10 best puddle jumpers

Puddle jumpers are a type of safety flotation device primarily designed for children who are learning to swim or participating in water activities. These devices are commonly used in boating, sailing, and other water sports to ensure the safety of young children in and around the water. Here are some key points related to puddle jumpers:

  1. Design: Puddle jumpers typically consist of a durable, inflatable material encased in a fabric cover. They are designed to be worn around a child's chest and secured with adjustable straps.Some models also have arm floats attached to help children stay afloat.

  2. Buoyancy: The primary purpose of puddle jumpers is to provide buoyancy to children in the water. They help keep kids afloat and prevent them from sinking, allowing them to maintain their position on the surface of the water.

  3. Safety: Puddle jumpers are considered a safety flotation device and are intended for use by children who may not yet be strong swimmers. They provide added security and peace of mind for parents and caregivers, especially when children are in or near the water.

  4. Comfort and Mobility: Many puddle jumper designs are crafted to be comfortable for children to wear while allowing them to move their arms and legs freely in the water. This enables kids to practice swimming skills and gain confidence in the water.

  5. Approved by Safety Standards: Puddle jumpers are typically designed and tested to meet safety standards established by relevant authorities, such as the United States Coast Guard (USCG) or equivalent agencies in other countries. It's important to choose puddle jumpers that are certified to ensure their effectiveness.

  6. Usage: Puddle jumpers are commonly used in various water activities, including boating, sailing, swimming, and other recreational water sports. They are especially popular for young children who may not have developed strong swimming skills.

  7. Age and Weight Limits: Manufacturers often provide guidelines for the appropriate age and weight range for using puddle jumpers. It's crucial to select a size that matches the child's age, weight, and size for the best fit and safety.

  8. Supervision: While puddle jumpers provide an added layer of safety, they do not replace the need for adult supervision around water. It's essential to monitor children closely when they are wearing these devices and in or near the water.

In summary, puddle jumpers are safety flotation devices designed to keep young children safe and buoyant in the water during various water activities, including boating, sailing, and swimming. They are a valuable tool for helping children gain confidence in the water while ensuring their safety, especially when they are not yet proficient swimmers.

Below you can find our editor's choice of the best puddle jumpers on the market
  

Coleman Life Stearns Original Puddle Jumper Kids Jacket Vest Children Water flotation device

Coleman

Based on 15 reviews Check latest price

Product description

Kids love the playful designs on the Stearns Original Puddle Jumper Kids Life Jacket Vest, while parents appreciate the U.S. Coast Guard-approved safety features that the authentic orginal offers. Whether they’re in the pool, at the beach, or on a boat, kids move and swim freely, get a confidence boost if they are learning how to swim, and pick up valuable water safety habits they can use for life. For greater peace of mind, the Original Puddle Jumper's safety buckle snaps in the back to keep kids from taking vests off on their own; be sure to tighten the adjustable strap for a secure fit.

  • The Stearns Original Puddle Jumper Life Jackets have been tested and approved by the U.S. Coast Guard for use as Type V/III personal flotation devices in, on, or near the water
  • Meet strict requirements for use on boats, in public pools, and at water parks that require Coast Guard-approved devices
  • Nylon shell for durability
  • Playful designs make water safety fun for kids
  • Give beginners confidence when learning how to swim
  • Designed to fit snugly for added safety
  • Comfortable styling lets kids move and play freely in or near the water

User questions & answers

Question: Has anyone used these past 50 lbs for kids who can't swim yet? my twins are 55 lbs
Answer: Dear Amazon customer, They are not the same sonar transducer on all 77 series receivers. Different Lucky sonar transducer need work with the specific Lucky monitor.
Question: What's the difference between the puddle jumper basic and the deluxe
Answer: No. Just shows a fish and will show you what kind. Never got that on any of mine.
Question: I had NO success with these the last time I went skeet shooting. Any advice
Answer: yes, it can be used for ice fishing. you just need dig a ice hole enough big and clean the floating ice around the ice hole for avoid signal interference.
Question: which size is this life jacket
Answer: Dear Amazon customer, there is a hole at the bottom right corner of the monitor. you should attach the neck strap to that place.

