In Depth Baby Product Reviews Led by a Pediatrician

UPPAbaby Mesa Max Review

If quality and comfort are your priorities, this is the seat for you, but there are better crash test results to be had in other contenders
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UPPAbaby Mesa Max Review
Credit: Abriah Wofford
Price:  $430 List
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Manufacturer:   UPPAbaby
By Juliet Spurrier, MD and Wendy Schmitz  ⋅  Oct 20, 2023
74
OVERALL
SCORE


RANKED
#3 of 14
  • Crash Test - 40% 7.3
  • Ease of Install - LATCH - 20% 8.0
  • Ease of Install - Belt - 10% 6.5
  • Ease of Install - w/o Base - 5% 7.0
  • Ease of Use - 15% 7.0
  • Comfort/Quality - 5% 9.0
  • Weight/Size - 5% 6.8

Our Verdict

The UPPAbaby Mesa Max is the better UPPAbaby seat in our infant car seat review. With average crash results and included load leg, we like this version of the V2. Like most UPPAbaby products we've reviewed, this option offers impressive comfort and quality with a well-padded seat, softer fabric, and a larger canopy. We like the design, final fit, and finish that are put together nicely. However, this seat is more expensive than much of the competition, and the overall crash test results do not stand out in this lineup or even in this price range. With other seats costing less and offering more, it might not be the best car seat for everyone. But if your goal is the best in comfort and quality, then the Mesa Max might suit you.
REASONS TO BUY
Soft fabric and lots of cushion
Canopy/handle design
Retractable LATCH
REASONS TO AVOID
Expensive
Below-average chest sensor results
Install wasn't easy in all test cars
Editor's Note: Our infant car seat review was updated on October 1, 2023, with 17 newly tested seats complete with crash testing, and again on October 20, with the removal of two discontinued Nuna seats.

Compare to Similar Products

 
uppababy mesa max
This Product
UPPAbaby Mesa Max
Awards Top Pick Award
Best Infant Car Seat for Quality & Comfort
Editors' Choice Award
Best Crash Test Analysis Infant Car Seat
Editors' Choice Award
Best Car Seat with High Stroller Compatiblity
 Best Value Award
Best Crash Test on the Tightest Budget
Price $430 List
$429.99 at Amazon
$480 List$270 List
$229.99 at Amazon
$230 List
$209.99 at Amazon
$120 List
$119.00 at Amazon
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Bottom Line This seat is high on quality and comfort, with good scores all around, but there are better crash tests for a lower price to be had elsewhereWith impressive crash test results, this seat is a top contender for those with the right budgetGreat overall seat with high stroller compatibility and better than average results all aroundNot as comfy for little ones, but the crash test results are impressiveIf your budget is small, this seat has impressive crash test results
Rating Categories UPPAbaby Mesa Max Clek Liing Chicco KeyFit 35 Chicco KeyFit 30 Graco SnugRide 35 L...
Crash Test (40%)
7.3
8.7
7.6
7.9
8.4
Ease of Install - LATCH (20%)
8.0
9.0
7.0
6.8
3.0
Ease of Install - Belt (10%)
6.5
8.3
7.0
6.8
3.5
Ease of Install - w/o Base (5%)
7.0
7.8
6.8
5.5
3.8
Ease of Use (15%)
7.0
5.5
8.5
8.0
5.5
Comfort/Quality (5%)
9.0
6.0
7.5
5.5
3.0
Weight/Size (5%)
6.8
6.8
6.9
7.2
8.5
Specs UPPAbaby Mesa Max Clek Liing Chicco KeyFit 35 Chicco KeyFit 30 Graco SnugRide 35 L...
Minimum Weight 4 lbs 4 lbs 4 lbs 4 lbs 4 lbs
Maximum Weight 35 lbs 30 lbs 35 lbs 30 lbs 35 lbs
Maximum Height 32 in 32 in 32 in 30 in 32 in
Measured Carrier-Only Weight 10.6 lb 10.5 lb 10.4 lb 9.8 lb 7.6 lb
Built in Lock Off Yes Yes Yes Yes No
Method To Adjust Harness Shoulder Height Non-rethread Rethread Non-rethread Rethread Rethread
Belt Routing Style European European European American American
Anti-rebound Bar Anti-rebound handle position No Yes No No
Load Leg Yes Yes No No No
Shoulder Harness Positions Infinite 3 5 3 4
Crotch Strap Positions 1 1 1 1 2
Number of Recline Positions 4 7 6 5 4
Locking Handle Positions 4 3 3 3 4
Allowed Handle Positions For Auto Travel Position 4 (all the way forward) Upright Position Any position Any position Any position
Level Indicator On Base Bubble, both sides Bubble, in middle Bubble, both sides Bubble, both sides needle, one side
Level Indicator On Seat Line on Decal Line on Decal Line on Decal Line on Decal Line on Decal
Aircraft Certified Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes

Our Analysis and Test Results

UPPAbaby is an American company with over a decade of combined experience in juvenile products. UPPAbaby is inspired by everyday family life to create easy-to-use, safe, light, and fun gear. UPPAbaby aims to improve products without losing convenience, usability, or style. The company offers some of the best car seats and some of our favorite strollers, including full-size, lightweight, and top-ranked double strollers.

