What To Look For
Because children wear their life jackets for longer periods of time than adults, it is important their life jackets are both effective and comfortable. Consider first the reason for the life jacket. If you will be on a boat, you will need a Type 1 Personal Floatation Device (PFD), with an 11-pound minimum buoyancy. This type of jacket will turn a child face up and is recommended for rough water or any type of weather. They are generally more bulky, though and can be restrictive in movement. Type 2 PFDs will turn some unconscious wearers face up and are good for boating in calm waters or for children who are supervised in a pool or beach setting. Type 2 PFDs are also more comfortable, overall, than Type 1 PFDs. Type 3 and unrated PFDs should not be counted on as lifesaving devices but perfectly fine to use in a supervised, calm environment for a child who may need a boost in self-confidence around the water or just for fun. Look for loops on the back of any PDF that will enable a parent or supervisor to pull a child out of the water by hand (or hook).
Common Pitfalls
The most common mistake made when purchasing life jackets for children is purchasing the wrong size. A second-hand jacket that "kinda" fits is not the same as buying a jacket that fits a child properly through the chest, arms and neck. Be sure to fit the jacket and adjust it properly when making the purchase. Another common mistake is not buying a high-enough-rated jacket. Everyone would love to have calm waters all of the time, but if you suspect that you may have a big boat trip or rough weather, a Type 1 PFD is your best option. Make sure your child's life jacket has adequate straps, particularly around the legs. It's important that the jacket not be pushed over a child's head when she hits the water. Don't buy a life jacket that doesn't have reflective tape on it, making a child visible at night, at dusk or in storms.
Where To Buy
Life jackets for children can be purchased at discount, hardware, children's specialty, sporting goods, boating equipment and outdoor adventure stores. There are also many online retailers of life jackets and boating equipment like One Step Ahead and Stearns Flotation.
Cost
The Winning Edge Deluxe Child Neoprene Nylon Life Vest is a Coast Guard-approved Type 3 vest and has three adjustable belts and a crotch strap. It is available through Amazon.com for $24.99. The Jim Buoy Type 1 PFD is a puncture-proof, closed-cell-foam PFD and is available for $76.40 through Safe Lifejackets. Most life jackets are available between $20 and $100 depending on type, brand, features and Coast Guard rating.
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