Recommended Car Seats
ALL car seats save lives when installed and used correctly each time!
I have compiled this list of car seats based on my observations of what parents and caregivers are recommending to each other. I strive to make the list as objective as possible and it is not complete by any means. As you peruse the list, think about which features you are interested in that may make the car seat easier to use, such as an easy-to-use harness adjuster, and that makes it easier to install, such as built-in locking clips.
Remember that the "best" seat is the car seat that fits your car, your child and your budget. Only you can decide which features are important to you and your child.
means that the seat is currently available in the US.
means that the
seat is currently available in Canada.
means that the seat is FAA-approved.
A printable version of this list can be found by clicking the following link: www.CarSeatSite.com/recommended_car_seats.pdf.
Page last updated: 05/05/10
Extended Rear-Facing Convertible Seats
Higher Weight Harness Seats (Car seats for kids over 40 lbs.)
Infant Seats
These seats are rear-facing only seats and are used for infants. Many
parents prefer infant seats for their flexibility and portability.
Children usually outgrow infant seats before age 1. Those children
who do outgrow infant seats before age 1 should use a rear-facing convertible seat until the convertible's rear-facing weight limit is reached or the child's head reaches within 1" of the top of the car seat.
Available at: Babies R Us (BRU), baby specialty stores, and online
Features: 4-30 lbs.; 5-point harness with front adjuster; no re-thread harness height adjustment; infant-sized chest clip; anti-rebound bar on adjustable base; harness and belly pads; built-in seat belt lockoff; push-on LATCH connectors; EPS foam; adjustable canopy
Drawbacks:
Comments: Available in Canada to a maximum weight limit of 22 lbs. only.
The EPS foam looks like styrofoam. Be careful to not throw it away!
Available at: Babies-R-Us (BRU), baby specialty stores, and online
Features: 4-30 lbs.; 5-point harness with front adjuster; infant-sized chest clip; anti-rebound adjustable base that stays in the car; "center-pull" LATCH adjustment; built-in seat belt lockoffs; storage compartment in base for manual and small toys; EPS foam; newborn insert (4-11 lbs. use only); harness pads; well-padded cover; canopy that rotates 180°; handle can remain upright in vehicle
Drawbacks:
Comments: The Chicco KeyFit 22 has a maximum weight limit of 22 lbs. and is only available in a travel system. Read the box labels carefully to be sure of which seat you're buying. Available in Canada to a maximum weight limit of 22 lbs. only.
The EPS foam looks like styrofoam. Be careful to not throw it away!
Available at: Babies-R-Us (BRU), Target, Wal-Mart, and online
Features: 5-35 lbs.; 5-point harness with front adjuster; both lap and shoulder straps adjust in length; adjustable base that stays in the car; built-in lockoff on base; EPS foam; some models have memory foam; canopy that rotates 180°; handle can remain upright in vehicle; tested to NCAP crash test standard (not required for car seats)
Drawbacks: weight of seat
Comments: Look for weight limits on the bases since the bases cannot be interchanged with SnugRides of different weight limits; e.g., you cannot use a SnugRide 35 on a SnugRide 32 base.
The Teutonia t-tario 35 is the same as the SnugRide 35, but has more padding and fancier covers.
It is the opinion of child passenger safety experts and the American Academy of Pediatrics that children should remain rear-facing for as long as possible after their first birthdays. This may mean that your child fits in the SnugRide 35 seat past his/her first birthday (there's at least 1" of plastic shell above the child's head AND child is below maximum weight limit of 35 lbs.) or you should consider a convertible seat that can accommodate your child in the safer rear-facing position for longer.
The EPS foam looks like styrofoam. Be careful to not throw it away!
Available at: BRU, Target, and online
Features: 4-35 lbs.; 5-point harness with front adjuster; low bottom harness slots; made to fit small babies well with customizable padding inserts; open cell foam "Air Protect" cushions; handle can remain upright in vehicle; EPS foam; adjustable base that stays in the car; built-in lockoff; push-on LATCH connectors
Drawbacks:
The EPS foam looks like styrofoam. Be careful to not throw it away!
Infant/Toddler Seats (Convertible Seats)
These are seats that can be used rear-facing for an infant, then turned forward-facing for an older toddler. Children must face the rear of the vehicle until at least age 1 AND 20 lbs. at the minimum. It is safer for a child to rear-face until the rear-facing weight limit is reached or until the child's head reaches the top of the car seat. Depending on how the seat is outgrown, a child may need a combination seat, a higher weight harness seat or a booster seat after using a convertible seat.
Available at: BRU, online and specialty stores
Features: 5-35 lbs. rear-facing, 20-65 lbs. forward-facing; LATCH-equipped for children up to 40 lbs.; the head wing area is surrounded by EPS foam, which offers additional side impact protection; removable infant body pillow; non-twist straps; HUGS harness system for forward-facing use; the harness height is adjusted with a twist of a knob, instead of having to rethread the harness through slots; "rip stitch" energy management tether that can be used rear-facing as well as forward-facing; built-in lockoffs; velcro to hold back the harness when it's not in use; choice of covers varies by store
Drawbacks: cost; an older/larger child who otherwise fits in the seat may find the seat too narrow through the shoulders
For Canadians only: 5-30 lbs. rear-facing; 20-65 lbs. forward-facing
Comments: Older Britax harness buckles have a "silent" first click and an audible second click. The audible second click is the user's signal that the harness has been buckled correctly. This is normal for those Britax buckles and is not a defect. New Britax harness buckles click after each side has been buckled correctly.
Britax recertified this seat to a higher rear-facing weight limit. It used to have a rear-facing weight limit of 33 lbs. Always read the manual and stickers on the side of the seat to verify the rear-facing weight limit for your seat.
The EPS foam looks like styrofoam. Be careful to not throw it away!
Available at: BRU, Target, online and specialty stores
Features: 5-35 lbs. rear-facing, 20-65 lbs. forward-facing; LATCH-equipped for children up to 40 lbs.; the head area is surrounded by EPS foam; non-twist straps; HUGS harness system for forward-facing use; high harness slots; "rip stitch" energy management tether that can be used rear-facing as well as forward-facing; built-in lockoffs; velcro to hold back the harness when it's not in use; choice of covers varies by store
Drawbacks: cost; an older/larger child who otherwise fits in the seat may find the seat too narrow through the shoulders
For Canadians only: 5-30 lbs. rear-facing; 20-65 lbs. forward-facing
Comments: Older Britax harness buckles have a "silent" first click and an audible second click. The audible second click is the user's signal that the harness has been buckled correctly. This is normal for those Britax buckles and is not a defect. New Britax harness buckles click after each side has been buckled correctly.
Britax recertified this seat to a higher rear-facing weight limit. It used to have a rear-facing weight limit of 33 lbs. Always read the manual and stickers on the side of the seat to verify the rear-facing weight limit for your seat.
The EPS foam looks like styrofoam. Be careful to not throw it away!
Available at: BRU, TRU, Target, online and specialty stores
Features: 5-35 lbs. rear-facing, 20-40 lbs. forward-facing; the head area is surrounded by EPS foam; non-twist straps; high harness slots; the easiest harness adjuster on the market; "rip stitch" energy management tether that can be used rear-facing as well as forward-facing; built-in lockoffs; velcro to hold back the harness when it's not in use; easy to install in most cars; choice of covers varies by store
Drawbacks: cost; an older/larger child who otherwise fits in the seat may find the seat too narrow through the shoulders
For Canadians only: 5-30 lbs. rear-facing; 20-40 lbs. forward-facing
Comments: Older Britax harness buckles have a "silent" first click and an audible second click. The audible second click is the user's signal that the harness has been buckled correctly. This is normal for those Britax buckles and is not a defect. New Britax harness buckles click after each side has been buckled correctly.
