10 Best Swim Vests & Jackets for Toddlers & Kids in 2024
Selina Marie
Swim vests are a good investment in ensuring confidence in the water for your child and are required for some water activities. We have recently updated our list of the 10 best to include a couple of new products and have reviewed all existing product information such as materials, sizing, features, color/design options, availability and cost, are all accurate and up to date.
In a Hurry? The test winner after 17 hrs of research
Swim vest designed for level two swimmers
One size fits most, best fit for ages 2 to 4
Weight capacity 33 to 45 pounds
Straps at the shoulders, waist, and leg for a secure fit
Builds confidence to promote learning how to swim
10 Best Swim Vests & Jackets for Toddlers & Kids Reviewed
1. Stearns Child Classic Series
Swim vest designed for level two swimmers
One size fits most, best fit for ages 2 to 4
Weight capacity 33 to 45 pounds
Straps at the shoulders, waist, and leg for a secure fit
Builds confidence to promote learning how to swim
Not a coast guard approved life saving device
Runs small in size
Is the little swimmer in your life learning to swim and ready for the next level of swim vest? This is the perfect product to help build their confidence while still making sure that they remain safe at all times. It is a tool that helps them become very familiar with the water and it is very comfortable to wear.
Read moreSafety
When the little ones really want to learn to swim independent of any life vest is it important that the steps of learning to swim and being confident in the water happen at the right time. Keeping them safe while still building that confidence can be difficult. Life vest like this design is perfect for bridging that gap. They provide the safety that is needed to make sure they remain above the water but gives them the freedom to move their arms and legs to build the strength to become a great swimmer.
Comfort
One of the number one reasons that kids want to ditch their life vests is that many feel that they are uncomfortable to wear. The swim vest features a design that is very comfortable. Each of the straps that go around the body is covered in a lining that is soft and provides a comfortable yet secure fit.
Adjustability
The swim vest comes with two adjustable shoulder straps, two adjustable waist straps, and an adjustable leg strap. Each of the straps easily adjusts to get that perfect fit each and every time you are near the water. Adjustable straps on swim vests enhance the safety factors and ensure that your little one has the most secure fit as possible.
2. The Original Children's by Konfidence
Swim jacket style life vest
Constructed from neoprene for a soft and comfortable fit
Feature self-locking zipper closure system
Jacket provides protection from sun, 100 % UV protective
Allows arms and legs to be free to swim
Run small in size
Child has to be able to self-balance
Created to be one of the best quality swim vests on the market it has been designed to be super comfortable and also provide the security that they need in or around water. The body of the swim vest is created from soft materials that provide a secure fit and then features a zipper closure system that locks into place. The kids will ask to wear this life swim by name.
Read moreSafety
The swim jacket provides not only keeps them safe around water but it also provides protection from the harmful rays that the sun puts off. Each of the swim jackets has been constructed from a thermal material that protects from the sun. It is 100 % UV protection for all areas that the vest covers. The design also features a locking zipper that makes sure that the swim jacket fits securely on your little one's body.
Comfort
Constructed from neoprene that has been created from top quality materials the swim jacket is soft and very comfortable to wear for long periods of time. The design of the body allows the swim jacket to wrap around the body while allowing their arms and legs to remain free to be able to swim. The brightly colored materials also make it easy to be able to spot your little one.
Adjustability
While this swim jacket does not offer the straps to adjust like many others on the market. The design of the actual sim jacket with the neoprene allows the body of it to fir securely around your little one. Each of the jackets also features a self-locking zipper closure system that keeps the jacket on and safe.
3. Body Glove Dinosaur
Relaxed fit and feel
Unique and fun designs
Keeps head above water
Arm floaties stay in place
Sizing runs quite large
Safety is always first when it comes to being around water with the kids. This is a life vest that is one of the safest patented designs on the market. It still allows the kids to ‘learn’ how to swim with the around the chest and attached armband design. Kids will love wearing this paddle pal just as much as they love to go swimming. It is comfortable and also has a pretty neat design.
Read moreSafety
If you’re focus on safety while learning how to swim, this life jacket is the one your child needs. It’s patented at the highest safety levels by the United States Coast Guard and has a shoulder harness to prevent easy take off or slip off.
Comfort
The arm floaties are attached to the life jacket and the life jacket is constructed from polyester for durability with a multi-panel design for comfortability to help prevent issues such as chafing.
Adjustability
The sizing is made for 30lbs to 50lbs and the life jacket comes in eight designs (Mermaid, Monster, Dinosaur, Hula Girl, Ladybug, Turtle, Surfer Van and Woody) with an adjustable chest strap plus a quick release safety buckle in the rear.
