How to tell if a life jacket fits properly?

Is there a proper way to make sure a life jacket fits properly? I am big on water safety, and I am taking my young kids camping. Before doing so, we are going to buy them new life jackets. I want to make sure they fit 100% properly before heading out, making sure they arent too big or too small.

 

There is a way to check for proper fit while at the store before purchasing. The jacket should fit almost snug, but not restrict body movement. The life jacket shouldn't be able to slip over head when someone lifts up on the shoulder straps or other upper parts of jacket. Comfort is not to be sacrafised tho. There are books that go into detail on this. Maybe stop by a local discount or used book store, and look for canoe and kayaking books. One good author is Cliff Jacobson. I have a few of his.

 

...it must be an approved life jacket - in this country it is the Department of Transport who regulates life jackets.

 

That picture of the dog in the life jacket just made my day, so thank you to whoever put that up. I needed it too, because today was pretty rough. I would say that you never really know until you fit it for yourself, and I would think that the tighter the better, but within reason of course.

 

Some years back when we were in a beach resort, we rented a small boat for cruising the area. The boatman gave the 8 of us life jackets. As the boat mived, I noticed that it was difficult to snap the velcro if the strap in my life jacket. But I didn't mind due the excitement. When we went home and I posted our pictures on Facebook, some comments made me realize that the life jacket I was wearing was fit for a child.

 

We have a 74 pound Labrador who loves to swim and kayak. We bought this manufactures life jacket for our dog and we have zero complaints. The river water temperature in Northern CA are low 50s, you never know the dangers in the water. This is an excellent life jacket for dog.


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...luvs the dog luvs the vest.