Britax recertified this seat to a higher rear-facing weight limit. It used to have a rear-facing weight limit of 33 lbs. Always read the manual and stickers on the side of the seat to verify the rear-facing weight limit for your seat.
The EPS foam looks like styrofoam. Be careful to not throw it away!
Available at: BRU, online and specialty stores
Features: 5-35 lbs. rear-facing, 20-50 lbs. forward-facing; LATCH-equipped for children up to 40 lbs.; the head area is surrounded by EPS foam; non-twist straps; high harness slots; 3 crotch strap positions; "rip stitch" energy management tether that can be used rear-facing as well as forward-facing; velcro to hold back the harness when it's not in use; lighter in weight than the Marathon/Wizard/Boulevard; choice of covers varies by store
Drawbacks: no built-in lockoffs
The EPS foam looks like styrofoam. Be careful to not throw it away!
Available at: Target, BRU, baby specialty stores, and online
Features: 5-33 lbs. rear-facing, 20-40 lbs. forward-facing; narrow seat installs easily in a lot of cars and airplanes--designed to work well in small vehicles and 3-across situations; lightweight; built-in lockoffs; optional Euro-style rear-facing shoulder belt path behind seat; infant pad
Drawbacks:
Comments: Choose from 7 colors; Flash EX stroller designed for use with Coccoro is now available
The EPS foam looks like styrofoam. Be careful to not throw it away!
Available at: Target, Wal-Mart, KMart, BRU
Features: 5-35 lbs. rear-facing, 22-40 lbs. forward-facing; look for the 5-point version of this seat only; high harness slots; all harness slot positions reinforced for forward-facing; 3 crotch strap positions; narrow base; installs easily in a lot of cars and airplanes; cup holder; lightweight
Drawbacks: difficult harness adjuster; sparse padding
Available at: Target, Wal-Mart, BRU
Features: 5-35 lbs. rear-facing, 20-50 lbs. forward-facing; EPP foam in head area; harness height adjustment from front without unthreading the harness; 2 buckle positions; body and toddler pillows; fold-down cup holder
Drawbacks: harness not removable for cleaning/replacement; may not fit side-by-side with other car seats; harness adjuster is cumbersome
For Canadians only: 5-30 lbs. rear-facing, 20-47 lbs. forward-facing
The EPP foam looks like styrofoam. Be careful to not throw it away!
Available at: Target, BRU, baby specialty stores, online
Features: 5-35 lbs. rear-facing, 23-65 lbs. forward-facing; fully lined with EPP foam; removable head restraint for rear-facing infants up to 22 lbs. for easier installation in smaller vehicles; harness height adjustment from side of seat without unthreading the harness; 2 buckle positions; body and toddler pillows; built-in lockoffs; cup holder
Drawbacks: harness adjuster difficult to reach when seat is installed rear-facing
The EPP foam looks like styrofoam. Be careful to not throw it away!
Available at: BRU, baby specialty stores, online
Features: 5-35 lbs. rear-facing, 23-65 lbs. forward-facing; anti-rebound management bar; fully lined with EPP foam; removable head restraint for rear-facing infants up to 22 lbs. for easier installation in smaller vehicles; harness height adjustment from side of seat without unthreading the harness; 2 buckle positions; body and toddler pillows; built-in lockoffs; ball recline angle indicator; cup holder
Drawbacks:
The EPP foam looks like styrofoam. Be careful to not throw it away!
Available at: BRU and online
Features: 5-40 lbs. rear-facing, 20-65 lbs. forward-facing; harness clearly labeled to 40 lbs. rear-facing, 65 lbs. forward-facing; separate LATCH straps and connectors for rear- and forward-facing belt paths; 2-piece chest clip; the head area is surrounded by EPS foam; high harness slots; strap covers to 40 lbs. only; toddler head pillow to 40 lbs. only; infant insert; dual cupholders
Drawbacks: deep natural recline when forward-facing--may interfere with installation in some vehicles
The EPS foam looks like styrofoam. Be careful to not throw it away!
Available at: Target, Wal-Mart, BRU
Features: 5-35 lbs. rear-facing, 22-40 lbs. forward-facing; high harness slots; 3 crotch strap positions; harness strap covers; EPP foam; narrow base; removable cup holder; padded cover
Drawbacks: harness strap adjuster is low on the front of the seat and can be difficult to reach when seat is rear-facing
The EPP foam looks like styrofoam. Be careful to not throw it away!
Available at: specialty stores and online
Features: 5-40 lbs. rear-facing, 20-65 lbs. forward-facing; SuperLATCH-equipped for children up to 65 lbs.; EPS foam; high harness slots; tether that can be used rear-facing as well as forward-facing; SafeStop crash force load limiter for forward-facing harness use (requires tether to 40 lbs.; remove SafeStop at 40 lbs.); folds flat; steel frame
Drawbacks: harness not removable for cleaning/replacement; weight; removable rear-facing base easily lost; incompatible forward-facing installation in vehicles with a long or stiff buckle stalk
For Canadians only: 5-30 lbs. rear-facing, 20-65 lbs. forward-facing
The EPS foam looks like styrofoam. Be careful to not throw it away!
Available at: specialty stores and online
Features: 5-45 lbs. rear-facing, 20-80 lbs. forward-facing; SuperLATCH-equipped for children up to 80 lbs.; EPS foam; adjustable head wings for use with the top 3 harness slots; high harness slots; tether that can be used rear-facing as well as forward-facing; SafeStop crash force load limiter for forward-facing harness use (requires tether to 40 lbs.; remove SafeStop at 40 lbs.); infant head support and body support; 8 year expiration date; removable harness; rubber grips on base of seat; folds flat; steel frame
Drawbacks: weight; removable rear-facing base easily lost; incompatible forward-facing installation in vehicles with a long or stiff buckle stalk
For Canadians only: 5-35 lbs. rear-facing, 20-65 lbs. forward-facing
The EPS foam looks like styrofoam. Be careful to not throw it away!
Extended Rear-Facing Convertible Seats
These are seats that can be used rear-facing for an infant, then turned forward-facing for an older toddler. Research has shown that it is safer for a child to rear-face until the rear-facing weight limit is reached or until the child's head reaches the top of the car seat. These seats have higher rear-facing weight limits and most have taller seatbacks to accommodate taller toddlers. Depending on how the seat is outgrown, a child may need a combination seat, a higher weight harness seat or a booster seat after using an extended rear-facing convertible seat.
Available at: baby specialty stores and online
Features: 5-35 lbs. rear-facing, 20-65 lbs. forward-facing; LATCH-equipped for children up to 40 lbs. (unless vehicle has a higher limit); Side Impact Cushion Technology (air-filled rubber cushions on sides of seat); Click & Safe harness adjuster system; wider headwings surrounded by EPS foam, which offers additional side impact protection; removable infant body pillow; non-twist straps; HUGS harness system for forward-facing use; the harness height is adjusted with a twist of a knob, instead of having to rethread the harness through slots; "rip stitch" energy management tether that can be used rear-facing as well as forward-facing; built-in lockoffs; velcro to hold back the harness when it's not in use; choice of covers varies by store
Drawbacks: cost; an older/larger child who otherwise fits in the seat may find the seat too narrow through the shoulders; Side Impact Cushion Technology may make it difficult to place seat next to another car seat
Comments: The Click & Safe harness adjuster is an audible feature that tells the user when the harness is adjusted snugly enough. When the harness is snug, the system will give a click that you can hear and feel in the adjuster strap, then you'll hear a 2nd click when you release the strap. To see the Click & Safe in action, click here.