4. Begin to Swim Classic
This vest is licensed by the Red Cross
It is made of durable high quality neoprene
Protects against hypothermia
Features fully adjustable safety straps
Has ultraviolet protection 50 plus
The circumference of the vest can not be adjusted
Having a life jacket that the kids are easily able to take on and off themselves, once they are old enough it nice. This life jacket features a full zipper closure system in the front that makes it easy to be able to put on or remove. Then the safety leg strap can easily be unbuckled and the life vest removed with ease. As little ones become more responsible with parent guidance it is nice to be able to allow them to get ready on their own.
Read moreSafety
This bright and colorful swim vest by Speedo is the top choice for toddlers and kids learning how to swim. A broad spectrum SPF of 50 is built-in the swim vest to ensure optimum sun protection in addition to sunscreen. The construction consists of neoprene that is durable and soft giving it extra buoyancy and warmth for those chilly waters.
Comfort
The swim vest is made to give extra space in mobility so it will not hinder usage of the child’s arms while they develop their gross motor skills while learning how to swim.
Adjustability
The swim vest is very easy to pull on and off with its front zipper that offers a full zipping and a safety strap is included with a buckle closure to provide maximum safety. The swim vest comes in two sizes (medium and large) and two color combos (Berry/Grape and Lime/Orange) and is licensed by the American Red Cross.
5. Stohlquist Waterware
Comfortable and safe life vest for kids
Features double collar with great head support
Front-closure system includes a zipper and buckle
All straps are fully adjustable
Type II PFD with a grab handle on the back of the headrest
Design fits high on the neck of smaller children
Material covering the flotation foam is stiff feeling
Coast guard approved life vest that is able to provide them with the support that they need when they are in the water. In the back of the vest there is additional padding that helps support the head and the additional foam added to the body of the life jack provides the little ones with some extra security. It is designed to make sure that they are always floating face up.
Read moreSafety
Safety and comfortability is the focus of this life vest. It has been designed to ensure that children are safe when participating in water activities, but are also comfortable. The straps are fully adjustable and on the front, the zipper closure makes it easy for kids to get the life vest on. After the zipper closure has been closed, the life vest also features a buckle that adds security to the closure system.
Comfort
This life vest is great for allowing children to have some freedom in the water to learn how to kick and paddle themselves around, but also keeps them floating safely. It is a Type II PFD and provides a "face up" positioning for small children. At the back of the headrest there is an easy-to-grab handle for safety and in an event of a rescue makes it simply easier to get to them quicker.
Adjustability
The double collar, secure buckles, zipper, and adjustable straps, along with the quick-grab handle make this a great life vest for your next water adventure with children.
6. Stohlquist Youth Fit Life Jacket
Classic style swim jacket for kids
Created and designed from reputable safety gear company
Constructed from durable nylon
Features super buoyant foam in front and back panels
Three adjustable strap security system
Does not keep kids facing upright, need to be able to self-balance
Does not feature a leg strap
When it comes to swim jackets the company that has designed and constructed this jacket is very well known for its safety gear. This is a high quality designed life jacket that has been created to provide children with an affordable and comfortable swim jacket that allows them to still enjoy the water while always remaining in the jacket.
Read moreSafety
The design of vest goes right along with the safety and that it provides to the kids. It is created from durable nylon and then filled with soft foam that is extremely buoyant in both the front and back panels. The design is best suited for kids that are working to learn to swim with a slim profile and less bulky design,
Comfort
The design supports comfort all around. It allows the kids to be able to freely move their arms and legs. Around the arms there is just the perfect amount of space that allows the arms to especially move more freely to allow them to become more secure in the water. In the neck area of the vest the V that provides a more comfortable fit with more mobility around the neck. Their attention to detail in the design makes it more comfortable for kids to wear for longer periods of time.
Adjustability
The vest features a three strap security system that allows you to get the fit just right on the kids. The straps are located at the neckline, mid waist, and at the bottom of the waistline. Each of the straps adjusts individually allowing them to be adjusted one at a time. This makes sure that you get the kids a secure fit without making it uncomfortable for them.
7. Dinosaur Water Buddies
Fun, colorful designs
Leg strap for extra safety
Designs enhance the imagination
The backside is flat for comfortable sitting
Flotation only
Limited sizing
The colorful and fun design of this life jacket will make it fun for any kid to wear it. As it keeps them safe around water and also features a rounded foam padded neckband. This band is perfect for keeping them facing upright in the water and also provides the neck support that they need when floating around.
Read moreSafety
This vest is made for body weights of 30lbs to 50lbs and it’s a USCG Type 3 PFD meaning it’s floatation only and does not support face-up, head-up or laying backside in the water.
