Swimming vest - Recommendations

A swimming vest is one of the best flotation aids for kids who are learning how to swim, or who need extra buoyancy when playing in the water. It combines the function of upper-arm aids and a swimming belt in one product, which makes it easier to swim and move. Often, children are obstructed in their movements due to upper arm aids, since they hinder correct swimming strokes in the water.

One of the best functions with a swimming vest is, that it stabilises kids in the water quite easily, to give them the right swimming position. This way they don’t have to spend energy to get the correct position in the water, but can instead focus on the technique. As such, a swimming vest also provides the most natural feeling of floating in the water, which can make it easier to swim without swimming aids when the child is ready.

Some models also comes with removable flotation elements, so you can gradually remove more and more buoyancy. This provides a great transition, so the kid gradually can go from most possible buoyancy to no buoyancy.

In addition to this, a swimming vest can’t slip off the kid, if the size fits. Some models even come with a strap to use between the legs, so you are guaranteed that it stays where it is supposed to. You don’t have the same kind of security with upper arm aids or belts, which can much easier loosen in their grip and buckles, which can cause them to slide off. In these cases, a swimming vest - particularly those with a strap for between the legs - will remain stable no matter what they are exposed to.

Apart from this, you must also remember that a swimming vest is required by law for most watersports activities, like SUP and kayaking. So you might as well invest in one that can be used for everything. You must remember, however, that a swimming vest is not a life vest. The difference is the cushioning at the head, that you find in a life vest, which makes sure that the head will be held up in case of unconsciousness.