Fit Guide

A good swim vest fit should feel snug, secure, and comfortable. It should sit close to the body without pinching, twisting, or riding up. The vest should stay in place during movement and water play, while still allowing your child to move their arms comfortably.

A proper fit looks like this:

• The vest sits flat against the chest and torso
• The shoulder area feels secure without slipping
• The safety strap is fastened and adjusted
• The vest does not ride up toward the chin or ears
• Your child can move comfortably and naturally

Signs the vest is too loose:

• The vest slides upward when lifted gently at the shoulders
• Gaps appear around the chest or arm openings
• The harness or strap does not stay in place
• Your child can slip the vest off without help

Signs the vest is too tight:

• The fabric pulls excessively across the chest
• Arm movement feels restricted
• Red pressure marks appear after a short wear test
• Your child appears uncomfortable before entering the water

Paddle Pals product pages specifically note that the safety shoulder harness helps prevent the vest from sliding off and helps stop a child from removing it without help, so a secure fit around the shoulders and torso is especially important.