Life jackets are a crucial piece of safety equipment for anyone spending time in or around water. For children, in particular, a well-fitting, comfortable life jacket is essential for keeping them safe while they swim, boat, or participate in other water activities. In this article, we’ll be looking at the best life jackets for kids and what to consider when purchasing one.
The 7 Best Life Jackets For Kids Are:
- Best Life Jackets For Kids No. 1 – Stearns Kids Hydroprene Life Vest
- Best Life Jackets For Kids No. 2 – Stohlquist Fit Youth Life Jacket
- Best Life Jackets For Kids No. 3 – SwimWays The Little Mermaid Life Jacket
- Best Life Jackets For Kids No. 4 – Stohlquist Kids Life Jacket
- Best Life Jackets For Kids No. 5 – Oceans 7 Life Jacket Vest
- Best Life Jackets For Kids No. 6 – Voph Toddler Swim Vest
- Best Life Jackets For Kids No. 7- Chriffer Swim Vest for Kids
When it comes to life jackets for kids, there are a few important factors to keep in mind. First and foremost, the jacket needs to be properly sized for the child. A life jacket that is too big or too small can be dangerous, as it may not provide adequate flotation or could slip off during use. Additionally, the jacket should be made from high-quality materials that are both durable and comfortable for the child to wear.
Another important consideration is the type of life jacket. There are several different types of life jackets available, including inherently buoyant, inflatable, and hybrid models. Each type has its own set of advantages and disadvantages, so it’s important to choose the one that best fits your child’s needs and preferences.
In this article, we’ll be reviewing some of the top-rated life jackets for kids on the market today, taking into account factors like safety, comfort, and ease of use. Whether you’re looking for a life jacket for your child to wear while swimming in the pool or for a day out on the boat, we’ve got you covered.
Best Life Jackets for Kids
When it comes to keeping kids safe while enjoying water activities, life jackets are a must-have. Not only do they provide buoyancy and support, but they can also give parents peace of mind knowing their child is protected. In this article, we’ve rounded up the best life jackets for kids on Amazon based on safety features, comfort, and customer reviews. Whether you’re looking for a life jacket for your little swimmer or your adventurous boater, we’ve got you covered.
Best Life Jackets For Kids No. 1 – Stearns Kids Hydroprene Life Vest
The Stearns Kids Hydroprene Life Vest is a great option for parents looking for a US Coast Guard-approved life jacket for their child.
Pros
- The soft and flexible Hydroprene shell provides comfort and allows for better movement while swimming.
- The lightweight Crosstech PE flotation foam ensures that the life jacket doesn’t weigh down on the child.
- The contemporary ergonomic design ensures that the child can move freely while wearing the life jacket.
Cons
- The life jacket is only designed for children weighing between 50-90 lbs, so it may not be suitable for larger or smaller children.
- Some users have reported that the life jacket runs small, so it may be necessary to purchase a larger size than usual.
- The life jacket does not come with any additional features, such as a whistle or reflective strips.
The Stearns Kids Hydroprene Life Vest is a great choice for parents who want a comfortable and lightweight life jacket for their child. The Hydroprene shell and Crosstech PE flotation foam ensure that the life jacket is both comfortable and functional. However, parents should note that the life jacket is only designed for children weighing between 50-90 lbs and may not be suitable for larger or smaller children. Additionally, the life jacket does not come with any additional features, such as a whistle or reflective strips.
Best Life Jackets For Kids No. 2 – Stohlquist Fit Youth Life Jacket
If you’re looking for a comfortable and secure life jacket for your child, the Stohlquist Fit Youth Life Jacket is a great option.
Pros
- Made of super-soft, low-profile buoyancy foam for maximum comfort.
- Eight points of adjustability ensuring an excellent fit for any height and shape.
- Zippered pocket to securely hold whatever you need on land or on water.
Cons
- Some customers found it to be slightly big for their child.
- A few customers reported that the life jacket rode up to their child’s neck.
- A couple of customers mentioned that the buckle rubbed against their child’s skin.
The Stohlquist Fit Youth Life Jacket is designed to provide maximum comfort and safety for your child. The super-soft, low-profile buoyancy foam hugs your child’s body, while the efficient forward pull side adjusters ensure extra security. The life jacket also features full adjustability at sides and shoulders to secure placement on your child’s torso.
In addition to its comfort and safety features, the Stohlquist Fit Youth Life Jacket also comes with a zippered pocket to securely hold whatever you need on land or on water, such as accessories and snacks. The life jacket is also Coast Guard approved and made of high-quality materials to ensure durability.
Overall, if you’re looking for a comfortable and secure life jacket for your child, the Stohlquist Fit Youth Life Jacket is definitely worth considering.
Best Life Jackets For Kids No. 3 – SwimWays The Little Mermaid Life Jacket
If you want a life jacket that is both fun and functional, SwimWays The Little Mermaid Life Jacket is a great option.
