Hugs on Marathon- problems and question

[ajay]

Are the Hugs strap covers on a Marathon really necessary? I'm guessing they are or else they wouldn't be included, but does anyone know WHY?

And has anyone had trouble with them. My son has been SCREAMING in the car lately, and finally after looking into it, the Hugs are so tight on his chest that they are leaving red spots and welts! The straps ARE NOT so tight that it should cause that.

I took the Hugs off (please don't scream at me) for a short trip around the neighborhood, and yep, NO more screaming! Has anyone else experienced this?

 

[scatterbunny]

The HUGS are required for FF, optional for RF.

Is your son allergic to the rubber material, possibly?

 

[ajay]

No, I think it must just be the way the HUGS rest on his chest. I don't know what to do to fix it.

He is still RF, so can I take them off? Is there a benefit to keeping them on?

And just out of curiosity, does anyone know why Britax requires HUGS and no other manufacturers do?

 

[stayinhomewithmy6]

The Hugs help reduce head excursion, which is why they aren't required for RF. Definitely take them off it will make your DS more comfy in the car and make rides more pleasant for both of you. Just make sure to put them in a safe place (will they fit in the pouch on the back of the seat that holds the tether strap?) because you will have to put them back on for FF.

 

[ajay]

Thank you! I'll be taking them off and seeing if he likes that better for longer trips. Thanks!