Product features

Tested & Approved

Use the authentic, U.S. Coast Guard-certified Stearns Original Puddle Jumper with confidence wherever approved personal flotation devices are required.

Fits Like a Glove

Kids love being able to move freely. Adults trust the extra security of the snug-fitting cut.

Snap 'Em In

The safety buckle snaps in back to keep kids from taking vests off on their own. Be sure to tighten the adjustable strap for a secure fit.

Designs that Make a Splash

Water safety can be fun, too! Colorful, entertaining designs appeal to kids for more fun in the water.

STEARNS Life Puddle Jumper Stearns Kids Jacket Original Vest Children Water flotation device

STEARNS

Based on 5 reviews Check latest price
  • The Stearns Original Puddle Jumper Life Jackets have been tested and approved by the U.S. Coast Guard for use as Type V/III personal flotation devices in, on, or near the water
  • Meet strict requirements for use on boats, in public pools, and at water parks that require Coast Guard-approved devices
  • Woven polyester for softer fabric with less chafing
  • Playful designs make water safety fun for kids
  • Give beginners confidence when learning how to swim
  • Designed to fit snugly for added safety
  • Comfortable styling lets kids move and play freely in or near the water

User questions & answers

Question: Is this puddle jumper made in usa or china
Answer: Wichita ks
Question: Is the puddle jumper machine washable
Answer: Yes, but air dry
Question: is this good for a 1.5 yr old toddler of only 25 pounds? or better not to risk it? any other product out there that might work
Answer: Will this work for a 20lb toddler? Or is it too big?
Question: difference between basic and deluxe
Answer: I wondered the same thing when I was buying mine, so I checked on the manufacturer's website (www.stearnsflotation.com) and the main/only difference is I find was the fabric used on the outside. The lower priced line (called "Cancun Series" uses nylon, the mid priced flotation uses woven polyester (both the "Maui" and "Bahamas" series) and their most expensive line ("Tahiti" Series) uses hydroprene. Amazon doesn't seem to use the series names but just check what fabric is listed in the item description and you will know if you are looking at the lower, mid or upper end fabric option.Hope that helps!I purchased the turtle print, which Amazon refers to in their listing as a "Deluxe" item, and the fabric is woven polyester-- meaning it is from their mid line. We have loved it and have no complaints as to chafing on my little guys skin.

Product features

Tested & Approved

Use the authentic, U.S. Coast Guard-certified Stearns Original Puddle Jumper with confidence wherever approved personal flotation devices are required.

Fits Like a Glove

Kids love being able to move freely. Adults trust the extra security of the snug-fitting cut.

Snap 'Em In

The safety buckle snaps in back to keep kids from taking vests off on their own. Be sure to tighten the adjustable strap for a secure fit.

Designs that Make a Splash

Water safety can be fun, too! Colorful, entertaining designs appeal to kids for more fun in the water.

Puddle Jumper Original Kids Life Jacket, 2 Pack | for Kids 30-50 Pounds | Deluxe Toddler Swim Vest

Puddle Jumper

Based on 3 reviews Check latest price

Product description

Every parent deserves to feel relaxed as their child starts to have fun in the water. From baby steps in the shallow end to competitive water sports years down the road, The Stearns Original Puddle Jumper offers safety and fun as countless memories are made for parents and children, one splash at a time.



Kids love the playful designs on the Puddle Jumper, while parents appreciate the U.S. Coast Guard-approved safety features that the life vest offers. Whether they’re in the pool, at the beach, or on a boat, kids move and swim freely, get a confidence boost if they are learning how to swim, and pick up valuable water safety habits they can use for life. For greater peace of mind, the Puddle Jumper's safety buckle snaps in the back to keep kids from taking vests off on their own; be sure to tighten the adjustable strap for a secure fit.



From the moment their toes first hit the water, parents want their kids to feel confident as they learn how to swim. Since 2009, the Original Puddle Jumper has provided safe, comfortable products for kids in all stages of childhood. Tied to the Stearns brand, well established for more than 60 years in conquering uncharted waters and developing new water safety standards with the U.S. Coast Guard, they offer a variety of safe products that put parents at ease while giving children the freedom to have fun in the water.

