is an avid scuba diver, but his focus remains heavily on this passion for paddlesports... innovation, performance and excellence. We are committed to watersports and our long line of innovative and unique products have been the natural result.
STEARNS Youth Boating 50-90 Vest Outdoor recreation product
STEARNS
Product description
"
Help keep children safe and comfortable on the water with the Stearns Youth Classic Series Life Vest. This youth life jacket has an open-sided design for extra breathability and more freedom while swimming and playing, and it comes with 3 adjustable 1-inch buckle straps for a secure fit. Featuring durable nylon construction and PE flotation foam, this life jacket is designed to stand up to steady use while boating, tubing, and swimming. This youth life jacket is US Coast Guard-approved and specially fitted for kids weighing between 50 and 90 pounds.
"Keep your youngster out of danger while on the water with the Stearns youth boating vest. Designed to match Stearns's adult boating vests, the youth vest is filled with durable Crosstech flotation foam, keeping your child afloat in lakes, rivers, and pools. The vest also includes three adjustable belts, ensuring that the vest fits securely regardless of the application. Suitable for personal watercraft, waterskiing, or other towed uses, the vest is USCG-approved as a Type III personal flotation device and fits kids between 50 and 90 pounds.
- US coast guard-approved youth life jacket
- Great for boating, tubing, and swimming
- Durable nylon construction with PE flotation foam
- Open-sided design and 3 adjustable buckles for secure fit and better movement
- Designed for kids weighing 50 to 90 pounds and chest size 26” to 29
User questions & answers
| Question: | Is there a strap between the legs on 50-90 lb. vest |
| Answer: | I have two daughters age 10 weighing 50#. This vest fits on them so well (almost fit) that I am actually doubting that they will be able to use it when they gain another 20# (for a new weight of 70#). Particularly on the chest area. |
| Question: | Does this vest have zipper |
| Answer: | No. The 50-90 lb vest does not have a leg strap. The 30-50 lb vest does have a strap. Unfortunately, the 30-50 lb size vest keeps showing up on this page, incorrectly described, as a variation. I am working with Amazon to get the 30-50 lb vest permanently moved to its own page so that there is no more confusion. Most of the reviews complaining that the vest is too small most likely received the 30-50 lb version of the vest and didn't realize it. |
| Question: | I have a skinny 8.5 year old son who is 48 lbs . 49" Would the 50-90 vest work for him |
| Answer: | I believe so-check the information on Amazon-that's what I did. |
| Question: | Is there a leg strap on the 50-90lb jacket |
| Answer: | I use it for both. My boys swim well but when we are floating down a river they wear their jackets, and of course for boating/tubing. |
Product features
About Us
William P. Hilger started what would become Stearns, Inc. among the lakes and plains of central Minnesota. His first successful product was an electrically powered windshield heater that was a big hit in the colder climates of central Minnesota in the late 1920's, and eventually was a must-have product for cars from California to Maine. The company changed hands after World War II and became Stearns Manufacturing Company. The heating systems in cars had matured to the point where, anymore, the idea of needing a frost shield was old-fashioned. The business then turned towards the future: Plastics.This was the starter's gun in a race towards ownership of the designed PFD market; a race that Stearns would easily win. In 2008, Coleman added to its family of brands the distinct quality of Stearns products, the most recognized player in the life jacket business. It’s a natural fit.
Body Glove Paddle Pals Learn to Swim Life Jacket (Fish)
Body Glove Wetsuit Co.
Product description
Paddle Pals is the safest US Coast Guard approved learn-to-swim aid for pools, lakes, and beaches. USCG approved Life Jacket with attached arm bands for teaching kids to swim. Safety shoulder harness prevents the vest from sliding off during use and keeps child from removing life jacket without help. Quick-release rear safety buckle is adjustable for a great fit. Durable polyester material and multi-panel design for superior comfort. Approved as a Type III Childs PFD for recreational boating. Child (30-50lbs).
- PADDLE PALS – Safest Patented U. S. Coast Guard Approved “Learn to Swim” life jacket with attached arm bands for teaching kids to safely learn to swim
- SAFETY SHOULDER HARNESS – Prevents children from removing the vest without parental help and keeps the vest from sliding off during use
- SUPERIOR COMFORT – Prevents chafing, made with a durable polyester material and multi panel design for superior comfort
- FEATURES – Fits Children (30-50 lbs. ) adjustable chest strap with quick release rear safety buckle, Approved Type III Child's PFD for recreational boating
- KIDS LOVE IT – Kids love "Paddle Pals", fun unique graphic designs, comfortable fit and feel, safely keeps their heads above water while learning to swim
User questions & answers
| Question: | My son is 25lbs. I'm trying to figure it out which one is best for his size, this one or the puddle jumper |
| Answer: | Yes and USCG approved |
| Question: | Does this item require prop 65 warning |
| Answer: | Yes my daughter was 9lbs when she was born. We have been taking her out on the boat since she was a month old. She is 4 months now and 16lbs and still wears this jacket. |
| Question: | Will this work for a small toddler? Under 30lbs |
| Answer: | That’s what it’s supposed to do- so that’s why we bought it- (BUT we never tested it, we just read a lot of reviews that this was one of the best ones for little ones) we got it for our daughter when we were going on a trip in a boat for a week (she’s almost 3 and it’s too small for her now we got her a bigger one but we’re keeping this for our son). |
| Question: | Does this ship deflated ? How compact is it |
| Answer: | I am not 100% sure on the weight limit of the vest. I know that a 12-16 month child will fit in it. As we have used it for such last summer. |
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