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Best Life Jackets For Infants (2024 Updated)

If you're looking for a way to keep your little ones safe around water, life jackets for infants are a must-have. Whether you’re taking your baby to the beach, boating, or simply swimming in the pool, these lifesaving devices can offer you peace of mind that your child is protected in case of an accident. However, with so many options available, choosing the right one for your child can be a daunting task.

When it comes to buying a life jacket for an infant, there are some key factors to consider. Firstly, the size of the jacket should fit your baby properly, ensuring that it is not too loose, too tight or too bulky. Secondly, the design of the jacket should have a crotch strap, which prevents it from slipping up over your baby’s head. Finally, look for a jacket that is Coast Guard approved, which means it has passed strict safety requirements.

So, what should you be asking yourself before buying a life jacket for your infant? Consider these questions: How much buoyancy does my baby need? What is the weight and age limit for the jacket? Is it made from durable materials? Is it comfortable enough for my baby to wear for extended periods of time? By answering these questions, you can make an informed decision and choose the best life jacket for your child.

10 Best Life Jackets For Infants

# Product Image Product Name Product Notes Check Price
1
It is an ideal life jacket for infants that meets Coast Guard approval standards and comes in blue/green.
2
This product is ideal for infants to wear while participating in water sports, boating, lake swimming, and other aquatic activities.
3
The product is ideal for keeping infants comfortable and dry while still allowing flexibility in movement.
4
Ideal for infants under 30 pounds who need a comfortable and secure life jacket while in or around water.
5
This product is ideal for children and infants to wear as a life jacket approved by the US Coast Guard.
6
This product is ideal for infants and provides a Coast Guard approved, flexible, and quick drying life jacket in hot pink.
7
The product is ideal for infants and toddlers weighing under 30 pounds to wear as a life jacket while in water.
8
This product is ideal for protecting babies and toddlers from the sun while swimming or playing in water.
9
The product is ideal for small children learning to swim, providing buoyancy and sun protection in a one-piece suit.
10
The product is ideal for children as a durable and weather-resistant outdoor jacket.
It is an ideal life jacket for infants that meets Coast Guard approval standards and comes in blue/green.
This product is ideal for infants to wear while participating in water sports, boating, lake swimming, and other aquatic activities.
The product is ideal for keeping infants comfortable and dry while still allowing flexibility in movement.
Ideal for infants under 30 pounds who need a comfortable and secure life jacket while in or around water.
This product is ideal for children and infants to wear as a life jacket approved by the US Coast Guard.
This product is ideal for infants and provides a Coast Guard approved, flexible, and quick drying life jacket in hot pink.
The product is ideal for infants and toddlers weighing under 30 pounds to wear as a life jacket while in water.
This product is ideal for protecting babies and toddlers from the sun while swimming or playing in water.
The product is ideal for small children learning to swim, providing buoyancy and sun protection in a one-piece suit.
The product is ideal for children as a durable and weather-resistant outdoor jacket.

1. Stohlquist Toddler Life Jacket Coast Guard Approved Life Vest For Infants-Blue/green-Infant

Let your infant explore the water in comfort with this soft foam personal flotation device. It comes with a grab collar for easy retrieval and a head support collar to keep them secure and happy. The quick release front buckle and adjustable crotch strap ensure a snug fit for any size, while the box stitched buckle attachment adds durability for years of use. Full arm mobility ensures your infant can move freely and play without irritation. Keep safety in mind and teach your child how to float safely before going boating. With over 40 years of product innovation and refinement, Stohlquist offers the best waterwear available today.

Pros

  • Soft foam for maximum comfort
  • Grab collar for easy retrieval
  • Head support collar for security
  • Quick release front buckle for added security
  • Adjustable crotch strap for a snug fit
  • Full arm mobility for free movement
  • Durable box stitched buckle attachment
  • Over 40 years of product innovation and refinement

2. Soft Pink Baby Life Vest For Water Sports

The U.S. Coast Guard has approved this product, certifying its safety for use. The product is designed with adjustable straps, which make it easy to fit all shapes and sizes comfortably. The quick-release buckles ensure hassle-free removal of the life vest. The vest is built with durable materials, ensuring that it can withstand prolonged use. The soft nylon material used in the construction of this life vest ensures that it won't irritate the skin and will keep your baby comfortable. The product's specifications include a weight capacity of up to 30 pounds, and it is made of nylon material. It is available in pink color and comes with a manufacturer's one-year warranty.

