Junior Life Jackets (20-50kg)

Junior Life Jackets

When it comes to family time on the water, safety should always come first - especially for the younger crew members. Whether you're planning a coastal cruise or an offshore adventure, a well-fitting, high-quality junior life jacket is essential.

Why Junior Life Jackets Are So Important

Children are more vulnerable around water, and in the event of an accident, every second counts. A properly fitted junior life jacket can:

• Keep the child afloat and positioned face-up in the water.
• Provide high visibility, making them easier to spot.
• Reassure both child and parent, allowing kids to enjoy their time on the water confidently.

Buoyancy Aid vs Life Jacket: What’s the Difference?

It’s important to understand the distinction:

Buoyancy Aids (50N) are ideal for competent junior swimmers involved in supervised watersports (like dinghy sailing or paddleboarding). They provide freedom of movement but won’t turn a child face-up if they’re unconscious.

Life Jackets (100N or 150N) offer more buoyancy and are designed to rotate a person onto their back. These are essential for non-swimmers, open water activities, or any time your child might fall in unexpectedly.

For most boating activities, especially where automatic protection is needed, we recommend a 100N foam life jacket or a 150N automatic inflatable life jacket, depending on age and weight.

Key Features to Look For:

Not all junior life jackets are created equal. Here’s what to check before you buy:

Correct Size and Weight Rating:
Always choose a jacket based on your child’s weight, not just age. A poorly fitted life jacket won’t perform as designed.

Crotch Straps:
Essential for preventing the life jacket from slipping over the child’s head during a fall into the water.

High Visibility Colours:
Bright orange, yellow, or red make it easier to see your child in the water.

Whistle and Reflective Tape:
Useful for emergency situations, especially in low visibility conditions.

Comfort and Fit:
If it’s not comfy, kids won’t want to wear it. Look for soft materials and adjustable straps to ensure a snug fit.

Popular Junior Life Jackets We Recommend

At Life Jacket Outlet, we stock a wide range of trusted brands known for their safety and comfort, including:

Crewsaver Crewfit 150N Junior Automatic Life Jacket:
A junior life jacket that includes features found on higher spec adult life jackets - including Fusion 3D design, peninsula schin support and an attachment point for a life jacket light.

Seago Waveguard 150N Junior Automatic Life Jacket:
Waveguard's main USP is its S-Design lung technology, which purshes water away from the wearer's face, significantly reducing the risk of secondary drowning. There's also an easy fit buckle and attachment point for a life jacket safety line.

Spinlock Deckvest Cento 100N Junior Automatic Life Jacket:
A favourite for sporty juniors aged 8–15 who want a more grown-up, low profile design that offers maximum comfort. The life jacket has a lightweight, easy to adjust belt and single crotch strap.

Were can I buy a Junior Life Jacket?

No matter how good the life jacket is, it only works if it's worn. Encourage your kids to get used to putting theirs on as soon as they step aboard. Make it part of your boating routine, and set a good example by wearing yours too.

Need help choosing the right junior life jacket? Contact us today and our highly experienced team will be happy to assist.