  • TESTED AND APPROVED – Use the U.S. Coast Guard-certified Stearns Puddle Jumper Kids Life Vest with confidence. Let them safely make a splash on boats, at the beach or in the pool
  • FITS LIKE A GLOVE – Designed for children weighing 30 to 50 pounds. Kids love being able to move freely. Adults trust the extra security of the snug-fitting cut
  • SNAP 'EM IN – The safety buckle snaps in the back to keep kids from removing the toddler life vest on their own. Be sure to tighten the adjustable strap for a secure fit
  • DESIGNS THAT MAKE A SPLASH – Water safety can be fun, too! Colorful, kid-friendly designs appeal to kids for more fun in the water
  • COMFORTABLE DESIGN – The premium soft-woven polyester construction of these life vests offer all-day comfort

Seanrui Kids Pool Floats Swim Vest with Swim Cap and Storage Bag, Suitable for 30-50 lbs Infant/Baby/Toddler,Children Puddle/Sea Beach Jumper

Based on 79 reviews Check latest price

Product description

Design for children:

1.Gives superior-stability and confidence for children.

2.With Colorful and lovely graphics,the kids swim vest is great for kids have fun in the pool, beach and is a wonderful learn-to-swim life jacket

3.Easy on-and-off buckle let your kids just simply pull over the arms and buckle up



Steps of Usage:

1.Press three keys-both sides and the white round button strongly at the same time

2.Open the buckle

3.Put on the sleeves

4.Lock the buckle

5.Adjust the chest strap



Some Specification:

Material: Woven polyester + soft nylon fabrics + foam

Size: 55.88x15.24x17cm/22.x6x6.7inch

Kids weighing: Children weight from 30 to 50 lbs, 20 - 30 pounds infant compatible

Buoyancy: Seanrui life jacket ensures that less than 50 pounds(23 kg) can float up

Gender: Unisex

Occasion: Swimming

Package Include:1*Kids Swim Cap, 1*Carrying Bag, 1*Waterproof Phone Pouch

  • Comfortable Material And Lovely Cartoon Design: Seanrui Kids Learn to Swim vest is made of woven polyester and soft nylon fabrics. Soft and flexible. against ripping, enjoy happy summer with a safe guarantee.
  • Safe And Secure: EN Standard (EN 13138-1:2014.:Bouyant aids for swimming instruction) verified | The swim vest with arm wings is secured with a safety buckle at the kid's back, so that the kid can't open it alone; adjustable strap to fit all sizes between 30-50lbs(1-6 years). And also used as toddler swim vest for toddler weighing from 20-30 lbs.
  • Easy To Wear: Swim Vest for toddlers are immediately ready for use since there is no inflation necessary; simply pull over arms and buckle up; comfortable to wear due to the soft arm band construction.
  • Swim Easier: Our toddler swim vest can helps kids float and keep balance in water, more freedom and confidence to swim and play.Help your child learn to swim faster and easier. Can be used in swimming pools, beaches, on boats or by the lakeside.
  • More Details: 1x Kids Swim Cap - The swimming cap prevents water from entering the ear. Skid resistant lining, more fit to the head, keep hair dry. 1 Storage Bag - carry and store easily.

User questions & answers

Question: My daughter is 2 and under 30 lbs. I'm wondering if this would work well for her, as most say they fit 30-50lbs
Answer: Adjustable strap to fit all sizes between 30-50lbs(1-6 years). And also used as toddler swim vest for toddler weighing from 20-30 lbs.
Question: Can you remove the arm bands from the vest
Answer: No they are not removable.
Question: Do you have to inflate the sleeves
Answer: No
Question: How do you wash/dry it? Because mildew
Answer: We have only used it in the pool and hang it when my son is done. It dries quickly

Puddle Jumper Stearns Shark 3D Fit Kids 30 lbs - 50 lbs U.S. Coast Guard Approved