This life vest is a must-have for parents who want to ensure the safety of their babies while enjoying water activities. The product's adjustable straps and quick-release buckles make it easy to use, while the durable construction ensures prolonged use. The soft nylon material used in this life vest guarantees comfort and prevents skin irritation, making it perfect for babies. With a weight capacity of up to 30 pounds, this product is suitable for most babies. The manufacturer's one-year warranty provides peace of mind to the buyer.

Parents can now enjoy water activities with their babies without compromising their safety. This life vest is certified by the U.S. Coast Guard, ensuring the highest level of safety. The adjustable straps and quick-release buckles make it easy to use, while the durable construction ensures that it can withstand prolonged use. The soft nylon material used in the construction of this life vest provides comfort and prevents skin irritation. The product's specifications include a weight capacity of up to 30 pounds, and it is available in pink color. The manufacturer's one-year warranty guarantees the product's quality and durability.

Pros

  • U.S. Coast Guard-approved
  • Adjustable straps for a comfortable fit
  • Quick-release buckles make removal hassle-free
  • Durable construction can withstand prolonged use
  • Soft nylon material prevents skin irritation
  • Suitable for most babies with a weight capacity of up to 30 pounds
  • Manufacturer's one-year warranty provides peace of mind

3. Full Throttle Unisex-Baby Infant Hinged Rapid-Dry Flex-Back Vest, Blue/green ( – 142100-500-000-16

The Universal Fit Type II Infant Life Jacket is designed to keep infants safe and comfortable while in the water. The bright colors provide greater visibility, making it easier for parents or guardians to keep an eye on their little ones. It is suitable for infants weighing less than 30 lbs.

The life jacket features a pop-up pillow, leg strap, and grab strap for quick recovery in case of an emergency. The pop-up pillow keeps the infant's head above the water, while the leg strap and grab strap make it easier to pull the infant out of the water. Safety is the number one priority with this life jacket, making it a must-have for any water activity with an infant.

The Universal Fit Type II Infant Life Jacket is easy to put on and take off, making it convenient for parents or guardians. It is made with high-quality materials that are durable and long-lasting. This life jacket is perfect for boating, swimming, and any other water activity where an infant is present. Parents can have peace of mind knowing their little one is safe and secure with this life jacket.

Pros

  • Bright colors provide greater visibility
  • Pop-up pillow, leg strap, and grab strap for quick recovery
  • Suitable for infants weighing less than 30 lbs
  • Easy to put on and take off
  • Made with high-quality materials that are durable and long-lasting

4. Stearns Puddle Jumper Infant Hydroprene Life Jacket, Kids Life Vest Supports Under 30 Pounds

The US Coast Guard-approved infant life jacket is a must-have for parents who want to ensure their little ones are safe in and around water. This life jacket is specifically designed to keep infants weighing less than 30 pounds afloat and features an oversized head support that helps encourage face-up flotation, keeping your baby's head out of the water at all times.

The life jacket is made with a soft Hydroprene shell that is gentle on your baby's skin and durable Crosstech flotation foam that provides reliable buoyancy. It also has leg straps and a grab handle that offer extra safety and security, ensuring that your baby stays securely fastened to the life jacket and can be easily lifted out of the water if needed.

With its comfortable and secure design, the US Coast Guard-approved infant life jacket is a reliable choice for parents who want to give their babies the best possible protection in and around water.

Pros

  • US Coast Guard-approved for added safety
  • Oversized head support encourages face-up flotation
  • Made with a soft Hydroprene shell for comfort
  • Durable Crosstech flotation foam provides reliable buoyancy
  • Leg straps and grab handle offer extra safety and security

5. Airhead Gnar Child And Infant Kwik-Dry Neolite Flex Life Jacket, Us Coast Guard Approved

Ensure your child's safety during water activities with this USCG approved personal flotation device. It meets the requirements for both Type II (Infant) and III (Child) Life Jackets, making it a reliable choice for parents. The jacket features closed sides, buckle and zipper closures, an additional crotch belt, and a rapid rescue handle for added safety and peace of mind.

