What To Look For
The first thing to look for when buying life jackets for your children is to make sure they are of a type approved by the U.S. Coast Guard: Type I, Type II or Type III. There will be a U.S. Coast Guard approval label on the garment. Brightly colored life jackets such as orange or yellow are best; they aid in water rescue and visibility. A snug fit is important; the child's ears and chin should not slip through the vest. Younger children need head support and a strap between their legs. Comfort and appearance are other options to check; if the child is not comfortable he won't want wear it.
Common Pitfalls
Type I life jackets are very bulky and cannot be "sized" to your child. Type II will not turn an unconscious wearer face-up and is not safe for long hours in the water. Type III is not recommended for rough water survival, as waves may cover the person's face and you have to tilt your head back to avoid this. There is a Type IV, classified as a personal flotation device, but these are not recommended for children, non-swimmers or an unconscious person.
Where To Buy
Life jackets may be purchased at sporting goods stores, marinas, some department stores and online. Some marinas also rent them. Buying online does not allow for personalized fitting to your child and involves some guessing as to size. When shopping in person for a life jacket take your children with you to ensure that proper fitting is maintained.
Cost
Life jackets for infants through teens can range in price from $20 to $50 depending on specifications and size, according to the Safe Life Jackets website. Infant life jackets range in price from $20 to $40, whereas children and teen life jackets are priced anywhere from $20 to $50. Higher prices don't necessarily relate to better quality.
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