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Before We Dive In…
Let’s start with the most important reminder about water safety for kids: a life jacket or personal flotation device (PFD) is no substitute for supervision. Always keep a close eye on children in or around the water—no matter how confident they seem or how well their gear fits.
If you're a parent, guardian, grandparent, or anyone buying a child’s PFD, you're in the right place. Whether it’s for a day at the lake, a family paddle, or your baby’s first boat ride, choosing the right coastguard approved life jacket or PFD is an important decision—and it can feel a little overwhelming.
At Mustang Survival, we get a lot of questions from families just like yours. This guide covers our most frequently asked questions and expert tips to help you find a PFD that fits well, meets safety standards, and keeps your little one safe and comfortable on the water.
A Note About Terms
When it comes to water safety, the terms "life jacket," "life vest," and "Personal Flotation Device (PFD)” are often used interchangeably. However, it's important to understand the PFD meaning, as it refers to any device designed to keep you afloat in the water, including life jackets, vests, and buoyancy aids. Learn more about the difference between life jackets and other PFDs.
Now, let's dive into the most frequently asked questions on kids' PFDs:
1. How do I choose the right size kids’ PFD?
The best PFD is the one your child will wear—so fit and comfort matter as much as safety. Always choose a kids’ PFD based on weight, not age or clothing size.
Please note that weight ranges don’t align perfectly between legacy and harmonized safety standards due to metric sizing and international alignment. You may see approved products labeled under either system, so always rely on the size and weight listed on the product label.
If your child falls between sizes, consider opting for the larger size and be sure to test the fit. When in doubt, a knowledgeable retailer or fit specialist can help you dial in the right fit.
2. How can you tell if a kids' life jacket fits properly?
- A snug, secure fit—not overly tight, but not loose either
- The life vest should not ride up over the chin or ears
- Test the fit by lifting your child by the shoulder straps of the zipped vest.
If their chin or ears slip through, it’s too loose.
A quick fit check goes a long way in keeping your child safe—and happy—on the water.
3. Are there activity-specific PFDs for kids, like for sailing or whitewater rafting?
Yes! While many PFDs are versatile enough for a variety of water activities, some models are designed with specific sports in mind. These specialized vests often include unique cuts, materials, or features that enhance comfort, mobility, and safety.
Here are a few examples from our lineup:
- Rev Foam Vest (Child, Youth, Young Adult): Ideal for fishing or hunting trips, with segmented foam and mesh for all-day comfort.
- Canyon V Foam Vest (Youth): Designed for whitewater rafting, with a head pillow and extra waist belt for a secure fit in rough conditions.
- Bobby Foam Vest (Youth): A sailing and paddling PFD, it features large zippered cargo pockets with mesh drainage, and a fleece-lined hand warmer tunnel.
If your child regularly participates in a specific water sport, a tailored vest can make a noticeable difference in both experience and safety.
4. Do you have any kids' life vests that come with crotch straps?
Yes, several of our models include crotch straps, which are an important safety feature—especially for younger kids.
5. Why are crotch straps important?
They help keep the PFD in place. If a child falls into the water, the strap prevents the PFD from riding up or slipping over their head—something that can happen if the vest is loose or if the child is small and active. It’s a simple but effective way to add extra security and peace of mind.
These Mustang Survival models include crotch straps:
- Child Rev Foam Vest
- Child Lil Legends Foam Vest
- Infant Lil Legends Foam Vest
- Infant Classic Foam PFD (Canada only)
- Child Classic Foam PFD (Canada only)
-
Youth Classic Foam PFD (Canada only)
For infants and smaller children, we always recommend choosing a model with a crotch strap for a safe, dependable fit.
6. Do you have kids’ life vests that are PFAS-free?
We do! Mustang Survival is committed to protecting both your family and the environment.
If you’re looking for PFAS-free options, here are two great choices:
- Child Lil Legends Foam Vest (Model: MV3556)
- Infant Lil Legends Foam Vest (Model: MV3251)
These models are made without PFAS (per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances), which are commonly found in water- and stain-resistant treatments but can have environmental and health impacts.
7. Are your kids’ PFDs Coast Guard or Transport Canada approved?
Yes, our kids' life vests are approved by both the U.S. Coast Guard and Transport Canada. However, it's always best to double-check the specifications table on each product page to ensure you're choosing the right certification for your needs.
Each product page includes a table like this:
This helps ensure the PFD you choose meets the correct safety standards—whether you're boating in Canada, the U.S., or both.
Ready to Gear Up?
Finding the right life vest doesn’t have to be complicated. With a little knowledge and the right fit, you’ll be ready to head out with confidence—knowing your child is safe, supported, and ready to make memories on the water.
Still have questions? We’re always here to help. Let’s get your little adventurer suited up for the season.