The EPS foam looks like styrofoam. Be careful to not throw it away!
Available at: BRU, online and specialty stores
Features: 5-35 lbs. rear-facing, 20-65 lbs. forward-facing; LATCH-equipped for children up to 40 lbs.; the head wing area is surrounded by EPS foam, which offers additional side impact protection; removable infant body pillow; non-twist straps; HUGS harness system for forward-facing use; the harness height is adjusted with a twist of a knob, instead of having to rethread the harness through slots; "rip stitch" energy management tether that can be used rear-facing as well as forward-facing; built-in lockoffs; velcro to hold back the harness when it's not in use; choice of covers varies by store
Drawbacks: cost; an older/larger child who otherwise fits in the seat may find the seat too narrow through the shoulders
For Canadians only: 5-30 lbs. rear-facing; 20-65 lbs. forward-facing
Comments: Older Britax harness buckles have a "silent" first click and an audible second click. The audible second click is the user's signal that the harness has been buckled correctly. This is normal for those Britax buckles and is not a defect. New Britax harness buckles click after each side has been buckled correctly.
Britax recertified this seat to a higher rear-facing weight limit. It used to have a rear-facing weight limit of 33 lbs. Always read the manual and stickers on the side of the seat to verify the rear-facing weight limit for your seat.
The EPS foam looks like styrofoam. Be careful to not throw it away!
Available at: Babies R Us, baby specialty stores, and online
Features: 5-35 lbs. rear-facing, 20-65 lbs. forward-facing; LATCH-equipped for children up to 40 lbs. (unless vehicle has a higher limit); Click & Safe harness adjuster system; wider headwings surrounded by EPS foam, which offers additional side impact protection; removable infant body pillow; non-twist straps; HUGS harness system for forward-facing use; the harness height is adjusted with a twist of a knob, instead of having to rethread the harness through slots; "rip stitch" energy management tether that can be used rear-facing as well as forward-facing; built-in lockoffs; velcro to hold back the harness when it's not in use; choice of covers varies by store
Drawbacks: cost; an older/larger child who otherwise fits in the seat may find the seat too narrow through the shoulders
Comments: The Click & Safe harness adjuster is an audible feature that tells the user when the harness is adjusted snugly enough. When the harness is snug, the system will give a click that you can hear and feel in the adjuster strap, then you'll hear a 2nd click when you release the strap. To see the Click & Safe in action, click here.
The EPS foam looks like styrofoam. Be careful to not throw it away!
Available at: BRU, online and specialty stores
Features: 5-35 lbs. rear-facing, 20-65 lbs. forward-facing; LATCH-equipped for children up to 40 lbs.; the head area is surrounded by EPS foam; non-twist straps; HUGS harness system for forward-facing use; high harness slots; 3 crotch strap positions; push-button harness adjuster; removable toddler head pillow; removable infant body pillow; "rip stitch" energy management tether that can be used rear-facing as well as forward-facing; built-in lockoffs; velcro to hold back the harness when it's not in use; lighter in weight than the Marathon/Wizard/Boulevard; choice of covers varies by store
Drawbacks: cost; an older/larger child who otherwise fits in the seat may find the seat too narrow through the shoulders; forward-facing lockoffs may leave dents in vehicle seat belts after removing car seat; harness adjuster is stiff for the first month or so of use
Comments: This seat has been discontinued.
The Decathlon is a nice Britax option for those kids who can reach the harness adjuster lever on the Marathon or Boulevard. The button is harder to push and kids have a more difficult time releasing their harness.
Britax recertified this seat to a higher rear-facing weight limit. It used to have a rear-facing weight limit of 33 lbs. Always read the manual and stickers on the side of the seat to verify the rear-facing weight limit for your seat.
The EPS foam looks like styrofoam. Be careful to not throw it away!
Available at: BRU, Target, online and specialty stores
Features: 5-35 lbs. rear-facing, 20-65 lbs. forward-facing; LATCH-equipped for children up to 40 lbs.; the head area is surrounded by EPS foam; non-twist straps; HUGS harness system for forward-facing use; high harness slots; "rip stitch" energy management tether that can be used rear-facing as well as forward-facing; built-in lockoffs; velcro to hold back the harness when it's not in use; choice of covers varies by store
Drawbacks: cost; an older/larger child who otherwise fits in the seat may find the seat too narrow through the shoulders
For Canadians only: 5-30 lbs. rear-facing; 20-65 lbs. forward-facing
Comments: The discontinued Click & Safe version of the Marathon (Marathon CS) has a harness adjuster with an audible feature that tells the user when the harness is adjusted snugly enough. When the harness is snug, the system will give a click that you can hear and feel in the adjuster strap, then you'll hear a 2nd click when you release the strap. To see the Click & Safe in action, click here.
The EPS foam looks like styrofoam. Be careful to not throw it away!
Available at: BRU, online and specialty stores
Features: 5-35 lbs. rear-facing, 20-50 lbs. forward-facing; LATCH-equipped for children up to 40 lbs.; the head area is surrounded by EPS foam; non-twist straps; high harness slots; 3 crotch strap positions; "rip stitch" energy management tether that can be used rear-facing as well as forward-facing; velcro to hold back the harness when it's not in use; lighter in weight than the Marathon/Wizard/Boulevard; choice of covers varies by store
Drawbacks: no built-in lockoffs
The EPS foam looks like styrofoam. Be careful to not throw it away!
Available at: BRU and online
Features: 5-35 lbs. rear-facing, 22-50 lbs. forward-facing; belt positioning booster from 40-100 lbs.; removable infant head support; detachable cup holder; EPP foam; harness height adjusts from front without rethreading; 3 crotch strap positions; pivoting armrests
Drawbacks: when used as a belt positioning booster, lap portion of seat belt may be positioned too high on child's abdomen
Comments: Previous models of the Alpha Omega and Alpha Omega Elite prohibited use of the top slot position when using the harness. The top slot position has now been reinforced and is able to be used only on the 50 lbs. versions, giving the Alpha Omega a top usable slot measurement of 17" and the Alpha Omega Elite a top usable slot measurement of 17.5". All Dorel (Cosco, Safety 1st, Eddie Bauer) Alpha Omegas/3-in-1s have 35 lbs. rear-facing weight limits.
The EPP foam looks like styrofoam. Be careful to not throw it away!
Available at: Target, Wal-Mart, KMart, BRU
Features: 5-35 lbs. rear-facing, 22-40 lbs. forward-facing; look for the 5-point version of this seat only; high harness slots; all harness slot positions reinforced for forward-facing; 3 crotch strap positions; narrow base; installs easily in a lot of cars and airplanes; cup holder; lightweight
Drawbacks: difficult harness adjuster; sparse padding
Comments: While the Scenera has a high rear-facing weight limit, it has the short shell of a 40 lbs. car seat. A child will typically need a higher weight harness seat after this car seat.
Available at: BRU
Features: 5-35 lbs. rear-facing, 20-65 lbs. forward-facing; bpb to 100 lbs.; adjustable head support; SureLATCH connectors with built-in retractors; 2 crotch strap positions; harness height adjustment from front without unthreading the harness; removable cup holder; open loop shoulder belt guide when used as bpb; multiple recline positions;
Drawbacks:
Comments: The Symphony 65 is a new version of the regular 40 lbs. Symphony seat with no harness height changes. The difference between the 40 lbs. version and the 65 lbs. version can be seen by looking at the base: the 65 lbs. version has a flat base. It also has a silver metal bar on the top back of the seat to which the top tether is anchored.
