Interesting Car Seat Info

I happened to find a minute of time to sit down and read through the Parents March issue. They have a section on latest findings from the IIHS on booster seat safety. If you currently have convertible/booster, or are about to purchase one, read this first:
http://www.parents.com/toddlers-preschoolers/gear/car-seats/best-booster-seats/?ordersrc=rdparents0208

http://www.parents.com/toddlers-preschoolers/gear/car-seats/buying-toddler-car-seat/

They have also listed their top pics for carrier/carseats and why:
http://www.parents.com/baby/gear/car-seats/top-10-baby-car-seats/


We purchased both the Maxi-Cosi Micro carseat carrier and the Evenflo Symphony65 carseat and have been thrilled with both of them (if anyone is looking for recommendations). While we looked at the Britaxs we weren't willing to shell out for something that is just as safe and comfy. I like the Evenflo Symphony65 Circles more than I thought I would, especially these features: 5-100lbs, 5-point harness till 65lbs (though 80lbs would be nice, but not necessary), side-impact cushions, sliding harness, rear-facing till 35lbs! (and 2 years), multiple recline positions, SureLatch (way easier than just the Latch install on the Maxi-Cosi), only took up one seat, incredibly soft, ample, washable padding, easy to move headrest, and I love the fun circle pattern(not just a boring grey which we were originally going to get). I'm certainly glad to see that they were both featured on these lists :)

After Chicago Tribune published the Pulitzer winning article/investigation (2008) into carseat carriers that were not adequately tested (tested at 30mph instead of speeds at least 35mph- which I think most crashes happen at) and were becoming detached from their base, flipping upside down, and flying into the back of the front seats, I was really not interested in using the carseat carrier for an extended amount of time. While I think it provided the most comfort/recline, convenience, and safety for Ethan in the early months, we certainly felt he would be safer in an actual rear-facing carseat and were eager to switch him to something more secure (one piece, that didn't fold or clip in).
http://baby411.typepad.com/babybargains/2009/03/chicago-tribune-31-infant-car-seats-failed-in-unpublished-government-crash-tests.html


Just glad that Ethan has seats that are comfy and safe!!!