Life jacket-wearing for children in canoes is like seat belts in the car — non-negotiable. It isn't a question of whether the kids will wear one, it's a question of which model.

Boating is a terrific way to enjoy the outdoors with kids, but if something goes wrong, everyone needs to float! That includes adults, by the way. Even in flat water, parents should wear life vests too, so they'll be in position to make a rescue if necessary.

In the right PFD, kids are as comfortable
as they are buoyant

Problem is, not all life vests, or personal flotation devices (PFDs), are created equal. Picking the right one will go a long way toward making that parental edict less of a battle.

What To Look For

		High class. Life jackets should have tags and labels that type them by class. The best ones fall into the Type III category, with a Coast Guard seal of approval.
		Right size. Labeling will specify what size person they are designed to float. Kid's models usually give a weight range (30-50 lbs., for example), and sometimes also list a chest size (21"-25").
		Leg loops. These are the single most important safety feature on children's PFDs. Without leg loops (either one or two straps of webbing sewn to the bottom of the vest), the vest can easily slip over a child's head. I suggest leg loops even on older children (up to 10), until they get enough body definition and swimming strength to minimize the chance of the vest slipping off. Leg loops are easy to sew on at home if life jackets don't come with them.
		Forward float. Flotation should be concentrated on the front of the vest and relatively high on the body, so kids will turn face up and head up in the water, especially in the case of infants and toddlers.
		Head flap. A flotable head rest is especially important for youngsters who don't know how to swim yet.
		Adjustability. Kid's PFDs should have adjustable straps around the torso and on the leg loops so you can snug the vest to your kid.

Move on to Fit Is Everything

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