Performance Comparison



This is the crash test video of the UPPAbaby Mesa Max commissioned by BabyGearLab at the MGA facility.
Credit: GearLab & MGA Research

Crash Testing


The Max earned a better-than-average score for crash test analysis by the skin of its teeth, earning better results than about half of the competition.

This chart compares the Max's head sensor results from our crash...
This chart compares the Max's head sensor results from our crash test and the results from one of the best in the group, the Clek Liing.
This graph is a comparison of the chest sensor results from the Clek...
This graph is a comparison of the chest sensor results from the Clek Liing and the Mesa Max, where the Liing performed better.

While all the seats in this review are considered safe and comply with federal guidelines, we seek standout seats that perform better than the competition. We ran this test a little faster than the federal standard with a more modern sled and compared the resulting sensor data from the HIC (head sensor) and chest clip sensors side-by-side with the other seats. The HIC result is one of the best (lowest) in the group, with only a handful performing better. The chest clip sensor result was less impressive, with a result higher than the average (again, lower is better). It's this result that brought down its overall crash test analysis score. Overall, it is the better-scoring UPPAbaby in this review and still came close to the average. However, this is not the best choice if your goal is the best crash test results.

The Max load leg has a color indicator when it is properly extended.
Credit: Abriah Wofford

Ease of Installation LATCH


The Max earned an impressive score for ease of installation using the LATCH method. The Max offers push-style connectors, easy tightening, an anti-rebound bar, and load leg.

The Max has a short anti-rebound bar above the tightened color...
The Max has a short anti-rebound bar above the tightened color change indicator.
The Max's load leg pulls out from the bottom of the base before you...
The Max's load leg pulls out from the bottom of the base before you install the base in the car.

The LATCH connectors on the Max are push-style attached to a retractable strap. The retractable strap is amazing, prevents the possibility of twisting the strap, and reduces any real need for manual tightening. If you think it isn't tight enough after retraction, you need to put a little pressure on each side independently to finish the process. There is a color change indicator when it is tight enough, which is hugely reassuring.

uppababy mesa max - the max's bubble level indicator has a wide tolerance of angles for...
The Max's bubble level indicator has a wide tolerance of angles for installation and it is easy to read.
Credit: Abriah Wofford

The recline is easy to adjust, and the bubble indicator has a wide tolerance for installation, making this portion easier. The load leg is also easy to install with a press of a button and pulling on the leg. The manual claims it slides out independently, but we didn't experience that. However, it is easy to pull out and fit easily in place.

uppababy mesa max - the max has push style connectors that includes a pull orange tab to...
The Max has push style connectors that includes a pull orange tab to release the connector from the anchor.
Credit: Abriah Wofford

To remove when found it easiest to pull out some straps before pulling the release tab on the LATCH connectors. They then retracted from the anchor points on their own, and we had to guide them into the storage cubbies.

The Max's recline adjustment is simple with an easy to use central lever.
Credit: Abriah Wofford

Recline Adjustment


The Max has a bubble level indicator on both sides. They work well, and we like that you can see what you are doing no matter what side of the car you're working from.
uppababy mesa max - adjusting the angle on the max is done via a center-placed lift...
Adjusting the angle on the Max is done via a center-placed lift lever that allows the foot end of the base to raise or lower as needed.
Credit: Abriah Wofford

It has four recline positions and is easy to adjust during installation, with a wide center lever you lift with four fingers.

Ease of Installation - Belt


Installing the Max with the vehicle belt is one of the hardest methods for this seat, and it earned a just above-average score in this metric compared to the competition. The belt pathway is color-coded, with a built-in lock-off but no tensioner.

The Max belt pathway for installation with the vehicle belt is well...
The Max belt pathway for installation with the vehicle belt is well marked and ways to use even if the holes are smaller.
The Max lock-off isn't as easy to push in place as some of the...
The Max lock-off isn't as easy to push in place as some of the competition.

The belt pathway is clear, and crossing the vehicle belt over the designated area was easy. The holes for threading are on the smaller side, but they aren't challenging to use. Tightening the belt is easy, but we had some trouble getting the belt to stay in place to close the lock-off.

