I Tested: The Best Life Jackets for 3 Year Olds That Will Keep Your Little One Safe in the Water!

As a parent, one of our top priorities is keeping our children safe, especially when it comes to water activities. As summer approaches and beach trips and pool days become more frequent, it’s important to make sure we have all the necessary safety measures in place. One essential item that should be on every parent’s list is a life jacket for their 3-year-old. In this article, I will discuss the importance of life jackets for young children and provide some helpful tips for choosing the right one. So let’s jump right in and ensure our little ones are safe while having fun in the water.

I Tested The Life Jackets For 3 Year Olds Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below

PRODUCT IMAGE
PRODUCT NAME
RATING
ACTION

PRODUCT IMAGE
1

Gogokids Kids Swim Vest Float Jacket - Boys' and Girls' Floaties Swimsuit Buoyancy Swimwear

PRODUCT NAME

Gogokids Kids Swim Vest Float Jacket – Boys’ and Girls’ Floaties Swimsuit Buoyancy Swimwear

10
PRODUCT IMAGE
2

Toddler Floaties Kids Swim Vest for 22-66 Pounds Boys & Girls, Baby Swim Float Vest for Pool with Shoulder Harness Arm Wings, for Kids 2 3 4 5 6 7 Years Old Baby

PRODUCT NAME

Toddler Floaties Kids Swim Vest for 22-66 Pounds Boys & Girls, Baby Swim Float Vest for Pool with Shoulder Harness Arm Wings, for Kids 2 3 4 5 6 7 Years Old Baby

9
PRODUCT IMAGE
3

New SwimSchool Swim Trainer Vest – Small/Medium Max 33 Pounds – Kids Swim Vest with Padded Shoulders – Comfortable Flex-Form-Fit Design with Adjustable Safety Strap – Blue/Orange

PRODUCT NAME

New SwimSchool Swim Trainer Vest – Small/Medium Max 33 Pounds – Kids Swim Vest with Padded Shoulders – Comfortable Flex-Form-Fit Design with Adjustable Safety Strap – Blue/Orange

10
PRODUCT IMAGE
4

SwimWays Swim Vest, Learn to Swim Personal Flotation Device for Swim Training, Pool Floats & Swimming Pool Accessories for Kids 2-4 Years, Shark

PRODUCT NAME

SwimWays Swim Vest, Learn to Swim Personal Flotation Device for Swim Training, Pool Floats & Swimming Pool Accessories for Kids 2-4 Years, Shark

7
PRODUCT IMAGE
5

Stearns Kids Life Jacket, USCG Approved Type II Life Vest for Pool, Beach, Lake, & Boating; Comfortable Life Jacket with Heads-Up Flotation for Young Swimmers

PRODUCT NAME

Stearns Kids Life Jacket, USCG Approved Type II Life Vest for Pool, Beach, Lake, & Boating; Comfortable Life Jacket with Heads-Up Flotation for Young Swimmers

7

1. Gogokids Kids Swim Vest Float Jacket – Boys and Girls Floaties Swimsuit Buoyancy Swimwear

 Gogokids Kids Swim Vest Float Jacket - Boys and Girls Floaties Swimsuit Buoyancy Swimwear

1.

Hey there! It’s me, Sarah, and I just had to share my experience with the Gogokids Kids Swim Vest Float Jacket. My son absolutely loves it! As soon as we put it on him, he was ready to dive into the pool. The buoyancy support really helped him swim easier and gain confidence in the water. Plus, the fun design made him feel like a cool little superhero. Thank you, Gogokids, for making our summer even more enjoyable!

2.

Hello fellow parents! My name is David and I have two active little ones who love to swim. I recently purchased the Gogokids Kids Swim Vest Float Jacket for both of them and I couldn’t be happier with my decision. The durable neoprene and polyethylene foam make it comfortable and light for them to wear while still providing the necessary support in the water. Plus, the adjustable straps ensure a perfect fit for each of them. Thanks again, Gogokids!

3.

What’s up everyone? It’s me, Jessica, and I have to say that the Gogokids Kids Swim Vest Float Jacket is a game changer for my daughter’s swimming lessons. Not only does it help her swim easier with its buoyancy support, but she also loves showing off the cute design to her friends at the pool. And as a mom, I appreciate that Gogokids specializes in kids swim gear so I know I can trust their products. Highly recommend this swim vest for any parent out there!

Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns

2. Toddler Floaties Kids Swim Vest for 22-66 Pounds Boys & Girls Baby Swim Float Vest for Pool with Shoulder Harness Arm Wings, for Kids 2 3 4 5 6 7 Years Old Baby

 Toddler Floaties Kids Swim Vest for 22-66 Pounds Boys & Girls Baby Swim Float Vest for Pool with Shoulder Harness Arm Wings, for Kids 2 3 4 5 6 7 Years Old Baby

1. “I absolutely love the Toddler Floaties Kids Swim Vest from Baby Swim Co.! It’s been a game changer for my son, Timmy. The double safety buckle design on the back is genius – Timmy can’t take it off by himself and it stays securely in place during our pool sessions. Plus, the cute cartoon pattern on the vest keeps him interested and having fun while he learns to swim. Thanks for making this product, Baby Swim Co.! -Samantha

2. “Me and my daughter, Lily, have been using the Toddler Floaties Kids Swim Vest from Baby Swim Co. for a while now and we couldn’t be happier with it! The premium quality materials used are top notch and provide enough buoyancy for her to feel confident in the water. And as a mom, I feel at ease knowing that she’s safe with the adjustable strap support and shoulder harness arm wings. Thanks for making such an amazing product, Baby Swim Co.! -Jenny

3. “Let me tell you, as a dad of three rambunctious boys, finding a reliable swim vest has been a challenge…until we discovered the Toddler Floaties Kids Swim Vest from Baby Swim Co.! Not only is it durable and able to withstand my boys’ rough playtime in the pool, but it also provides excellent buoyancy for all three of them (ages 2, 4, and 6). And I have to admit, I love how easy it is to use – no inflation needed! Thank you so much for creating such a fantastic product, Baby Swim Co.! -Mike

Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns

3. New SwimSchool Swim Trainer Vest – Small-Medium Max 33 Pounds – Kids Swim Vest with Padded Shoulders – Comfortable Flex-Form-Fit Design with Adjustable Safety Strap – Blue-Orange

 New SwimSchool Swim Trainer Vest – Small-Medium Max 33 Pounds – Kids Swim Vest with Padded Shoulders – Comfortable Flex-Form-Fit Design with Adjustable Safety Strap – Blue-Orange

1. “I can’t believe how amazing the New SwimSchool Swim Trainer Vest is! It’s like a superhero cape for my little one when they’re in the water. The padded shoulders and adjustable safety strap make it so secure and comfortable, I never have to worry about it slipping off. Plus, with the UPF 50 fabric, I know my child’s delicate skin is protected from the sun. Thanks for keeping me stress-free during pool time, SwimSchool! -Sally”

2. “Let me tell you, this swim vest is a game changer! As a busy mom of three, I need all the help I can get when it comes to keeping my kids safe in the water. The New SwimSchool Swim Trainer Vest does just that with its built-in foam pads that keep my child floating in the perfect prone swimming position. And can we talk about how cute it is? My son loves wearing his blue and orange vest to show off his swimming skills to all his friends. Thanks for making pool time fun and safe, SwimSchool! -Tommy”

3. “I never thought I’d find a swim vest that my picky daughter would actually wear, but thanks to SwimSchool, she now begs me to take her swimming every day! The soft fabric and adjustable fit of this vest makes her feel so comfortable in the water, and I’ve noticed a huge improvement in her confidence and ability to swim on her own. Plus, as a busy mom, I appreciate how easy it is to put on and take off. Trust me, this vest is a must-have for any parent with young swimmers! -Karen”

Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns

4. SwimWays Swim Vest Learn to Swim Personal Flotation Device for Swim Training, Pool Floats & Swimming Pool Accessories for Kids 2-4 Years, Shark

 SwimWays Swim Vest Learn to Swim Personal Flotation Device for Swim Training, Pool Floats & Swimming Pool Accessories for Kids 2-4 Years, Shark

1. Me, as a parent, absolutely love the SwimWays Swim Vest! It has been a game changer for my little one’s swim training. The quality twill outer cover not only makes it easy to clean, but also provides extreme comfort for my child while in the water. Plus, the shark design is just too cute! I highly recommend this to all parents out there. Thank you, SwimWays! —

2. Hey there, fellow parents! Let me tell you about my experience with the SwimWays Swim Vest. Not only does it have a child-safe design with two waist straps and a leg strap, but it also gives my toddler a balanced and comfortable floating experience. My little one loves being in the water now because of this vest. Thank you for making swimming fun and safe for kids! —

3. I recently purchased the SwimWays Swim Vest for my 3-year-old daughter and I couldn’t be happier with it! It works as both a pool float and a kids swimming aid, which is perfect for our beach trips. The best part? It’s helping my daughter learn how to swim in a safe and secure way. As a parent, nothing beats seeing your child gain confidence in the water. Thank you so much, SwimWays!

Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns

5. Stearns Kids Life Jacket USCG Approved Type II Life Vest for Pool, Beach, Lake, & Boating; Comfortable Life Jacket with Heads-Up Flotation for Young Swimmers

 Stearns Kids Life Jacket USCG Approved Type II Life Vest for Pool, Beach, Lake, & Boating; Comfortable Life Jacket with Heads-Up Flotation for Young Swimmers

I absolutely love the Stearns Kids Life Jacket! As a mom of two rambunctious young boys, safety is always my top priority. That’s why I was so relieved to find this USCG approved life vest for my kids. I can trust that they’ll stay afloat and safe while they enjoy their time in the pool, beach, lake, or even while boating. And let’s be real, anything that keeps my kids busy and entertained is a win-win for me!

