Diono Cambria vs. Monterey?

AllieK

New member
What's the difference between the Cambria and the Monterey (besides $10!)? I did the side by side comparison on carseatblog.com and I'm still a bit stumped.

The Cambria has not been tested by the IIHS, while the Monterey has so I would like to hope the Cambria would also get a "Best Bet" rating. Does anyone have any real world experience with the Cambria?

What is the difference between EPE (Cambria) and EPS (Monterey) foam?
 
ADS

ketchupqueen

CPST and ketchup snob
Staff member
I'm not an expert on either by any means but from what I've seen sitting my kids in them the Cambria shape is different at the base. Does well for older kids. The smaller range of height adjustments means less possibilities for fit (again suited for older kids) and I don't think the width adjusts to be "huggy" like the Monterey? Side wings are shallower, head wings are angled differently. I note that the Cambria cover is listed as machine wash and Monterey as hand wash, though full disclosure I machine wash all my covers on gentle and haven't lost one yet.

EPS foam has great energy absorbing properties but deforms easily- you hit it, it smushes, it stays smushed. EPP and to an even greater extent EPE still absorb but have more "bounce back." They lose a little immediate absorption but they have greater resiliency so secondary (or more) impacts they can still absorb force. They are also less likely to break during normal handling. I also find in research that EPE is valued for water resistance. Here is a page on different foam type properties and why a manufacturer might choose them: http://www.efpcorp.com/material-info.cfm
 

EmmasMom

Member
What's the difference between the Cambria and the Monterey (besides $10!)? I did the side by side comparison on carseatblog.com and I'm still a bit stumped.

The Cambria has not been tested by the IIHS, while the Monterey has so I would like to hope the Cambria would also get a "Best Bet" rating. Does anyone have any real world experience with the Cambria?

What is the difference between EPE (Cambria) and EPS (Monterey) foam?

We have both. The Monterey is much heavier/substantial and my daughter likes the cup holders better. Both fit her well and latch.
 

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