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A child’s life jacket has to be sized by weight and fitted correctly — this is not the place to save money or buy ‘to grow into.’ The right PFD can be the difference in an emergency.
Size by weight, not age
A kids life jacket is rated by weight range (e.g., infant, child 30–50 lb, youth 50–90 lb). Buy the range that fits now. Look for a crotch strap and grab handle on younger sizes, plus a head-support collar for the littlest riders.
Test the fit in the driveway
Buckle it snug, then lift by the shoulders — the child’s chin and ears shouldn’t slip through. A well-fitted jacket turns a face-down child face-up. Only ever use a Coast Guard-approved model.
Make it comfortable
Kids keep jackets on when they’re comfortable. A good fit plus a kids rash guard under the vest prevents chafing, and sunscreen protects everything the jacket doesn’t cover.