Recommended Car Seats
ALL car seats save lives when installed and used correctly each time!
My providing this list does not constitute an endorsement of these seats; this list is based strictly on observations. I compiled the list because I often see requests for recommended car seats and parents don't know where to begin to look when it comes time to shop for a new car seat. This list of seats is what I see commonly recommended by parents and caregivers and is, by no means, complete. Seats are often recommended by parents and caregivers because they have features that make them easier to use, such as an easy-to-use harness adjuster, and that make them easier to install, such as built-in locking clips. Please note that you will not find any seats with overhead shields on the recommended list.
The only "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.
Beginning September 1, 2002, all newly manufactured car seats (belt positioning boosters, car beds and vests are exempted) and vehicles must be LATCH-equipped. Unless otherwise noted, all seats on this list are LATCH-equipped. For more information on LATCH, click here.
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.
Page last updated: 08/29/08
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: 4-22 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: Chicco has released 2 new versions of the KeyFit. The new KeyFit 22 has a redesigned base, so it won't work with the old style base.
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:
The EPS foam looks like styrofoam. Be careful to not throw it away!
Available at: baby specialty stores, and online
Features: 5-22 lbs.; 5-point harness with front adjuster; infant-sized chest clip; anti-rebound bar attached to infant seat; anti-rebound adjustable base that stays in the car; harness and belly pads; built-in seat belt locking clip; storage compartment inside base for manual and LATCH straps; EPS foam; adjustable canopy; handle must remain upright in vehicle
Drawbacks: handle is difficult to adjust
Comments: The Combi Shuttle replaces the Centre, which was discontinued in the 3rd quarter of 2007 in the U.S. The Centre is still available in Canada.
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: 5-30 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
Drawbacks: weight of seat
Comments: 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 Step 1 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 30 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: Babies-R-Us and Toys-R-Us (BRU/TRU), Target, Wal-Mart, and online
Features: 5-22 lbs.; 5-point harness with front adjuster; adjustable base that stays in the car; some models have memory foam; canopy that rotates 180°; handle can remain upright in vehicle; EPS foam (only model numbers ending with the number 3 have EPS foam; i.e., 8646GRT3)
Drawbacks:
Comments: There are many styles of SnugRides from which to choose, depending on the store you visit and the travel system (if available). Some SnugRides come with a 5-point harness with a back adjuster, while others are the 5-point with front adjuster. The 5-point harness with front adjuster is the preferred model, since it is easier to adjust.
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 48 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; 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 has recently 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 exclusively
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; 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.
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, online and specialty stores
Features: 5-35 lbs. rear-facing, 20-65 lbs. forward-facing; LATCH-equipped for children up to 48 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; 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: 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 has recently 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 48 lbs.; the head area is surrounded by EPS foam; non-twist straps; HUGS harness system for forward-facing use; high harness slots; 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 has recently 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; 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 has recently 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: 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: The Scenera is the updated version of the Cosco Touriva/Regal Ride. It has 4 harness slot positions, all of which are reinforced for forward-facing; something that is not available in older versions of the Touriva or Regal Ride.
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:
The EPP 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: The Avenue replaces the Uptown as a lower price point alternative. The Avenue has less padding than the Uptown did.
The EPP foam looks like styrofoam. Be careful to not throw it away!
Available at: specialty stores and online
Features: 5-33 lbs. rear-facing, 22-65 lbs. forward-facing; LATCH-equipped for children up to 48 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
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, 22-48 lbs. or 22-65 lbs. depending on when your seat was manufactured--read your manual and/or labels
The EPS 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: 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/TRU, Target, Wal-Mart and online
Features: 5-point harness from 20-40 lbs.; bpb to 100 lbs.; front harness adjuster; 2-piece chest clip; cup holder; arm rests
Drawbacks: the seat belt guide may cause slack to remain in the shoulder portion of the seat belt if child leans forward; difficult to adjust harness height
For Canadians only: 5-point harness from 20-47 lbs.
Comments: The harness adjuster prevents the chest clip from moving too far down out of position; a nice feature for kids who escape from their car seats by moving the chest clip down.
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 Bolero is available at Wal-Mart and KMart and lacks the additional padding and recline feature that the Generations has.
Available at: BRU/TRU, Target, Wal-Mart, Sears and online
Features: 5-point harness from 20-40 lbs.; bpb to 100 lbs.; fair amount of recline built into seat; cup holder; mesh toy pocket; EPS foam; some models have a thick comfort memory foam called Graco-pedic foam
Drawbacks: some people feel the plastic shell is a bit flimsy; the seat belt guide may cause slack to remain in the shoulder portion of the seat belt if child leans forward; models vary by store--some don't have front harness adjusters; because the back is open for ease of installation, a long seat belt buckle stalk may end up right behind the child's back, which can be dangerous.
