This was one of the top 10 boosters rated by a 10/1/08 report by Insurance Institute for Highway Safety report. Who am I to argue? We previously were using the
Cosco Alpha Omega Elite Convertible Car Seat, which as a booster was giving us some problems (the lap belt was not lying flat on her thighs). I researched the seat and found out it was no longer scoring well for a booster for this reason. Sad because we loved this seat! In addition, she could not hook it herself.
So, our requirements were 1) lightweight seat, 2) easy buckling, 3) ability to adjust for multiple cars (e.g. we want to know the seatbelt will be positioned properly), 4) cupholder
The multiple designs, adjustable armrests, and cupholders on EACH side were bonuses.
Here's what we like:
-It's lightweight, can be easily buckled, there is an adjuster strap that attaches like a tether to either side of the seat - it has a clip to hold the seatbelt down and away from the neck
Here's what we don't like:
-The cupholders are sturdy and fairly easy to pull out to use (could be easier) but shallow.
-The armrests don't snap in as firmly as I would like - they are held in with plastic clips, which if bent, cause them to come out.
-While she seems comfy, there is little padding - the ones due out November 08 don't have the character designs but seem to sport more padding
Edit: After yet ANOTHER spill (don't forget a 6-pack of soda in a hot car), I really want to point out that this bad boy is super easy to pull the padding off and throw in the washer. It comes out great - no fraying, and my 10 y.o. actually put the cover back on. We used the garden hose to spray the whole seat down, because the cup holders won't come out completely (and were gross)!
We also purchased the "Fly Away" (pink butterflies) style as well, and while the quilting does make it appear to have more padding, it is not too substantial. My daughter has never complained of it being uncomfortable - even on long (4+ hour) car rides. Some people may worry about their children's head comfort, and you can purchase something like
Rest UpRight Pillow for Children(Ages 3 to 6 years)-Berry PINK. I have a puppy dog one that dated back to my 10 y.o., but it is similar enough (but more expensive) and works great.