Find the right life jacket
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Sizes on the label (U.S. Coast Guard)
| Size | User weight |
|---|---|
| Infant | 33 lb (15 kg) or less |
| Child | over 33 lb up to 55 lb (15-25 kg) |
| Youth | over 55 lb up to 88 lb (25-40 kg) |
| Adult | over 88 lb (40 kg) |
Label levels
- Level 50: For competent swimmers who are near the bank or shore.
- Level 70: For people who have help or a means of rescue close at hand, or who are near the bank or shore.
- Level 100: For people who may have to wait for rescue, but are likely to do so in sheltered water.
- Level 150: For general use, or for use with foul-weather clothing.
- Level 275: Mainly for offshore use in extreme conditions.
Style
- Children, weak swimmers and non-swimmers: a foam (inherently buoyant) life jacket. Inflatables are not appropriate for weak or non-swimmers.
- Infants and young children: a collar for head support and a strap between the legs.
- Children under 13 must wear one on a moving boat (federal law), except below deck or in an enclosed cabin.
Fit check
- Check the label: it must say U.S. Coast Guard approved and list a weight range (and chest size) that fits the person now. Don’t buy a bigger size to grow into.
- Zip and buckle it all the way. It should fit snugly.
- Raise both arms over your head while a helper gently pulls up on the arm openings. It should not ride up over the chin or ears.
- Try it on in the water (shallow, with a helper close by) to make sure the mouth and nose stay clear.
- Test it for wear and buoyancy at least once a year.
