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Should Swim Vests Be Tight?
Posted By Lane Liii
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The short answer: Swim vests need to fit snugly, but not overly tight. The right fit balances safety and comfort, ensuring the vest works as intended while letting your child move freely.
A snug fit is critical for safety. If a vest is too loose, it can ride up, shift, or even slip off during water play—putting your child at risk of submersion. The buoyancy panels (where the flotation happens) need to stay positioned over the chest and torso to keep their head above water. A good test: After fastening all straps, you should be able to slide 1–2 fingers between the vest and your child’s body. This ensures it’s secure but not restrictive.
On the flip side, a vest that’s too tight is problematic too. It can limit arm and leg movement, making it hard for kids to kick, paddle, or adjust their balance—key for building swimming skills. Tight vests may also restrict breathing or cause discomfort, making kids resistant to wearing them.
Adjustable straps (found on most quality vests) are your best tool. They let you fine-tune the fit as your child grows or if they’re wearing a swimsuit underneath. Always check the fit before each use—kids grow quickly, and a vest that fit last month might be too tight now.
In short: Snug, not tight. A well-fitted vest keeps your child safe, comfortable, and ready to enjoy the water.
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