Pinching Your Pennies Forums - Changes in the 2007 car seats

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momtonathanandtwins

03-29-2007, 11:53 AM

From a car seat tech board, a review of some of the new features in the newest seats:
Evenflo Triumph will be re-designed and the shell will be apx. 24 inches tall. The harness will be re-designed, and the top slots willb e higher. It will harness to 50#'s. You can see ti on their website April 13th. It will stay the same price range.

Evenflo Titan will also harness to 50#'s with no other changes. It will stay 99$.

The Evenflo infant seats are adding one set of lower harness heights.

The new booster, the Evenflo Confidence, has 39 seat configurations. Who knew, LOL. It also has full body EPP.

Compass infant seats are steel on steel mechanisims, not steel on plastic. They will have a new booster, the B507, which I am not impressed with.

The Graco Safeseat will not go to 50#'s. It kept failing testing. BUT, I talked to a Graco engineer for 40 minutes about the Comfortsport and a little about the Safeseat line. But he took notes like crazy and put them in his laptop about the Comfortsport. He could hardly believe kids outgrow them so soon and did not know it's top slots were the lowest.

The Graco Air Booster is very cool. It is made by Herman Miller, who makes high-end air office chairs. It will be released mid-May.

IMMI/Safegaurd has come up with an awesome new restraint for kids in ambulances. Hopefully none of our kids will never need to try it out!

COSCO - I talked to them and you do NOT need to follow the angle indicator on the seats if you can get 45 degrees another way. YAY, as we know these are not accurate, but the manual says to follow them.

You DO have to follow the 34 inches to FF rule in Cosco/Dorel/Safet First seats. NO EXCEPTIONS. It will void the warranty. It is to encourage extended RF, which I told him I appreciate, but it is not very realistic for many kids who don't get to that height until age 2 - and the parents freak out when they come in wanting them FF and we can't legally do it.

The Designer Infant seat now has a center front adjuster - YAY and full EPP foam. This will include program seats for hospitals.

The MAXI COSI Priori convertible will be released this summer. It will have FF belt lock-offs and 4 harness heights. It WILL be able to be reclined FF without un-installing. It will harness to 40#'s, have top slots of at least 16 inches, and cost 199$. (too much if ya ask me).

New Booster, the Eddie Bauer Auto Booster will have full EPP foam and pivoting armrests.

Chicco Keyfit 30# version will be out this summer. The shell will stay the same but the base will be different. It will retail for 169$. They will have it in red for sure.

Chicco Booster seat - It will have optional FF recline, nice head wings with airflow, full EPP, etc. Very nice. I want it. It is still in the works - they are changing the belt guides from the Italian ones. They may label it from 40#'s instead of the common 30#'s.

Britax Side Impact sleds use a speed of 18 MPH, simulating a 35 MPH hit.

Shelley

03-29-2007, 12:04 PM

Norah,
Since it seems you've already done all the research that I was planning on doing soon.....what infant carseat(s) do you recommend? I need to buy one in the next month or two.
Thanks!

momtonathanandtwins

03-29-2007, 03:25 PM

If I were buying an infant seat in the next few months I'd pick between these three:
Graco Safe seat-The Safeseat also fits new babies remarkably well, The safeseat only had foam 1/2way down the back shell of seat and the area where baby's bum would to seemed so hard. The cover's padding wasn't very cushy

Chicco Key fit-absolutely easiest to use. The padding is very nice, the infant support pads are awesome and truly cradle the baby in the seat. The harness is smooth as butter. canopy is rather small.

Peg Perego Primo Viaggio- uses steel to attach seat to base while the others use plastic. The only infant seat I've ever use. Can be a a hard to fit to car seat though. PRICEY.

Personally I boycott Graco so it is out since there are two other choices. I think if I was buying today I'd go with a Chicco Key fit. I've installed a few key fits for friends and they are very easy to install. Graco and Peg Perego can be hard to install correctly in some vechiles.

Jamie

03-29-2007, 03:30 PM

After reading info from the carseat techs, I bought a Key Fit and I LOVE it!! I cannot believe how easy the base is to install. I am glad I bought this seat. My cousins also bought this seat for the baby they adopted last week. It does swaddle and support a newborn great.

tomandjess

03-29-2007, 05:09 PM

Great Info Norah. Thanks for sharing. What recommendations can you give on booster seats?

momtonathanandtwins

03-29-2007, 07:24 PM

Great Info Norah. Thanks for sharing. What recommendations can you give on booster seats?
I'll look into it. None of my kids are ready for a booster yet so I haven't done much research but I can have it done some time tomorrow for you if the boys sleep early tonight.

eta: Okay after spending time after the kids were asleep looking into boosters its going to take me awhile longer to answer your question. I'll try to have an answer for you by Monday. I do need to ask a few questions though:
Do you have head rests in the back seats?
How old is your child? Are you aware that it is safer to keep your child harnessed passed 40 lbs? Moving to a booster before your child is developmentally ready is not safe. My plans are to keep my boys harnessed to 80 lbs and skipping the booster.

mercutiosister

03-30-2007, 09:10 AM

Wow great info, I just bought a Graco Cargo booster with the 5 pt harness for my tall 37 lb 3 year old. I'm not sold on it yet (the straps twist up easily and I have a hard time loosening them) and have a couple months to try it out and return it, I am REALLY interested in why you don't like Graco and what your suggestions are. I too want my kids in a 5 pt harness as long as possible and so I just bought the one that had the most room to grow, there's maybe 2 inches she can grow, I was disappointed at the lack of options for tall kids. Maybe there are more options but I just went to one Babies R Us.
Also we're hoping to go from a car to a minivan later this year.
I've not found much info on the web, thanks for all this info!

kathyjones.ze

03-30-2007, 09:24 AM

Norah, Thanks for the info.
I am looking to purchase a convertible car seat? What do you suggest? Are they as safe?

Dori

03-30-2007, 09:25 AM

I've had children in every stage of car seat awareness: from rolling loosely in the back seat as we turned corners (1985) to strapped down like a high risk inmate (currently). Right now we are using a Graco Snugride and it seemed very easy to install to me. And I really like the way the 5 point harness buckles. DD got an infant carrier for her baby that required some serious coordination and dexterity to buckle, and it was especially helpful if the baby was comatose. Sheesh! (Brand was Safety 1st I think)
So...I'm thinking maybe my current car seat is TOO easy? Maybe I'm doing it wrong. Where in Utah (Salt Lake County) can you have your car seat installation inspected? I'm very interested not just for my own sake but also for my two DD's who have/will have babies of their own.
BTW I'm already sold on keeping my little one rear facing for as long as possible.

Dori

03-30-2007, 09:26 AM

Norah, Thanks for the info.
I am looking to purchase a convertible car seat? What do you suggest? Are they as safe?

Oh yes! We're going to go to a convertible next as well. Jaxon is just 16 pounds and 27 inches tal so we have a little time but I want to start preparing (and hoarding Target rx giftcards) now.
TIA!

Natarat

03-30-2007, 09:51 AM

Wow, great info. I wish I knew about this site before my baby was born!