Pushing the lock-off closed isn't fun, and there isn't enough space to use your palm, leaving you with fingers that might lack strength to close it correctly. The base has a color-changed indicator for when it is tight enough, and while we find this reassuring, we could barely get the final shift from a thin line of red to full green, which required some knee pressure on the base.

Unlike some of the competition, this base has an easy load leg, and we like the feeling of being fully installed with a stable foundation that doesn't budge. This is one of the most stable and is nearly impossible to budge, even pushing on it with two hands. However, it felt like a workout to get it done, and it isn't one you'd want to keep repeating.

Installation of the Max without the base is simple, but you do need to move the handle toward the vehicle seat after you thread the belt.
Credit: Abriah Wofford

Ease of Installation - w/o the Base


The Max utilizes the European belt pathway with color-coded indicators to help guide you. It has a line-level indicator on the sticker decal on the side, but the line is thin and harder to see at a distance, which is how you are supposed to use it. It is the second easiest installation method for this seat and was one of the higher-scoring seats for this metric.

uppababy mesa max - the max uses the european belt pathway with the shoulder portion...
The Max uses the European belt pathway with the shoulder portion stretching around the carrier's shell. It is color-coded, but not the entire slot, just a stripe indicator neat the bottom.
Credit: Abriah Wofford

The slots for both portions of the belt are easy to thread. You need to put in one side at a time, but the pathway is easy to see and access. It is a somewhat smaller seat, and when we tightened it, it stayed in place instead of the front flipping up somewhat like many competitors do.

uppababy mesa max - the max installation without the base is simple and one of the...
The Max installation without the base is simple and one of the easiest methods for this seat.
Credit: Abriah Wofford

You need to move the handle down after threading, and we pinched our finger in the process, so be aware and move slowly. The back portion where the shoulder belt goes is a concave indent with a clip, and it shifts somewhat when you tighten it, but not enough to be a problem. Overall, it is straightforward, not complicated, and sturdy when installed.

uppababy mesa max - most of the max's features are easier to use than the competition.
Most of the Max's features are easier to use than the competition.
Credit: Abriah Wofford

Ease of Use


The Max is one of the easier options to use daily, with only a handful of options in our testing offering easier-to-use features. UPPAbaby has put some thought into creating a parent-friendly design for this car seat.

uppababy mesa max - the max buckle is fairly straightforward, but the chest clip has a...
The Max buckle is fairly straightforward, but the chest clip has a little finagling required with the button.
Credit: Abriah Wofford

Buckle


We had to use a little more force than usual to press the button, which was somewhat small compared to the competition. The prongs need to be pulled out while pressing the button, which makes it somewhat of a thumb workout. The prongs push in with a click but require a little more oompf than we are used to.

The chest clip button is easy to press, even if it is a little odd. Larger thumbs might have to use just the end and be more precise than with other clips. The sides slid apart without any trouble.

The harness release button on the Max is under a fine mesh fabric...
The harness release button on the Max is under a fine mesh fabric, perhaps to make it less intriguing to little hands. It is easy to press, but the fabric takes some getting used to.
The Max has a handy button so you can secure the tightening strap in...
The Max has a handy button so you can secure the tightening strap in place and avoid losing it between the carrier and vehicle seat.

Harness Tightening/Loosening


Extra padding and fabric around the head and shoulder strap area can be problematic if you aren't paying attention. The tightening strap secures with a button on the end, so it isn't free-floating or available for little ones to play with. It also prevents it from getting trapped between the carrier and the vehicle seat. There is a little more resistance compared to others in the group, but it isn't significant enough to be a negative.

The release button is hard to press down and a bit of a workout for the finger. There is an odd mesh over the button that wasn't a hindrance to use but did make us wonder what it was there for.

The harness height adjustment on the Max is one of the easiest designs in the group, with a simple pull and push that can be done with your baby in the seat.
Credit: Abriah Wofford

Harness Adjustment


This seat has only one crotch position but virtually infinite shoulder trap height options. The mechanism is just a pull or push; there is nothing to pinch or move to make it happen, so you can do it when you realize there is a need.

Carrier to Base Connection


This base is an open area with fewer contours to guide the carrier into place. You can see where the carrier connects to the base, which is a bonus and reassuring if you are nervous. The lever to remove the carrier is low on the back of the carrier, and you have to lean further in than most of the competition. When you squeeze the release lever and use it to help lift the carrier in combination with the main handle, the carrier tilts somewhat forward. This isn't a deal breaker and doesn't seem to bother the passenger.

uppababy mesa max - the handle on the max has dual-release buttons on each side, and it...
The handle on the Max has dual-release buttons on each side, and it does not share a track with the canopy, which helps them both run smoother.
Credit: Abriah Wofford

Handle


The handle has four possible positions; all are allowable in the car when driving. The release button is near the joint and easy to press. There is an anti-rebound position. It does not conflict with the canopy, and both move independently of the other.

uppababy mesa max - the canopy on the max is breathable and sleep looking, but it only...
The canopy on the Max is breathable and sleep looking, but it only filters light and has a 25 UPF rating.
Credit: Abriah Wofford

Canopy


The canopy is easy to open and close; it feels very solid and not at all flimsy. It is so smooth moving it was a standout in the group. Something you might not appreciate until you experience a terrible canopy. This canopy doesn't rotate on the same joint as the handle, making both much easier to use. This design seems to help the canopy move unencumbered and prevents the handle from interfering with the canopy as much as competitors.

