Swim Vests vs Life Jackets vs Puddle Jumper: Which One Is Right for Your Child?

Did you know that children between 1 – 5 years of age are at higher risk of drowning ?! Unfortunately, practice shows that it takes a very little time, seconds in fact for a child to drown, so it isn’t strange why it is forbidden for smaller children to stay in and around water unsupervised and unprepared. But the truth is that staying on the safe side of the story is far more important than anything, so regardless of the age of your child, it is mandatory for him to stay safe by wearing some kind of kids float vest.

Aside from being supervised all the time, these floating tools will help children stay safe all the time which is a huge relief for parents. Nowadays, parents have the chance to choose from different types of floating swim supplies that can keep children safe and sound all the time.

What Are Swim Vests?

Well, a children swim vest is a flotation tool made for small children and toddlers to keep them safe and sound when in the water. Available in different sizes to meet different body weights, a children swim vest offers maximum safety and comfort without compromising their fun. Available in small, medium and large sizes, this floating tool will help children enjoy their summer to the fullest while giving parents peace of mind.

Easy to put on and take off, these floating aids are usually made from neoprene, soft nylon or other similar materials that are here to provide your child with extreme comfort. These kids swim vests can also feature closed-shell foam construction which increases their safety without compromising the style. Even though ranging in models and appearance, all of these floating vests come with adjustable straps for improved comfort and better fit. They are available in a range of models, colours and designs which makes them extremely fun and appealing. They are the perfect choice for all those of you who want to improve your children’s confidence in water and to help them learn to swim.

When looking to find the right model for your little one, make sure the chosen model meets the strict Australian Standard AS/NZS1900:2014 for flotation aids. But even though the chosen one complies with all standards, it is forbidden for the adult to leave smaller children unsupervised when in and around water. In the end, these floating aids are designed to improve children’s confidence when in the water and to improve their swimming tools, but they can’t offer the needed support all the time. They aren’t life preservers, and accidents can happen whether we like it or not, so make sure your little one is supervised by an adult all the time.

Can a 1 Year Old Use a Swim Vest?

Yes, they can, even babies can wear a floating device of this kind as long as it’s the right size.

What Are Life Jackets?

Just like the previous floating aid, the life jacket is another floating device that contains a flotation element that is designed to lift the upper body of the water and towards the surface. The ones that come with a collar are perfect for young children and non-swimmers as they can help keep the head above the water all the time. As the name suggests, these jackets can save one’s life in cases of emergency.

Plus, they can also give you a certain level of warmth which is perfect when swimming in cold water. These jackets are a must for all kids and non-swimmers who are in the pool and open water. They should also be worn when riding on a boat as well, so having one in hand won’t hurt anyone.

Just like the previous type, life jackets also come in a selection of types, models and sizes which gives you the freedom to choose the best fit for your children. They also have the same features like adjustable straps for a better fit and improved comfort without restricting their moves. Life jackets can also be made from neoprene, nylon and some other synthetic material while also featuring a certain type of foam for added protection and safety.

What Are Puddle Jumpers?

It is said that puddle jumpers are a combination of the previous two types of floating devices. The child is designed to slip his/her arms through the arm floats after which the jumper is secured on the back with straps. According to some parents, the jumper works better than a vest or jacket of any kind because it keeps the child’s head, chest and arms above the water. That way, your child feels more free yet secure and safe to swim without a problem. Puddle jumpers are also available in a large selection of sizes allowing you to choose the right one for your needs.