NYcheapskate

03-30-2007, 10:00 AM

Oh yes! We're going to go to a convertible next as well. Jaxon is just 16 pounds and 27 inches tal so we have a little time but I want to start preparing (and hoarding Target rx giftcards) now.
TIA!
I recently asked about convertible carseats and many people said the Evenflo Triumph was a good one to get. Will this still be the case with the new one? I need to buy one soon. Technically my son is too long for his infant seat (max 26") but he can't sit up yet and who wants to do grocery shoppong with a stroller. I know some stores have those built in infant seats but those make me nauseous!!

momtonathanandtwins

03-30-2007, 10:01 AM

Norah, Thanks for the info.
I am looking to purchase a convertible car seat? What do you suggest? Are they as safe?
I think that convertible seats are much safer than infant seats. They don't connect to a base so that's one less area for them to have a flaw. I moved my infants from their infant seats to convertible seats by 4 months of age because of this factor plus those infant seats with babies in them are freaking heavy.

My number one suggestion is a Britax Marathon. However its pricey. This seat seams to fit most cars/vans/trucks/suv's. But its easy to install and easy to use. I can give you a rundown on all convertible seats later in the day. I have to find all the info I saved and copy it to this site so give me a few hours.

momtonathanandtwins

03-30-2007, 10:03 AM

Oh yes! We're going to go to a convertible next as well. Jaxon is just 16 pounds and 27 inches tal so we have a little time but I want to start preparing (and hoarding Target rx giftcards) now.
TIA!
If his head is one inch or less from the top of your infant seat he is too big for it right now. Doesn't matter if he's still in the length requirements if his head is one inch or less from the top he is too big.

Dori

03-30-2007, 10:03 AM

I recently asked about convertible carseats and many people said the Evenflo Triumph was a good one to get. Will this still be the case with the new one? I need to buy one soon. Technically my son is too long for his infant seat (max 26") but he can't sit up yet and who wants to do grocery shoppong with a stroller. I know some stores have those built in infant seats but those make me nauseous!!

Are you sure the max is 26"? Most of the newer ones max out at 29" I believe. I could be wrong. It's happened before. ;)

Dori

03-30-2007, 10:04 AM

If his head is one inch or less from the top of your infant seat he is too big for it right now. Doesn't matter if he's still in the length requirements if his head is one inch or less from the top he is too big.

Good to know! I'll see how it looks when we do school pickups in a little bit. I think his length is in his legs by the looks of his highwater pants but I'll check to be sure. LOL

Dori

03-30-2007, 10:05 AM

Now for my next question....If his head is more than an inch from the top but he's taller than 29" would it still be safe to use?

momtonathanandtwins

03-30-2007, 10:13 AM

The best and safest seat fits your car, fits your child, and will be used correctly EVERY time.
That said, most of us are big Britax fans for several reasons. However we also realize that it's not within everyone's budget to have a Britax seat (or perhaps they want a lower priced seat for a lesser used car or for travel).

The most recommended seats are-

Cosco Scenera, five point harness ONLY! It can be used rear facing from 5-35 pounds and forward facing from 22-40 pounds AND over a year of age. It is very lightweight and generally easy to install. It has very minimal padding, but most children don't mind. There is no EPS foam in this seat and it cannot be tethered rear facing. It costs between $40-$60.

Sunshine Kids Radian- A convertible car seat that can be used from 5 to 33 pounds rear facing and 20-65 pounds forward facing AND over one year of age. It has some installation issues, so this is definitely a try before you buy seat. It is EPS lined, can be tethered rear facing, and folds in half for travel. It costs about $175

Safety 1st Intera- This seat has many positive attributes. It rear faces from 5-35 pounds and forward faces from 22-40 pounds AND over a year of age. It can also be used as a booster from 40 -100 pounds (but this seat, like all seats, has a shelf life. This seat must be destroyed six years after the date of manufacture). Once removed from the base (which doubles as a backless booster), it is the narrowest convertible car seat on the US market. It also has the highest harness height of any 40 pound convertible seat, which means a child is likely to make it to 40 pounds in this seat in the harness (most convertible seats are outgrown by height before weight). AND it is a nice booster as well! This seat cannot be tethered rear facing and does not have EPS foam. It costs anywhere from $90-$120.

Fisher Price Safe Voyage Deluxe- This seat is made by Britax and is very similar to the Britax Marathon. It can rear face from 5-33 pounds and forward face from 20-55 pounds AND over a year of age. It is well padded and lined with EPS foam. This seat cannot be tethered rear facing. It costs about $180.

Seats that are less recommended-

Cosco Alpha Omega/Eddie Bauer 3n1/Safety 1st Enspira- This seat bills itself as the last car seat you will ever need. It's not true! This seat is often difficult to use and having confusing instructions. It can be used rear facing from 5-35 pounds, which is a plus, and from 22-40 pounds AND over a year of age forward facing, plus as a booster from 30-100 pounds AND over a year of age. It cannot be tethered rear facing and is not lined with EPS foam. It costs between $100-$200, depending on the model.
So why it is less recommended?
It's hard to use
It has extremely low top slots so most children outgrow it VERY early
It is difficult to use as a booster and the belt guides can introduce slack
It does not adjust taller for booster use
It is very expensive
It fails government testing for head excursion when used forward facing without the top tether

Graco ComfortSport- This seat is a convertible seat that can be used rear facing from 5-30 pounds and forward facing from 20-40 pounds AND over a year of age. Higher end models are lined with EPS foam. This is a narrow seat that costs anywhere from $60-$140. This seat cannot be tethered rear facing.
Why is it less recommended?
Extremely low top slots mean children outgrow this seat VERY early
Harness adjuster is very difficult to use when rear facing
Seat only rear faces to 30 pounds which is inadequate for most children

Evenflo Triumph- This seat can be used rear facing from 5-30 pounds and forward facing from 20-40 pounds AND over a year of age. It features a five position recline, including an awesome newborn setting. It is EPS lined and generally easy to install, and cannot be tethered rear facing. It costs between $110-$150.
Why is it less recommended?
Top harness slots are low, meaning children outgrow this seat very early
Seat shell is very short, meaning children outgrow it rear facing very early (my son was too tall to rear face in this seat at 10 months old, YEARS before he is ready to forward face!) and also outgrow it forward facing quite early even if they don't reach the weight limit of the top slots
Memory harness can be very confusing (but some people love it!)
Some people hate the harness adjustment on this seat (some people love it!)
It is very wide and very heavy
It only rear faces to 30 pounds, which is inadequate. However the very short seat shell means most kids won't even make it to 30 pounds.
The Triumph also has a low seatback which means that kids will outgrow it much sooner. There are kids that outgrow it rear-facing at 16 months, usually before age two. It is rare the child that will make it to 4 years/40 lbs in the Triumph.

