Parents looking for infant life jackets may be unsure of which one to buy for their littlest of children. These recommendations will point parents in the right direction when shopping for a baby's personal floatation device.
Stohlquist Kids' Nemo Infant Life Vest
The Stolquist Nemo Infant life vest has many features that parents will appreciate. For ease of use, it has a front zipper to help secure the jacket on the infant. It also features an original wrap-around design that will turn the baby face up when in the water, and a support that will help cradle the head out of the water.
This personal floatation design is not made of Neoprene, which tends to be a softer more comfortable material. The quality of the outer and inner layer is 200 Denier oxford. This material is much softer than cheaper nylon material.
Additional appealing features include:
- Fist children 8 to 30 pounds
- Sturdy handle to lift child from the water
- Available in high visibility colors or red or blue
- Adjustable leg strap to help keep vest in place
Coleman Toba Life Jacket
The Coleman Toba Life Jacket has some features similar to the Stohlquist and a few that are different. It has the same front zip entry, head support, leg straps, and safety handle, but the Toba is made of Neoprene shell and has a mesh drainage. Parents will appreciate the mold and mildew barriers of the PFD's design.
The child may find that they have a greater range of motion in the Toba than in the Stohlquist as it has a lower neck line. Comfort is indeed an important aspect since children who are out on the water are required to wear a floatation aide in most areas.
Other specifications:
- Certified up to 30 pounds
- Available in several colors
Body Glove Formula Neoprene Life Jacket
The Formula Neoprene life jacket has several bells and whistles that most parents will like. It is obvious that it was designed with the youngest of children in mind.
Like the jackets above, it has a head support with secure handle and a front zipper. The jacket's design details that are favorable include an over-sized rubber grip zipper pull. Further, the zipper pull can be secured with a hook and loop closure to prevent the baby from chewing on the tab.
Additionally, it has two adjustable leg straps rather than just one. This may increase comfort level and security. The Formula vest is available in several colors and is suited for children up to 30 pounds.
Parents should consider many features when selecting a personal floatation device for infants. These three vests take into consideration safety, ease of use, and comfort of design. With a little bit of thought and adherence to safety rules, even babies can enjoy the water.
Jennifer White - Jennifer White has authored parenting books and has worked in childcare and education fields for over 15 years. She now focuses much of ...
