Infant Life Jacket: A Helpful Guide to Find the Best PFD

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Over the past few years, paddle boarding has become increasingly popular with adults and children alike. It’s a simple and effective way to get outdoors, spend time together, and stay physically active. With all of the exciting benefits that paddle boarding offers, a growing number of families with young children are participating. Young kids and infants are increasingly wanting to on the paddle boards at with everyone else. Prioritizing safety, it’s important for parents to ensure their young children have the proper life jackets while they enjoy this sport.

Name	Price	Weight Limits	Our Rating	Best Price
Stohlquist Toddler Life Jacket	$$	8-30 lbs	9.6/10	See Current Price
Stearns Infant Classic Series Vest	$	<30 lbs	9.5/10	See Current Price
Body Glove Paddle Pals Learn to Swim Life Jacket	$	30-50 lbs	9.4/10	See Current Price
Airhead Infant's General Purpose Life Vest	$	<30 lbs	9.3/10	See Current Price
Stearns Infant Puddle Life Jacket	$	<30 lbs	9.4/10	See Current Price

What is an Infant Personal Flotation Device?

A Personal Flotation Device, or (PFD), is a piece of equipment that is worn to keep a person afloat in water. There are five types of Personal Flotation Devices, each providing its own distinct safety mechanism.

Life jackets are designed to keep the wearer’s head above water, and certain life jackets are also designed to keep an unconscious person face-up in the water. Each type of life jacket is designed for a certain type of water (calm or rough) or activity, and some styles are not intended for weak or non-swimmers. There is no need to leave the kids at home, as paddle boarding with kids is one the best summer activities for families.

What are the Main differences between an Adult and a Toddler Life Jacket?

Toddler or infant life jackets are designed specifically for young children. Using an adult life jacket on a toddler could compromise the safety of the child, as it is important to have a properly fitting life jacket. Not only are toddler life jackets a smaller size, but they offer the proper safety features necessary for a child.

Toddler life jackets can be United States Coast Guard Certified, which ensures that the life jacket is equipped with additional safety features. In addition to safety, life jackets for young children are designed for comfort and there are several different styles parents can choose from, including a hybrid, inflatable, and inherently buoyant life jacket.

What to Look for in an Infant and Toddler Life Jacket?

There are a few important things to look for when choosing the proper life jacket for a child. Such as:

Grab handle — assists in retrieving the child
Head support
Crotch/leg strap — keeps the life jacket from coming over the head
Adjustable sizing
Weight limit
USCG Certified
Type I or II ratings for children that cannot swim

The Best Infant and Toddler Life Jacket

Best Overall - Stohlquist Toddler Life Jacket

Summary: The Stohlquit Toddler Life Jacket is a Type II, USCG approved life jacket, suitable for infants/toddlers from 8-30 lbs. Made with eco-friendly foam, this jacket comes highly rated.

Pros: Double collar, PVC free, crotch/leg strap, grab handle

Cons: No reflectors, trouble flipping the child face-up