This life jacket boasts a less bulky design, allowing for a larger range of motion for your child, making it a favorite for water activities. The closed sides, zipper, crotch strap, and double buckle closure keep the jacket securely in place, while the quick grab rescue handle provides a secure grip and lift option in case of emergency.

Crafted from durable, quick-drying, and super soft Quick Dry Neolite fabric, this life jacket stays comfortable against your child's skin. It's designed to wick away moisture and feel light and airy for a full day of fun on the water. The Gnar life jacket follows the sizing determined by the USGC and is designed to fit children that weigh 30-50 pounds and have a 22-25-inch chest size, as well as infants weighing 15-30 pounds.

Since 1991, the Airhead Sports Group has been dedicated to creating quality fun promoting products for families to enjoy. Their brands encourage kids and adults to get outdoors, be active, and, most importantly, have fun on the water.

Pros

  • USCG approved for both Type II (Infant) and III (Child) Life Jackets
  • Closed sides, buckle and zipper closures, additional crotch belt, and rapid rescue handle for added safety
  • Less bulky design allows for a larger range of motion
  • Quick Dry Neolite fabric wicks away moisture and feels light and airy for all-day comfort
  • Follows USGC sizing for children and infants

6. Airhead Infant's Wicked Neolite Kwik-Dry Flex Life Jacket, Coast Guard Approved, Hot Pink

Ensure your child's safety while enjoying water activities with the USCG Approved Personal Flotation Device from Airhead Sports Group. This life jacket meets the USCG requirements for Type II (Infant) and III (Child) Life Jackets, providing you with peace of mind. It features closed sides, buckle and zipper closures, an additional crotch belt, and a rapid rescue handle for added safety. The less bulky design offers a larger range of motion, making it a favorite for water activities. The closed sides, zipper, crotch strap and double buckle closure keep the life jacket securely in place, while the quick grab rescue handle provides a secure grip and lift option in case of emergencies. This life jacket is made of durable, quick-drying, and super soft fabric that stays comfortable against your child's skin. The Quick Dry Neolite material is designed to wick away moisture and feel light and airy for a full day of fun on the water. The Wicked life jacket follows the sizing determined by the USGC and is designed to fit children that weigh 30-50 pounds and have a 22-25-inch chest size, and infants that weigh 15-30 pounds. The Airhead Sports Group is a family of watersports, wintersports, and leisure brands focused on creating quality fun-promoting products since 1991. Encourage your kids and adults to get outdoors, be active, and, most importantly, have fun with the USCG Approved Personal Flotation Device from Airhead Sports Group.

Pros

  • Meets USCG requirements for Type II (Infant) and III (Child) Life Jackets, ensuring your child's safety
  • Features closed sides, buckle and zipper closures, an additional crotch belt, and a rapid rescue handle for added safety
  • Less bulky design offers a larger range of motion, making it a favorite for water activities
  • Quick Dry Neolite material wicks away moisture and feels light and airy for a full day of fun on the water
  • The Airhead Sports Group is a family of watersports, wintersports, and leisure brands focused on creating quality fun-promoting products

7. Stearns Puddle Jumper Infant Hydroprene Life Jacket | Life Vest For Kids Under 30 Pounds

Secure your little one's safety while on the water with the US Coast Guard-approved infant life jacket. The jacket is designed for infants weighing less than 30 pounds, ensuring a secure and comfortable fit for your baby while enjoying water activities. The jacket comes with an oversized head support that encourages face-up flotation, which keeps your baby's head above water at all times, providing peace of mind to parents.

It is made with a soft Hydroprene shell that offers ultimate comfort and durability to withstand the elements, and durable Crosstech flotation foam that ensures buoyancy and helps to keep your baby afloat. Additionally, the jacket features leg straps and a grab handle for extra safety and security, making it easy to retrieve your baby from the water in case of an emergency.

