Life Jacket?

Mrs.Cooley2bee

We are going to the Outer Banks in two weeks.  We will have pool and beach access.  I really want to get Charlotte a life jacket to wear when we are around the pool (and maybe on the beach too).

Anyway, I found lots of good looking options on Amazon but the sizing is throwing me.  She weighs about 28 pounds.  All of the life vests are for 30lbs and under or 30-50lbs.  Is it a horrible idea to get the 30-50lb vest?  Do you think it will be too big?  I really want it to keep her safe but I also hate to buy something that will be too small or that she will grow out of quickly.

Also, does anyone have a recommendation on an awesome vest?

TIA!

katpres06

If it were me, I'd want to try it on. I think it's important that it fit right. She'll be safer with one on, but not as safe if it doesn't fit right.

You could always go up to Meijer (or somewhere else that sells them) to check out sizes. I know my SIL got one for my niece at Meijer, which is why I suggested it.

Superchicy

I'd go to Walmart or somewhere like that and try them on.  I would think the bigger one would work as long as you can cinch the straps up enough and it's not too long to keep her from walking around.  Also make sure it's Coast Guard approved, that means it will keep their head above water, not all of them are. 

KittahMama

Any place in the area that sells boats or boating equipment will sell life jackets as well.  Walmart and KMart also sell them. 

Get a neoprene one, and definitely get one that fits- so that probably means shelling out for the one that she fits in now.  I say neoprene because it is much more comfy, less aggravating and less bulky so she is less likely to be annoyed or complain about it.

If it is too big when she gets in the water it will ride up over her neck and pull her down into it, which for one is really uncomfy and two defeats the purpose of the jacket. 

I bought three adult neoprene ones at KMart last year for about $40 each, kids are usually significantly less. 

You can also look at these for options:

https://www.walmart.com/ip/Stearns-Puddle-Jumper/16480875
I would only recommend this if you plan on being beside her in the water at ALL times.

https://www.walmart.com/ip/Stearns-Girl-s-Swim-N-Float-Swimsuit-and-Lifejacket/11186189

 

angelina477

We are shopping for the same thing. Target has some and so does Once upon a Child, if you dont mind used. The vests at Target were that same size range. I think seeing them in person helps you get an idea of the right fit. My DD is around 27-29 lbs.

Mrs.Cooley2bee

Thanks ladies.  I also just read-up on personal flotation devices and there are multiple "levels" approved by the Coast Guard.  I decided on a Level II because it will keep her face up if she were to have an accident.  Now I need to go find one that fits!

ETA: Score!!  I can send it back to Amazon if it doesn't fit and get another size.  Looks like I can order online after all.  I think I am going to try the "under 30lb", Level II vest first.

DRockH

Mrs.Cooley2bee:

Thanks ladies.  I also just read-up on personal flotation devices and there are multiple "levels" approved by the Coast Guard.  I decided on a Level II because it will keep her face up if she were to have an accident.  Now I need to go find one that fits!

ETA: Score!!  I can send it back to Amazon if it doesn't fit and get another size.  Looks like I can order online after all.  I think I am going to try the "under 30lb", Level II vest first.

order both and see which one fits best, send back the other!