Evenflo Titan- This seat rear faces from 5-30 pounds and forward faces from 20-40 pounds AND over a year of age. It is well padded, but is EPS lined but cannot be tethered rear facing. It costs between $80-$120
Why is it less recommended?
Top slots are low, meaning many children outgrow this seat before tehy are booster ready
Harness adjuster can be difficult to use when rear facing
Rear facing weight limit is only 30 pounds, which is inadequate for most children

Remember- ALL seats in the US meet the same minimum government standards for safe use, so all seats will keep your child very safe in a crash. The most important safety feature of a seat is it's user! A correctly installed, correctly used seat that fits the child and the vehicle will always be safer than a seat that is not used correctly or does not fit, regardless of brand names. None of the seats above are bad seats, and if the seat you like or will be able to use correctly is on the less recommended list, it doesn't mean your child will be unsafe in a vehicle crash.

Some convertible seats (that aren't Britax) that keep you harnessed past 40 lbs:
Sunshine Kids Radian- A convertible car seat that can be used from 5 to 33 pounds rear facing and 20-65 pounds forward facing AND over one year of age. It has some installation issues, so this is definitely a try before you buy seat. It is EPS lined, can be tethered rear facing, and folds in half for travel. It costs about $175
Fisher Price Safe Voyage Deluxe- This seat is made by Britax and is very similar to the Britax Marathon. It can rear face from 5-33 pounds and forward face from 20-55 pounds AND over a year of age. It is well padded and lined with EPS foam. This seat cannot be tethered rear facing. It costs about $180.

After you have her forward facing you can get a combo seat if neither of those options (Britax or the others) appeal to you. If you go this route here are the options (again I 've tried to keep the costbelow $200 so no Britax's are listed) that keep you harnessed past 50 lbs:
Cosco Alpha Elite/Safety 1st Apex- This seat harnesses to 65 pounds (as opposed to 40 like all other combination seats) and then can be used as a booster until 100 pounds. It is a very wide seat, and very tall. It is a great budget choice for people who want a seat that harnesses over 40 pounds but don't want to spend a lot of money. However, the main drawback to this seat is that you MUST have high vehicle seatbacks or adjustable headrests to use it, as you must discontinue using the seat when the child's head is above the VEHICLE seatback, since the headrest of this seat is not reinforced. The same rule applies to harnessed and booster mode. As a booster, this seat is pretty good. It has an adjustable headrest as well as open belt guides. Unlike many seats with armrests, the vehicle belt must go BEHIND this seat's armrests, so be sure to remember that when using it as a booster. This seat does not have EPS foam. It costs $100-$130.
Safeguard GO- This seat is really more of a vest than a seat. It can be used until 60 pounds with the harness, and until 100 pounds as a backless booster. It folds up into it's own case for travel, which is very unique. It also allows use of lower anchors when used as a backless booster, almost making it part of the vehicle. This seat REQUIRES a top tether when used with the harness, and also requires you to stop using it when the child's ears go over the top of the vehicle seat or vehicle headrest, so in order to use this seat to it's full potential you must have high seatbacks or adjustable headrests. This seat is EPS lined and will likely be the last seat you need if you want to use it as a BACKLESS booster, as it is NOT a highback booster. It costs $180.

Unfortunately, most convertible seats on the US market are outgrown, normally by height, before a child is ready for a booster seat. 4 years AND 40 pounds is the bare minimum that a child should ride in a booster, but the longer they are harnessed, the safer they are. Remember, the child must sit up straight, not slouch, not mess with the belt, not lean forward, not fall asleep, and not be out of position for the entire car ride, each and every time, if they are using a booster. Some four year olds can do this, but 5 or 6 is really more realistic in terms of being mature enough to handle a booster. That means that after most convertible seats are outgrown, you still need another harnessed seat. Here are some options

Combination seats- Harness to 40 pounds and then can be used as a booster. They generally have much higher top slots than most convertible seats, thus buying a lot more height before they are outgrown.

Evenflo Generations/Bolero- This is a seat that harnesses to 40 pounds (47 in Canada) and afterward can be used as a booster until 100 pounds. The Generations is a bit more padded and can be reclined, but they are essentially the same seat. This is one of the better combination seats to use as a booster because it has open shoulder guides and the headrest is adustable as the child grows taller. The harness adjuster is by the child's knees and is a knob that you turn, versus pulling on a strap like most car seats. Make sure that you like this adjuster before buying this seat, as it is often a love it or hate it type thing. This seat will likely last in booster mode until your child is ready for an adult seatbelt. This seat does not have EPS foam. It costs $80-$120

Evenflo Chase/Traditions/Vision- These are all basically the same seat, but vary in the amount of padding they have. They all harness to 40 pounds (47 in Canada) and can be used as boosters until 100 pounds after that. They are so so as boosters, have open belt guides on the side (rather than the front) of the seat, and not being able to adjust the headrest at all. You will likely need another booster after this seat as most children will outgrow this seat in booster mode by height before they are ready for an adult seatbelt. The harness adjuster is also on the harness itself, a large metal clip that rests on the child's abdomen. Most children don't mind this, but it is best to make sure your child will not mess with it. This seat does not have EPS foam. This is a good budget seat, ranging from $40-$90.

Graco Cargo booster (Cherished, Ultra, Platinum)- Before I talk about this seat, it is important to know that there is one model that does NOT have a front adjuster, the Treasured Cargo. Avoid this one, as the seat must be uninstalled every time you need to tighten or loosen the harness. The other models (Cherished, Ultra, and Platinum) differ in the amount of padding they have, EPS foam, and recline bar. The platinum is the top model, having an EPS lined shell in the head area, los of padding, and a recline bar. The Cherished is a bit less padded but keeps the EPS foam. The Ultra does not have EPS foam. All of these seats can be used in the harness until 40 pounds (48 in Canada) and then as a booster until 100 pounds. These seats are great harnessed seats and so so as boosters. The clips for the shoulder belt (in booster mode) do not allow the belt to move freely, and can introduce slack (this can be fixed by locking the seatbelt if you have retracting belts) and this seat does not adjust taller for older children, and will likely be outgrown by height before your child is ready for an adult seatbelt. This seat costs from $80-$120, depending on the model. The Treasured Cargo is cheaper, but is NOT recommended because of the rear belt adjustment.

Cosco/Safety 1st Prospect/Eddie Bauer Cubb- This seat can be used in the harness until 40 pounds, and then as a booster until 100 pounds. It has an EPS lined head rest and is very padded. However, many find this seat, especially the head area, TOO padded. Many people have reported that the headrest pushes the child's head forward and is uncomfortable, so be sure to make sure your child likes this seat before buying it. This is also a very WIDE seat, so not good for 3 across situations in smaller vehicles. That said, it is a good booster, having open belt guides and an adjustable headrest, but you must have a vehicle headrest behind it as it is not reinforced. This seat will likely last until your child is ready for an adult seatbelt. This seat costs $80-$120.

Cosco Alpha Elite/Safety 1st Apex- This seat harnesses to 65 pounds (as opposed to 40 like all other combination seats) and then can be used as a booster until 100 pounds. It is a very wide seat, and very tall. It is a great budget choice for people who want a seat that harnesses over 40 pounds but don't want to spend a lot of money. However, the main drawback to this seat is that you MUST have high vehicle seatbacks or adjustable headrests to use it, as you must discontinue using the seat when the child's head is above the VEHICLE seatback, since the headrest of this seat is not reinforced. The same rule applies to harnessed and booster mode. As a booster, this seat is pretty good. It has an adjustable headrest as well as open belt guides. Unlike many seats with armrests, the vehicle belt must go BEHIND this seat's armrests, so be sure to remember that when using it as a booster. This seat does not have EPS foam. It costs $100-$130.

