12 best stearns jumpers

Stearns jumpers, also known as Stearns life jackets or Stearns vests, are a type of safety flotation device designed to keep individuals afloat in water and increase their chances of survival in the event of an emergency while boating or engaging in water-related activities. Here's what you need to know about Stearns jumpers:

  1. Design and Construction: Stearns jumpers are typically constructed with durable materials, including nylon fabric and foam padding. They are designed to provide buoyancy and keep a person's head above water. The vests come in various sizes to fit different body types and are often adjustable for a secure and comfortable fit.

  2. Buoyancy: These life jackets are designed to provide buoyancy that helps individuals stay afloat. The level of buoyancy is specified and regulated by safety standards to ensure effectiveness in keeping wearers safe.

  3. Safety Standards: Stearns jumpers are manufactured to meet specific safety standards established by organizations such as the United States Coast Guard (USCG) in the United States or other relevant authorities in different countries.These standards ensure that the life jackets provide adequate flotation and meet quality and safety requirements.

  4. Types: Stearns offers a range of life jackets to cater to different water activities and user preferences. This includes various styles such as inflatable life vests, inherently buoyant vests, and hybrid models that combine both types of flotation technology.

  5. Usage: Stearns jumpers are commonly used by boaters, kayakers, sailors, water sports enthusiasts, and anyone spending time on or near the water. They are essential safety equipment for both recreational and professional water activities.

  6. Features: Modern Stearns life jackets may come equipped with additional features for added convenience and safety. These features can include reflective strips for visibility, zippered pockets for storage, and adjustable straps for a secure fit.

  7. Maintenance: Proper maintenance of Stearns jumpers is essential to ensure their effectiveness. Regularly inspecting for any damage or wear and tear, cleaning according to the manufacturer's instructions, and storing them in a cool, dry place can help extend their lifespan.

  8. Legal Requirements: In many regions, wearing a life jacket or personal flotation device (PFD) is not just a safety recommendation but a legal requirement, especially for children and when engaging in specific water activities. It's crucial to be aware of and adhere to local boating and water safety regulations.

Stearns is a well-known and reputable brand in the field of water safety, and their life jackets are designed to provide reliable and effective flotation protection. When choosing a Stearns jumper, it's essential to select the right size and type based on your specific needs and the type of water activities you'll be participating in to ensure your safety on the water.

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

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: No the dresses do not include shorts.
Question: Is the puddle jumper machine washable
Answer: 27-1/2" - falls at about the knee on average height child
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: No it does not, and most of the jumpers I have purchased for my grand daughter do not. Usually the skirts have the attached shorts, I wish the jumpers did also.
Question: difference between basic and deluxe
Answer: My daughter is pretty tall and it falls right above her knees . It's a good length I got the blue one as well .

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 The Original Puddle Jumper Infant Life Jacket

STEARNS

Based on 3 reviews Check latest price

Product description

The littlest ones in the family will have a blast on the water with the Stearns Puddle Jumper Infant Hydroprene Life Jacket. The US Coast Guard-approved design is specially-fitted for infants under 30 lbs. With the Heads-Up oversized head support — like a pillow — it encourages face-up flotation. Our lightweight Hydroprene material is our softest material, and when combined with the durable Crosstech foam, it's perfect for comfortable, all-day wear. A grab handle allows you to easily remove your child from the water when necessary. A buckled side opening and zippered back make it easy to get your infant in and out of the vest, while two adjustable leg straps ensure a secure fit during all the fun at the pool, beach or lake.

  • US Coast Guard-approved infant life jacket
  • Oversized head support encourages face-up flotation
  • Made with a soft Hydroprene shell and durable Crosstech flotation foam
  • Designed for infants weighing less than 30 pounds
  • Leg straps and grab handle for extra safety and security

Stearns Original Puddle Jumper Kids Life Jacket | Deluxe Life Vest for Children, Toucan

Stearns

Based on 164 reviews Check latest price

Product description

Kids love the playful designs on the Stearns Original Puddle Jumper Deluxe 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 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
  • 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: Can someone briefly explain difference between deluxe and basic? Thanks
Answer: I saw some people discussing that on another site (or it might have been in the comments of a review) and what I recall is that the material is slightly different. The deluxe was supposed to be a little easier on bare skin. I only have the deluxe and have been really pleased with both of mine. My daughter just turned two years old and, thanks to the puddle jumper helping her learn some swimming technique around the same time she learned how to walk, she'll be swimming without flotation in another couple of weeks.
Question: do they make a extention for the strap. Mygrandson loves his but needs alittle more room around the middle
Answer: There doesn't appear to be any sort of extension for the straps. The floaties come in infant (less than 30 lbs.), child (30-50 lbs.) and youth (50-90 lbs.) sizes. Perhaps it is time to move one size up.
Question: Does this make the child float face up
Answer: The booklet that came with it states, "Designed to provide a stable face-up position in calm water for a conscious wearer. ....Wearer may have to tilt head back to avoid going face-down. Will not hold the face of an unconscious wearer clear of the water."

Stearns Original Puddle Jumper Kids Life Jacket | Ultra Soft Life Vest for Children, Green/Blue Stripes

Coleman

Based on 112 reviews Check latest price

Product description

Kids love the playful designs on the Stearns Original Puddle Jumper Ultra-Soft 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 ultra-soft style is made of lightweight, breathable Hydroprene™ material and has been treated with antimicrobials to resist odors and mildew.

