As a new parent, introducing a 1-year-old to water can be a fun and joyful moment. With the right selection of water gear, your kids may experience a positive water introduction session, which leads to water comfort and confidence at a very early age!

So, what should parents look for?

Is it enough only for fun? Or my kid’s comfort?

Or ultimately, my toddler’s safety?

Between floaties and a swim vest, here’s what you should know.

Your Kids Position: Above The Water VS In-The-Water

Floaties, pool floats, ring floats: These items position your kids above the water. This body position does not give swim benefits to young children. The advantage: fun & cheap.

Swim vest, kids’ life vests: These water gear positions your kids in the water where their bodies are actually submerged in water. Your child will be in an upright position, floating on their tummy and keeping the head above water. This is the ideal position for kids to start to learn to swim. The advantage: freedom of arm movement

Sauf vest is designed specifically for toddlers and young children from a weight of 5 kg to 41 kg.

Economical to your pocket

Floaties: An Inflatable type of gear. Easily punctured and torn down, especially when not in use for a time. The concept is buy once, use once only.

Swim vest, kids’ life vests: Economical to parents’ pockets. Even so, the price can be pricey; however, your kids can wear this floating gear for all water activities. The Sauf brand is even suitable for kids to wear at swimming pools, beaches, and boating activities below 30 nautical miles.

A Dual Function: Swim & Life-Saving Device

Floaties: It is a toy. Yes, it is fun and brings joy. However, floaties like arm float only support the arms, which may cause kids to tip forward. It is easily slipped off and removed, especially on active kids. It is not ideal for teaching swimming posture or body control in water.

Swim vest, kids’ life vests: A Sauf vest collection is great for swimming and life-saving. That is why Sauf Vest is the most recommended brand for a safety jacket for swimming for kids.

This brand is approved by the US Coast Guard, offering Type II & Type III approved life jackets designed specifically for young kids.

Sauf Vest offers a well-fitting life jacket designed for young kids, with constant adult supervision. Kids must always be within arm’s reach, as no flotation device should replace an active parent’s supervision.