Recaro Young Sport- This seat can be used with the harness until 40 pounds and as a booster until 80 pounds. Either way, this is a superb seat. It is EPS lined and adjusts taller, so this will likely be the last seat your child needs. It REQUIRES a top tether when used as a booster. This is a great seat, but does not come cheap. It costs $250.

Safeguard GO- This seat is really more of a vest than a seat. It can be used until 60 pounds with the harness, and until 100 pounds as a backless booster. It folds up into it's own case for travel, which is very unique. It also allows use of lower anchors when used as a backless booster, almost making it part of the vehicle. This seat REQUIRES a top tether when used with the harness, and also requires you to stop using it when the child's ears go over the top of the vehicle seat or vehicle headrest, so in order to use this seat to it's full potential you must have high seatbacks or adjustable headrests. This seat is EPS lined and will likely be the last seat you need if you want to use it as a BACKLESS booster, as it is NOT a highback booster. It costs $180.

Cosco Summit/Safety 1st Vantage Point- This seat can be used with the harness until 40 pounds and as a booster until 100 pounds. However, the harness slots on this seat are not much higher than a convertible seat, and nowhere near as tall as other combination seats. This means that most children will outgrow this seat in the harness by height before reaching 40 pounds. As a booster, this seat has open belt guides but does not adjust taller, meaning it will not last your child until they are ready for an adult seatbelt. This, coupled with the fact that the harness is much lower than other combination seats, means that this seat is not often recommended. This seat does not have EPS foam. It costs $80-$120.

Other Cosco/Safety1st/Eddie Bauer combination seats not mentioned above- Dorel Juvenile Group (parent company of Cosco, Safety 1st, and Eddie Bauer) makes a slew of combination seats under many different names. All of them (except the ones listed above)can be used with the harness until 40 pounds and as a booster until 100 pounds, but have very low top slots and do not adjust taller for booster use. This means that most children will outgrow the harness before they are ready for the booster, and will outgrow the booster before they are ready fo ran adult seatbelt. These seats are not often recommended for this reason. However, these seats are very cheap, and can sometimes be found for as low as $30. These seats are definitely budget seats, and may be the only options available if the family doesn't have a lot of money to spend on the seat. They are just as safe and the other ones listed above, they just will not last as long. These seats range from $40-$100 normally.

I will also mention the Graco SafeSeat 2 here. It is a forward facing only seat that does not convert to a booster. However it is very easy to use and comfortable and has very high top slots. It is EPS lined with deep 'wings' for a child to rest his/her head on. Though it is not a combination seat, it is worth considering if you know you will want a dedicated booster afterwards. It costs $120-$140.

High Weight Harness seats- These seats harness past 40 pounds but cannot be used as boosters.

Britax Marathon/Decathlon/Boulevard- These are convertible seats (can be used rear or forward facing) that harness to 65 pounds. They are on a base, therefore sit quite tall. They all have EPS lined shells, and the Boulevard has side impact wings as well. These seats cost $220-$280

Fisher Price Safe Voyage Deluxe- This is a convertible seat that harnesses to 55 pounds. It sits high on a base, and is EPS lined. It costs about $180.

Sunshine Kids Radian- This seat is a convertible seat that harnesses to 65 pounds. It is very narrow and has a low profile, so is good in three across situations in smaller vehicles. It has some installation issues, so make sure you can safely secure it in your car. It folds for travel which is unique, but is still very heavy! it is EPS lined and costs about $180. Most kids outgrow seats on height before weight. The Radian 65 is routinely outgrown before 65 lbs and even adding a bit of height by allowing shoulders over the top slots, most kids will not make it to 65 lbs unless they are very overweight. Since the Radian 65 and the Radian 80 have the same shell, and therefore the same height limits. If kids won't make it to 65 lbs, they certainly won't need the extra 15 lbs that the Radian 80 offers. So, if you are not going to use the extra weight the only other difference is the padding offered in the Radian 80.

Additionally, if you buy the Radian as your first convertible after an infant seat, your child will likely be around 7 years old when it expires. Less than 10% of kids will reach 65 lbs by 7 years old and virtually none will reach 80 lbs.

Britax Regent- This is a forward facing only seat that harnesses up to 80 pounds. It is the largest child restraint on the US market for general use (some special needs seats are larger) and thus has the highest limits. It requires a top tether for use over 50 pounds. It is very well padded and EPS lined and most children can last in this seat until 8-10 years old, sometimes skipping a booster entirely. It costs $200-$250. This seat is virtually identical to the Britax Husky, which it replaced in early 2006.

Safeguard Child Seat- This is a forward facing only seat that harnesses until 65 pounds. It is EPS lined, very well padded, very easy to install and use, and VERY expensive. It's big, so make sure you have room for it in your vehicle. This seat costs $450.

Britax convertible seats:
This includes all Convertible seats only:
The roundabout is a 5-40 pounds convertible seat. It has a single
anchor strap routed through the belt path. It can be tethered rear
facing and rear faces from 5-33 pounds. It can also be used forward
facing from 20-40 pounds AND over a year old. It has a has a push-
button adjuster. Harness height adjustment you remove and re-thread
the straps. Crotch strap has one.

The marathon, decathlon, and boulevard are all 5-65 pound convertible
seats.

The marathon is the first and most basic. It features 4 harness
heights, double straps anchor attachments with bars (instead of using
the belt path). It can be tethered rear facing and used rear facing
from 5-33 pounds and forward facing from 20-65 AND over a year old.
It has a a lever-type adjuster. Harness height adjustment you remove
and re-thread the straps. Crotch strap has one.

The decathlon features additional infant padding that makes this a
very plush seat and very supportive for newborns. It use a single
anchor strap routed through the belt path. It has 3 different crotch
strap settings and 4 harness heights. It can be tethered rear facing
and used rear facing for 5-33 pounds and forward facing 20-65 pounds
AND over a year old. It has a has a push-button adjuster. Harness
height adjustment you remove and re-thread the straps. Crotch strap
has three crotch strap positions.

The boulevard also has additional padding for infants, as well as
side 'wings' marketed br Britax as "True Side Impact Protection."
These EPS lined wings help to contain the child's head in a side
impact crash. The harness on this seat is adjusted with a knob and
can be adjusted 1/16 of an inch at a time, allowing for a perfect fit
every time. It has double anchors straps that are hooked to bars and
not routed through the belt path. It rear faces from 5-33 pounds and
forward faces from 20-65 pounds AND over a year old. It can also be
tethered rear facing. Harness height adjustment has a knob you turn
to move the harness height up and down without removing straps.
Crotch strap has one.

momtonathanandtwins

03-30-2007, 10:16 AM

Now for my next question....If his head is more than an inch from the top but he's taller than 29" would it still be safe to use?
I personally would use it but your probably voiding any manufacturer warranty if used that way.