  • 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
  • Hydroprene material is lightweight and breathable for ultra-soft comfort
  • Antimicrobial-treated fabric resists odor, mold, mildew, and fungus from forming on the product
  • Playful designs make water safety fun for kids
  • Give beginners confidence when learning how to swim
  • Comfortable styling lets kids move and play freely in or near the water
  • Adjustable strap offers a secure fit to children 30 to 50 lb.

User questions & answers

Question: My toddler is 3 and weighs around 44-45 lbs. Although this says it’s for up to 50 lbs, is it still comfortable for the chubbier side kids
Answer: Wichita ks
Question: Should i get the Delux or the Ultra? only difference is the material
Answer: Yes, but air dry
Question: Would this keep my 37.5 lb boy afloat
Answer: Will this work for a 20lb toddler? Or is it too big?
Question: Would this work for my 2.5 year old that can't swim or is this more for kids that know how
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.

STEARNS Puddle Jumper Infant Hydroprene Life Jacket, Pink

STEARNS

Based on 490 reviews Check latest price

Product description

Help the littlest swimmers stay safe while they have a blast in the water with the Stearns Puddle Jumper Infant Hydroprene Life Jacket. Specially fitted for infants weighing less than 30 pounds, this baby life jacket features a Heads-Up oversized head support that works like a pillow to encourage face-up flotation. The super-soft Hydroprene material is designed for comfortable all-day wear, and durable Crosstech flotation foam stands up to regular use at the beach or on a boat. A buckled side opening, zippered back, and two leg straps provide a secure fit, while a rescue handle on the back of the vest allows adults to easily pick an infant from the water or a boat if necessary. This flotation vest is US Coast Guard approved.

  • US Coast Guard-approved infant life jacket
  • Oversized head support encourages face-up flotation
  • Made with a soft Hydroprene shell and durable Crosstech flotation foam
  • Leg straps and grab handle for extra safety and security
  • Designed for infants weighing less than 30 pounds
  • Certified for use on boats

User questions & answers

Question: My baby is 16 lbs 6.5 months will this fit her
Answer: Yes. It is approved.
Question: What is the neck hole circumference of this product
Answer: Per the Manufacture: http://www.fullthrottlewatersports.com/p/infant-baby-safe-vestIt's 30lbs and less rated.
Question: what is the coast guard certificaton level on this vest
Answer: Yes
Question: Would this fit my 7 pound newborn or will she slip out of it
Answer: Yes. My girls were about that size when they wore it around 10 weeks!

Product features

Stearns Puddle Jumper Infant Hydroprene Life Jacket

The littlest ones in the family will have a blast on the water with the Stearns Puddle Jumper Infant Hydroprene Life Jacket. With the Heads-Up oversized head support — like a pillow — it encourages face-up flotation. Our lightweight Hydroprene material is our softest material, and when combined with the durable Crosstech foam, it's perfect for comfortable, all-day wear. A grab handle allows you to easily remove your child from the water when necessary. A buckled side opening and zippered back make it easy to get your infant in and out of the vest, while two adjustable leg straps ensure a secure fit during all the fun at the pool, beach or lake.

Stearns Original Puddle Jumper Kids Life Jacket | Deluxe 3D Life Vest for Children, Cat Mermaid

Coleman

Based on 78 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.

STEARNS Puddle Jumper Deluxe Child Life Jacket | Life Vest for Children

STEARNS

Based on 1 reviews Check latest price
  • Stearns 3000004729 puddle jumpers
  • Pfd deluxe, frog
  • Manufactured in United States
  • Certified for use on boats

User questions & answers

Question: Ad says for 20 - 30 lbs but description says 30 - 50 lbs. Which.is correct
Answer: Yes. My kids wore it up to 5yrs old and 60lbs. Although I would recommend the “regular” puddle jumper vs the ultra soft. The ultra soft saturates with water and takes a way longer time to dry! (And if it doesn’t dry completely, I would worry about mold) Both I found were equally comfortable for the age and size of your toddler. Hope that helps!
Question: How do you clean a puddle jumper? Is it possible
Answer: My toddler weighs 26 lbs and she can't wear the deluxe. It keeps putting her on her back. With the Ultra she can go vertical and move around a lot easier.
Question: How often should puddle jumpers be replaced
Answer: My son is 34lbs & my daughter is 42lbs, & they both still wear them occasionally with no problems.
Question: How is the polyester fabric? should i spring for the ultra, with hydroprene
Answer: I bought for my friend's child who was 1.5 years old and couldn't swim at all. It helped him to float.

Product features

Stearns Puddle Jumper Deluxe Child Life Jacket | Life Vest for Children

Puddle Jumper Kids Life Jacket can be used instead of a Type III personal flotation device to help keep children (30 to 50 pounds) safe while they play in or on the water. An adjustable buckle snaps in back and ensures a secure fit as they grow. The jacket also features a fun black fish design so your child won’t rush to take off the vest. Whether they're at the pool, at the beach, or on a boat, kids wearing this life jacket will be able to move and swim freely and will get a confidence boost if they’re just learning to swim

Stearns Original Puddle Jumper Kids Life Jacket | Deluxe 3D Life Vest for Children, Zoom

Coleman

Based on 15 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.

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

Stearns Original Puddle Jumper Kids Life Jacket | Deluxe 3D Life Vest for Children, Strawberry

Coleman

Based on 26 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.

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.

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

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