Comments: The CarGo is available in 4 styles and there are variations within each style depending on the cover you choose. The CarGo has a front harness adjuster on the seat, toddler head support and pillow, Graco-Pedic comfort foam, EPS foam, 2-position recline, mesh pocket and cup holder, padded arm rests, and 3 separate shoulder belt guides when seat is used as a bpb. The Ultra CarGo has a front harness adjuster on the seat, head pillow, mesh pocket and cup holder, and 3 separate shoulder belt guides when seat is used as a bpb. The Platinum CarGo has a front harness adjuster on the seat, mesh pocket and cup holder, head and neck pillows, Graco-Pedic comfort foam, EPS foam, 2-position recline bar, and 3 separate shoulder belt guides when seat is used as a bpb. The Treasured CarGo has no front adjuster, EPS foam, mesh pocket and cup holder, 3 position shoulder belt guides, and is the cheapest version of this seat. The Treasured CarGo is no longer made, but is still available at some retailers slow to sell their stock. Seats without a front harness adjuster are not recommended because of the difficulty of adjusting the harness to get a good fit each ride.
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 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: 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. Generally a child is 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: 30-100 lbs.; removable back; EPS foam on head and torso wings; comfort foam on backrest and base; expandable armrests allow wider seating area; one-hand height adjustment; open loop shoulder belt guides; retractable cup holders
Drawbacks: cost
Comments: The Monarch is scheduled to be discontinued later this year. The EPS foam looks like styrofoam. Be careful to not throw it away!
Available at: BRU, online and at specialty stores
Features: 30-100 lbs.; EPS foam on head wings; comfort foam on backrest and base; one-hand height adjustment; open loop shoulder belt guides; retractable cup holders
Drawbacks: cost; cannot be used without the back
Comments: The Parkway has been discontinued. Look for sales and discounts. The EPS foam looks like styrofoam. Be careful to not throw it away!
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
For Canadians only: The Oto is the Canadian version, but it doesn't have armrests.
Comments: The Olli fits larger children well because it doesn't angle to be narrower in the back.
Available at: BRU, online and at specialty stores
Features: 33-100 lbs.; 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; EPS 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
The EPS foam looks like styrofoam. Be careful to not throw it away!
Available at: BRU, Target 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; retractable cup holders on both sides of seat; open loop shoulder belt guides; good headrest for sleeping in car; back adjusts height-wise with one hand; back has 2 recline positions
Drawbacks:
Comments: better for an older child since seating area is larger and will cause a child with shorter legs to slide down in the seat to bend his/her legs The EPS foam looks like styrofoam. Be careful to not throw it away!
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; open loop shoulder belt guides; good headrest for sleeping in car; 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!
on.
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: LATCH straps somewhat short
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!
on.
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: 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:
For Canadians only: 5-point harness from 25-65 lbs.
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.
The EPS foam looks like styrofoam. Be careful to not throw it away!
See these seats in the Convertible Seats section.
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: 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 cars with lap-only belts; requires tether anchor, use E-Z-On tether anchor over 40 lbs. (check with 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: Wal-Mart
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: 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: specialty stores and online
Features: 22-65 lbs.; 2-piece chest clip; 7 year limited warranty; retractable 5-point harness harness; retractable LATCH straps; one-hand harness height adjustment; EPP foam; aluminum frame; shoulder belt lockoff; memory foam
Drawbacks: cost; twist-prone straps
The EPS foam looks like styrofoam. Be careful to not throw it away!
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: 5-33 lbs. rear-facing, 22-65 lbs. forward-facing; LATCH-equipped for children up to 48 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
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, 22-48 lbs. or 22-65 lbs. depending on when your seat was manufactured--read your manual and/or labels
The EPS foam looks like styrofoam. Be careful to not throw it away!
Available at: specialty stores and online
Features: 5-33 lbs. rear-facing, 22-80 lbs. forward-facing; LATCH-equipped for children up to 48 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
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!
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
Comments: The Scenera is the updated version of the Cosco Touriva/Regal Ride. It has 4 harness slot positions, all of which are reinforced for forward-facing; something that is not available in older versions of the Touriva or Regal Ride.
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: 5-33 lbs. rear-facing, 22-65 lbs. forward-facing; LATCH-equipped for children up to 48 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
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, 22-48 lbs. or 22-65 lbs. depending on when your seat was manufactured--read your manual and/or labels
The EPS foam looks like styrofoam. Be careful to not throw it away!
Available at: specialty stores and online
Features: 5-33 lbs. rear-facing, 22-80 lbs. forward-facing; LATCH-equipped for children up to 48 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
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 Boulevard (65 lbs.)
Britax Frontier (65 lbs.)
Britax Marathon (48 lbs. older models/65 lbs. newer models; weight limits indicated on labels)
Evenflo Chase (47 lbs.)
Evenflo Generations (47 lbs.)
The First Years TrueFit (65 lbs.)Graco CarGo (and varieties—48 lbs.)
Sunshine Kids Radian (48 lbs. older models/65 lbs. newer models; weight limits indicated on labels)
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.