NYcheapskate

03-30-2007, 10:22 AM

So, in your opinion, with the new design for the evenflo triumph, would that be a good mid-priced one to buy?

Dori

03-30-2007, 10:28 AM

And how often (and in what circumstances) do manufacturer warranties actually pay out?

Dori

03-30-2007, 10:30 AM

Also, not to be a nag ;), but does anyone know where we can have our seats inspected?

momtonathanandtwins

03-30-2007, 11:02 AM

So, in your opinion, with the new design for the evenflo triumph, would that be a good mid-priced one to buy?
I would think it would be a fairly nice seat. However its a new design and I'm so not into being the test subject for a new seat. But if I needed a seat in that price range I'd probably go for it and keep a very close eye for recalls and problems.

momtonathanandtwins

03-30-2007, 11:07 AM

Also, not to be a nag ;), but does anyone know where we can have our seats inspected?
Sorry I missed that the first time, where are you located and I'll ask around? PCMC does carseat checks and out of any of the techs in the state I'd say they are amongst the best. The only other person I have liked (but I haven't checked anywhere but PCMC, HAFB, Davis and Weber counties) is a guy who worked for the Ogden PD but I'm not sure he is still there. Almost all other techs are only state certified and not nationally certified and believe me there is a huge difference.

momtonathanandtwins

03-30-2007, 11:07 AM

And how often (and in what circumstances) do manufacturer warranties actually pay out?
By voiding I mean if your in an accident and the seat fails they won't be at fault if your child is bigger than the stated height and weight.

Dori

03-30-2007, 11:22 AM

Sorry I missed that the first time, where are you located and I'll ask around? PCMC does carseat checks and out of any of the techs in the state I'd say they are amongst the best. The only other person I have liked (but I haven't checked anywhere but PCMC, HAFB, Davis and Weber counties) is a guy who worked for the Ogden PD but I'm not sure he is still there. Almost all other techs are only state certified and not nationally certified and believe me there is a huge difference.

Thanks! PCMC will be perfect. I have a DD just sent there for scoliosis so maybe I can kill two birds with one stone. Do you know if I need an appointment? I guess I could just call.
Thanks for all your knowledge!

Dori

03-30-2007, 11:31 AM

By voiding I mean if your in an accident and the seat fails they won't be at fault if your child is bigger than the stated height and weight.

I'm a person who can't know enough if you kwim.....
Do people actually blame the carseat co if their child is hurt in a crash? It seems so unlikely that you'd be able to prove that your seat was installed correctly, your kid was buckled correctly, the crash was within the limits and circumstance of the capabilities of the seat, the stars were perfectly aligned, etc, etc.
For these reasons I will continue to use Jaxon's seat as long as he is an inch below the top even if he is longer than 29 inches. As for the carrier being so freakin' heavy, you're right baout that. I'll just leave it in the vehicle (I've started doing that some already) since that is what I would do with the next seat up anyway. Make sense?
Agian, Thanks!

Shelley

03-30-2007, 11:43 AM

Those of you using the Chicco Keyfit....are you installing it with the Latch system?

momtonathanandtwins

03-30-2007, 11:48 AM

I'm a person who can't know enough if you kwim.....
Do people actually blame the carseat co if their child is hurt in a crash? It seems so unlikely that you'd be able to prove that your seat was installed correctly, your kid was buckled correctly, the crash was within the limits and circumstance of the capabilities of the seat, the stars were perfectly aligned, etc, etc.
For these reasons I will continue to use Jaxon's seat as long as he is an inch below the top even if he is longer than 29 inches. As for the carrier being so freakin' heavy, you're right baout that. I'll just leave it in the vehicle (I've started doing that some already) since that is what I would do with the next seat up anyway. Make sense?
Agian, Thanks!
People are very lawsuit happy these days so yes I do believe there are people out there who will sue and place blame on the carseat makers. However here in Utah I have to laugh at anyone thinking the carseat makers at fault since most people use car seats incorrectly. Don't believe me, take a look around:
I see infants forward facing before hitting a year old because the child just doesn't like sitting backwards.
So many people use their infant seats to exactly one year yet most infants outgrow the seat before a year. Next time you walk by someone look and see how close to the top the child is.
I've seen booster seats being used for one year old kids because its the cheapest seat on the market (graco booster $19.95). Heck I saw an 3-6 month baby the other day in a booster seat.
I see the handles left up on infant seats that are required to have the handle down (some require it down some say you can leave it up), my neighbor does this because its faster for her to leave it up even though her seat is not a seat that allows for the handle to be up.
I've noticed that people move their kids to a booster when a new baby comes along so they don't have to buy another seat. Or if they need the extra room in their car they just take the seat out completely.

I cringe anytime I hear of a car accident that hurts or kills a child. I'm always wondering what type of seat and how was the seat being used. I watched an accident just up from my house seriously injury a toddler's neck and I just know(course I can't prove it but its likely) if that child was still rearfacing he would have walked away with no injury.

momtonathanandtwins

03-30-2007, 11:51 AM

Those of you using the Chicco Keyfit....are you installing it with the Latch system?
No I have not installed it with latch. I can not get a tight enough fit with latch and I can get a much tighter install with a seatbelt. I know from tech boards that people are installing it with latch without a problem.

Shelley

03-30-2007, 12:07 PM

No I have not installed it with latch. I can not get a tight enough fit with latch and I can get a much tighter install with a seatbelt. I know from tech boards that people are installing it with latch without a problem.
Thanks for your help. I use to read the tech boards alot when I had 3 kids 5 and under, and even attended a few classes. My kids are now 5,7, and 10 and I haven't needed much info about carseats lately. (Although the youngest two are still in them.)
So now I'm way out of touch with the current seats and technology, and I'm taking the lazy way out and asking you instead of doing my own research. Thanks for helping me out!

bboo79

03-30-2007, 01:06 PM

Also, not to be a nag ;), but does anyone know where we can have our seats inspected?

You can usually have it inspected at the Health Department. I used to help with car seat checks as an intern.

bboo79

03-30-2007, 01:13 PM

I can't remember, but are you supposed to get a new car seat every 3 years or something like that?

dragonfly3

04-02-2007, 12:26 PM

I can't remember, but are you supposed to get a new car seat every 3 years or something like that?

I know the last seat we bought had an expiration date on it. My Husband is kinda making a fuss since I am insisting we get a new seat with this baby, even though we have 2 carseats in perfect condition. But I think that is because he listens to his mom too much about the whole, well this crib was parfectly fine when you were a baby, and we didnt have any problems (even though your head could have gotten stuck!); you were never in a carseat (or seatbelt), and that turned fine, etc. Oh well he wont do anything if I just go out and buy one and tell him how it works.

Shelley

04-02-2007, 12:29 PM

But I think that is because he listens to his mom too much about the whole, well this crib was parfectly fine when you were a baby, and we didnt have any problems (even though your head could have gotten stuck!); you were never in a carseat (or seatbelt), and that turned fine, etc.

Isn't that annoying? :angry5:

dbayoung

04-02-2007, 01:13 PM

I can't remember, but are you supposed to get a new car seat every 3 years or something like that?

