I have some questions about boosters. I hear that some are latchable but this confuses me because I know that typically latch can not be used past 40 pounds, this feature would some kind of useless on a booster unless the 40 pound limit doesn't apply to boosters? Are there any boosters that have a top tether too? Does anyone have or know about the Maxi Cosi Rodi? I have my eye on it, anything that would be helpful to know? I noticed there are two with big prices differences but I didn't see any other difference. Does anyone know about that? Is there a lot of variation in height limits in boosters, like there are car seats? I would need a tall one. Any good booster recommendations in general, would be great. Thank you.
Some boosters can be LATCHed. The LATCH weight restrictions do not come into play with a booster since the lower anchors are only holding the weight of the booster. The seat belt is holding the child in. There has been some controversy whether it is safe to LATCH a booster. Some say that the child is better if the booster is able to move with them in a crash. Basically, LATCHing a booster helps to keep an unused booster in place during a crash since many parents forget to buckle the seat belt around an unused booster.
The Graco Nautilus USED to allow the seat to be LATCHed in booster mode. That has since been retracted since it didn't perform as well as expected in crash tests. As of now the Britax Frontier can be LATCHed when in booster mode. I think this is true for all of Britax's dedicated boosters. The Olli booster seats can be LATCHed as well.
As for a top thether. Many allow for that as well. The Frontier must be tethered after 65 lbs. I am pretty sure you can still tether other Britax boosters and the Graco Nautilus.
In booster mode the Frontier is a really tall seat. It goes up to 53". I am not sure off the top of my head about dedicated Britax boosters. I think they too go to around 53 or 54". Does your child have a long torso or long legs? If long legs (like my son) just remember that height is only a guideline and the child will probably fit into a seat longer than expected. My 42" 4 yr old son can still fit into his Evenflo Triumph even though the height limit is under 40". He is just all legs and has a torso height of 14.75".
Many love the Britax Monarch (think it is being discontinued though). Also the Sunshine Kids Monterey is a good booster. Personally I think the Jane Indy looks great, at least online, and I would love to see one in person. For a lower priced booster the Graco Turbo Booster fits most kids well.
I am sure that the techs here will have better and more detailed information for you. I am not familiar with Maxi Cost seats.
Are you done with one? Is your one a boy? Want to chat with other Moms who are raising the only boy? Then check out the group Raising the Only Boy - CafeMom.
- KreatingMe
on Apr. 16, 2009 at 3:53 AM