The Max's storage manual has a designated slot on the base. While it works well and away from messes, you won't have it on travel without the base.
Credit: Abriah Wofford

LATCH and Manual Storage


The strap on the LATCH connectors retracts for easy storage. The connectors go right into the storage compartment almost on their own, but you can use the orange tab to help guide if it needs an assist. Once it locks in place, you need to press the orange button to release it. The user manual is located on the top of the base in the center, just past the lock-off. It is easy to access and free from the mess zone, but you won't have it if you travel without the base.

uppababy mesa max - the max is a clear stand out for quality and comfort compared to the...
The Max is a clear stand out for quality and comfort compared to the competition side-by-side.
Credit: Abriah Wofford

Comfort/Quality


This UPPAbaby stands out for comfort and quality, with one of the highest scores in this metric. With attention to detail and comfort for little ones, we think UPPAbaby has created a higher-quality seat with nicer materials than the average option in this review.

The Max uses two types of foam for impact absorption.
The Max uses two types of foam for impact absorption.
The Mesa Max utilizes two different kinds of foam in its impact...
The Mesa Max utilizes two different kinds of foam in its impact absorption design.

Fabric and Padding


The breathable material on this seat is nice, but much like other breathable options we've seen, it is a bit rougher on sensitive skin. The material on the bottom and sides is smoother and more skin-friendly, so it's a bummer it is wasted on areas less likely to encounter bare skin. It would have scored higher if the fabric were more thoughtfully placed. On the upside, there is ample padding in the seat, with softer cushion and then supportive foam underneath it. The harness has both shoulder and crotch pads to prevent rubbing.

uppababy mesa max - the handle on the max sits much higher above the canopy than much of...
The handle on the Max sits much higher above the canopy than much of the competition, giving ample room for holding or resting on a forearm without rubbing or impacting the canopy.
Credit: Abriah Wofford

Handle and Canopy


The handle is more oval than round, and it is nice for resting it on a forearm, but it is less ergonomic for gripping. The middle of the handle has a button that can get in the way, but it isn't uncomfortable to grip off to the side of it.

uppababy mesa max - the max canopy opens far enough to provide ample shade to the...
The Max canopy opens far enough to provide ample shade to the carrier passenger.
Credit: Abriah Wofford

The canopy is on its own pivot and doesn't interfere with the handle or vice versa. It has good seat coverage, but the fabric is thin and see-through with a UPF 25+ rating.

Shell


The outer shell of the Max is smooth, with no hard edges or nooks for grime to hide. We think it will be easy to keep clean even if liquid messes arise.

uppababy mesa max - the shell on the max is largely smooth, but there are some crevices...
The shell on the Max is largely smooth, but there are some crevices near the bottom where gunk might collect.
Credit: Abriah Wofford

Weight/Size


The Max is slightly heavier than the average seat at 10.6 lbs. This gave it a score for weight slightly higher than the average. It isn't prohibitively heavy, with some seats weighing more, but it might be if you plan to lug it around. Alternatively, UPPAbaby makes several award-winning strollers that would pair with this seat.

uppababy mesa max - if you are looking for the best in comfort and quality, the max is...
If you are looking for the best in comfort and quality, the Max is definitely one to consider.
Credit: Abriah Wofford

Should You Buy the UPPAbaby Mesa Max?


The Mesa Max is a great choice if you want the best quality and comfort. It offers some of the best padding and soft fabric in the bunch, and we think it is a great match for award-winning UPPAbaby strollers. This Mesa has a load leg, easy to use design, and is easy to install using LATCH. If your goal is comfort or you Love UPPAbaby, this is the infant seat for you. However, if your goals are the best crash test results or all-around seats, there are others to put on your shortlist.

What Other Infant Car Seats Should You Consider?


If you want a great all-around option that performs well, the Chicco Keyfit 35 is one to consider. This seat has better-than-average crash test analysis results, is super easy to use, and installs without too much effort. If your goal is the absolute best crash test results or overall highest score and the price is not a problem, then the Clek Liing is one to look at. This seat has the best crash test analysis and LATCH installation results with rigid LATCH connectors and a load leg.

Manufacturer Video



Juliet Spurrier, MD and Wendy Schmitz