I'm pretty sure it's 5-6 years for when they expire.. there should be a sticker somewhere on the carseat that will tell you when it was made and how many years.

shawnii5

04-05-2007, 11:10 PM

momtonathanandtwins

04-06-2007, 08:20 AM

I am going so crazy with this car seat thing. I just had my husband buy a used in good shape Primo viaggio car seat today for 55.00 and we still need to buy another infant car seat for the other twin. I got it because of the good review on this thread. I then read on this web site www.car-seat.org (I think that is the right site) and it said that this is not a good car seat. They say to use the latch system on this car seat because the seat belt is a pain to install it right. and I hope that my SUV has this latch system. I have a 03 ford excurtion. I am all ready so mixed up on all of this latch system any way and how to use it. Some one said all of the 03 cars have them by the seat belt buckle (at least this is what I understand) and then there is the whole tether thing that I am lost with. Should I have tethers instaled in my SUV?
Also I am moving some kids and switching car seats because one is so old that I realy need to garbage it. So I need to get a new seat for my 5 almost 6 year old, Would you pro's out there recomend a booster seat for him or a 5 point harrness for him? What would be the best one to get?
Thanks for any help.
Shawnii help...

I only have a few minutes right now but I'll try to answer a few questions:
I used the Primo Viaggo without latch (meaning I used the belt) and it was easy to install correctly. Did you try the seat in your car before buying? It may or may not install correctly in your car. Not every seat will install correctly with either the latch or seat belt in every car. I never buy a seat without trying it in my car first. That being said I have only used the Primo Viaggo infant seat and loved them, and used them with my twins too. The quality of the seat is quite nice compared to other infant seats. I'm not a fan of latch for infant seats and I never install my infant seats with latch. However latch is not a bad thing but I personally have never had a very tight install with latch with an infant seat.

I didn't have tethers installed, I used an anchor that was not attached to anything in the car. Your car may or may not have any of those. Unless your buying a Britax seat (and right off the top of my head I can't think of any others) you won't need tethers anyway. Tethers are just anothersafety feature to keep the seat moving.

How big is your almost 6 year old? In height and weight. He's likely getting too big for most harness seats unless you buy a Husky ($$$) but it would be a good investment if you use it with him and then use it with the other kids.

Again for anyone reading this thread:
Not all carseats fit all types of cars. It is a must that you try the seat in your car before buying to make sure it will fit. You also need to read the instruction manual because some car seats are not able to be used with certain types of car seats and head rests. Just because something comes with everyone saying it is a great seat or a not so great seat doesn't mean it will owrk that way for you. You really need to try each and every seat in your car before buying it.

momtonathanandtwins

04-06-2007, 08:31 AM

BTW that website is great and it is where I get alot of my info from. Lots of knowledgeable people over there.

NYcheapskate

04-06-2007, 09:46 AM

I think that convertible seats are much safer than infant seats. They don't connect to a base so that's one less area for them to have a flaw. I moved my infants from their infant seats to convertible seats by 4 months of age because of this factor plus those infant seats with babies in them are freaking heavy.

My number one suggestion is a Britax Marathon. However its pricey. This seat seams to fit most cars/vans/trucks/suv's. But its easy to install and easy to use. I can give you a rundown on all convertible seats later in the day. I have to find all the info I saved and copy it to this site so give me a few hours.
OK. We just bit the bullet and bought the Marathon per your suggestion and experience. Thank you so much for all the work you did on this thread. You are amazing!!

hebishop

04-10-2007, 04:06 PM

momtonathanandtwins

04-11-2007, 02:13 PM

OK. We just bit the bullet and bought the Marathon per your suggestion and experience. Thank you so much for all the work you did on this thread. You are amazing!!
I hope you like your Marathon. And thanks.

momtonathanandtwins

04-11-2007, 02:18 PM

We have bought both Britax carseats and Compass. We bought the Compass infant carrier and loved it! We also love our Roundabouts but I am looking to get another Britax convertible. I am not up on the new ones (mine are about three years old to four years old.) What do you suggest? My kids are on the small side so the weight limit issues aren't a big deal. (They could go to 65 lbs or 80 and I'd be fine for a LONG time!) Thanks!
Heather
Since your kids are older and you like Britax the Regent is a good choice. There are other seats though that could work for you. I think on the second page of this thread I placed a rundown of non-Britax seats that are forward facing 5pt harnessed seats.

Normally I would just copy what I've typed but I've been suffering from a major headache for the past week and just can't go back to look for it. I'm certain its on page two but could be page three.

bboo79

04-25-2007, 04:17 PM

I'm pretty sure it's 5-6 years for when they expire.. there should be a sticker somewhere on the carseat that will tell you when it was made and how many years.
I've checked on my car seat and it doesn't say when it expires. It just tells me when it was made. Can anyone help.

momtonathanandtwins

04-25-2007, 06:46 PM

I've checked on my car seat and it doesn't say when it expires. It just tells me when it was made. Can anyone help.
What's the make and model?

bboo79

04-26-2007, 01:55 PM

What's the make and model?

It's a Graco Snug Ride and manufactured in 08/2003 the model # 7340SSR

momtonathanandtwins

04-26-2007, 02:46 PM

It's a Graco Snug Ride and manufactured in 08/2003 the model # 7340SSR
Well it appears they don't have a date they will give out (have I mentioned before I dislike Graco) but most seats are 5 years from date of manufacture. However I did get this out of their mouths- check the underside of the seat and the expiration date should be molded onto the seat.

maven29

05-09-2007, 07:15 AM

IMHO, the best car seat by FAR, even for the price (~$300) , is the Britax Boulevard. :director:

It is an improvement even over the top rated the Britax Decathalon. Dont even bother with a Britax Marathon or Roundabout as they are bargain version of these for sale at stores like Target. They also have much lower weight ranges.

The Boulevard has the best safety ratings, the longest life (from 5 to 65 lbs!) and can go front or rear facing and be installed with or without latch. We LOVE LOVE LOVE ours. We had it professionally installed and it does not BUDGE. We got a different seat for Grandmas car and am amazed at how much the quality is better in the Britax than in the Graco car seat she has.

I cannot say enough good things about this car seat. Our favorite feature (silly I know) is that the straps have velcro on them to attach out of the way on the sides when the child ISN'T in the seat, so that they arent UNDER the child when you put them in the seat. If you have ever had to struggle to get the straps and buckle out from under your squirming kid, you know what I mean.

Here are some specs and a link to Epinions on it. Also check out ratings and reviews at Amazon.com. It was also very highly rated by Safey Angels, and the person who installed it (a police officer at a baby safety day) was amazed at how much nicer and more secure with better features it had than any other seat he installed before.

Our baby was premie and he fit into this seat nicely right out of the NICU, although we did use a travel syste some also in our other car. It has extensive layers of padding which is removable as baby grows. We turned it around when he got to 24 lbs, and put it right in the middle of our SUV back seat and it will be with him for several more years to come! We got ours at Albee Baby with free shipping I think.

Lastly, it comes in a virtual rainbow of classy and pretty fabrics, both briight and neutrals.