The EPS foam looks like styrofoam. Be careful to not throw it away!
Available at: Target, Wal-Mart, BRU
Features: 5-35 lbs. rear-facing, 20-50 lbs. forward-facing; EPS foam in head area; memory foam in seat area; 2 buckle positions; head and body pillows; cup and snack holders
Drawbacks: very low top harness slots for a higher weight harness car seat
For Canadians only: 5-30 lbs. rear-facing, 20-47 lbs. forward-facing
Comments: While the Titan Elite has a high rear-facing and forward-facing weight limit, it has the short shell of a 40 lbs. car seat. A child will typically need a higher weight harness seat for shell height after this car seat.
The EPS foam looks like styrofoam. Be careful to not throw it away!
Available at: Target, Wal-Mart, BRU
Features: 5-35 lbs. rear-facing, 20-50 lbs. forward-facing; EPP foam in head area; harness height adjustment from front without unthreading the harness; 2 buckle positions; body and toddler pillows; fold-down cup holder
Drawbacks: harness not removable for cleaning/replacement; may not fit side-by-side with other car seats; harness adjuster is cumbersome
For Canadians only: 5-30 lbs. rear-facing, 20-47 lbs. forward-facing
The EPP foam looks like styrofoam. Be careful to not throw it away!
Available at: BRU and online
Features: 5-40 lbs. rear-facing, 20-65 lbs. forward-facing; harness clearly labeled to 40 lbs. rear-facing, 65 lbs. forward-facing; separate LATCH straps and connectors for rear- and forward-facing belt paths; 2-piece chest clip; the head area is surrounded by EPS foam; high harness slots; strap covers to 40 lbs. only; toddler head pillow to 40 lbs. only; infant insert; dual cupholders
Drawbacks: deep natural recline when forward-facing--may interfere with installation in some vehicles
The EPS foam looks like styrofoam. Be careful to not throw it away!
Available at: specialty stores and online
Features:15-35 lbs. rear-facing, 20-50 lbs. forward-facing; 2-piece chest clip; docks onto Orbit base for rear-facing or can be installed rear-facing and forward-facing with included braces; the head area is surrounded by EPP foam; headrest; high harness slots; strap covers; built-in lockoffs; attaches to Orbit stroller ; cover certified to Oeko-Tex Standard 100 for having fewer chemicals
Drawbacks: cost; heavy; removable braces could be lost when seat used with base
The EPP foam looks like styrofoam. Be careful to not throw it away!
Available at: specialty stores and online
Features: 5-35 lbs. rear-facing, 20-70 lbs. forward-facing; 2-piece chest clip; the head area is surrounded by EPS foam; Recaro side impact protection; head rest; high harness slots; strap covers; built-in lockoffs for rear-facing
Drawbacks: twisty straps; forward-facing lockoffs won't hold seat belt tight, must use locking clip or lock seat belt instead
The EPS foam looks like styrofoam. Be careful to not throw it away!
Available at: specialty stores and online
Features: 5-35 lbs. rear-facing, 20-70 lbs. forward-facing; 2-piece chest clip; Recaro side impact protection; head rest; high harness adjustment; the harness height is adjusted with a twist of a knob, instead of having to rethread the harness through slots; strap covers; built-in lockoffs
Drawbacks: forward-facing lockoffs won't hold seat belt tight, must use locking clip or lock seat belt instead
The EPS foam looks like styrofoam. Be careful to not throw it away!
Available at: Target, Wal-Mart, BRU
Features: 5-35 lbs. rear-facing, 22-40 lbs. forward-facing; high harness slots; 3 crotch strap positions; harness strap covers; EPP foam; narrow base; removable cup holder; padded cover
Drawbacks: harness strap adjuster is low on the front of the seat and can be difficult to reach when seat is rear-facing
Comments: While the Avenue has a high rear-facing weight limit, it has a shorter shell of a 40 lbs. car seat. A child might need a higher weight harness seat after this car seat.
The EPP foam looks like styrofoam. Be careful to not throw it away!
Available at: BRU/TRU
Features: 5-40 lbs. rear-facing, 22-50 lbs. forward-facing; Air Protect air cushions in head wings; 3 crotch strap positions; harness height adjustment from front of seat; EPS foam
Drawbacks: cost
The EPS foam looks like styrofoam. Be careful to not throw it away!
Available at: specialty stores and online
Features: 5-40 lbs. rear-facing, 22-65 lbs. forward-facing; SuperLATCH-equipped for children up to 65 lbs.; EPS foam; high harness slots; tether that can be used rear-facing as well as forward-facing; SafeStop crash force load limiter for forward-facing harness use (requires tether to 40 lbs.; remove SafeStop at 40 lbs.); folds flat; steel frame
Drawbacks: harness not removable for cleaning/replacement; weight; removable rear-facing base easily lost; incompatible forward-facing installation in vehicles with a long or stiff buckle stalk
For Canadians only: 5-30 lbs. rear-facing, 20-65 lbs. forward-facing
The EPS foam looks like styrofoam. Be careful to not throw it away!
Available at: specialty stores and online
Features: 5-45 lbs. rear-facing, 22-80 lbs. forward-facing; SuperLATCH-equipped for children up to 80 lbs.; EPS foam; high harness slots; tether that can be used rear-facing as well as forward-facing; SafeStop crash force load limiter for forward-facing harness use (requires tether to 40 lbs.; remove SafeStop at 40 lbs.); folds flat; steel frame
Drawbacks: harness not removable for cleaning/replacement; weight; removable rear-facing base easily lost; incompatible forward-facing installation in vehicles with a long or stiff buckle stalk
Comments: The Radian 80 has the same shell and harness slot height as the Radian 65, but the metal structure is beefier to support higher weights.
The EPS foam looks like styrofoam. Be careful to not throw it away!
Available at: specialty stores and online
Features: 5-45 lbs. rear-facing, 20-80 lbs. forward-facing; LATCH-equipped for children up to 80 lbs.; EPS foam; adjustable head wings for use with the top 3 harness slots; high harness slots; tether that can be used rear-facing as well as forward-facing; SafeStop crash force load limiter for forward-facing harness use (requires tether to 40 lbs.; remove SafeStop at 40 lbs.); infant head support and body support; 8 year expiration date; removable harness; rubber grips on base of seat; folds flat; steel frame
Drawbacks: weight; removable rear-facing base easily lost; incompatible forward-facing installation in vehicles with a long or stiff buckle stalk
For Canadians only: 5-35 lbs. rear-facing, 20-65 lbs. forward-facing
The EPS foam looks like styrofoam. Be careful to not throw it away!
Available at: Target, BRU, baby specialty stores, online
Features: 5-35 lbs. rear-facing, 23-65 lbs. forward-facing; fully lined with EPP foam; removable head restraint for rear-facing infants up to 22 lbs. for easier installation in smaller vehicles; harness height adjustment from side of seat without unthreading the harness; 2 buckle positions; body and toddler pillows; built-in lockoffs; cup holder
Drawbacks: harness adjuster difficult to reach when seat is installed rear-facing
The EPP foam looks like styrofoam. Be careful to not throw it away!