This infant life jacket is a must-have for any parent or caregiver who wants to keep their little one safe and secure while on the water. It meets all the safety standards set by the US Coast Guard, providing parents with the assurance that their child is safe and secure while enjoying water activities.

Pros

  • US Coast Guard-approved for maximum safety and security
  • Oversized head support encourages face-up flotation
  • Soft Hydroprene shell offers ultimate comfort and durability
  • Durable Crosstech flotation foam ensures buoyancy and helps to keep your baby afloat
  • Leg straps and grab handle for extra safety and security

8. Rufflebutts® Baby/toddler Girls Pastel Petals One Piece Rash Guard – 0-3m

Introducing the stylish and adorable RuffleButts one-piece swimsuit, specially designed to offer full coverage and comfort to your little girl as she grows. This swimsuit features long sleeves and our signature ruffles on every pair of bottoms, adding a touch of sweetness to her sun safety. Built-in UPF 50+ protects your little girl's delicate skin from harsh UV rays, ensuring more playtime and less worry. Diaper changes are made easy with 3 nickel-free snaps at the bottom, and a convenient zipper at the neck/back makes it a hassle-free experience. Made with high-quality fabric that's fade-resistant and durable, this swimsuit is designed in the USA and is easy to maintain. Just hand wash in cold water and dry flat for play day after play day. We stand behind our products and offer a 100% Happiness Guarantee to ensure complete customer satisfaction. Let your little girl enjoy the sun in style and safety with RuffleButts one-piece swimsuit.

Keep your little girl protected from the harmful sun rays with the RuffleButts one-piece swimsuit, designed to offer full coverage and comfort. The suit features long sleeves and our signature ruffles on every pair of bottoms, adding a touch of cuteness to her beach or pool look. Built-in UPF 50+ ensures that your little girl's delicate skin stays safe from harsh UV rays, allowing more playtime for her. With 3 nickel-free snaps at the bottom and a convenient zipper at the neck/back, diaper changes are easy and hassle-free. Made with high-quality, fade-resistant fabric, this swimsuit is designed to last and provide comfort at the same time. Hand wash in cold water and dry flat to keep it looking great for play day after play day. We stand behind our products and offer a 100% Happiness Guarantee, ensuring complete customer satisfaction. Get your little girl ready for the beach or pool in style with RuffleButts one-piece swimsuit.

Make sure your little girl is safe from the sun's harmful rays with the RuffleButts one-piece swimsuit. This suit features long sleeves and our signature ruffles on every pair of bottoms, creating a stylish look for your little one. The built-in UPF 50+ protects your little girl's delicate skin from harsh UV rays, allowing more playtime and less worry for you. The suit is designed with 3 nickel-free snaps at the bottom and a convenient zipper at the neck/back, making diaper changes a breeze. Made with high-quality, fade-resistant fabric that's durable and comfortable, this swimsuit is designed to last. Hand wash in cold water and dry flat for easy maintenance. We offer a 100% Happiness Guarantee to ensure complete customer satisfaction. Let your little girl enjoy the sun in style and safety with RuffleButts one-piece swimsuit.

Pros

  • Built-in UPF 50+ protection for your little girl's delicate skin
  • Convenient zipper at the neck/back for easy on/off
  • 3 nickel-free snaps at the bottom for hassle-free diaper changes
  • Stylish and adorable design with signature ruffles
  • Made with high-quality, fade-resistant fabric for durability and comfort
  • Designed in the USA

9. Floaty Fun One Piece Swim Set

The toddler swimsuit one piece with float is a well-made and durable product, perfect for your baby's swimming needs. It is made of 85% nylon fabric and lined with 100% polyester, ensuring quick dry fabric and high elasticity for a comfortable fit. The baby one-piece bathing suit with float is very soft and safe for baby's skin to wear.

This baby girls buoyancy swimsuit is designed with 8 removable buoyancy bars made of EVA environmentally friendly cotton, making it non-absorbent, water-resistant, non-toxic, tasteless, non-polluting, highly resilient, and tough. With this design, your baby will learn to swim quickly and safely while enjoying water sports.

