We use these methods in conjunction with the crash test data to determine how seats perform in everyday use and impact force measurements recorded during structured crash tests. The Nuna is fairly expensive compared to some contenders, making it a possible no-go for those with a smaller budget. It is also heavy, which means it may not be the right option for traveling or carpooling, as we believe most parents won’t want to carry this heavy option for very long. Overall, the Nuna is a quality seat with impressive scores in most metrics, and for families where budget is less of a concern and quality is number one, the Nuna is one for your shortlist of contenders. We actually brought the Graco 4Ever 4-in-1 on a flight, which prevented us from worrying about any damage it might incur as checked baggage.
The more convoluted design includes removing the shoulder straps from a splitter plate on the back and physically moving the straps from one slot height on the seatback to thread them through different slots . Alternatively, the non-rethread method adjusts quickly with your little one in the seat as soon as you notice a need. We prefer the non-rethread style because it is simple, and we think busy parents will be more likely to keep the harness properly fitted if they can accomplish this quickly without removing their child from the seat. With the rethread style, we worry parents will put off adjusting the harness when it needs it because it requires an empty seat and takes more effort. Given that injuries can occur when a harness is not fitted properly, we prefer non-rethread assemblies.
We rigorously test all of our car seats at 2X the energy levels of the Federal Crash Test Standard. It is a little pricey, but it fits just perfectly in back and it is a double long stroller. I think any car seat fits by the way, the Patriot has all the necessary fittings built in to properly fit a car seat in the back. While all models allow you to remove the infant insert for washing, others let you remove and wash all fabric parts — a significant benefit if you plan to use your car seat from birth through early childhood. As part of the Graco line, the Sequel 65 has undergone numerous crash testing and has met standards that are equivalent to twice the impact force set by federal regulations. It is designed to mirror many features of the well-liked Graco Extend2Fit.
Convertible seats are bulkier than infant seats, however, and they do not come with carrying handles or separate bases and are designed to stay in the car. Vehicles with the LATCH system have lower anchors located in the back seat, where the seat cushions meet. Tether anchors are located behind the seat, either on the panel behind the seat or on the back of the seat, ceiling, or floor (in most minivans, SUVs, hatchbacks, and pickup trucks).
While the adjustable height is a space-saver, the Graco 4Ever’s 19.5-inch width is on the bulky side. You’d only be able to fit two of these car seats in a lot of vehicles , and, depending on the contour of the vehicle seats, you may only be graco booster seat able to get one seat in the centre of the vehicle in some compact cars. Whether this is an issue or not will really depend on the size of your family and your vehicle. The toughest part of the UAS installation is tightening the UAS belt .
I’ve only been using the seat for a couple weeks but speaking on quality it appears and feels very comfortable. I had it on the floor for my daughter to get a feel for and she wouldnt leave it alone. I read the reviews before purchase and that was key in my graco jogging stroller choice. Once you select a convertible car seat, be sure to test out how well it fits in the backseat of your vehicle as soon as you get it. That way, if it ends up not working out you can exchange it and get a new one installed before your baby arrives.