Available at: BRU, baby specialty stores, online
Features: 5-35 lbs. rear-facing, 23-65 lbs. forward-facing; anti-rebound management bar; fully lined with EPP foam; removable head restraint for rear-facing infants up to 22 lbs. for easier installation in smaller vehicles; harness height adjustment from side of seat without unthreading the harness; 2 buckle positions; body and toddler pillows; built-in lockoffs; ball recline angle indicator; cup holder
Drawbacks:
The EPP foam looks like styrofoam. Be careful to not throw it away!
Combination Seats
These are seats that can be used with a harness to 40 lbs. or higher, then converted to a belt positioning booster (bpb). Once the child reaches the maximum weight limit for the harness, you must stop using the harness. If a child is not mature enough to use a combination seat as a bpb, a higher weight harness seat may be appropriate. Many new combination seats now have higher harness weights. Also important to note is that combination seats, if they are FAA-approved for use in airplanes, are approved for use only in harness mode.
Available at: BRU, Target, baby specialty stores and online
Features: 5-point harness from 2 years AND 25-80 lbs.; bpb to 100 lbs.; front harness adjuster; no-rethread harness height adjuster; 3 buckle positions; 2-piece chest clip; cup holders; flip-up arm rests; smooth harness adjuster
Drawbacks:
For Canadians only: 5-point harness from 25-65 lbs.
Comments: This seat has been discontinued. Look for sales.
The EPS foam looks like styrofoam. Be careful to not throw it away!
Available at: BRU, Target, baby specialty stores and online
Features: 5-point harness from 2 years AND 25-85 lbs.; bpb to 120 lbs.; front harness adjuster; no-rethread harness height adjuster; 10 harness height positions; 3 buckle positions; 2-piece chest clip; integrated cup holders; arm rests; smooth harness adjuster
Drawbacks:
For Canadians only: 5-point harness from 25-65 lbs.
Comments: There are a number of differences between the new Frontier 85 and the discontinued Frontier. The new Frontier 85 has top harness slot 2" higher, fixed arm rests, integrated cup holders, 10 harness height positions instead of 8, change in the belt path position (which may make it easier for installation in some vehicles), and an optional Secure Guard clip is available for purchase when seat is converted to booster mode to name a few changes. To see a complete list, read the Frontier 85 Review.
The EPS foam looks like styrofoam. Be careful to not throw it away!
Available at: BRU/TRU, Target, Wal-Mart, Sears and online
Features: 5-point harness from 20-40 lbs.; bpb to 100 lbs.; adjustable head support; 2 crotch strap positions; arm rests pivot; removable cup holder; open loop shoulder belt guide; knob-style harness adjuster; 2 recline positions; harness strap covers
Drawbacks: flimsy cup holder
For Canadians only: 5-point harness from 20-47 lbs.
Comments: The Generations 65 is a new version of this model now available that has a 65 lbs. weight limit with no harness height changes. The difference between the 40 lbs. version and the 65 lbs. version can immediately be seen by looking at the front center of the seat: the 65 lbs. version has a red harness release button. To tighten the harness, twist the knobs on the sides of the seat; to loosen, press the red harness release button on the front center of the seat.
Available at: BRU/TRU, Target, Wal-Mart and online
Features: 5-point harness from 20-50 lbs.; bpb to 100 lbs.; EPS foam; front harness adjuster; 2-piece chest clip; 2 crotch strap positions; cup holders; arm rests
Drawbacks: harness appears narrow at child's neck; seatback is short; non-adjustable headrest
For Canadians only: 5-point harness from 20-47 lbs.
The EPS foam looks like styrofoam. Be careful to not throw it away!
Available at: BRU, Target, Wal-Mart, and online
Features: 5-point harness from 20-65 lbs.; bpb to 100 lbs.; converts to a backless booster (40-100 lbs.); 3-position recline; cup holder built into right armrest; storage areas in each armrest; EPS foam
Drawbacks:
Comments: The Nautilus also has 2 lifespans. When used with the harness or as a highback booster, the lifespan is 6 years. When used as a backless booster, the lifespan is 9 years.
The EPS foam looks like styrofoam. Be careful to not throw it away!
Available at: online and at specialty stores
Features: 5-point harness from 18-40 lbs.; bpb to 80 lbs.; EPS foam; carrying handle; padded seat cushion for smaller children; harness/head rest height adjusts with knob on back of seat; open loop shoulder belt guide; tether can be used in belt positioning booster mode; plush covers
Drawbacks: cost
Comments: The minimum weight limit on the Young Sport is listed as 18 lbs., but current U.S. safety standards specify that children must reach both 20 lbs. AND age 1 before going into a forward-facing only seat. This seat is a good option for older toddlers who have gotten too tall for their convertible seats, but children under 30 lbs. are still best protected by a rear-facing convertible seat.
The EPS foam looks like styrofoam. Be careful to not throw it away!
Belt Positioning Boosters
Belt positioning boosters (bpb) are used with the vehicle's lap/shoulder belt only (do not use a bpb with a lap-only belt) and are not generally LATCH-equipped. A child is typically mature enough to use a bpb safely around ages 4-5. If the child is not mature enough to use a bpb, but is over the 40 lb. weight limit of most harnesses, a higher weight harness seat may be appropriate.
Available at: BRU, online and at specialty stores
Features: 40-120 lbs.; armrests; 2 cup holders; SecureGuard lap belt clip to prevent submarining; removable back to convert to a backless booster; back adjusts height-wise with one hand
Drawbacks:
Available at: online and at specialty stores
Features: 40-100 lbs.; installs with rigid LATCH; soft foam cushioning; tall armrests; storage pocket on side of seat; several choices of covers (called "jackets")
Drawbacks: price
Comments: The Olli fits larger children well because it doesn't angle to be narrower in the back.
Available at: online and at specialty stores
Features: 30-100 lbs. (used as a backless booster, the minimum weight limit is 40 lbs.); installs with rigid LATCH; soft foam cushioning; seat back reclines; tall armrests; headrest adjusts like a vehicle headrest; cup holder; uses Crypton Super Fabric; several choices of covers
Drawbacks: price
Available at: BRU, online and at specialty stores
Features: 33-100 lbs.; fabric cup holder; deep seat offers nice thigh support
Drawbacks:
Comments: great seat for larger kids
Available at: BRU, online and at specialty stores
Features: 30-100 lbs.; taller than the B505 model; EPP foam in head rest; retractable cup holders on both sides of seat; arm rests pivot; open loop shoulder belt guides; good headrest for sleeping in car; offers nice thigh support; booster folds for travel
Drawbacks: minimal torso side impact protection; cannot be used without the back; cannot be used in the back seat of a compact pickup truck
For Canadians only: only the B505 and B530 models are available in Canada; the B530 model is recommended over the B505 for its height; minimum weight limit in Canada is 40 lbs.
The EPP foam looks like styrofoam. Be careful to not throw it away!
Available at: BRU/TRU, Target, Wal-Mart and online
Features: 40-100 lbs.; cup holders on both sides of seat; tall armrests for easy buckling
Drawbacks:
Available at: BRU/TRU, JCPenney, Sears, Target, Wal-Mart and online
Features: 30-100 lbs. (used as a backless booster, the minimum weight limit is 40 lbs.); removable back to convert to a backless booster; EPS foam in head rest; some versions have Graco-pedic memory comfort foam; retractable cup holders on both sides of seat; height-adjustable arm rests;back adjusts height-wise with one hand; back has 2 recline positions
Drawbacks:
The EPS foam looks like styrofoam. Be careful to not throw it away!
