Chicco has always been one of our favorite car seat producers, as their models always bring quality, safety, and the useful features. We liked their popular infant seat model (the KeyFit) as well as their convertible seat (the NextFit), and now it’s time to take a look at the newest entry.
The KidFit 2-in-1 is Chicco’s attempt to complete the line and offer a full range of car seats – this is a booster car seat, intended for older kids. In this review, we’ll take a look at this model’s features, advantages, and disadvantages. Read on and find out everything about it!
Specifications:
- Weight limit (high back) – 30 to 100lbs
- Weight limit (backless) – 40 to 110lbs
- Seat dimensions – 28″ x 19″ x 8.5″
- Ship weight – 13.4lbs
- Assembled weight – 10.2lbs
- Minimum age required– 4 years
Features of Chicco KeyFit
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DuoZone side-impact protection
Just like many other Chicco models, the KidFit 2-in-1 also provides a significant amount of protection, giving the parent a peace of mind. The so-called DuoZone feature is here to protect the kid from the possible fatal impacts in the case of a car crash. It is also highly adjustable – there are ten different positions, allowing the model to grow together with your toddler. It’s very easy to move to the next position, as the only thing you have to do is to operate the handle that’s on the back of the seat. This feature also provides additional comfort for the child.
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SuperCinch LATCH attachment
This is Chicco’s newest feature and the one that we absolutely love. With it, getting the perfect install is much easier than it was before. One only has to connect the LATCH connectors to the car and then simply pull the tightener. This is very easy and fast to do, and, if done in a correct way, the seat won’t move at all. It’s important for the seat to remain stable during the rides, or otherwise it presents a danger for both the kid and the parent.
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Comfortable ErgoBoost seat
The contoured seat of the Chicco KidFit 2-in-1 comes with double-foam padding and feels incredibly comfortable. If you want to provide pleasant car rides for your toddler, this model is definitely the one to go with.
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2-position backrest
As you can see in the specifications section, this seat can be used in two positions – the high back and the backless one. We recommend you to use the high-back booster position, as it will let your kid learn how to properly sit in the seat. Of course, the back can come off, but remember that your child needs to weigh at least 40lbs in order to use the seat in this way.
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Machine washable armrest covers and the seat pad
Since children are messy, the Chicco decided to provide the parents with removable parts that they can wash in the washing machine. This, of course, makes the whole cleaning process a lot more fuss-free. Simply remove the pad and the armrest covers and put them in the washing machine.
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Two removable cup holders
Unlike on some other models, the cup holders that come with KidFit 2-in-1 can be folded away when they’re not in use. They can also be completely removed if you’re in need of more space.
Ease of Installation
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High-back booster
Installing this model in the high-back mode is relatively easy. Once you place the seat into your vehicle, push it against the back of the back seat and check that the car’s head restraint isn’t interfering with the booster’s headrest. If you decide to use the lower anchors, you need to release the LATS (Lower Anchor Tightening Strap), press the button that’s on the front of the seat, and then pull out of the connectors.
Find the LATCH lower anchor bars in your car, and attach the Lower Anchor Connectors to them. Once you’ve done that, you’ll only have to pull on the LATS and push the seat to snug it up. Even though it might sound complicated at first, this whole process is actually a very easy thing to do.
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Backless booster
Installing the Chicco KidFit 2-in-1 in the backless booster mode is even easier. If you’re going to use the Lower Anchor Connectors, you’ll have to release the LATS, press the button, and pull out the connectors (similar to how you did in the high-back installation process). Locate the LATCH bars, connect the Lower Anchor Connectors to them, and then snug the seat against your vehicle’s back seat.
Once you get the hang of this, each installation will be easier than the previous one. The Chicco has, like always, made the whole process quite convenient and fast, even though it can be challenging for the parents who have never used a booster car seat before.
Conclusion
In our opinion, the Chicco KidFit 2-in-1 is the best booster car seat that the money can buy. Not only does this model can be converted to two different positions (high-back and backless), but it also comes with a number of useful features.
It has comfortable padding, the SuperCinch LATCH attachment, the DuoZone side-impact protection, as well as the (foldable) cup holders. You can also wash its covers in the washing machine. The whole thing is very simple to install and use; and it grows along with your kid, removing the need to buy any other type of a car seat. It has our recommendation!