Comfort
This unique and fun life vest will keep your kids entertained during swim time. Highly colorful with cool graphics, the life vest comes in five other designs (Astronaut, Firefly, Lady Bug, Princess, and Turtle) in addition to the Dinosaur design. The backside of the life vest is filled with foam that is rounded to give a graphic effect to the various models of the vest.
Adjustability
The life vest comes with a full frontal zipper, two buckle strap waist belts and a buckle strap leg belt that helps to keep the vest in place.
8. Puddle Jumper
Features enhanced mobility
Designed to provide optimum comfort
Weight varies from 30-40 pounds (13-18 kilograms)
Has easily adjustable side straps
Built for superior stability
The adjustable strap may cause tightness and discomfort
This great safety device helps enhance mobility and encourages your little one to confidently explore the water. It is designed for durability and stability as well as comfort. In support of extra comfort there is easily adjustable side straps to help improve your little’s safety and well being. The weight recommendation for this device is between 30 to 40 pounds, depending how fast your child grows this may be able to offer support for more than one summer!
Read moreSafety
The Stearns Kids Puddle Jumper is designed like the Apple Daisy. It is actually a kiddie jumper wetsuits with built-in floatation boards and buoyant arm bands. This one-piece swim jumper is perfect for kids who weigh anywhere between 30 and 40 pounds and affords the, superior stability while treading in aquatic environments.
Comfort
The buoyant pads are fully integrated into the fabric suit composed of woven polyester and polyester spandex giving your child superb fit and excellent mobility. The buoyant force provided by its flotation device help build confidence in your child as he or she slowly learns the different techniques to conquering mild to moderate waves.
Adjustability
Since the flotation devices are already built into the outfit, there is no more need for straps and other similar secure mechanisms, freeing your child from having to buckle and unbuckle these systems.
9. TRC Recreation Super Soft USCG
Comfortable and easy to adjust
Comes in a variety of sizes
Made from recycled materials
Is coated in waterproof vinyl
Some reviewers didn’t like the color choices
The clasps sometimes loosened on their own
The TRC Recreation Kids Super Soft Vest comes in a variety of colors, is comfortable to swim in and keeps your little one safe. What’s more to want? A good price. And yes, the TRC Recreation Kids Super Soft Vest has that too!
Read moreSafety
Made from vinyl-covered, closed-cell foam, the TRC Recreation Kids Super Soft Vest’s safety to second to note. It is made in a range of sizes, so finding the perfect fit for your child is easy. In order to ensure proper fit and peak safety, make sure the vest is snug enough that your child won’t slip out of it.
Comfort
Although Texas Recreation (TRC) is known for pool accessories like floaties and pool lounge products, the Kids Super Soft Vest is extremely comfortable for little ones to wear and swim in. It is made entirely of foam and comes in a variety of sizes, so you can find the perfect fit for your child!
Adjustability
The Kwik-snap clasps on the front make it easy to put on and take off, but not so easy that your child will slip out. These clasps also allow you to tighten or loosen the straps, so it is perfectly adjustable. Plus, this is made from recycled items, so it is great for the environment, too.
10. Body Glove Paddle Pals
Safest patented U.S. Coast Guard Approved “Learn to Swim” life jacket
Adjustable chest strap
Shoulder harness to prevent kids from removing without the help of a parent
Comfortable for children to wear
Doesn’t come in that many sizes
Some parents didn’t like the designs
The Body Glove Paddle Pals is one of the only U.S. Coast Guard Approved life jackets, so you know it is going to be a great option for a swim vest. These vests come in fun colors that kids are sure to love, and the best part? The Body Glove Paddle Pal keeps your child safe while they learn to swim.
Read moreSafety
The Body Glove Paddle Pals Vest is arguably one of the safest “Learn to Swim” vests on the market because it is the safest patented U.S. Coast Guard Approved life jacket! Not only does it come with an amazing seal of approval, but it also has arm bands for teaching kids how to swim safely. Plus, the vest comes with a shoulder harness which prevents mischievous little ones from taking off the vest without parental help and keeps it from slide off during swim time.
Comfort
Besides being safe, the Body Glove Paddle Pals vest is also comfortable for your kids, so much so that they won’t want to take it off! This vest prevent chafing because it is made with durable polyester material. This vest even has a multi-panel design for maximum comfort.
Adjustability
The Body Glove Paddle Pals vest comes in a variety of sizes and generally fits kids between 30-50 lbs. Because of its range of sizes, it also has an adjustable chest strap so it can fit snugly on your child. This adjustability makes choosing the right size easy.