Available at: BRU, baby specialty stores, and online
Features: 30-120 lbs. (used as a backless booster, the minimum weight limit is 40 lbs.); removable back to convert to a backless booster; fully lined with EPS foam; torso wings adjustable in width; back adjusts height-wise with one hand; back has 2 recline positions; 2 cup holders; attaches to vehicle with LATCH
Drawbacks:
Comments: You may not get a 1" or less tight install with the LATCH connectors. They are provided to keep the seat from becoming a projectile when a child is not using it. If you don't have LATCH in your vehicle or the position in which you are using the booster, don't forget to buckle it in when your child isn't using it.
The EPS foam looks like styrofoam. Be careful to not throw it away!
Higher Weight Harness Seats
These seats fill a need for younger, heavier children who are too big for a traditional convertible, but not mature enough for a belt-positioning booster seat. These seats are also good options for vehicles with lap-only belts in the back seat or for parents who want to keep their child in a harness to a higher weight.
Available at: BRU, online and specialty stores
Features: 20-80 lbs.; 5-point harness; requires use of tether after 50 lbs.; based on the Traveller Plus, without the extra support pads; HUGS harness system; mesh storage pouches
Drawbacks: cost; very large seat; not approved for airplane use because of size
Comments: This seat has been discontinued.
Older Britax harness buckles have a "silent" first click and an audible second click. The audible second click is the user's signal that the harness has been buckled correctly. This is normal for those Britax buckles and is not a defect. New Britax harness buckles click after each side has been buckled correctly.
The EPS foam looks like styrofoam. Be careful to not throw it away!
Available at: BRU, Target, baby specialty stores and online
Features: 5-point harness from 2 years AND 25-80 lbs.; bpb to 100 lbs.; front harness adjuster; no-rethread harness height adjuster; 3 buckle positions; 2-piece chest clip; cup holders; flip-up arm rests; smooth harness adjuster
Drawbacks: can be difficult to install in some vehicles
For Canadians only: 5-point harness from 25-65 lbs.
Comments: This seat has been discontinued. Look for sales.
The EPS foam looks like styrofoam. Be careful to not throw it away!
Available at: BRU, Target, baby specialty stores and online
Features: 5-point harness from 2 years AND 25-85 lbs.; bpb to 120 lbs.; front harness adjuster; no-rethread harness height adjuster; 10 harness height positions; 3 buckle positions; 2-piece chest clip; integrated cup holders; arm rests; smooth harness adjuster
Drawbacks:
For Canadians only: 5-point harness from 25-65 lbs.
Comments: There are a number of differences between the new Frontier 85 and the discontinued Frontier. The new Frontier 85 has top harness slot 2" higher, fixed arm rests, integrated cup holders, 10 harness height positions instead of 8, change in the belt path position (which may make it easier for installation in some vehicles), and an optional Secure Guard clip is available for purchase when seat is converted to booster mode to name a few changes. To see a complete list, read the Frontier 85 Review.
The EPS foam looks like styrofoam. Be careful to not throw it away!
See these seats in the Convertible Seats section.
Available at: baby specialty stores and online
Features: 5-35 lbs. rear-facing, 20-65 lbs. forward-facing; LATCH-equipped for children up to 40 lbs. (unless vehicle has a higher limit); Side Impact Cushion Technology (air-filled rubber cushions on sides of seat); Click & Safe harness adjuster system; wider headwings surrounded by EPS foam, which offers additional side impact protection; removable infant body pillow; non-twist straps; HUGS harness system for forward-facing use; the harness height is adjusted with a twist of a knob, instead of having to rethread the harness through slots; "rip stitch" energy management tether that can be used rear-facing as well as forward-facing; built-in lockoffs; velcro to hold back the harness when it's not in use; choice of covers varies by store
Drawbacks: cost; an older/larger child who otherwise fits in the seat may find the seat too narrow through the shoulders; Side Impact Cushion Technology may make it difficult to place seat next to another car seat
Comments: The Click & Safe harness adjuster is an audible feature that tells the user when the harness is adjusted snugly enough. When the harness is snug, the system will give a click that you can hear and feel in the adjuster strap, then you'll hear a 2nd click when you release the strap. To see the Click & Safe in action, click here.
The EPS foam looks like styrofoam. Be careful to not throw it away!
Available at: BRU and online
Features: 5-35 lbs. rear-facing, 22-50 lbs. forward-facing; belt positioning booster from 40-100 lbs.; removable infant head support; detachable cup holder; EPP foam; harness height adjusts from front without rethreading; 3 crotch strap positions; pivoting armrests
Drawbacks: when used as a belt positioning booster, lap portion of seat belt may be positioned too high on child's abdomen
Comments: Previous models of the Alpha Omega and Alpha Omega Elite prohibited use of the top slot position when using the harness. The top slot position has now been reinforced and is able to be used only on the 50 lbs. versions, giving the Alpha Omega a top usable slot measurement of 17" and the Alpha Omega Elite a top usable slot measurement of 17.5".
The EPP foam looks like styrofoam. Be careful to not throw it away!
Available at: BRU/TRU, Wal-Mart, and online
Features: 5-point harness from 22-65 lbs.; belt positioning booster from 40-100 lbs.; EPP foam; removable comfort pad; detachable cup holder; 3-position head rest adjusts independently of harness straps; 3 crotch strap positions
Drawbacks: vehicle seat back must be tall enough to support mid-point of child's head completely while in car seat; plastic on bottom of seat may damage vehicle seat
The EPP foam looks like styrofoam. Be careful to not throw it away!
Available at: BRU
Features: 5-point harness from 20-65 lbs.; bpb to 100 lbs.; adjustable head support; 2 crotch strap positions; arm rests pivot; removable cup holder; open loop shoulder belt guide; knob-style harness tightner; push button harness release; 2 recline positions; harness; strap covers
Drawbacks:
Comments: The Generations 65 is a new version of the regular 40 lbs. Generations seat with no harness height changes. The difference between the 40 lbs. version and the 65 lbs. version can immediately be seen by looking at the front center of the seat: the 65 lbs. version has a red harness release button. To tighten the harness, twist the knobs on the sides of the seat; to loosen, press the red harness release button on the front center of the seat.
Available at: Sears and online
Features: 5-point harness from 20-50 lbs.; bpb to 100 lbs.; EPS foam; 2-piece chest clip; front harness adjuster; 2 crotch strap positions; cup holders; arm rests
Drawbacks: harness appears narrow at child's neck; seatback is short, non-adjustable headrest
For Canadians only: 5-point harness from 20-47 lbs.
Available at: BRU
Features: 5-35 lbs. rear-facing, 20-65 lbs. forward-facing; bpb to 100 lbs.; adjustable head support; SureLATCH connectors with built-in retractors; 2 crotch strap positions; harness height adjustment from front without unthreading the harness; removable cup holder; open loop shoulder belt guide when used as bpb; multiple recline positions;
Drawbacks:
Comments: The Symphony 65 is a new version of the regular 40 lbs. Symphony seat with no harness height changes. The difference between the 40 lbs. version and the 65 lbs. version can be seen by looking at the base: the 65 lbs. version has a flat base. It also has a silver metal bar on the top back of the seat to which the top tether is anchored.
The EPS foam looks like styrofoam. Be careful to not throw it away!
Available at: Target, Wal-Mart, BRU
Features: 5-35 lbs. rear-facing, 20-50 lbs. forward-facing; EPS foam in head area; memory foam in seat area; 2 buckle positions; head and body pillows; cup and snack holders
Drawbacks:
For Canadians only: 5-30 lbs. rear-facing, 20-47 lbs. forward-facing
Comments: Very low top harness slots for a higher weight harness car seat.
The EPS foam looks like styrofoam. Be careful to not throw it away!
