We bought this earlier this summer for our daughter. She's 37" tall, 32 lbs. I went with the bigger size because she was right at the weight limit, and I wanted her to be able to wear it again next year.
Pre-pandemic, she had taken lessons at the YMCA, and did not use a life jacket. At the pool with lifeguards (and us with her) we don't use them either. But in the strange summer that this was, we we're lucky enough to know someone who welcomed us to their private pool. Without a lifeguard, though, I wanted something to assist our daughter in staying afloat.
It fit her perfectly and was comfortable enough that she never complained. She was very unsure the first time she got into the water, until she realized what it would do for her buoyancy. Within a few minutes, she was paddling and kicking around the pool.
It gave her incredible confidence, and even when we would swim without it, I noticed that she still felt very comfortable in the water.
The fabric did "pick" very easily, and I expect by the time she gets done with it next summer, it won't look very good. Wish it had a sturdier fabric, as once the fabric picks and pulls, it starts to develop runs. (Like nylon stockings, for reference)
The other issue was the crotch strap. It has a little pad that is designed to protect the wearer from chafing with the rough strap. However, it slides around and doesn't work well. My daughter ended up with a horrible "burn" where the strap rubbed the first day. (She didn't complain while wearing it, so I wasn't aware until we were done.) We tried to keep that pad in place on later uses. Loosening the strap doesn't fix the problem, as the jacket then just rides up to be around her ears, and the strap is still tight between her legs. I may see if I can sew a better pad before next year, to cover the entire strap.
I picked one of these up locally for our younger daughter in the smaller size a week ago (for under five bucks) so am looking forward to using them for both girls next summer.
| Size | Small/Medium |
|---|---|
| Color | BLUE Swim Vest w/Sleeves |
| Brand | SwimSchool |
| Material | Fabric |
| Life Vest Type | Type III |
| Product Dimensions | 17.5"L x 13.5"W |
| Item Weight | 5.44 ounces |
| Age Range (Description) | Kids;Adults |
| Item Package Dimensions L x W x H | 13.23 x 11.81 x 3.86 inches |
| Package Weight | 0.17 Kilograms |
| Item Dimensions LxWxH | 3.2 x 13.5 x 17.5 inches |
| Brand Name | SwimSchool |
| Model Name | AZT15126SM |
| Suggested Users | unisex-child |
| Number of Items | 1 |
| Manufacturer | Aqua Leisure |
| Part Number | AZT15126SM |
| Style | S/M Trainer Vest with Sleeves (Blue/Orange) |
| Included Components | Swim Trainer |
