Choosing a booster when you can't try in person

bubbles · Feb 4, 2011

I need a new booster for my 9yo. He weighs 60 pounds. I don't remember his height off hand so will have to check that later (but he is too tall for the Nautilus as a harnessed seat). I know that fit and belt positioning are key but not sure how I can determine that w/ brands that I have to order on line. I drive an '05 Volvo wagon.

So, I am overwhelmed by all the choices and want to choose the best seat for him. A TB is an easy choice since they are so readily available. If that fits him well is it a safe choice or am I really better off spending more money?

jjordan · Feb 4, 2011

I'd check how much growing room he has in a TB. If there's not a lot and you want a hbb that will last longer, the Parkway and Monterey both go several inches higher than the TB. You could order your favorite and hope it works, or you could order both and return whatever doesn't work. Regardless it is probably wise to order from somewhere that has free returns just in case (or buy return shipping insurance).

carseatcoach · Feb 4, 2011

A child who has outgrown the Nautilus by height will not have a lot of growing room in a Turbobooster. The Turbobooster is a fine, safe seat but is not likely the greatest choice for him.

I'm guessing that a child who has outgrown the Nautilus by height and weighs 60# probably has a fairly slender build? A Britax Parkway SG/SGL is likely to fit nicely.

susanx4 · Feb 4, 2011

I'd Say a turbo is fine!, DS out grew the Nautilus last year and has 3 notches of growing room in the turbo and then it can go backless. ds is 8 and weights 55 lbs, Dd2 is 10 and weights almost 70lbs, she is now backless in her turbo, but still had room with the back on. i also have the monteray and its a nice seat but i don't care for it as much as my turbo!

carseatcoach · Feb 4, 2011

The Nautilus has a top slot of 18.5" and the Turbo has a top belt guide around 19.5", so most kids who have outgrown a Nautilus by height will not have a whole lot of room in a Turbo: there are exceptions to every rule, but if the OP has to buy before trying, I would still recommend against the Turbo for a child who has outgrown a Nautilus.

bubbles · Feb 5, 2011

I know I can try a TB in person and am pretty sure I can try a Parkway. Sounds like I just need to go try both! I was looking at the Monterrey but it sounds like that isn't a good choice for such a thin kiddo. I'll try the other two out and go from there. Thanks!

Choosing a booster when you can't try in person

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