Dont believe me, do the research, see this seat at somewhere like BabiesRUs (but dont buy it there, way $$$$), and then you will choose this seat also.

http://www.epinions.com/Britax_Boulevard

Car Seat Type Convertible
Seating Direction Forward Facing
Stay-in Car Base With Detachable Base
Restraint System 5-Point Safety Harness
Other Features
Weight Limit 5 - 65 lbs.
Head Protection With Headrest
Additional Features Latch System
Miscellaneous
Product ID 25723425

More Information
The Boulevard convertible car seat is the crown jewel in the Britax line of 'True Side Impact Protection' restraints. The deep side wings with EPS foam are engineered and tested for optimum side impact protection and adjust effortlessly with the turn of a knob to grow with your childwithout removing the seat from your vehicle! The Britax-famous features of built-in lock-offs, 5-point harness with front adjuster, tangle-free webbing, push button release LATCH system with patented Versa-Tether®, and sculpted base ensures an easy installation with a secure fit. Comfort abounds with a plush, washable cover, while additional comfort foam, patented HUGS® system, shoulder belt comfort pads, integrated toddler pillow, and a removable infant body pillow provide a perfect, adjustable fit as your child grows from 5 to 65 pounds.

bboo79

05-16-2007, 11:18 AM

Well it appears they don't have a date they will give out (have I mentioned before I dislike Graco) but most seats are 5 years from date of manufacture. However I did get this out of their mouths- check the underside of the seat and the expiration date should be molded onto the seat.
I checked and it said Dec 2009. Thanks for the info.

shawnii5

06-01-2007, 09:05 PM

I got two convertable Cosco Scenera car seats for my twins on the way as a gift.
They are brand new still in box and I am wondering how good this car seat is. I know all you guys know your stuff. I would love to buy two Britax but can't afford buying two of them. I got my 3 year old a Britax because his was so old and I wanted to get my 2 year old one but could afford getting him one also. I would be spending about $900 for 3 of them YIKES!
I am willing to pay out $50 more for each car seat to get better ones.
Also any one know were they carry these car seats so I could return them?
Shawnii

Jamie

06-01-2007, 09:38 PM

momtonathanandtwins

06-02-2007, 08:29 AM

Actually on one of the car-seat forums recommended by Nora, I have read a lot of people recommend the Cosco Scenera for those that cannot afford the Britax.
Jamie is correct. Just keep in mind though that the Scenera only harnesses to 40 lbs so if you want to keep your kids harnessed longer you need will need to get another seat or trade those in for ones that will harness longer. I can give you some recomendations for seats that harness longer that are under $200 each but you may also get credit for the Scenera's so it couldn't cost you that much.

wipersnaz

06-06-2007, 09:47 AM

I'll look into it. None of my kids are ready for a booster yet so I haven't done much research but I can have it done some time tomorrow for you if the boys sleep early tonight.

eta: Okay after spending time after the kids were asleep looking into boosters its going to take me awhile longer to answer your question. I'll try to have an answer for you by Monday. I do need to ask a few questions though:
Do you have head rests in the back seats?
How old is your child? Are you aware that it is safer to keep your child harnessed passed 40 lbs? Moving to a booster before your child is developmentally ready is not safe. My plans are to keep my boys harnessed to 80 lbs and skipping the booster.

Any new info for booster seats? My son will be 4 yrs old in August he's 35 lbs. I have a 2003 toyota corolla. Right now I have the Cosco Touriva convertible so he'll grow out of it when he's 40 lbs.

I'm looking at the Evenflo big kid booster car seat, is that good?

momtonathanandtwins

06-06-2007, 10:34 AM

Any new info for booster seats? My son will be 4 yrs old in August he's 35 lbs. I have a 2003 toyota corolla. Right now I have the Cosco Touriva convertible so he'll grow out of it when he's 40 lbs.

I'm looking at the Evenflo big kid booster car seat, is that good?
Well I'm not a fan of putting a child in a booster just because he hits 40lbs. Personally I would look at another convertible that has a higher harness weight that can also be used as a booster. The Apex harnesses to 65lbs and then can be used as a booster and this seat should last until he's 9 and costs about $100.

If your looking strictly at a booster then the Britax Parkway and the Graco Turboboosters are pretty good. I have no personal experience with them. I've never installed them for myself or for friends so I can't help there. I would go ask at http://www.car-seat.org/forumdisplay.php?f=2 I get most of my info from them and another board and they know what they are talking about. I'm really sorry I haven't done more research for you.

wipersnaz

06-06-2007, 01:34 PM

Thanks for the info and that link. Wow, I've got a lot of things to think about.

momtonathanandtwins

06-06-2007, 02:56 PM

Thanks for the info and that link. Wow, I've got a lot of things to think about.
Your welcome and again I'm sorry. I just couldn't research them because I had no desire to move my kids and my heart just wasn't in it. The board I linked you to though should be able to give you a great booster recomendation, even if they go through all the reasons you shouldn't move your kid to a booster right away.

JenWorthen3

06-08-2007, 05:31 PM

momtonathanandtwins

06-08-2007, 06:32 PM

I hope someone is still even looking at this forum.

I am having a baby in October and I'm trying to find a good car seat. I know everyone here seems to really like the convertible car seats, but with a newborn, I really like the infant car seats you can take out of your car. I've been looking all around to find one that has metal latches for attaching to the base and just one that comes well recommended, but I can't find anything.

Any recommendations? We prefer to keep it under $80 if possible. Also, we drive a Plymouth Voyager and I plan on putting the baby in the middle seat for easier access.

Thanks!
Chicco KeyFit
Available at: Babies-R-Us (BRU), baby specialty stores, and online (http://froogle.google.com)

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:

The EPS foam looks like styrofoam. Be careful to not throw it away!
Chicco will be releasing 2 new versions of the KeyFit in the summer of 2007. The new KeyFit 22 will have a redesigned base, so it won't work with the old style base. The KeyFit 30 will have a 30 lbs. weight limit and will also fit into the new KeyFit 22 base.

Combi Centre ST, DX
Available at: Babies-R-Us (BRU), baby specialty stores, and online (http://froogle.google.com)

Features: 5-22 lbs.; 5-point harness with front adjuster; infant-sized chest clip; 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

The EPS foam looks like styrofoam. Be careful to not throw it away!
The ST is the basic version of the seat with 3 sets of harness slots. The DX has an adjustable headrest through which the harness is threaded; no need to rethread the harness through harness slots when baby gets taller.

Graco SafeSeat (Step 1)
Available at: Babies-R-Us (BRU), Target, Wal-Mart, and online (http://froogle.google.com)

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; marketing*

The EPS foam looks like styrofoam. Be careful to not throw it away!
*Graco markets this seat to be used until age 1, then the SafeSeat Step 2 forward-facing only seat is used for ages 1-4. It is my opinion, and the opinion of other 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.

Graco SnugRide 2/3
Available at: Babies-R-Us and Toys-R-Us (BRU/TRU), Target, Wal-Mart, and online (http://froogle.google.com)

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:

The EPS foam looks like styrofoam. Be careful to not throw it away!
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 SnugRide 2 has a rear-facing weight limit of 22 lbs. These new infant seats may be used with the 20 lb. base, but the weight limit for the base must then be strictly followed. If your baby is 20-22 lbs., you must use the new 22 lb. base or use the infant seat alone.