Available at: Target, Wal-Mart, BRU
Features: 5-35 lbs. rear-facing, 20-50 lbs. forward-facing; EPP foam in head area; harness height adjustment from front without unthreading the harness; 2 buckle positions; body and toddler pillows; fold-down cup holder
Drawbacks: harness not removable for cleaning/replacement; may not fit side-by-side with other car seats; harness adjuster is cumbersome
For Canadians only: 5-30 lbs. rear-facing, 20-47 lbs. forward-facing
The EPP foam looks like styrofoam. Be careful to not throw it away!
Available at: E-Z-On Products
Features: 20-168 lbs. (103Z), 20-65 lbs. (203).; adjustable shoulder straps; can be used on school buses or in cawith vehicle manufacturer to determine weight limit on tether anchor); must use E-Z-On Tether Mount accessory to secure vest to tether anchor
Drawbacks:
Available at: E-Z-On Products
Features: 40-168 lbs.; 2-piece chest clip; requires tether anchor, use E-Z-On tether anchor over 80 lbs. (check with vehicle manufacturer to determine weight limit on tether anchor); can be used with any booster seat, if booster is needed to position the lap-only vehicle belt properly (check with booster manufacturer to see if aftermarket 5-point harness use is allowed)
Drawbacks:
Comments: Use with a booster from 40-65 lbs.
Available at: BRU and online
Features: 5-40 lbs. rear-facing, 20-65 lbs. forward-facing; harness clearly labeled to 40 lbs. rear-facing, 65 lbs. forward-facing; separate LATCH straps and connectors for rear- and forward-facing belt paths; 2-piece chest clip; the head area is surrounded by EPS foam; high harness slots; strap covers to 40 lbs. only; toddler head pillow to 40 lbs. only; infant insert; dual cupholders
Drawbacks: deep natural recline when forward-facing--may interfere with installation in some vehicles
Comments: Only car seat in the U.S. with a 40 lbs. rear-facing weight limit.
The EPS foam looks like styrofoam. Be careful to not throw it away!
Available at: Wal-Mart, Target, BRU
Features: 20-65 lbs. forward-facing; bpb to 100 lbs. (backless booster 40-100 lbs.); harness clearly labeled to 65 lbs.; 2-piece chest clip; the head area is surrounded by EPS foam; high harness slots; strap covers; open shoulder belt guides; steel reinforced frame; one-hand height adjustment head support; cupholder and storage areas in arm rest
Drawbacks:
Comments: The Nautilus can be attached with LATCH when used in booster mode. The Nautilus also has 2 lifespans. When used with the harness or as a highback booster, the lifespan is 6 years. When used as a backless booster, the lifespan is 9 years.
The EPS foam looks like styrofoam. Be careful to not throw it away!
Available at: specialty stores and online
Features:15-35 lbs. rear-facing, 20-50 lbs. forward-facing; 2-piece chest clip; docks onto Orbit base for rear-facing or can be installed rear-facing and forward-facing with included braces; the head area is surrounded by EPP foam; headrest; high harness slots; strap covers; built-in lockoffs; attaches to Orbit stroller ; cover certified to Oeko-Tex Standard 100 for having fewer chemicals
Drawbacks: cost; heavy; removable braces could be lost when seat used with base
The EPP foam looks like styrofoam. Be careful to not throw it away!
Available at: specialty stores and online
Features: 5-35 lbs. rear-facing, 20-70 lbs. forward-facing; 2-piece chest clip; the head area is surrounded by EPS foam; Recaro side impact protection; head rest; high harness slots; strap covers; built-in lockoffs for rear-facing
Drawbacks: twisty straps; forward-facing lockoffs won't hold seat belt tight, must use locking clip or lock seat belt instead
The EPS foam looks like styrofoam. Be careful to not throw it away!
Available at: specialty stores and online
Features: 5-35 lbs. rear-facing, 20-70 lbs. forward-facing; 2-piece chest clip; Recaro side impact protection; head rest; high harness adjustment; the harness height is adjusted with a twist of a knob, instead of having to rethread the harness through slots; strap covers; built-in lockoffs
Drawbacks: forward-facing lockoffs won't hold seat belt tight, must use locking clip or lock seat belt instead
The EPS foam looks like styrofoam. Be careful to not throw it away!
Available at: BRU/TRU
Features: 5-40 lbs. rear-facing, 22-50 lbs. forward-facing; Air Protect air cushions in head wings; 3 crotch strap positions; harness height adjustment from front of seat; EPs foam
Drawbacks: cost
The EPS foam looks like styrofoam. Be careful to not throw it away!
Available at: specialty stores and online
Features: 20-65 lbs. harnessed; 40-100 lbs. bpb; adjustable headrest; requires tether use; booster installs with LATCH; only seat that can be used with LATCH to 65 lbs.; weighs 9 lbs.; includes carryon-sized travel bag
Drawbacks:
Comments: not FAA-approved because of mandatory tether use and flexible back
The EPS foam looks like styrofoam. Be careful to not throw it away!
Available at: specialty stores and online
Features: available in 2 sizes: small (35-60 lbs.) and large (50-80 lbs.); lap-only belt requires the use of a tether anchor; large size requires the use of a special dual tether over 60 lbs.; optional head rest
Drawbacks: space-age design kids like but parents don't
Available at: specialty stores and online
Features: 5-40 lbs. rear-facing, 22-65 lbs. forward-facing; SuperLATCH-equipped for children up to 65 lbs.; EPS foam; high harness slots; tether that can be used rear-facing as well as forward-facing; SafeStop crash force load limiter for forward-facing harness use (requires tether to 40 lbs.; remove SafeStop at 40 lbs.); folds flat; steel frame
Drawbacks: harness not removable for cleaning/replacement; weight; removable rear-facing base easily lost; incompatible forward-facing installation in vehicles with a long or stiff buckle stalk
For Canadians only: 5-30 lbs. rear-facing, 20-65 lbs. forward-facing
The EPS foam looks like styrofoam. Be careful to not throw it away!
Available at: specialty stores and online
Features: 5-45 lbs. rear-facing, 22-80 lbs. forward-facing; SuperLATCH-equipped for children up to 80 lbs.; EPS foam; high harness slots; tether that can be used rear-facing as well as forward-facing; SafeStop crash force load limiter for forward-facing harness use (requires tether to 40 lbs.; remove SafeStop at 40 lbs.); folds flat; steel frame
Drawbacks: harness not removable for cleaning/replacement; weight; removable rear-facing base easily lost; incompatible forward-facing installation in vehicles with a long or stiff buckle stalk
Comments: The Radian 80 has the same shell and harness slot height as the Radian 65, but the metal structure is beefier to support higher weights.
The EPS foam looks like styrofoam. Be careful to not throw it away!
Available at: specialty stores and online
Features: 5-45 lbs. rear-facing, 20-80 lbs. forward-facing; LATCH-equipped for children up to 80 lbs.; EPS foam; adjustable head wings for use with the top 3 harness slots; high harness slots; tether that can be used rear-facing as well as forward-facing; SafeStop crash force load limiter for forward-facing harness use (requires tether to 40 lbs.; remove SafeStop at 40 lbs.); infant head support and body support; 8 year expiration date; removable harness; rubber grips on base of seat; folds flat; steel frame
Drawbacks: weight; removable rear-facing base easily lost; incompatible forward-facing installation in vehicles with a long or stiff buckle stalk
For Canadians only: 5-35 lbs. rear-facing, 20-65 lbs. forward-facing
The EPS foam looks like styrofoam. Be careful to not throw it away!