Pros
- The Little Mermaid theme is perfect for kids who love the movie.
- The dual waist straps and leg strap provide a secure fit.
- The twill outer cover makes it easy to clean.
Cons
- The life jacket is only suitable for children weighing between 30-50 lbs.
- Some customers found the quality to be lacking.
- The life jacket may not fit all children comfortably.
SwimWays The Little Mermaid Life Jacket is a great way to make swimming fun for kids. The Little Mermaid theme is sure to be a hit with any child who loves the movie. The dual waist straps and leg strap provide a secure fit, ensuring that the life jacket stays in place while the child is swimming. The twill outer cover makes it easy to clean, so you don’t have to worry about the life jacket getting dirty.
One potential downside of SwimWays The Little Mermaid Life Jacket is that it is only suitable for children weighing between 30-50 lbs. This means that some children may outgrow it quickly. Additionally, some customers have found the quality to be lacking. It’s important to note that the life jacket may not fit all children comfortably, so it’s important to check the sizing before purchasing.
Overall, SwimWays The Little Mermaid Life Jacket is a great choice for parents who want to make swimming fun for their kids. With its fun design and secure fit, it’s sure to be a hit with any child who loves The Little Mermaid.
Best Life Jackets For Kids No. 4 – Stohlquist Kids Life Jacket Coast Guard Approved Life Vest for Children 30-50 lbs Orange/Yellow Life Jacket
Parents looking for a safe and reliable life jacket for their child should consider the Stohlquist Child Lifejacket. This Type III PFD is designed to keep children safe while they enjoy the water.
Pros
- Available in high visibility colors
- Quick release buckle over entry zipper for added security
- Adjustable crotch strap
Cons
- May not turn an unconscious child face-up
- May not fit all children comfortably
- Some users report difficulty adjusting the straps
The Stohlquist Child Lifejacket is designed with safety in mind. The wrap-around flotation helps turn a child face-up when in the water, and the dual support collars cradle the head. The front zipper entry and adjustable crotch strap secure the jacket in place.
Parents will appreciate the high visibility colors, which make it easy to keep an eye on their child in the water. The quick release buckle over the entry zipper adds an extra layer of security.
While the Stohlquist Child Lifejacket is designed to fit children weighing between 30-50 pounds, some users report difficulty adjusting the straps to achieve a comfortable fit. Additionally, the jacket may not turn an unconscious child face-up, so parents should always supervise their child when they are in the water.
Overall, the Stohlquist Child Lifejacket is a solid choice for parents looking for a reliable life jacket for their child. With its adjustable crotch strap, high visibility colors, and quick release buckle, parents can feel confident that their child is safe while enjoying the water.
Best Life Jackets For Kids No. 5 – Oceans 7 US Coast Guard Approved, Infant-Child-Youth Life Jacket Vest
This US Coast Guard-approved life jacket is a great option for parents looking to keep their kids safe while enjoying water activities.
Pros
- Passes highest USCG standards and testing
- Open-sided design for a comfortable fit
- Durable Nylon construction and thick EPE floatation foam makes this PFD great as a swimming life jacket, or for general boating activities
Cons
- Actual comfort, fit and sizing may vary
- Chest straps lengthened for maximum size and fit range, but may not be suitable for all body types
- Packaging may vary
The Oceans 7 life jacket is a great option for parents looking for a reliable and safe life jacket for their kids. With its US Coast Guard-approved rating, parents can feel confident that their child is protected while enjoying water activities. The life jacket is labeled for infant, child, or youth by weight range, making it easy to find the right fit for your child.
The open-sided design of the life jacket ensures a comfortable fit, with three adjustable straps to ensure a secure fit. The chest straps are lengthened for maximum size and fit range, recommended for chest sizes 20-25 inches. The durable Nylon construction and thick EPE floatation foam make this PFD great as a swimming life jacket, or for general boating activities.
However, parents should be aware that actual comfort, fit and sizing may vary, and the chest straps may not be suitable for all body types. Additionally, the packaging may vary, so be sure to check the product carefully upon arrival.
Overall, the Oceans 7 life jacket is a great option for parents looking for a reliable and safe life jacket for their kids, with its US Coast Guard-approved rating and comfortable design.
Best Life Jackets For Kids No. 6 – Voph Toddler Swim Vest
If you’re looking for a comfortable and secure swim vest for your child, the Voph Toddler Swim Vest is a great option.
Pros
- The adjustable safety buckle on the back of the vest is double-secured, providing extra protection for the inflatable life vest and preventing accidental opening.
- The swim vest is designed to support children aged approximately 2-8 years old, with a weight capacity of 28-66 pounds, making it suitable for a wide range of ages and sizes.
- The cute and colorful designs of the swim vest help spark children’s interest in learning to swim and make it easy for parents to keep an eye on their little ones.
Cons
- The swim vest may not fit comfortably on children who fall outside the recommended weight range.
- Some parents may prefer a swim vest with more adjustable straps to ensure a snug fit.
