Kids Life Vests

Sizing by age, L50 vs L50S, never use adult vests

Critical: kids must NEVER be fitted into adult-sized vests. An adult vest is too big around a kid’s body, which means it rides up in the water — potentially over the head in a heavy fall — and doesn’t provide effective flotation. Kids need kid-sized vests. No exceptions, no sizing down adult gear. Life vests (or life jackets) are a legal requirement for all towed water sports in Australia — including kids, including infants. Age categorisation (typical — always check each product page for the specific weight bracket). Infant — designed specifically for babies and toddlers. Some include a collar or headrest for additional head support. Junior — for early primary-age kids. Youth and Kids — primary-age through early teen. The deepest part of the kids range. Teen — designed for teens before they move into adult sizes. L50 vs L50S applies to kids vests too. They have identical buoyancy (50N). The difference is water-type approval. L50 (PFD 2) is approved for smooth, partially smooth and open water on a PWC. Required safety colour. For kids riding behind a jet ski in open water. L50S (PFD 3) is approved for smooth water only. Any colour permitted. Most lakes, rivers and dams. Common for kids in towed water sports. A kid on a lake behind a boat needs at least an L50S. A kid on a PWC in open water needs an L50. Fit is critical, even more so than with adults. Very snug when dry. The vest should not slip up over the kid’s head when you pick them up by the shoulders of the vest — test this in the shop before buying. Always fasten both the zip AND the belt. Boys vs girls cuts. Many kids vests are gender-marked — usually for graphic and colour preference rather than fit difference. Pick based on what your kid likes and what fits properly. Care. Hand wash only with mild detergent. Never machine wash. Store away from heat and direct sun. Brand spread. Jetpilot has the deepest range across infant through youth. Follow covers infant through junior. Rip Curl, Wing and Ronix all carry kids ranges with specific age bands.