The adorable cartoon print pattern, comfortable V-neck, short sleeve, and shorts bottoms design of this one-piece baby swimsuit with float make it easy to put on and take off. It is a great gift for both baby girls and boys.

The baby swimsuit with floatation is suitable for swimming wading, bathing, training, kiddie pool, seaside, and other water activities. It comes in various sizes for 0-5 years old baby toddler girls and boys. Please check the product description carefully to select the right size for your baby.

Pros

  • Made of high-quality materials for durability and comfort
  • Designed with removable buoyancy bars for safe and easy swimming
  • Adorable cartoon print pattern with comfortable V-neck and shorts bottoms design
  • Suitable for various water activities

Cons

  • – May not fit all babies perfectly, so it is important to check the size chart carefully

10. Helly-Hansen Junior Unisex Cyclone Jacket, 625 Blue Fog, 14

The classic boys' ski coat designed to keep you warm and safe in the cold and snow. With SprayTech technology, the coat is water repellent, windproof, and breathable, allowing condensation and perspiration to escape while keeping rain, wind, and snow from penetrating the fabric. This PFC-free coat is equipped with PrimaLoft Black insulation, providing optimal warmth while keeping the coat lightweight. The coat also features a detachable and adjustable insulated hood, adjustable cuffs and bottom hem, adjustable powder skirt, and a ski pass pocket on the sleeve. Additionally, it comes with SKI FREE, RECCO, and LIFE POCKET features, providing extra safety and convenience on the slopes. This coat is perfect for winter activities such as resort skiing, freeride, backcountry ski touring, and mountaineering. The regular fit is neither slim nor oversized, allowing for thicker midlayers to be worn underneath. The pants come with a standard inseam with a straight cut through the leg.

Stay warm and dry in style with this classic boys' ski coat. The coat's SprayTech technology allows for optimal breathability while keeping rain, wind, and snow from penetrating the fabric. The coat is PFC-free and comes with PrimaLoft Black insulation, making it lightweight and warm. The detachable and adjustable insulated hood, adjustable cuffs and bottom hem, adjustable powder skirt, and ski pass pocket on the sleeve provide extra convenience and functionality. Moreover, it comes with SKI FREE, RECCO, and LIFE POCKET features, ensuring optimal safety on the slopes. It is perfect for winter sports such as resort skiing, freeride, backcountry ski touring, and mountaineering. The regular fit allows for thicker midlayers to be worn underneath, and the pants come with a standard inseam and straight cut through the leg.

Designed for optimum warmth and safety, this classic boys' ski coat is a must-have for your winter activities. The coat's SprayTech technology offers water repellency, windproofing, and breathability, keeping you warm and dry in cold and snowy conditions. The coat is PFC-free and equipped with PrimaLoft Black insulation, making it lightweight and warm. The detachable and adjustable insulated hood, adjustable cuffs and bottom hem, adjustable powder skirt, and ski pass pocket on the sleeve provide extra convenience and functionality. Furthermore, it comes with SKI FREE, RECCO, and LIFE POCKET features, ensuring optimal safety on the slopes. It is perfect for winter sports such as resort skiing, freeride, backcountry ski touring, and mountaineering. The regular fit allows for thicker midlayers to be worn underneath, and the pants come with a standard inseam and straight cut through the leg.

Pros

  • SprayTech technology provides optimal water repellency, windproofing, and breathability
  • PFC-free coat with PrimaLoft Black insulation is lightweight and warm
  • Equipped with SKI FREE, RECCO, and LIFE POCKET features for extra safety and convenience
  • Detachable and adjustable insulated hood, adjustable cuffs and bottom hem, adjustable powder skirt, and ski pass pocket on the sleeve provide extra convenience and functionality
  • Regular fit allows for thicker midlayers to be worn underneath

Cons

  • – May not be suitable for extreme weather conditions

Best Life Jackets For Infants FAQs

Are there any regulations or standards for infant life jackets?