Stearns

Based on 9 reviews Check latest price
  • Fit Kids 30 lbs - 50 lbs
  • U.S. Coast Guard Approved

Puoyis Toddler Kids Swim Life Vest, Girls and Boys Swim Vest Swimming Training Life Jacket, Children Swim Vest for Puddle/Beach,Play Like Jumper

Puoyis

Based on 31 reviews Check latest price
  • 【Material】 Made of Polyester +Waterproof non-woven + Foam foats
  • 【Applicable Age & Weight】 The swim life vest fits for 2-7 years old child (Buoyancy in the 22-66lbs of kids use)
  • 【Security protection and Adjustable Buckle】Adjustable chest strap and double-security buckle for a comfort fit.Safety shoulder harness design to prevent children from removing the vest without parental help and keeps the vest from sliding off during use
  • 【Application】This swim life vest is great for swimming training in Pool, lake, beach, etc. Swim Vest for Kids up to 66 lbs. Baby Swim Training, Kids Lifebuoy, Children Swim Training Equipment, and etc.
  • 【NOTE】This swim life vest is a child training life jacket which aims at providing safe swimming experiences. There are three separate inflatable airbags to help the child be familiar with the water, building confidence, and allowing them to learn swimming in a safe condition. This is a swim aid and should not be used as life-preserving equipment. Adult supervision is required at all times.

Stearns Kids Puddle Jumper Basic Life Jacket (Seahorse (Pink))

Stearns

Based on 11 reviews Check latest price

Product description

This great looking girl's pink seahorse themed puddle jumper life jacket is perfect for boating, swimming, or your other water activities!

  • Child size
  • For kids 30-50 pounds
  • Adjustable fit
  • US Coast Guard approved

  • This great looking girl's pink seahorse themed puddle jumper life jacket is perfect for boating, swimming, or your other water activities!
  • For kids 30-50 pounds
  • US Coast Guard approved

User questions & answers

Question: What is the biggest width when the back strap is loosened the most? How many inches
Answer: I believe you can get 6 inches fully pulling open. Measuring going all the around it's 28 inches & I think we could get another inch on the buckle. My gran kids love them.

Stearns Original Puddle Jumper Kids Life Jacket | Deluxe 3D Life Vest for Children, Frog , 30-50 Pounds

Stearns

Based on 31 reviews Check latest price

Product description

Kids love the playful 3D character on the Stearns Original Puddle Jumper Deluxe 3D Kids Life Jacket Vest, while parents appreciate the U.S. Coast Guard-approved safety features that the authentic orginal offers. Whether they’re in the pool, at the beach, or on a boat, kids move and swim freely, get a confidence boost if they are learning how to swim, and pick up valuable water safety habits they can use for life. For greater peace of mind, the Original Puddle Jumper's safety buckle snaps in the back to keep kids from taking vests off on their own; be sure to tighten the adjustable strap for a secure fit. This deluxe style is made of odor-resistant woven polyester for a softer fabric and less chafing.

  • The Stearns Original Puddle Jumper Life Jackets have been tested and approved by the U.S. Coast Guard for use as Type V/III personal flotation devices in, on, or near the water
  • Meet strict requirements for use on boats, in public pools, and at water parks that require Coast Guard-approved devices
  • Woven polyester for softer fabric with less chafing
  • Antimicrobial-treated fabric resists odor, mold, mildew, and fungus from forming on the product
  • Playful 3D characters make water safety fun for kids
  • Give beginners confidence when learning how to swim
  • Designed to fit snugly for added safety

Product features

Tested & Approved

Use the authentic, U.S. Coast Guard-certified Stearns Original Puddle Jumper with confidence wherever approved personal flotation devices are required.

Fits Like a Glove

Kids love being able to move freely. Adults trust the extra security of the snug-fitting cut.

Snap 'Em In

The safety buckle snaps in back to keep kids from taking vests off on their own. Be sure to tighten the adjustable strap for a secure fit.

Designs that Make a Splash

Water safety can be fun, too! Colorful, entertaining designs appeal to kids for more fun in the water.

