How important is a RF tether or ARB?

[apsupermom]

I am doing research on a new carseat for my 3 month old...I had thought I would just get the roundabout 50 because it looks like it will fit my three across well...but I'm seeing that there are lots of seats people like on this board that don't RF tether. I have a few (really I have three) radians and can't get an install in my car (they are in dhs car) otherwise I would get another one. I also have a toddler FF in a true fit (she is too hefty ;) to rf anymore booo).

So I am wondering...what is the majority opinion?

[emars002]

I don't think there is an official answer (like actual test data) reguarding tethered versus untethered - please correct me if I am wrong! but rear facing is very safe tethered or not. If you find a seat that fits your child great, is in your price range and installs well in your car I wouldn't stress over wether it tethered rear facing or not. I do prefer to use a tethered seat in my car that has the DVD player on the headrest though:)

[skaterbabscpst]

The reality is... we just don't have enough actual hard data to know. By all appearances, those things seem to be safer, but we just don't know for sure.

If you're deciding between seats and all else is equal, including fit for your child, your vehicle, your budget, etc, then go for the seat with the extra features. But if another seat fits your needs better, don't be so worried about RF tethers and ARB that you chose a seat that isn't right for your family.

[apsupermom]

Here is what I am thinking...
I like the EFTA, the roundabout (not 50...I have one that are almost expired) and the Roundabout 50. I also like that new skinny Combi seat in theory since I haven't seen it yet... I like the price of all these seats...I don't think I can fit another TF otherwise I think I would do the ARB true fit...

Honestly, the price of the TF has spoiled me! Its priced so well compared to Britax...it makes me wonder...is there really something to that?


ARRRRRGGGG!!

[BeachMama86]

I love the EFTA :)

[minismom]

Here is what I am thinking...
I like the EFTA, the roundabout (not 50...I have one that are almost expired) and the Roundabout 50. I also like that new skinny Combi seat in theory since I haven't seen it yet... I like the price of all these seats...I don't think I can fit another TF otherwise I think I would do the ARB true fit...

Honestly, the price of the TF has spoiled me! Its priced so well compared to Britax...it makes me wonder...is there really something to that?


ARRRRRGGGG!!

The TF and EFTA may be too wide for your 3 across!