Chicco KidFit Review

As part of the Artsana Group, a lifestyle company, Chicco (kee-ko) is one of the most popular baby-centric brands in Europe with products ranging from car seats to bottle warmers. Started by Enrico Catelli, Chicco creates a variety of baby gear for little ones from before birth to preschool age. Chicco sells in more than 120 countries.

Performance Comparison

Crash Test

The KidFit has better crash test results than much of the competition.

While all of the boosters in this review have met or exceeded the federal guidelines for booster seat safety and are therefore considered safe, some earned better than average crash test results indicating an additional margin of protection. The KidFit is one such seat, with a portion of the crash test data better than most.

The Chicco crash test data for the head sensor (HIC) in the crash test dummy is 575 with a maximum federal limit of 1000, where a smaller number indicates better performance. The best result in the group is 390 for the UPPAbaby Alta; this result is less than half the maximum allowed. The chart below shows a comparison of all seat's HIC sensor results.

The crash test data for the KidFit's chest sensor (g) is 46, where the maximum allowed is 60, and a lower result is better. The best result for the group is 39, and the high is 48. You can compare the individual results for the chest clip scores below.

Ease of Use

The KidFit proved to be very easy to use in our tests.

This metric is where the Chicco shines. Little testers could use the seat and buckle themselves in without problems. Like most products with armrests, children need some practice to learn how to work around the rest, but the added comfort makes this learning curve worth it.

The KidFit installs using LATCH anchors (above left) that retract into the shell when not in use (above right). This attachment prevents the booster from moving freely in the car when not in use and is a helpful safety feature.

The LATCH straps tighten and release from the front (above left), making it easier to install than a convertible or infant car seat. The seat bottom houses the LATCH anchors and the shoulder belt retainer (above right) for the booster without the back. The base is relatively smooth with no rough edges, and it has a slip-resistant edge.

The KidFit headrest height is adjusted using a button on the back of the headrest (above left). This maneuver is possible from the front with your child in the seat. The shoulder strap retainer is on the headrest (above right) and moves with the headrest for proper seatbelt alignment.

This booster has dual cup holders molded into the sides of the seat bottom. They are sturdier than much of the competition.

Weight and Size

The KidFit scored lower than average for weight and size.

This result directly relates to the KidFit being the widest booster in the review. This width means it is unlikely to fit across the backseat with two other car seats. However, it is the lightest high-backed booster in the review, with a remarkable weight of only 10.4 lbs. This weight makes the Chicco more comfortable to carry, but the girth means it will be more challenging to move.

Comfort

The KidFit isn't the most comfortable option you can find in this lineup of products.

Little testers like the fabric of this booster and said the headrest is "sort of" comfortable, and the bottom is "cushy." They aren't wrong as the seat bottom is nicely padded, but the headrest is less so. The headrest is also shallow and splays out wider than it needs to, which creates possibly the least supportive in the group for napping. It does have armrests, though, which improves the comfort of those without them.

Quality

The KidFit offers average quality compared to the competition.

The overall fit and finish of the booster are uninspired and nothing to crow about. The padding is adequate and better than some but not as thick as others. The fabric is only okay, but at least it isn't as rough as some competitors. The shell is self-contained and looks good without the nooks or exposed fasteners found in some of the competition. The booster feels sturdy; it is just the materials that seem lackluster.

Should You Buy the KidFit?

The KidFit earned a higher overall score and has a nice look and feel. This booster has a very budget-friendly price for what you get and comes with a good crash-test score and dual cup holders. It is easy to use, can go backless, and weighs around 10 lbs. This seat is a good option for those who want a good crash-test score for a reasonable price.

What Other Booster Seat Should You Consider?

If your budget is still too tight for the KidFit, the Evenflo Spectrum is comparable to the KidFit with a lower list price and similar features and functionality. The Spectrum offers more for comfort and quality, but the Chicco has a slightly better crash test rating. If your budget is bigger and crash test results are your most important metric, the Clek Oobr earned top crash test analysis results and is comfortable with quality materials and a rigid LATCH system.