Yes, there are regulations and standards for infant life jackets in different countries. In the United States, the U.S. Coast Guard sets the standards for infant life jackets. According to their guidelines, infant life jackets must be designed to provide buoyancy and keep the infant's face out of the water. They must also have a collar to support the infant's head and a strap between the legs to prevent the life jacket from riding up. The life jacket must also have a buoyancy rating that is appropriate for the infant's weight. In addition, the life jacket must be approved by the U.S. Coast Guard and have a label stating that it is approved for use by infants. It is important to follow these guidelines and ensure that the life jacket fits properly to ensure the safety of the infant while on or near the water.

How can you ensure that your infant stays safe and comfortable while wearing a life jacket?

Ensuring that your infant stays safe and comfortable while wearing a life jacket is essential to their well-being. Firstly, it is important to choose a life jacket that is appropriate for your infant's weight and size. It should fit snugly but not be too tight, and the straps should be adjusted to ensure a secure fit.

Secondly, make sure that the life jacket is properly fastened and secured before allowing your infant to enter the water. Check the fit of the jacket regularly, as infants can quickly outgrow their life jackets.

Additionally, it is important to choose a life jacket that is designed specifically for infants, as they have different needs than older children or adults. Look for a life jacket that has a high collar to support your infant's head and neck, and one that has a crotch strap to prevent the life jacket from riding up.

By following these guidelines, you can ensure that your infant stays safe and comfortable while wearing a life jacket, giving you peace of mind while enjoying water activities with your little one.

How do you properly fit a life jacket on an infant?

Fitting a life jacket on an infant is a crucial safety measure that every parent or guardian should know how to do properly. The first step to fitting a life jacket on an infant is to select the right size. Life jackets come in different sizes and are often categorized according to weight. Therefore, it is important to choose a life jacket that fits the infant's weight and size.

Once you have the right size of the life jacket, place the jacket on the infant and fasten all the buckles and straps. Ensure that the jacket fits snugly but not too tight, allowing for free movement of the infant's arms and legs. Check to make sure that the life jacket is not riding up towards the infant's chin or ears.

Next, lift the infant's arms and gently tug on the life jacket to ensure that it does not slip off. Also, check that the collar of the life jacket is not too high or too tight, as this can cause discomfort or even choking. Finally, make sure that the infant is wearing the life jacket at all times when near water, and that it is properly secured.

In conclusion, properly fitting a life jacket on an infant is critical to ensuring their safety while near water. Always choose the right size, fasten all the buckles and straps, and check for a snug but comfortable fit.

What are the safety features to look for when selecting a life jacket for infants?

When it comes to selecting a life jacket for infants, safety should be your top priority. Here are some safety features to consider before making your purchase:

1. Proper Fit: The life jacket should fit your infant snugly, but not be too tight. Look for adjustable straps to ensure a proper fit.

2. Type: Select a life jacket that is specifically designed for infants. These jackets are typically Type II or III, and have a headrest to support the infant's head.

3. Buoyancy: The life jacket should have enough buoyancy to keep the infant's head above water. Look for jackets with a buoyancy rating of at least 7-12 pounds.

4. Visibility: Choose a life jacket with bright colors or reflective materials to increase visibility in the water.

5. Accessibility: It's important to be able to quickly and easily remove the life jacket in case of an emergency. Look for jackets with quick release buckles or zippers.

By taking these safety features into consideration, you can feel confident that you have selected a life jacket that will keep your infant safe while enjoying water activities.

What is the appropriate age range for infants to wear life jackets?

The appropriate age range for infants to wear life jackets varies depending on the type of life jacket and the weight of the infant. Generally, the United States Coast Guard recommends that infants who weigh less than 18 pounds should wear a Type II infant life jacket. These life jackets are designed to provide more support and buoyancy for smaller bodies.

For infants who weigh between 18 and 30 pounds, a Type III life jacket is recommended. These life jackets are designed for more active water activities, such as boating or fishing.

It's important to note that even if an infant is within the appropriate weight range for a particular life jacket, the life jacket must still fit properly. The life jacket should be snug, but not too tight, and should not ride up over the chin or ears.

It's also important to never leave an infant unattended while they are wearing a life jacket, and to always follow all safety guidelines and regulations when participating in water activities with an infant.

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