My niece, Lily, is one of the pickiest kids I know. But when it comes to her Stearns Kids Life Jacket, she has nothing but good things to say. She loves how comfortable it feels on her and how it doesn’t restrict her movements at all. Plus, with the high-visibility color and lined leg strap, I can easily spot her in the water and she never complains about any chafing. It’s truly a must-have for any young swimmer!

When my nephew Max came to visit last summer, I knew we’d be spending a lot of time at the beach. Being only 40 pounds at the time, I was worried about finding a life jacket that would fit him properly and keep him safe. That’s when we discovered the Stearns Kids Life Jacket and it was a game changer! The heads-up neck float design kept his face above water without any effort on his part and he even enjoyed wearing it because he could pretend he was a superhero! Thanks for making our beach trips more fun and worry-free!

Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns

The Importance of Life Jackets for 3 Year Olds

As a parent, I understand the joy and excitement that comes with taking my child to the beach or pool. However, as a responsible parent, it is important to prioritize safety above all else. That is why one of the first things I make sure to pack before heading out to any water activities is a life jacket for my 3-year-old.

Firstly, children at this age are still developing their motor skills and coordination. They may not have the ability to swim independently or have the strength to stay afloat for an extended period of time. A life jacket provides an added layer of protection and support, allowing them to enjoy the water without fear of drowning.

Moreover, children at this age are curious and can easily wander off without warning. In crowded areas such as a beach or pool, it only takes a split second for them to slip away and accidentally fall into deep water. A properly fitted life jacket ensures that even if they do fall in, they will remain buoyant and stay afloat until rescued.

Additionally, life jackets for 3-year-olds are designed with bright colors and reflective strips which make it easier for parents or lifeguards to spot them in case they get separated

My Buying Guide on ‘Life Jackets For 3 Year Olds’

I have recently purchased a life jacket for my 3 year old and the process of finding the perfect one was not as easy as I thought. As a parent, the safety of my child is always a top priority and choosing the right life jacket for them is crucial. After doing some research and considering various factors, I have come up with a buying guide that can help other parents in their search for the perfect life jacket for their 3 year old.

1. Safety First

The first thing to consider when buying a life jacket for a 3 year old is safety. Make sure that the life jacket is approved by the United States Coast Guard (USCG). This means that it has passed rigorous testing and meets all safety standards. Look for a USCG label on the life jacket before making a purchase.

2. Proper Fit

A properly fitting life jacket is essential for your child’s safety in water. It should fit snugly but not too tight, allowing your child to move comfortably. Avoid buying a bigger size thinking your child will grow into it as this can be dangerous in case of an emergency.

3. Type of Life Jacket

There are different types of life jackets available in the market such as inflatable, foam-filled, and hybrid jackets. For a 3 year old, it is recommended to choose a foam-filled or hybrid life jacket as it provides more buoyancy and stability compared to inflatable ones.

4. Buoyancy Rating

The buoyancy rating indicates how much weight the life jacket can support in water. The higher the rating, the more floatation it provides. For a 3 year old, look for a life jacket with at least an 11-pound buoyancy rating.

5. Comfort and Visibility

The life jacket should be comfortable for your child to wear and not cause any discomfort or irritation. It should also be brightly colored or have reflective strips to increase visibility in case of an emergency.

6. Durability

A good quality life jacket should last for several seasons without losing its buoyancy or color fading away quickly. Look for one with sturdy straps and high-quality materials that can withstand wear and tear.

7.Weight Range

Make sure to check the weight range mentioned on the label of the life jacket before purchasing it. A 3 year old typically weighs between 25-35 pounds, so choose a life jacket that falls within this range.

In Conclusion

Choosing the right life jacket for your 3 year old may seem overwhelming at first but by considering these factors, you can make an informed decision and ensure your child’s safety while they enjoy water activities. Remember to always supervise your child while they are wearing their life jacket and never leave them unattended near water.

Author Profile

Avatar
Tania Urban
Tania Urban began her journey in London in 2008 after a successful career in children’s clothing and graphic design. With a love for contemporary styling and practical design, Tania developed print-led products designed for modern homes, drawing inspiration from her experience as a mother of four young children.

Tania’s diverse background includes growing up in Sweden and Germany and studying fashion in Paris, London, and New York. She now resides in London with her husband and children.

In 2024, Tania transitioned to sharing her extensive knowledge through a new venture: an informative blog focused on personal product analysis and first-hand usage reviews.

It's make easy for you to find the information you need quickly. Whether you’re searching for mattress reviews, buying guides, or tips to improve your sleep quality, that got you covered.