Infant Vests

An infant vest is a lightweight outer or layering piece worn over a base layer, while bodysuits and sleepsuits are one-piece garments designed to be worn next to the skin for daytime comfort or sleeping. Think of a vest as an extra layer for warmth or activity, and a bodysuit or sleepsuit as the primary clothing piece for everyday wear.

Swim vests are typically aimed at pool play and gentle float assistance, while life jackets are designed for boating and situations where more secure flotation is needed. Match the product—swim vest or life jacket—to the activity and keep close adult supervision regardless of which you use.

It should fit snugly without restricting movement, similar to how a bodysuit sits under clothes, so layers lie smoothly and your baby can move comfortably. Try the vest on with the intended outer layer to confirm there’s room for motion and no tight spots.

Both swim vests and life jackets can be used for supervised water play, but treat them as flotation aids rather than a replacement for hands-on supervision. Make sure you use the style suited to the activity—swim vests for pool play and life jackets for boating—and stay within arm’s reach.

Measure your baby’s chest and try the vest over the garment they’ll wear most often, whether a bodysuit or sleepsuit, to ensure a comfortable fit with room to move. Check the product’s size guidance and reassess as your baby gains weight and height so the vest continues to fit safely.