The best life jackets for kids in 2024: Our top picks to keep little ones safe and secure

The Kids Life Jacket 100N LJ Easy Orange/Grey is an effortless design. Coming in 'Fluo Orange' and grey, the device has an over-the-head, T-shirt design, making it super easy to put on, lightweight and comfortable. No zips, this jacket can be used sailing up to six miles from shore, has a central buckle and crotch strap.

One r****eview said: "Bought it at the last minute online as I was having trouble finding a life jacket for my daughter and we were going kayaking the next day. I was surprised by the quality as it was much better than I expected."

Another review said: "Just what we needed for our little ones (5 and under). Easy to put on and they were happy to keep on!"

We love how this children's life vest gives us peace of mind while our little swimmers have a big pool or sea adventure. The Spinlock Deckvest Nemo+ Lifejacket is equipped with top-notch safety features and comfort in mind, this lifejacket is perfect for kids who love to explore on the water.
With its vibrant colors and smart design, this children's life vest not only keeps your child safe but also guarantees they can move freely while swimming or playing by the water's edge. It's lightweight yet sturdy, providing essential buoyancy and security with every splash and dive.
Designed with secure buckles and adjustable straps, this lifejacket has a snug fit so your child can focus on having fun without any worries.

The Marinepool CHILDS 100n Buoyancy Lifejacket is suitable for toddlers and babies who are 10 to 20kg in weight with a max chest of 65cm. It is made from the softest fabric and is very versatile with multiple sizes on offer. The straps are also adjustable and there is an additional whistle and reflective strips for great visibility.

One review said: "I purchased this for my grandson for when out on our boat. I’m very pleased with it. He is 21 months old but is big for his age (he wears age 2-3 clothing) and it fits very well. It isn’t too bulky and has a crotch strap for added safety. He is happy to wear it and I think it will fit him for a good while."

If you are worried about your baby’s first ever water dip or you are going to an island destination or just a simple fishing trip, this innovative baby life jacket from Helly Hansen will keep you at peace. It is to make sure your baby floats safely in the water. Its unique asymmetrical design effortlessly positions your child to float securely, keeping their mouth and nose above water. The reversed zipper allows for easy and hassle-free dressing by parents. This life jacket is certified under ISO 12402-4, offering the latest in certified life protection. Soft foam provides lasting comfort, ideal for extended hours spent on or near the water.

Your babies will surely have some aquatic fun with this Salty the Shark toddler life jacket. It’s specifically made to fit two to three year olds. This adorable swim vest is tailor-made for little ones eager to make a splash in the water. Featuring vibrant colour blocks and a playful shark design, it not only looks charming but also guarantees your child stays safe and comfy in the pool or by the beach.
This childs life jacket features secure buckles and adjustable straps for a snug and secure fit. The soft, lightweight material allows for unrestricted movement so your toddlers can swim and splash freely while providing essential buoyancy to boost your child's water confidence.
Whether it's their first swim lesson or a day of sunny play, Salty the Shark will be their best swim buddy.

Aquatics Institute, the US and International awarding body. Providing kids with that extra bit of confidence, the jacket includes eight simple-to-remove floats to adapt to your child’s needs and progression. As well as, chunky YKK self-locking zip and 50+ UV and natural thermal protection.

One review said: "Having a 3-year-old who would not go swimming... this was a lifesaver! Went on our holiday and his confidence grew and grew to the point he even went down slides on his own and felt safe... So many people commented on this and wished they had brought one too. Didn't chaff either, and would definitely recommend. Obviously, you still have to watch them as it's not a life jacket. Thank you for making our holiday so much easier :) used it without armbands!"

The Kids 100 N Approved Life Jacket Childs is CE approved and suitable for little ones with a weight of 10 to 20kg. The neon jacket has superb visibility with its high-vis reflective strips. It provides great neck and head support and has a fully adjustable crotch strap.

One review said: "Got for my 2-year-old boy who likes to try to run off the jetty / jump out of boats declaring “I swimming”. Luckily haven’t needed its buoyancy aid properties yet but it seems comfortable for him and enables me to breathe a bit easier."

With plenty of adjustable features, the Lazlias life jacket is a fluorescent yellow with reflective strips so you know your child will be seen in the water. It comes in a variety of different sizes for little ones, and even has a wide protective floatation neck that helps keep your childs face out of the water if there is an emergency.

One review said: "I got the 15-30kg and it is spot on for my four year old, we have tested it out and works well in fresh water and the sea. Would not be without it when kayaking."

The Crewsaver Crewfit 150N Junior has an automatic 150N life jacket on offer. Being the first Fusion 3D device for juniors, it certainly is leading the way to a more safe, comfortable, and stylish solution. It also has a chin support and light attachment.

The Swimbest UK Swim Jacket is available in a range of sizes (16 months to seven years) and designs. The vest is designed for a snug fit, and gives toddlers a boost of confidence in the water, encourages the correct swimming position and has an adjustable buoyancy system. It includes eight easy to remove foam floats, providing the perfect amount of buoyancy.

One r****eview said: "Brought for my one year old's first swimming day. He’s always been big and always in the size above so usually get him 18-24 and this was just right but snug maybe. Great value for money."

Another review said: "Purchased for use by granddaughter on holiday. Wasn’t sure whether she would be that willing to wear but she has fully accepted use. It is brilliant and provides all the necessary buoyancy to assist her when swimming."

This BA 50N+ Kayak, Stand-Up-Paddle and Dinghy Buoyancy Aid from Decathlon is suitable for children from the age of around 6-years-old. It comes with a crotch strap to provide extra security and is a 70N, making it more buoyant than your normal buoyancy aids.

One review said: "Fits well and kids liked the colour."

Another review said: Feels robust, good fit. Strap underneath. Excellent value."