Not sure on the cost on any of these. I don't buy Graco products for reasons I won't post here but you can pm me and I'll share. The Chicco is a very popular seat with car seat techs. Personally the only one I know of that has metal clips for the seat is the Peg Pergeo seats but those are almost $200. Infant car seats are good for the first few months but I just don't get how people carry those seats with bigger infants. My arms were killing me by the time my babies were 15lbs. I used the infant seats for the first 6 months with all of my kids and then moved them to convertible seats.

wipersnaz

06-11-2007, 03:01 PM

momtonathanandtwins

06-11-2007, 03:17 PM

I'm thinking of getting the Safety First Apex, which is about $109. Then I saw this carseat in the Big Lots Ad. Do you know which Cosco seat it is? It says up to 100 lbs but I'd like to know the weight limit with the harness.
http://biglots.inserts2online.com/pageLarge.jsp?pageNumber=6&startPageNum=3#
I do believe that is the Alpha Omega seat which only harnesses to 40 lbs. I'm not 100% sure though so if its not far out of your way you may want to stop at the store to be sure.
I'm pretty sure after looking on Cosco's website:
http://www.coscojuvenile.com/product.asp?productID=2602

Jamie

06-11-2007, 04:55 PM

I do believe that is the Alpha Omega seat which only harnesses to 40 lbs. I'm not 100% sure though so if its not far out of your way you may want to stop at the store to be sure.
I'm pretty sure after looking on Cosco's website:
http://www.coscojuvenile.com/product.asp?productID=2602

My brother/SIL has an Alpha Omega seat that they have had for several years and their 2 1/2 year old is using now. My mom was watching their boys last week while I was up in Idaho and so I got to install the seat several times. I noticed it didn't seem as heavy duty as other carseats and the straps were all twisted and it was so hard to get them straightened out. I don't know if that is the case on all of these carseats or just because this one was a couple years old. Those twisted straps really drove me crazy.

momtonathanandtwins

06-11-2007, 05:17 PM

My brother/SIL has an Alpha Omega seat that they have had for several years and their 2 1/2 year old is using now. My mom was watching their boys last week while I was up in Idaho and so I got to install the seat several times. I noticed it didn't seem as heavy duty as other carseats and the straps were all twisted and it was so hard to get them straightened out. I don't know if that is the case on all of these carseats or just because this one was a couple years old. Those twisted straps really drove me crazy.
No its a common problem with the Alpha Omega. My neighbor has that seat and I just hate when she asks me for help, not because I don't like helping but I dislike that seat with the straps being twisted all the time.

wipersnaz

06-16-2007, 10:57 AM

hebishop

06-25-2007, 10:09 PM

momtonathanandtwins

06-30-2007, 03:35 PM

I have read and heard that when a child is forward facing the straps should be in the highest slots as those are the ones re-enforced for forward facing stresses. Is this true as well in the Britax Roundabout? Or should I have her straps in the slot above her shoulders. THanks!!!!!
I believe in Britax seats when forward facing you can use either the top one or the next lower one. I'm not 100% sure on this so please check your manual. I'm trying to remember off the top of my head based on my kids seats as dh has the kids and their seats at the park right now.

wipersnaz

08-16-2007, 09:46 AM

momtonathanandtwins

08-16-2007, 11:33 PM

What do you think of this carseat?
Safety 1st 3 Phase Convertible Car Seat

It seems to be on sale everywhere right now, are they discontinuing it?

I googled it and found the following ratings, it seems like an okay medium grade car seat.
http://www.nhtsa.dot.gov/CPS/CSSRating/SeatDetail.cfm?CSSID=597
http://www.nhtsa.dot.gov/CPS/CSSRating/SeatDetail.cfm?CSSID=598
http://www.nhtsa.dot.gov/CPS/CSSRating/SeatDetail.cfm?CSSID=599
I do believe its an older seat. I believe the name for that seat has been changed to Safety 1st All in one.
Personally if your looking for a cheaper seat I think you can do better than this seat. This seat will only allow you to harness to 40 lbs. Plus with it being an older seat you won't have the full amount of years to use the seat.

Krispie

11-15-2007, 03:39 PM

I have spent the last few hours reading about car seats. I think my head is spinning. I have a few questions.
My oldest child is in an Evenflo Chase car seat. Should the straps be in the highest position?
I have read and heard that when a child is forward facing the straps should be in the highest slots as those are the ones re-enforced for forward facing stresses.

Is this true?
Also, when she hits 40lbs is it unsafe to use the 5point harness? Or can I still use it if it still fits?

Is there a way I can get new manuals because I have searched all over my house and cannot find the manuals to my car seats?

Thank you for your help. I am learning so much that I did not know before.

momtonathanandtwins

11-15-2007, 03:57 PM

momtonathanandtwins

11-15-2007, 04:18 PM

I have spent the last few hours reading about car seats. I think my head is spinning. I have a few questions.
My oldest child is in an Evenflo Chase car seat. Should the straps be in the highest position?

Is this true?
Also, when she hits 40lbs is it unsafe to use the 5point harness? Or can I still use it if it still fits?

Is there a way I can get new manuals because I have searched all over my house and cannot find the manuals to my car seats?

Thank you for your help. I am learning so much that I did not know before.
Okay the Chase seat you are referring to can only be used as a harness seat until 40 lbs. After that your child needs to use the seat as a booster seat. However keeping your child in a 5 pt harness is much safer than using a booster seat so you'd need another seat if you want to keep your child harnessed.

As far as the straps on that seat I don't know the answer. I tried searching for an online copy of the manual but I didn't see one. Your best bet would be to call Evenflo and ask them.

I do not know much at all about booster seats or the combo seats that are a convertible seat with booster. I personally won't buy a combo seat but that is my opinion only. The reason I don't know much about booster seats is none of my kids are in boosters yet so I haven't felt the urge to research them. I do know that when the time comes I will not be buying a Graco or Evenflo booster because they are on my list of companies I do not trust anymore.

Krispie

11-16-2007, 02:00 PM

She is over the 40lbs and if I want to keep her in the 5pt. harness than my choices are:

Britax
Cosco Alpha Elite/Safety 1st
FP Safe Voyage
Sunshine Radian
Safeguard

Are there any other options out there? She is not very tall. Her shoulders are still below the top harness straps on her Evenflo chase seat. Thanks so much for your previous response.

momtonathanandtwins

11-17-2007, 10:17 PM

spanishforkmama

11-19-2007, 02:25 PM

We are expecting baby #5 in December. This will make 5 kids under the age of six. We drive a mid sized mini van ('05 Dodge Caravan) and are stumped as to how to get them all in. Any suggestions? We could afford to buy whatever carseats were narrower, etc, way before we could afford to buy a Suburban. The oldest two are big boys (55 lbs each) and are in boosters, the next two are in forward facing convertible seats, and the baby-of course- will be rear facing.

Any safe suggestions would be greatly appreciated!