Time to ditch the Puddle Jumper - and what to get instead
- tigersharkswimscho
- 2 days ago
- 3 min read
In the past decade, the puddle jumper has exploded in popularity among parents for it's water safety applications. On first glance, they appear to be a great choice and we understand why so many parents use them: they're US Coast Guard approved and look like a life jacket and water wings rolled into one. What many parents are unaware of, however, are some of the immediate and long-term downsides of puddle jumper use.
One of the immediate risks of puddle jumper use that Coach Sean and Olivia have witnessed in the real world is their tendency to flip upside down, leaving your child stuck and unable to get themselves right side up again. The unfortunate part is that this isn't a design flaw, but rather the result of the puddle jumpers main objective: keep the child upright. This goal is one of the things that makes the product so appealing to parents, but it also makes it so that if a child attempts to get in a proper swim posture (horizontal on their stomach), there is a real chance that the puddle jumper flips upside down to maintain it's desired vertical position. The risks of this tendency are obvious, especially if constant attention is not being paid to the child.
The same desired vertical positioning of the puddle jumper is also the cause of many long term issues that our coaches encounter on a regular basis. Coach Sean and Olivia can almost immediately recognize a child that has extended use with a puddle jumper because they all exhibit what we have coined "Puddle Jumper Syndrome". Puddle Jumper Syndrome can be identified by a characteristic vertical swim posture and limited arm and leg movements caused by the aforementioned vertical swim posture, as well as the puddle jumper's general restrictive nature. Puddle Jumper Syndrome is difficult to correct as many children who are affected resist moving onto their stomach and putting their head and face down into the water.
Now that you know the problems with puddle jumpers have no doubt already burned them in a glorious blaze, we have some Tiger Shark approved alternatives that provide safety and encourages the child to learn proper swim technique:
Puddle Jumper Alternatives
1) Float Belt
The float belt is our go-to for floatation devices. Situated at the lower torso, it encourages a proper horizontal swim posture while also allowing for free arm and leg movements. We use these for all of our swim lessons and encourage every parent to consider using them.
2) USCG Approved Life Jacket
If you are looking primarily for a safety alternative, the classic life jacket is still your best bet. They provide more security than a puddle jumper and allows for arm and leg movement. Make sure to find one that is US Coast Guard approved and is the right weight class for your child. We also recommend life jackets that have the strap in between the legs for a more secure fit.
3) Water Wings
Sometimes, old school problems need old school solutions. Water wings are still a very nice option, especially if you want to encourage independence and want to avoid floatie dependency. Water wings provide the necessary amount of safety, but still makes kids work for it, and are the cheapest option to boot.
4) Baby Float
If you're looking for something for your baby shark, we recommend this baby float. Your baby can be on their back or on their stomach, freely kick their legs, and has a detachable canopy for sun protection. This product is the perfect start for instilling proper swim posture and love of the water!
Comments