Available at: Target, BRU, baby specialty stores, online
Features: 5-35 lbs. rear-facing, 23-65 lbs. forward-facing; fully lined with EPP foam; removable head restraint for rear-facing infants up to 22 lbs. for easier installation in smaller vehicles; harness height adjustment from side of seat without unthreading the harness; 2 buckle positions; body and toddler pillows; built-in lockoffs; cup holder
Drawbacks: harness adjuster difficult to reach when seat is installed rear-facing
The EPP foam looks like styrofoam. Be careful to not throw it away!
Available at: BRU, baby specialty stores, online
Features: 5-35 lbs. rear-facing, 23-65 lbs. forward-facing; anti-rebound management bar; fully lined with EPP foam; removable head restraint for rear-facing infants up to 22 lbs. for easier installation in smaller vehicles; harness height adjustment from side of seat without unthreading the harness; 2 buckle positions; body and toddler pillows; built-in lockoffs; ball recline angle indicator; cup holder
Drawbacks:
The EPP foam looks like styrofoam. Be careful to not throw it away!
Travel Seats
These harnessed seats fill a need for families who travel with children who no longer are in infant seats, but are too young to ride safely in a belt positioning booster seat. The common features these seats all share is that they are easy to take through an airport.
Available at: www.kidsflysafe.com and eBay
Features: 22-44 lbs. forward-facing; lightweight; only harness approved for use aboard aircraft; fits all airplane seats
Drawbacks: no crotch strap so children can slide under plane seat belt; must have car seat available at destination for use; not approved for vehicle use
Available at: Target, Wal-Mart, KMart, BRU
Features: 5-35 lbs. rear-facing, 22-40 lbs. forward-facing; look for the 5-point version of this seat only; high harness slots; all harness slot positions reinforced for forward-facing; 3 crotch strap positions; narrow base; installs easily in a lot of cars and airplanes; cup holder; lightweight
Drawbacks: difficult harness adjuster; sparse padding
Available at: specialty stores and online
Features: 30-60 lbs. harnessed; 40-100 lbs. bpb; adjustable headrest; requires tether use; booster installs with LATCH; only seat that can be used with LATCH to 60 lbs.; weighs 9 lbs.; includes carryon-sized travel bag
Drawbacks:
Comments: not FAA-approved because of mandatory tether use and flexible back
The EPS foam looks like styrofoam. Be careful to not throw it away!
Available at: specialty stores and online
Features: available in 2 sizes: small (35-60 lbs.) and large (50-80 lbs.); lap-only belt requires the use of a tether anchor; large size requires the use of a special dual tether over 60 lbs.; optional head rest
Drawbacks: space-age design kids like but parents don't
Available at: specialty stores and online
Features: 5-40 lbs. rear-facing, 22-65 lbs. forward-facing; SuperLATCH-equipped for children up to 65 lbs.; EPS foam; high harness slots; tether that can be used rear-facing as well as forward-facing; SafeStop crash force load limiter for forward-facing harness use (requires tether to 40 lbs.; remove SafeStop at 40 lbs.); folds flat; steel frame
Drawbacks: harness not removable for cleaning/replacement; weight; removable rear-facing base easily lost; incompatible forward-facing installation in vehicles with a long or stiff buckle stalk
For Canadians only: 5-30 lbs. rear-facing, 22-65 lbs. forward-facing
The EPS foam looks like styrofoam. Be careful to not throw it away!
Available at: specialty stores and online
Features: 5-45 lbs. rear-facing, 22-80 lbs. forward-facing; SuperLATCH-equipped for children up to 80 lbs.; EPS foam; high harness slots; tether that can be used rear-facing as well as forward-facing; SafeStop crash force load limiter for forward-facing harness use (requires tether to 40 lbs.; remove SafeStop at 40 lbs.); folds flat; steel frame
Drawbacks: harness not removable for cleaning/replacement; weight; removable rear-facing base easily lost; incompatible forward-facing installation in vehicles with a long or stiff buckle stalk
Comments: The Radian 80 has the same shell and harness slot height as the Radian 65, but the metal structure is beefier to support higher weights.
The EPS foam looks like styrofoam. Be careful to not throw it away!
Special Needs Seats
Because the physical requirements differ so greatly among special needs kids, it is impossible to list recommended seats here. The correct seat choice should be made with input from the child's physician and a qualified child passenger safety technician with training in special needs seats. Keep in mind that a regular car seat may work well for your child's situation and may be much less expensive than a special needs seat. Following is a list of manufacturers of special needs seats:
800-815-6330
AngleRide Infant Car Bed for preemies who must ride laying flat because of breathing/heart rate problems (available through Mercury Distributing)
www.britaxusa.com
Britax
www.ezonpro.com
E-Z-On Vests and Harnesses
This company makes vests for transporting children in the supine or prone positions.
www.snugseat.com/
Snug Seat
www.adaptivemall.com
Adaptivemall carries a variety of brands of car seats from infant to small adult size
You may also find more information on special needs seats and wheelchair tie-downs at SafetyBeltSafe USA.
www.carseat.org/Resources/173_spec_needs.pdf
Canadian Help
The following seats have been certified to higher forward-facing weight limits indicated in paretheses:
Britax Advocate (65 lbs.)
Britax Boulevard (65 lbs.)
Britax Frontier (65 lbs.)
Britax Marathon (48 lbs. older models/65 lbs. newer models; weight limits indicated on labels)
Britax Roundabout 50
Cosco Alpha Omega Elite (50 lbs.; this seat may be branded as Eddie Bauer/3-in-1/Safety 1st; check that the box or labels say that maximum harness weight is 50 lbs., not 40 lbs.)
Cosco Apex (65 lbs.)
Evenflo Chase (47 lbs.)
Evenflo Generations (47 lbs.)
Evenflo Titan (47 lbs.)
Evenflo Triumph Advance (47 lbs.)
The First Years TrueFit (65 lbs.)
Graco CarGo (and varieties—48 lbs.)
Graco Nautilus (65 lbs.)
Sunshine Kids Radian (65 lbs.)
Canadian Shopping Web Sites
www.hbc.com/hbconline/home.asp?langid=EN
Hudson's Bay Company, parent company of The Bay and Zellers
www.sears.ca
Sears Canada
www.canadiantire.ca
Canadian Tire
www.www.babyproofingplus.com/index.htm *Sometimes incorrect weight limits on seats are advertised.
Safety Superstore
www.tjskids.com/index.asp
TJ's the Kiddies Store
www.kiddieproofers.com/go.shtml
Kiddie Proofers
www.toysrus.ca
Toys R Us Canada
www.babiesrus.ca
Babies R Us Canada
www.weecycled.com
WeeCycled Kids Stuff
www.bobebe.com
bo bébé fine baby products
Helpful Canadian Web Sites
Brentwood Town Centre, 604-298-7314
Mall in Burnaby, BC offers free car seat inspections by certified inspectors during mall hours. Call to schedule an appointment.
www.tc.gc.ca/roadsafety/childsafety/menu.htm
Transport Canada's Child Safety page
www.cbc.ca/consumers/market/files/cars/boosterseats/index.html
CBC news report about booster seats
www.sickkids.ca/safekidscanada
SAFE KIDS Canada
www.insurance-canada.ca/consinfoauto/Co-op200305.php
Insurance information on booster seat usage
www.stjohnsambulance.com
The St. Johns Ambulance web site. St. Johns Ambulance provides car seat inspections.
www.carseatsafety.ca
Manitoba Car Seat Coalition Site
Regional Public Health Department
Parents may contact their Public Health Department for a car seat clinic schedule.