- The swim vest may not be suitable for children who are already confident swimmers and do not require flotation assistance.
Crafted from durable and soft non-woven polyester material, the Voph Toddler Swim Vest is both comfortable and long-lasting. The precise sewing workmanship guarantees anti-cracking and tearing, ensuring that your child can use the vest for multiple swim seasons.
Thanks to the wide shoulder strap design, the swim vest reduces pressure and offers a more comfortable wearing experience. The support provided by the life jacket does not hinder the child’s flexibility, allowing them to move freely in the water and quickly master important swimming skills.
Overall, the Voph Toddler Swim Vest is a great choice for parents looking for a comfortable and secure swim vest for their child.
Best Life Jackets For Kids No. 7 – Chriffer Swim Vest for Kids
This swim vest is a great option for parents who want to provide their children with a safe and comfortable swimming experience.
Pros
- The double safety buckle ensures that the vest stays securely fastened to the child’s back, providing peace of mind for parents.
- The elastic and soft lycra material of the sleeves and the environmentally skin-friendly twill of the main part make the vest comfortable for children to wear.
- The vest is suitable for children between the ages of 2 and 8 whose weight is between 20 to 70 lbs, making it a versatile option for families with children of different ages.
Cons
- Some children may find the vest too bulky, which may impede their movement in the water.
- The vest may not provide enough buoyancy for children who are not confident swimmers, so parents should supervise their children closely while they are wearing it.
- The vest is only available in one color, which may not appeal to all children.
This swim vest is perfect for children who are learning to swim and want to gain confidence in the water. The double safety buckle ensures that the vest stays securely fastened, while the elastic and soft material of the sleeves and main part make it comfortable for children to wear. However, some children may find the vest too bulky and it may not provide enough buoyancy for children who are not confident swimmers. Overall, this swim vest is a great option for parents who want to provide their children with a safe and enjoyable swimming experience.
Buying Guide
When it comes to buying a life jacket for kids, there are a few key factors to consider to ensure you get the best product for your child’s needs. Here are some things to keep in mind when shopping for a life jacket:
Type of Life Jacket
The first thing to consider is the type of life jacket. There are three types of life jackets for kids: Type I, Type II, and Type III. Type I is the most buoyant and is recommended for open water activities, while Type II and Type III are less buoyant and are suitable for calmer waters. Make sure to choose a life jacket that is appropriate for the activity your child will be participating in.
Fit
A life jacket that doesn’t fit properly won’t be able to do its job effectively. Make sure to choose a life jacket that fits snugly but not too tightly. The life jacket should be comfortable and not restrict movement. Check the manufacturer’s sizing chart to ensure you get the right size for your child.
Buoyancy
The amount of buoyancy a life jacket provides is another important factor to consider. The more buoyancy a life jacket has, the more it will keep your child afloat. However, too much buoyancy can be uncomfortable and restrict movement. Look for a life jacket that provides enough buoyancy for your child’s weight and activity level.
Features
There are a variety of features that can be found on life jackets for kids, such as reflective tape, whistle, and adjustable straps. These features can enhance safety and comfort. Make sure to choose a life jacket with the features that are important for your child’s needs.
Maintenance
Finally, it’s important to properly maintain your child’s life jacket to ensure it remains effective. Make sure to follow the manufacturer’s instructions for cleaning and storing the life jacket. Check the life jacket regularly for signs of wear and tear and replace it if necessary.
By considering these factors, you can choose the best life jacket for your child’s needs and ensure their safety while participating in water activities.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the safest life jacket for children?
The safest life jacket for children is one that fits properly and is approved by the U.S. Coast Guard. The Coast Guard requires all life jackets to meet certain safety standards, so look for jackets with a Coast Guard-approved label.
What is the difference between a life jacket and a PFD?
A life jacket is a type of personal flotation device (PFD) that is designed to keep a person’s head above water. PFDs include life jackets, but they also include other types of flotation devices that may not be as buoyant as a life jacket.
What is the safest type of life jacket?
The safest type of life jacket is one that is approved by the U.S. Coast Guard and fits properly. There are several types of life jackets, including Type I, Type II, Type III, and Type V. Each type is designed for different activities and water conditions.
What is the best life jacket for a 2 year old?
The best life jacket for a 2 year old is one that fits properly and is approved by the U.S. Coast Guard. Look for jackets that are designed specifically for children and have a crotch strap to prevent the jacket from riding up.
What is the best life jacket for swimming?
The best life jacket for swimming is one that is designed for active use in the water. Look for jackets that are lightweight and allow for a full range of motion. Type III life jackets are a good choice for swimming.
What is the best toddler life jacket for 20-30 lbs?
The best toddler life jacket for 20-30 lbs is one that is approved by the U.S. Coast Guard and fits properly. Look for jackets that are designed specifically for toddlers and have a crotch strap to prevent the jacket from riding up. Type II or Type III life jackets are good choices for toddlers.