Criteria Used for Evaluation
Safety
For parents, safety will always be the #1 concern. The swim vests were chosen for their ability to provide optimum floatation while in the water and other safety features included. One particular safety feature that stood out is the safety straps of the swim vests. The swim vests with multiple safety straps were more likely to be chosen instead of swim vests with only one safety strap. In addition to multiple safety straps, straps that are adjustable and had quick-release buckles were chosen. Other safety features such as a grab strap for parents to grab hold of their child and built-in head/neck supports were considered too.
Comfort
These swim vests were chosen to be both comfortable and appealing to children. Some swim vests can feel very tight and suffocating, and others can irritate the delicate skin of children. Swim vests that allow a child to move their arms and body freely, to prevent any possible damage to their development and keep the child breathable were chosen. Children also like things that are eye-catching, fun, bright and beautiful so we chose swim vests with colorful designs and fun prints that will make any child want to wear them every time it is necessary to wear them.
Adjustability
Lastly, other options we determined are needed in choosing swim vests included miscellaneous features such as built-in sunblock, cleaning and drying, multiple sizing, certifications and even the zippers. Swim vests with built-in sunblock provide broad spectrum to protect from UVA and UVB rays, but it doesn't mean you should skip traditional sunscreen. For cleaning, the swim vests on our list only require a wipe down and air dry on their own. Swim vests with adjustable sizing or provided space for the child to grow into were chosen.
Safety Comfort Adjustability 
Start young. There are now babies born in water environments. It is thus, recommended that babies as early as 2 months old should already be exposed to the joys of swimming.
Always make swimming a family bonding time. Young kids, especially babies and toddlers, will always have fear whenever they go in the water. One way to solve this is by showing that you, too, are confident swimming in the water. Make sure that when you do swim, you’re going to do so as a family.
Make a point of swimming on a more regular basis. Don’t wait for summer to come before you head to the pool. There are indoor swimming pools that provide excellent all-weather swimming opportunities. Remember that to build confidence, your kid must be able to do this on a frequent and regular basis.
Introduce a fun element to the swimming activities. Get some toys that you can use while your kids are building their confidence levels in the water. Additionally, it is better to let kids decide when they want to get in the water rather than you enrolling them in a class even before they are ready for it.
Other Factors to Consider
Emotional Development
Large bodies of water can be intimidating for little ones, and a fear of drowning is a commonplace and understandable fear. Introducing your child to the water as early as possible can help them become comfortable and peaceful with water and it will help to develop skills in swimming. The items on the list help to provide a sense of peace and comfort to your child as they learn to interact in the water while also maintaining safety as the #1 priority.
Physical Development
These swim vests were chosen to be both comfortable and appealing to children. Some swim vests can feel very tight and suffocating, and others can irritate the delicate skin of children. Swim vests that allow a child to move their arms and body freely, to prevent any possible damage to their development and keep the child breathable were chosen. Children also like things that are eye-catching, fun, bright and beautiful so we chose swim vests with colorful designs and fun prints that will make any child want to wear them every time it is necessary to wear them.
Frequently Asked Questions
q: Do these swim vests have removable parts?
Yes, some of the swim vests have the function to remove floats or add more, and that can help a child with their comfort, safety and confidence levels while in the water. None of the removable parts negatively affects the swim vests or child.
q: Is it possible to pick a color/design specified to my child?
Yes! The swim vests come with various options for colors and designs. Some of the swim vests have one design but multiple colors to choose from and the other swim vests have various designs with numerous colors.
q: Will these swim vests easily slip off my child?
No. The swim vests on our list have multiple safety straps to help keep your child secured and there are some that come with shoulder straps to hold the swim vest in place so it will not ride up. The swim vests that have floaties are designed to keep the floaties from slipping up and down the arms.
q: Do these swim vests provide safety for all water bodies?
The swim vests on our list were constructed for all bodies of water (lake, beach, pool, etc.) and water activities. There are some that focus on kayaking, boating or pool activities but can still used in all water activities. Most have United States Coast Guard (USCG) certification and will work in any body of water.
q: Can the swim vests be worn by a child who can't swim?
Most of the swim vests on the list provide floatation, but there are some that focus on beginner swimmers. Children who have water experience are the best fit for these swim vests, but children with no water experience can still use them. As always, the parent should provide optimum water safety for their child regardless of the swim vest.
Sources
- , SAFETY, SECURITY, & PRIVACY, Product Information
- , News, Blog Read
- , Splash About Collections Float Suit - Adjustable Buoyancy, 1-6 years , Informative Article
- , Terms and Conditions, Terms and Conditions
- , Refund Policy, Product Information
