The great SVB test of children's life jacket 2026 - the best PFDs for children in comparison
How much do life jackets for children cost?
In general, when buying a children's life jacket, you should avoid the "cheaper" options. Try not to base your choice only on price. To ensure the safety of life jackets for children, there are recognised European (EN) and international (ISO) standards. A good life jacket will comply with these specifications.
Colourful life jackets with a fun design might look nice, and being small and light will not restrict your child’s movements. However, caution is also advised with these models. Always be sure about the intended use for any life jacket. Often such modern-looking vests will not turn the wearer into an unconscious-safe position, i.e., face up, and only serve to give the child some slight additional buoyancy. That's great for the pool in the garden, but completely unsuitable for boating or other water sports.
Customer favourite: Officially, the Secumar Arkona Midi is a buoyancy aid. This life jacket, or regatta PFD, will NOT turn the wearer into a face up position, but it does offer greater freedom of movement and is extremely comfortable to wear. A favourite with optimist and dinghy sailors, as well as canoeists and kayakers!
Test winner: An absolute classic. This life jacket has performed well for many years. Will turn an unconscious person face up and is easy to adjust. With a leg strap and attractive design, not only do children love this vest, but also parents. It is available in different sizes (according to weight). Kids love wearing this jacket and it has everything a good children's life jacket needs. Recommended for children up to 8 years old.
Price-performance winner: Extremely comfortable children's life jacket with automatic release mechanism. Will turn the wearer face up and is suitable for the high seas. The best in terms of price and performance.