When selecting a life jacket, what should be the most important consideration?

When selecting a life jacket, the most important consideration is size. A life jacket must fit properly to be effective; if it is too large, it may ride up and not provide adequate buoyancy, and if it is too small, it may be uncomfortable and also fail to keep the wearer afloat. A properly fitting life jacket should allow for comfortable movement while ensuring that it stays securely in place when someone enters the water. Ensuring the right size contributes significantly to safety, as it guarantees that the life jacket will perform as intended in a potential emergency situation.

While aspects such as color, price, and brand can play roles in the selection process, they do not impact the primary function of a life jacket, which is to keep the wearer safe and afloat. A well-fitting life jacket is essential for maximum effectiveness, making size the critical factor in the selection process.