Puoyis Toddler Kids Swim Life Vest, Girls and Boys Swim Vest Swimming Training Life Jacket, Children Swim Vest for Puddle/Beach,Play Like Jumper

Puoyis

Based on 127 reviews Check latest price
  • 【Material】 Made of Polyester +Waterproof non-woven + Foam foats
  • 【Applicable Age & Weight】 The swim life vest fits for 2-7 years old child (Buoyancy in the 22-66lbs of kids use)
  • 【Security protection and Adjustable Buckle】Adjustable chest strap and double-security buckle for a comfort fit.Safety shoulder harness design to prevent children from removing the vest without parental help and keeps the vest from sliding off during use
  • 【Application】This swim life vest is great for swimming training in Pool, lake, beach, etc. Swim Vest for Kids up to 66 lbs. Baby Swim Training, Kids Lifebuoy, Children Swim Training Equipment, and etc.
  • 【NOTE】This swim life vest is a child training life jacket which aims at providing safe swimming experiences. There are three separate inflatable airbags to help the child be familiar with the water, building confidence, and allowing them to learn swimming in a safe condition. This is a swim aid and should not be used as life-preserving equipment. Adult supervision is required at all times.

User questions & answers

Question: I have a great grandson that is 11 month old and weighs 22 lbs. It says 22-66 lbs will this fit him ok
Answer: I think neoprene. No zipper
Question: Does this compare to the Stearns puddle jumper
Answer: Yes
Question: Will it work on a 12 months baby? I don’t see any pictures or reviews about it
Answer: I would think so. Although some reviewers found the neck hole too small we used it for my 16-month old granddaughter and it fit fine. I'd recommend reading all the reviews, though, since a 6.5 month-old infant is pretty small for any vest. I seem to remember, though, that the vest does not naturally float to keep the infant's face out of the water so if you're using the vest as a "pool float" you'll need to pay constant, continuous attention to her. I don't think this is unique to this particular vest - all the ones with this "approved" design work the same way. Why this design is "approved" I haven't a clue.
Question: So these can be eorn on boats
Answer: my daughter is a small size 15 month old and she hates this because it's so small and pushes up on her neck. It's made for an infant that doesn't move around much

Puddle Jumper Kids Deluxe 3D Life Jacket | Premium Life Vest for Children with 3D Character, Lizard, 30-50 Pounds

Coleman

Based on 18 reviews Check latest price

Product description

Kids love the playful 3D character on the Stearns Original Puddle Jumper Deluxe 3D Kids Life Jacket Vest, while parents appreciate the U.S. Coast Guard-approved safety features that the authentic orginal offers. Whether they’re in the pool, at the beach, or on a boat, kids move and swim freely, get a confidence boost if they are learning how to swim, and pick up valuable water safety habits they can use for life. For greater peace of mind, the Original Puddle Jumper's safety buckle snaps in the back to keep kids from taking vests off on their own; be sure to tighten the adjustable strap for a secure fit. This deluxe style is made of odor-resistant woven polyester for a softer fabric and less chafing.

  • The Stearns Original Puddle Jumper Life Jackets have been tested and approved by the U.S. Coast Guard for use as Type V/III personal flotation devices in, on, or near the water
  • Meet strict requirements for use on boats, in public pools, and at water parks that require Coast Guard-approved devices
  • Woven polyester for softer fabric with less chafing
  • Antimicrobial-treated fabric resists odor, mold, mildew, and fungus from forming on the product
  • Playful 3D characters make water safety fun for kids
  • Give beginners confidence when learning how to swim
  • Designed to fit snugly for added safety

Product features

Tested & Approved

Use the authentic, U.S. Coast Guard-certified Stearns Original Puddle Jumper with confidence wherever approved personal flotation devices are required.

Fits Like a Glove

Kids love being able to move freely. Adults trust the extra security of the snug-fitting cut.

Snap 'Em In

The safety buckle snaps in back to keep kids from taking vests off on their own. Be sure to tighten the adjustable strap for a secure fit.

Designs that Make a Splash

Water safety can be fun, too! Colorful, entertaining designs appeal to kids for more fun in the water.

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